Cheap Flights to Paradise, CA

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Popular airlines to Paradise

What you need to know for your flight to Paradise

Flights to Paradise at a glance

Traveling to Paradise is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Simply compare flight schedules and journey times to find the cheapest flight to Paradise that aligns with your budget and plans to explore the city's iconic attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Paradise: Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
  • Flights per week: 3,550+ flights arriving at Paradise airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Paradise: around 35+ carriers

Popular airport near Paradise

Paradise is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking stunning scenery, romantic getaways, wellness retreats, and adventurous experiences. The closest major airport to Paradise accommodates travelers arriving for these delightful vacations, making access to this beautiful destination convenient.

  • Sacramento International Airport (SMF): Nestled in Sacramento County, California, this airport is approximately 74 miles from Paradise. It facilitates both domestic and global travel, linking passengers to over 225 domestic cities and more than 95 international destinations. For those seeking enhanced comfort, options for upgrading to first class, premium economy, and business class seating are available based on the airlines and routes. Notable airlines operating from this hub include Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta.

Top routes to Paradise

  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Paradise (SMF), with one-way flights starting at around $40
  • Seattle (SEA) to Paradise (SMF), with one-way flight options from around $50
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to Paradise (SMF), with one-way flights starting at around $45
  • San Diego (SAN) to Paradise (SMF), with one-way airfare from around $50
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Paradise (SMF), with one-way airfare from around $110

Cheapest routes to Paradise

  • Burbank (BUR) to Paradise (SMF), with low one-way fares from around $40
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Paradise (SMF), with cheap one-way fares from around $40
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to Paradise (SMF), with affordable one-way prices from around $45
  • Seattle (SEA) to Paradise (SMF), with low one-way fares from around $50
  • San Diego (SAN) to Paradise (SMF), with cheap one-way fares from around $50

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Paradise

  • Southwest Airlines: Provides service to Sacramento International Airport (SMF), responsible for roughly 26% of arrivals in Paradise. Expect an average one-way fare of about $250.
  • American Airlines: Also operates to Sacramento International Airport (SMF), making up nearly 21% of arrivals in Paradise. The typical one-way fare is around $310, with the possibility of first class service on certain routes.
  • Delta: Flies into Sacramento International Airport (SMF), contributing approximately 19% of the arrivals in Paradise. Average one-way fares hover around $290, with premium cabin services that may include premium economy, business, and first class depending on the route.
  • United: Provides flights to Sacramento International Airport (SMF), accounting for about 18% of arrivals to Paradise. The average one-way fare is around $300, with premium cabin options potentially including premium economy and first class based on the route.
  • Alaska Airlines: Serves Sacramento International Airport (SMF), representing roughly 9% of arrivals to Paradise. Travelers can anticipate an average one-way fare of about $250, with options for business class and first class service depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Paradise

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Paradise are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Paradise can reach up to 54.7°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 71.8°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $211), roughly 7% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October, May, and August offer average one-way fares of around $216, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January44.6°F (7.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately High$243
February45.3°F (7.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverage$224
March47.8°F (8.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately High$234
April54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$236
May62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainSunnyModerately Low$218
June72.3°F (22.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$234
July79.2°F (26.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$239
August77.4°F (25.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$218
September71.8°F (22.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$211
October61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainSunnyAverage$213
November49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$227
December43.3°F (6.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverage$244

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Paradise

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Paradise is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia.*
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Paradise flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Paradise

Paradise welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Paradise efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Sacramento International Airport, Sacramento Valley Station, a train station, is about 9 miles from the airport, while 7th & Richards/Township 9 Station, a metro station, is approximately 8.6 miles away, providing convenient access to various destinations.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Paradise, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Paradise is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Paradise on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Paradise

  • Elsey: Nestled 11 miles away from Paradise, Elsey is a charming village perfect for travelers seeking romance and a vibrant city experience. Visitors can indulge in body treatments and explore the stunning scenery around Lake Oroville, ideal for a romantic or outdoor getaway. Don't miss Butte College, a modern hub of education, and Bedrock Park, which offers family-friendly outdoor activities. Elsey is a delightful stop for those looking to enjoy both relaxation and adventure.
  • Downtown Chico: Located 12 miles drive away from Paradise, Downtown Chico is a cultural hotspot brimming with outdoor beauty and scenic vistas. Enjoy the rich history at California State University-Chico and take a leisurely stroll through Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park. The National Yo-Yo Museum adds a unique twist to your cultural exploration. This vibrant neighborhood is a wonderful destination for travelers eager to immerse themselves in art, history, and nature.
  • Magalia: Only 4 miles drive away from Paradise, Magalia is an outdoor lover's paradise, offering stunning scenery and thrilling adventures. The area boasts recreational spots like Clotilde Merlo Park, perfect for families, and the picturesque Paradise Lake, ideal for romantic outings. With its close proximity to national state parks and educational facilities like the Paradise Branch Butte County Library, Magalia invites travelers to connect with nature and enjoy a variety of activities in a serene setting.

Tips for short-haul flights to Paradise

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by packing travel-sized toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and coordinating outfits effectively. This way, you can also avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might not provide in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and don’t forget to bring a book. Ensure your devices are fully charged before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, aim to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, considering potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Paradise

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may permit seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—plan to get to the airport at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports provide free Wi-Fi for your convenience.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Paradise?
Schedule your trip for if you're hoping to get a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Paradise. If possible, avoid traveling during busy periods such as major public holidays or events.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Paradise?
Land cheap flights to Paradise from Los Angeles, San Diego and New York. These cities generally offer the lowest fares to this unique destination. But remember that holiday periods, demand and stopovers will also have an impact on rates, so stay flexible and book when you spot a bargain.
Which US cities fly direct to Paradise?
Choose from 64 US destinations with direct flights to Paradise. When reserving on Expedia, select the "Direct flights only" box to compare nonstop itineraries. Fly to Paradise from any of these leading cities:

  • Los Angeles
  • San Diego
  • New York
  • Seattle
  • Las Vegas

How to find a cheap flight to Paradise?
Book well in advance or search for cheap flights to Paradise during off-season months like January and February. Flying off on a Thursday could also save you 16% on average compared to a Sunday flight.* The Expedia app makes it even easier to know when to book. Just turn on the toggle for "Watch prices" and you'll get notified when there's a better deal.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Paradise?
Being flexible about your travel plans might help you to secure last-minute offers on cheap flights to Paradise. To see all the available options, consider exploring different ticket types, changing your Paradise trip dates, leaving from an alternative airport or going with another airline.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Paradise?
Lock in your flight to Paradise two to four months ahead if you're coming in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the usual timeframe is 28 days in advance. Bigger savings and a greater choice of travel dates, times and seating options are some of the great reasons to book early.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Paradise?
Generally, you can find cheap flights to Paradise on Sundays. Travelers can save around 8% on average compared to those who book on a Friday, which is typically the most expensive day for tickets.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Paradise?
When it's time for a well-earned break, these well-known airlines will make your journey to Paradise a real cinch:

  • United Airlines - 5,701 flights to Paradise each month, including 5,259 flights to San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO) per month.
  • Alaska Airlines - 2,592 flights to Paradise each month, including 2,197 flights to San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO) per month.

Where do you fly into Paradise?
If you're flying to Paradise, the main airport to disembark at is Chico, CA (CIC-Chico Municipal). You could also fly to Paradise via Willows, CA (WLW-Willows-Glenn County).
How far is the airport from central Paradise?
If you're landing at Chico, CA (CIC-Chico Municipal), you'll be around 12 mi west of central Paradise.
Can I save money by booking a Paradise trip package?
Book a Paradise flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you can enjoy significant savings. It's a breeze to bundle your flights and accommodations, and you can even add car rentals and activities to create your own personalized Paradise vacation. Plus, nothing beats the convenience of booking everything in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Paradise?
You can usually change or cancel your flight to Paradise within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some flights are non-refundable. In those cases, you may receive a credit toward future travel instead of a direct refund. It's important to check the airline's terms of service in your itinerary for exact details. Use Expedia's "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters during your search to secure cheap flights to Paradise with flexible change policies. For additional information, browse our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Paradise
Destination airport IATA code
SMF

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