A mountainous landscape with a town nestled in the valley.

$44 Cheap Flights to San Luis Obispo, CA

View $44 flight on Thu, Sep 10, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines to San Luis Obispo

How much is the cheapest flight to San Luis Obispo?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $44 for one-way flights and $78 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines
United
American Airlines
Delta

Alternative airports near San Luis Obispo

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight to San Luis Obispo

Flights to San Luis Obispo at a glance

Traveling to San Luis Obispo is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare flight durations to find the best fit for your budget and schedule as you plan to explore the city's iconic attractions and charming neighborhoods.

  • Major airports in and around San Luis Obispo: Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX)
  • Closest airport to San Luis Obispo: San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, SBP (within San Luis Obispo)
  • Flights per week: 2,000+ flights arriving across San Luis Obispo airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to San Luis Obispo: around 5+ carriers

Popular airports in and around San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers, and those who appreciate stunning scenery. Travelers flock to this destination for its diverse adventures, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural experiences. The city is conveniently accessible via three major airports, including SLO County Airport, Oceano Airport, and PRB Airport.

  • Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA): Situated in Santa Barbara County, California, approximately 75 miles from San Luis Obispo, this airport caters to both domestic and international travelers. It provides connections to over 130 domestic cities and 10 international locations. Passengers can opt for upgrades to first class, premium economy, or business class seating for enhanced comfort, depending on airline and route. Major airlines that operate here include United, American Airlines, and Delta.
  • San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP): Found in San Luis Obispo County, California, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, linking passengers to around 105 domestic destinations and 10 international ones. Travelers can enhance their journey by selecting upgrades to first class or business class seating based on the airline and route. Popular carriers at this airport include United, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.
  • Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX): Located in Santa Barbara County, California, just about 29 miles from San Luis Obispo, this airport focuses on domestic flights. Travelers can choose to upgrade to first class for a more enjoyable experience, depending on the airline and route. The primary airline serving this airport is American Airlines.

Top routes to San Luis Obispo

  • Seattle (SEA) to San Luis Obispo (SBA/SBP), with one-way flights starting at around $80
  • Denver (DEN) to San Luis Obispo (SBA/SBP), with one-way flight options from around $100
  • Portland (PWM/PDX) to San Luis Obispo (SBA/SBP), with one-way flights starting at around $80
  • San Francisco (SFO) to San Luis Obispo (SBA/SBP), with one-way tickets available from around $70
  • Phoenix (PHX) to San Luis Obispo (SBA/SMX/SBP), with one-way airfare from around $80

Cheapest routes to San Luis Obispo

  • Oakland (OAK) to San Luis Obispo (SBA), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to San Luis Obispo (SBA/SBP), with low one-way fares from around $60
  • San Diego (SAN) to San Luis Obispo (SBA/SBP), with low one-way fares from around $65
  • San Francisco (SFO) to San Luis Obispo (SBA/SBP), with low one-way fares from around $70
  • Seattle (SEA) to San Luis Obispo (SBA/SBP), with low one-way fares from around $80

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

Top airlines with flights to San Luis Obispo

  • United: This airline operates flights to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) and San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), making up about 37% of arrivals in San Luis Obispo. The typical one-way fare is around $280, with premium cabin service possibly including first class based on the route.
  • American Airlines: Providing service to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX), and San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), American Airlines accounts for roughly 30% of arrivals in San Luis Obispo. Average one-way fares hover around $210, with first class available on select routes.
  • Alaska Airlines: Operating flights to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) and San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), Alaska Airlines represents approximately 14% of arrivals to San Luis Obispo. One-way fares are generally about $240, with premium cabins that may include business class and first class depending on the specific route.
  • Southwest Airlines: This airline flies exclusively to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) and accounts for nearly 9% of arrivals in San Luis Obispo. Travelers can expect average one-way fares around $240, providing a budget-friendly option for those heading to the area.
  • Delta: Offering flights to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), Delta captures about 9% of the arrivals in San Luis Obispo. The average one-way fare is approximately $250, with premium cabin options potentially including premium economy class and first class based on the route selected.

Best time to fly to San Luis Obispo

The most popular months for travelers to fly to San Luis Obispo are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in San Luis Obispo can reach up to 57.7°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 69.1°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $242, roughly 7% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September, August, and October offer average one-way fares of around $248, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$271
February52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainSunnyModerately High$260
March54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$272
April57.7°F (14.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately High$264
May60.8°F (16.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$242
June65.5°F (18.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$272
July68.7°F (20.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$266
August69.4°F (20.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$246
September69.1°F (20.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$243
October64.6°F (18.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$253
November57.6°F (14.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$266
December52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$286

*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 San Luis Obispo

Getting some of the best deals on flights to San Luis Obispo 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*, or explore our San Luis Obispo hotel and flight deals.
  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 San Luis Obispo flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in San Luis Obispo

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

  • Public transportation: From Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, UC Santa Barbara Station, a train station, is located about 1.6 miles away by car, offering convenient access for travelers heading to their next destination.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Luis Obispo, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in San Luis Obispo is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in San Luis Obispo 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 in San Luis Obispo

  • Downtown San Luis Obispo: Located around the area of San Luis Obispo, Downtown San Luis Obispo is a vibrant neighborhood brimming with culture and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere at the public market, explore educational sites, or relax at nearby beaches. Key highlights include the historic California Polytechnic State University and the charming Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, both offering rich cultural experiences. Don’t miss the quirky Bubblegum Alley, a unique street that showcases the area's playful spirit, making it an ideal spot for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
  • Edna: Edna is located in the area of San Luis Obispo and serves as a picturesque village perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. Travelers can unwind at the beautiful parks or enjoy a round of golf at the local course. The stunning Pismo Beach Pier offers breathtaking views, while Avila Hot Springs provides a serene escape for relaxation. For beach lovers, Pismo State Beach is a must-visit destination, making Edna an excellent choice for those seeking both entertainment and tranquility in a scenic setting.
  • Old Town Historic District: Old Town Historic District is located around the area of San Luis Obispo and features a rich tapestry of culture and history. This neighborhood invites visitors to explore its charming streets, lined with educational institutions and bustling markets. Notable attractions include the historic California Polytechnic State University and the beautiful Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, both integral to the area's heritage. Bubblegum Alley, a quirky highlight, adds a fun twist to your visit, making Old Town a fantastic destination for families and culture enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in local traditions.

Tips for short-haul flights to San Luis Obispo

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

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Optimize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and coordinating outfits wisely. This also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights do not provide in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself occupied. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to San Luis Obispo

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 provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines allow you to select your seat even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights, allowing sufficient time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports offer free and accessible Wi-Fi.
  • 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. Aim 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 San Luis Obispo?
The cheapest month to fly to San Luis Obispo is September when there's less demand. Off-peak months are usually when you'll find cheap flights. To save money, avoid flying during public holidays and school breaks.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to San Luis Obispo?
Typically, Phoenix, Denver and San Francisco have cheap flights to San Luis Obispo. However, being flexible is the secret to landing the best fares. Plan your trip midweek or during the off-peak season to keep costs to a minimum.
Which US cities fly direct to San Luis Obispo?
You can fly to San Luis Obispo without any stops from 10 US destinations. To find a nonstop route, select "Direct flights only" when organizing your flights to San Luis Obispo on Expedia. Then, compare the options and pick the best departure out of one of these cities:
  • Phoenix
  • Denver
  • San Francisco
  • Las Vegas
  • Los Angeles
How to find a cheap flight to San Luis Obispo?
Book well in advance or look for cheap flights to San Luis Obispo during the low season, such as December and January. Flying off on a Thursday can also save you an average of 16% 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 receive a notification as soon as fares drop.*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 San Luis Obispo?
Staying flexible about your travel plans can help you find last-minute offers on cheap flights to San Luis Obispo. To view all the available options, consider looking at different ticket types, changing your San Luis Obispo trip dates, flying out of an alternative airport or using another airline.
How far in advance should I book a flight to San Luis Obispo?
Secure your flight to San Luis Obispo two to four months ahead if you're flying in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the recommendation is around 28 days in advance. Cheaper tickets and a wider variety of travel dates, times and seating options are just some of the perks of booking 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 San Luis Obispo?
You can save an average of 8% if you buy tickets on a Sunday instead of Fridays, which tend to be the priciest day to book.* When it comes to getting a cheap flight to San Luis Obispo, it's all about timing.*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 San Luis Obispo?
There are 3 airlines that link San Luis Obispo with 8 airports across the globe. The principal gateway to San Luis Obispo is San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP). American Airlines and United Airlines are two leading airlines to San Luis Obispo.
Where do you fly into San Luis Obispo?
San Luis Obispo's main point of arrival is San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP). If you want some nearby alternatives when flying to San Luis Obispo, consider Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX), Paso Robles Municipal Airport (PRB) or Lompoc Airport (LPC). You can also fly to San Luis Obispo through Santa Ynez Airport (SQA).
How far is the airport from central San Luis Obispo?
Touching down at San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) puts you about 3 mi south of the center of San Luis Obispo.
Can I save money by booking a San Luis Obispo trip package?
Book a San Luis Obispo flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you could enjoy significant savings. It's simple to bundle your flight and hotel, and you can also add car rentals and activities to create your own personalized San Luis Obispo getaway. Plus, there's nothing like the convenience of booking everything in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to San Luis Obispo?
It's usually possible to cancel or change your flight to San Luis Obispo. Many airlines let you cancel your flight for free within 24 hours of booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may issue you a credit toward future travel in place of a direct refund. To reserve cheap flights to San Luis Obispo with flexible change policies, check the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters when you search. Want more details? Check out our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

Book with confidence

Tips to find the cheapest flights to San Luis Obispo

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to San Luis Obispo on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

September is the cheapest month to fly to San Luis Obispo. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to San Luis Obispo. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to San Luis Obispo, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to San Luis Obispo

The lowest price for round-trip flights to San Luis Obispo in 2026 starts from from $78, while one-way tickets start from from $44. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to San Luis Obispo. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to San Luis Obispo

Alaska Airlines, United, American Airlines, Delta are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to San Luis Obispo. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to San Luis Obispo and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for San Luis Obispo, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to San Luis Obispo. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your San Luis Obispo plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to San Luis Obispo

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to San Luis Obispo.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to San Luis Obispo are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to San Luis Obispo. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to San Luis Obispo for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to San Luis Obispo. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate San Luis Obispo flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to San Luis Obispo. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to San Luis Obispo

Travel information

Destination airport
San Luis Obispo County Regional
Destination airport IATA code
SBP
Destination city name
San Luis Obispo
Roundtrip price
$249

Trending flights to San Luis Obispo

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $44 for one-way flights and $78 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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