A sandy beach with scattered rocks and seaweed, a calm sea, and a cliff with vegetation and palm trees.

$19 Cheap Flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA

View $19 flight on Sat, Sep 12, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

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How much is the cheapest flight to Cardiff-by-the-Sea?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $19 for one-way flights and $38 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Alaska Airlines
Southwest Airlines
United
Delta

Alternative airports near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

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

What you need to know for your flight to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea at a glance

Traveling to Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a breeze. You can choose from a variety of options, including cheap flights to Cardiff, and compare travel times to find the one that fits your budget and itinerary. Get ready to explore the city's iconic attractions and charming neighborhoods!

  • Major airports near Cardiff-by-the-Sea: San Diego International Airport (SAN), McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)
  • Closest airport to Cardiff-by-the-Sea: McClellan-Palomar Airport, CLD (around 7 miles)
  • Flights per week: 5,700+ flights arriving across Cardiff-by-the-Sea airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Cardiff-by-the-Sea: around 55+ carriers

Popular airports near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a charming coastal city ideal for outdoor adventures and family beach getaways. Visitors are drawn to its stunning scenery, entertainment options, and adventurous spirit. The city is conveniently accessible via two major airports, making it an attractive destination for travelers.

  • San Diego International Airport (SAN): Situated in San Diego County, California, approximately 20 miles from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, linking travelers to over 265 domestic cities and 145 global destinations. Passengers have the option to enhance their travel experience by upgrading to first class, premium economy, or business class seating, depending on the specific route and carrier. Key airlines operating here include Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and American Airlines.
  • McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD): Found in San Diego County, California, about 7 miles from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, this airport provides access to both domestic and limited international flights, servicing roughly 60 domestic cities and 2 international locations. Travelers can opt for first class upgrades to enjoy a more comfortable journey, contingent upon the airline and flight path. Notable airlines at this airport include American Airlines, United, and Advanced Air.

Top routes to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

  • San Francisco (SFO) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN/CLD), with one-way fares starting at around $30
  • Seattle (SEA) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN/CLD), with one-way flight options from around $60
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN/CLD), with one-way flights starting at around $80
  • Chicago (ORD/MDW) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN/CLD), with one-way airfare from around $70
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN), with one-way airfare from around $35

Cheapest routes to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

  • San Francisco (SFO) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN/CLD), with affordable one-way prices from around $30
  • Phoenix (PHX) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN/CLD), with cheap one-way fares from around $30
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN), with budget one-way fares from around $35
  • Denver (DEN) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN/CLD), with cheap one-way fares from around $40
  • Oakland (OAK) to Cardiff-by-the-Sea (SAN), with budget one-way fares from around $40

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

Top airlines with flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

  • American Airlines: This carrier operates flights to San Diego International Airport (SAN) and McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD), representing around 22% of arrivals in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. The typical one-way fare hovers around $300, with options for business and first class depending on the route.
  • Southwest Airlines: Flying into San Diego International Airport (SAN), Southwest Airlines accounts for approximately 20% of arrivals to Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Average one-way fares are about $230, making it a popular choice for travelers.
  • United: Offering services to both San Diego International Airport (SAN) and McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD), United captures roughly 17% of arrivals in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. The average one-way fare is around $280, with available services including premium economy, business, and first class depending on the route.
  • Alaska Airlines: Serving San Diego International Airport (SAN), Alaska Airlines makes up about 15% of arrivals to Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Passengers can expect average one-way fares of approximately $270, with options for business class and first class based on the route.
  • Delta: With flights to San Diego International Airport (SAN), Delta represents around 15% of arrivals to Cardiff-by-the-Sea. The average one-way fare is about $320, and travelers can find premium service options including premium economy and first class depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Cardiff-by-the-Sea are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Cardiff-by-the-Sea can reach up to 60.3°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 71.2°F. For better deals, September and October usually offer the lowest average one-way fares around $199, roughly 7% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? August and May offer average one-way fares of around $203, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainSunnyModerately High$225
February56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverage$211
March57.9°F (14.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately High$221
April60.3°F (15.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately High$224
May62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$203
June65.5°F (18.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$217
July69.8°F (21.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$220
August71.4°F (21.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$203
September71.2°F (21.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$199
October67.5°F (19.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$199
November62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$209
December57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$236

*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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

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

  • Public transportation: From San Diego International Airport, Seaport, a seaport, is located about 0.1 miles away on foot, while Middletown Station, a metro station, is approximately 2.3 miles from the airport and typically reached by car. Additionally, B Street Cruise Ship Terminal, a cruise terminal, is situated about 3 miles away by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Cardiff-by-the-Sea 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea

  • Encinitas: Encinitas is located 1 mile drive away from Cardiff-by-the-Sea and is a charming city known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy local highlights like Moonlight State Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming, and the San Diego Botanic Garden, which offers a serene escape into nature. Families can also explore LEGOLAND® California, a thrilling theme park that appeals to children and adults alike. With its recreational parks and shopping centers, Encinitas is a delightful stop for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
  • Solana Beach: Solana Beach is located 2 miles drive away from Cardiff-by-the-Sea and is renowned for its stunning coastal views and vibrant community. The Del Mar Beach is an inviting spot for beachgoers, while the Del Mar Fairgrounds hosts various events and outdoor activities throughout the year. For family fun, LEGOLAND® California is conveniently nearby, making it an easy day trip. With its fairground and recreation parks, Solana Beach provides a perfect blend of relaxation and enjoyment for visitors.
  • Carlsbad: Carlsbad is located 10 miles drive away from Cardiff-by-the-Sea and is a lively city that offers a wealth of family-friendly and outdoor experiences. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, like Carlsbad State Beach, ideal for sun-soaked days by the ocean. A must-visit is the Flower Fields of Carlsbad, particularly stunning in the spring when the flowers bloom. Additionally, LEGOLAND® California adds excitement for families looking for entertainment. With shopping centers and recreation parks, Carlsbad is a vibrant destination for all types of travelers.

Tips for short-haul flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

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 your packing by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating your outfits ahead of time. This strategy also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself engaged, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book as well. Be sure to fully charge your devices prior to boarding.
  • 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 scheduled 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 while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

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 free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines allow seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to account for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have 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. 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Schedule your trip for September if you're looking for a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Try to avoid traveling during peak periods such as public holidays or major events.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
San Francisco, Las Vegas and San Jose generally offer cheap flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Keep in mind that prices may vary based on factors such as holiday periods, number of stopovers and demand.
Which US cities fly direct to Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
There are 51 US cities that you can fly to Cardiff-by-the-Sea nonstop from. Compare your options by selecting the "Direct flights only" box on Expedia and find the best starting point for your trip. Here are several of the leading cities to take off from:
  • San Francisco
  • Las Vegas
  • San Jose
  • Denver
  • Phoenix
How to find a cheap flight to Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
To snag cheap flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, book well in advance and visit during the off-peak months of January and October. Like another tip? Take off on a Thursday and save around 16% on average compared to traveling on a Sunday.* Opt to receive price alerts on the Expedia app and we'll update you as soon as your 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
While booking in advance is generally the easiest way to save cash, don't panic if your Cardiff-by-the-Sea trip is last minute. It's still possible to find cheap flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, especially if your plans have a little leeway. Try switching up your trip dates, looking at different ticket types or departing from an alternative hub.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Lock in your flight to Cardiff-by-the-Sea two to four months ahead if you're jetting in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the usual timeframe is 28 days in advance. Bigger savings and a wider variety of departure dates, schedules and seating options are just some of the awesome benefits 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Sundays are usually the best day to book a cheap flight to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, where you can save 8% on average compared to Fridays. If you decide to buy tickets on a Friday, expect to spend more as this is typically the most expensive day.**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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
There are 15 carriers that connect Cardiff-by-the-Sea with 55 airports across the world. The primary gateway to this city is San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN). Book a ticket with any of these popular airlines to Cardiff-by-the-Sea:
  • Alaska Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
Where do you fly into Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
When flying to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the main airport to land at is McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD). You can also head for nearby hubs like San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN), John Wayne Airport (SNA) or Oceanside, CA (OCN). Another great option worth considering when you fly to Cardiff-by-the-Sea is San Diego, CA (MYF-Montgomery Field).
How far is the airport from central Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
You'll be roughly 7 mi north of the center of Cardiff-by-the-Sea after touching down at McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD).
Can I save money by booking a Cardiff-by-the-Sea trip package?
Bundle your hotel and flight and you could save hundreds of dollars. Better still, you can add extras like tours and car rentals to your Cardiff-by-the-Sea flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's simple to manage all your Cardiff-by-the-Sea travel arrangements in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
It's often possible to cancel or change your flight to Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Many airlines let you cancel your flights for free within 24 hours of making your booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may offer you a credit toward future flights in place of a direct refund. To reserve affordable flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea with flexible change policies, pick the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters when you search. Need more information? Head to our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

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Tips to find the cheapest flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Cardiff-by-the-Sea 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea. 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea. 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea in 2026 starts from from $38, while one-way tickets start from from $19. 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United, American Airlines, Delta are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Cardiff-by-the-Sea. 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea. 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea

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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Cardiff-by-the-Sea are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Cardiff-by-the-Sea. 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Cardiff-by-the-Sea 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea. 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 Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Travel information

Destination airport
San Diego Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
SAN
Destination city name
San Diego
Roundtrip price
$66

Trending flights to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $19 for one-way flights and $38 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines

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