A long pier with lights extending into the water at sunset.

$28 Cheap Flights to Imperial Beach, CA

Popular airlines to Imperial Beach

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How much is the cheapest flight to Imperial Beach?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $28 for one-way flights and $56 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Alaska Airlines
United
Southwest Airlines
Delta

Alternative airports near Imperial Beach

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

What you need to know for your flight to Imperial Beach

Flights to Imperial Beach at a glance

Traveling to Imperial Beach is a breeze; you can choose from a variety of options, including full-service or budget airlines. Compare flight times and select the best choice that aligns with your budget and travel plans, allowing you to explore the city's well-known attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Imperial Beach: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
  • Flights per week: 5,250+ flights arriving at Imperial Beach airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Imperial Beach: around 50+ carriers

Popular airport near Imperial Beach

Imperial Beach is a vibrant city ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a memorable beach vacation. Visitors flock here for its stunning scenery and family-friendly atmosphere. The city is conveniently accessible via major airports, making it easy for travelers to find last-minute flights to this coastal destination.

  • San Diego International Airport (SAN): Situated in San Diego County, California, approximately 11 miles from Imperial Beach, this airport offers both domestic and international flights. It connects travelers to over 265 domestic cities and around 145 international destinations. Passengers have the option to enhance their travel experience with upgrades to first class, premium economy, or business class seating, depending on the airline and route. Major airlines operating from this airport include Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and American Airlines.

Top routes to Imperial Beach

  • San Francisco (SFO) to Imperial Beach (SAN), with one-way airfare from around $30
  • Seattle (SEA) to Imperial Beach (SAN), with one-way airfare from around $60
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Imperial Beach (SAN), with one-way tickets available from around $100
  • Chicago (ORD/MDW) to Imperial Beach (SAN), with one-way flight options from around $70
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to Imperial Beach (SAN), with one-way tickets available from around $35

Cheapest routes to Imperial Beach

  • San Francisco (SFO) to Imperial Beach (SAN), with cheap one-way fares from around $30
  • Phoenix (PHX) to Imperial Beach (SAN), with low one-way fares from around $30
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to Imperial Beach (SAN), with budget one-way fares from around $35
  • Denver (DEN) to Imperial Beach (SAN), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40
  • Oakland (OAK) to Imperial Beach (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 Imperial Beach

  • Southwest Airlines: Operating flights to San Diego International Airport (SAN), Southwest Airlines represents approximately 21% of arrivals to Imperial Beach. The typical one-way fare is around $230.
  • American Airlines: Serving San Diego International Airport (SAN), American Airlines accounts for roughly 21% of arrivals to Imperial Beach. Expect an average one-way fare of about $360, with premium cabin services such as business and first class available based on the route.
  • United: With operations at San Diego International Airport (SAN), United comprises about 17% of arrivals to Imperial Beach. The average cost for a one-way ticket is around $340, and premium service options may include premium economy, business, and first class, depending on the route.
  • Alaska Airlines: Flying to San Diego International Airport (SAN), Alaska Airlines makes up approximately 15% of arrivals to Imperial Beach. The average one-way fare is about $270, with premium service options including business and first class depending on the route.
  • Delta: Operating flights to San Diego International Airport (SAN), Delta accounts for around 15% of arrivals to Imperial Beach. The average one-way fare is approximately $320, and premium cabin options may include premium economy and first class based on the specific route.

Best time to fly to Imperial Beach

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Imperial Beach are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Imperial Beach can reach up to 61°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 72.1°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? May and August 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
January58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainSunnyModerately High$225
February57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainSunnyAverage$211
March58.8°F (14.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately High$220
April61.0°F (16.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately High$224
May63.0°F (17.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$203
June66.6°F (19.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$217
July70.7°F (21.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$220
August72.3°F (22.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$203
September72.1°F (22.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$199
October68.5°F (20.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$199
November63.3°F (17.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$208
December58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$235

*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 Imperial Beach

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

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Imperial Beach

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

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

  • Chula Vista: Located 4 miles drive away from Imperial Beach, Chula Vista is a vibrant city perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of entertainment options, visitors can enjoy shopping centers and a fun-filled water park. The city is also home to several local landmarks, including the scenic San Diego Bay, ideal for nature lovers, and the bustling Chula Vista Bayside Park, which is great for family outings. Don’t miss the San Diego Convention Center for any business-related events or conferences during your stay.
  • San Ysidro: San Ysidro is located 5 miles drive away from Imperial Beach and offers a unique blend of family-friendly attractions and urban experiences. This city is known for its extensive shopping centers and malls, as well as its proximity to the San Ysidro Border Crossing, a significant civic landmark. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby San Diego Bay for its beautiful scenery, while the San Diego Convention Center caters to business travelers. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that San Ysidro has to offer.
  • Coronado: Coronado is located 8 miles drive away from Imperial Beach and is a charming city renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors can relax at the picturesque Coronado Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The area also boasts a variety of resorts and shopping options, making it suitable for family vacations. History buffs will appreciate the rich heritage of the region, including notable sites like the Port of San Diego. Whether for leisure or exploration, Coronado is a delightful destination.

Tips for short-haul flights to Imperial Beach

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, traveling with just a carry-on can often be more economical. Maximize space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and organizing outfits wisely. This approach 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. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. 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 prior to departure, taking into account 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 Imperial Beach

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

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide free seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines allow seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
  • 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. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin to synchronize your body clock by changing your watch and sleep pattern 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 location to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Imperial Beach?
October is the cheapest month to fly to Imperial Beach. There's less demand then, so you're likely to get a good deal. Organizing your trip outside of major holidays and school breaks could also help you save.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Imperial Beach?
Typically, you'll find that San Francisco, Las Vegas and San Jose have cheap flights to Imperial Beach. Flexibility, however, is key to getting the lowest fares. Plan your trip during the off-peak season or midweek to keep costs to a minimum.
Which US cities fly direct to Imperial Beach?
You can fly to Imperial Beach without a stopover from 51 US destinations. To find a nonstop trip, select "Direct flights only" when browsing for flights to Imperial Beach on Expedia. Then, explore your choices and find the best departure from one of these cities:

  • San Francisco
  • Las Vegas
  • San Jose
  • Denver
  • Phoenix

How to find a cheap flight to Imperial Beach?
Book your trip early to increase your chances of finding cheap flights to Imperial Beach. Also, consider visiting during off-season months like January and February. If you fly on a Thursday, you'll save 16% on average compared to those departing on a Sunday.* Save time checking every day and set up a price alert on the Expedia app. We'll let you know when 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 Imperial Beach?
You can find great deals on last-minute departures to Imperial Beach, especially if your plans aren't set in stone. Consider departing from a different airport, changing your dates or picking another carrier to get a cheap flight to Imperial Beach.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Imperial Beach?
To nab some of the biggest savings on domestic journeys, book your flight to Imperial Beach 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, it's two to four months in advance. This increases your chances of securing your preferred departure dates, times and seats.**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 Imperial Beach?
Generally, you can get cheap flights to Imperial Beach on Sundays. You'll save around 8% on average compared to booking on a Friday, which is typically the most expensive day to buy 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 Imperial Beach?
A total of 15 airlines connect 55 airports across the globe to Imperial Beach. Here are a few of the popular airlines to Imperial Beach, where San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) is the major entry point:

  • Alaska Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

Where do you fly into Imperial Beach?
If you're flying to Imperial Beach, the main airport to land at is San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN). You can also head for nearby hubs like McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD), San Diego, CA (SDM-Brown Field Municipal) or San Diego, CA (MYF-Montgomery Field). Another possibility to keep in mind when you fly to Imperial Beach is San Diego, CA (SEE-Gillespie Field).
How far is the airport from central Imperial Beach?
If you're flying into San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN), you'll be around 11 mi northwest of the center of Imperial Beach.
Can I save money by booking an Imperial Beach trip package?
You could potentially save hundreds of dollars if you choose an Imperial Beach flight and hotel package deal on Expedia. And you'll save yourself hassle by having all your travel plans in one place. Try bundling flights and accommodations with extras such as activities and tours for your own personalized Imperial Beach escape.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Imperial Beach?
If you booked your flight to Imperial Beach in the last 24 hours, you can often change or cancel it without fees. After that, additional costs may apply depending on the airline's terms of service. To learn more, visit our Customer Service Portal. Bear in mind that some flights are non-refundable, so you may be issued a credit for a future trip in place of a direct refund. When browsing on Expedia, select the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" boxes to see tickets with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
San Diego Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
SAN
Destination city name
San Diego
Roundtrip price
$56

Trending flights to Imperial Beach

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $28 for one-way flights and $56 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines

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