Cheap Flights to Orange County from $28

Flights to Orange County at a glance

Traveling to Orange County is easy, with a variety of options for flights to Orange County that cater to different budgets and preferences. You can choose between full-service and cheap flights to Orange County, allowing you to compare travel times and select what fits your plans for visiting popular attractions. From stunning beaches to vibrant urban parks and modern universities, highlights include Disneyland® Resort for family fun, Anaheim Convention Center for business events, and Knott's Berry Farm for outdoor adventures.

• Major airport in Orange County: John Wayne Airport (SNA) serving Orange County
• Flights per week: 2,700+ flights arriving at Orange County airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Orange County: around 15+ carriers

Popular airport in Orange County

Orange County is a vibrant destination perfect for families and those seeking entertainment or outdoor adventures. With its rich cultural offerings, it attracts travelers for various reasons. Conveniently, a major airport serves this county, making access easy for visitors.

• John Wayne Airport (SNA): Situated in Orange County, California, John Wayne Airport offers both domestic and international flights, connecting travelers to over 220 domestic locations and more than 30 international spots. Passengers have the option to enhance their journey with upgrades to first class, business class, or premium economy class seating, depending on their chosen airline and route. Notable airlines operating at this airport include American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and United.

Top routes to Orange County

• San Francisco (SFO) to Orange County (SNA), with one-way fares starting at around $30
• Seattle (SEA) to Orange County (SNA), with one-way airfare from around $70
• Las Vegas (LAS) to Orange County (SNA), with one-way flights starting at around $30
• Phoenix (PHX) to Orange County (SNA), with one-way airfare from around $40
• Chicago (ORD/MDW) to Orange County (SNA), with one-way tickets available from around $95

Cheapest routes to Orange County

• San Francisco (SFO) to Orange County (SNA), with low one-way fares from around $30
• Las Vegas (LAS) to Orange County (SNA), with low one-way fares from around $30
• Ogden (OGD) to Orange County (SNA), with low one-way fares from around $35
• Phoenix (PHX) to Orange County (SNA), with cheap one-way fares from around $40
• Salt Lake City (SLC) to Orange County (SNA), with low one-way fares from around $50

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

Best time to fly to Orange County

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Orange County are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Orange County can reach up to 56.1°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 63.7°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $202, roughly 8% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September, August, and February offer average one-way fares of around $213, making them good options for flexible travelers.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$217
February	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$216
March	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$233
April	56.1°F (13.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	$223
May	65.7°F (18.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$202
June	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$217
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$219
August	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	$212
September	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	$210
October	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	$221
November	58.3°F (14.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	$233
December	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$246

*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 Orange County

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Orange County 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—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Orange County hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—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.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in Orange County

• Anaheim: Located in the area of Orange County, Anaheim is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly atmosphere and rich cultural experiences. Home to the iconic Disneyland® Resort, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of magic and adventure. Other notable attractions include the Anaheim Convention Center, which hosts various events, and Knott's Berry Farm, an amusement park that offers thrilling rides and activities. With its shopping centers and arts venues, Anaheim is a perfect destination for family vacations and entertainment seekers alike.
• Newport Beach: Newport Beach is located in the area of Orange County and is a stunning coastal city ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Renowned for its beautiful beaches, the Newport Beach Pier offers a scenic spot for leisurely strolls and sunset views. The area is also home to the University of California, Irvine, a modern institution that adds a youthful vibe to the city. For a relaxing day by the sea, Crystal Cove Beach is a must-visit, making Newport Beach a delightful destination for beach lovers and city explorers.
• Irvine: Irvine is located in the area of Orange County and stands out as a thriving city that perfectly blends family, business, and urban lifestyles. One of its key attractions is the University of California, Irvine, which contributes to the city's lively atmosphere. Families will enjoy the expansive Orange County Great Park, ideal for outdoor activities and community events. Tanaka Farms offers a unique eco-friendly experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, Irvine provides a welcoming environment with plenty to explore.

Tips for short-haul flights to Orange County

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. Maximize your space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating your outfits effectively. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Early check in—nearly all airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This can save you time at the airport, and you may have the opportunity to select a preferred seat at no additional charge.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights do not provide in-flight entertainment. To keep yourself entertained, download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive early—even for short flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before departure, allowing time for 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 at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Orange County

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

• Select your seat in advance—for long flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow seat selection for free once online check-in begins, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may permit earlier seat selection, but this could involve an additional fee.
• Arrive early—aim to reach 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 spare time, explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin aligning your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortably—the journey will be lengthy, so opt for loose, comfortable clothing and layers, as cabin temperatures can vary.
• Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, ensuring you feel your best upon arrival.