13 Stunning & Affordable Places to Fly from Santa Ana Right Now

Let’s be real—flying out of John Wayne Airport used to mean limited options and sky-high prices. But things have changed, and I’ve become slightly obsessed with tracking down amazing flight deals from right here in Orange County. No more crawling through LA traffic just to catch a decent flight!

These are the best places in Southern California to grab affordable flights, and I’m pumped to share my latest discoveries. Just last month, I snagged a sweet deal to Cabo San Lucas for about the same price as a nice dinner out. Between lounging at Medano Beach and watching sunset at Land’s End, I couldn’t believe I almost skipped this destination because I thought it would be too expensive. Ready to explore without breaking the bank? Here are 13 destinations calling your name.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Santa Ana

Looking for cheap places to fly from Santa Ana? Before jumping into all the coolest cities and airports to fly into, I want to share a quick tip to save money on airfare.

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. SNA) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $225 roundtrip fare from Miami to London. On average, I save about $300 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Affordable Travel Destinations from Santa Ana

Looking for affordable travel destinations from Santa Ana? Visit San Francisco for its iconic landmarks and waterfront views, Seattle for scenic parks and vibrant coffee culture, Denver for outdoor adventures and craft breweries, and Portland for quirky attractions and a thriving food scene. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, these destinations offer budget-friendly escapes from Santa Ana.

Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

1. Santa Ana to San Francisco ($55–$120 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, United, Alaska Airlines
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November 🍂 and March to May 🌸 for milder weather and fewer tourists
• 🏆 Perfect for: Foodies 🍽️, urban explorers 🌉, culture seekers 🎭

San Francisco is a city of iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and incredible food packed into just 49 square miles. This NorCal gem delivers big-city thrills without the long-haul flight from Orange County.

The Golden Gate Bridge is even more jaw-dropping in person than in photos, while Alcatraz Island offers fascinating prison tours that actually sell out weeks ahead (book early!). Hop a historic cable car to Fisherman’s Wharf where you can score fresh sourdough bread bowls filled with clam chowder for $12, then burn off those carbs hiking up to Coit Tower for panoramic city views.

With Southwest fares frequently dipping to just $55 one-way, San Francisco is practically a steal for a weekend escape. Visit in spring or fall to enjoy the best of the city without shivering.

2. Santa Ana to Seattle ($95–$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta, Southwest
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September 🌞 and May to June 🌷 for drier days and outdoor activities
• 🏆 Perfect for: Coffee lovers ☕, outdoor enthusiasts 🌲, tech geeks 💻

Seattle is basically the cool kid of the Pacific Northwest with amazing mountain views and tech vibes everywhere. It’s the perfect escape when you’re tired of SoCal’s endless sunshine.

Pike Place Market lives up to the hype with its flying fish show and the OG Starbucks (worth a quick pic, not worth the line for coffee). The Space Needle gives you killer views, and Chihuly Garden next door has these insane glass sculptures that look unreal on Instagram.

Alaska Airlines drops fares to $95 one-way during their Tuesday sales, especially in winter when it’s rainy but way less crowded. Hit up Seattle in early August for perfect weather and outdoor vibes at Discovery Park or Mount Rainier.

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Seattle

3. Santa Ana to Denver ($102–$190 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Frontier, Southwest, United
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May 🌷 and September to October 🍂 for mild weather and fewer tourists
• 🏆 Perfect for: Mountain lovers 🏔️, craft beer enthusiasts 🍺, outdoor adventurers 🥾

Denver is that perfect mix of urban cool and mountain adventure where you can hit up a rooftop bar and a hiking trail in the same day. This mile-high city gives you that Rocky Mountain high without breaking the bank.

Red Rocks is way more than just a concert venue (though catching a show there should definitely be on your bucket list). The natural amphitheater doubles as an epic workout spot with killer views. Downtown’s Larimer Square has all the food and shopping vibes, while RiNo (River North Art District) is packed with colorful murals, craft breweries, and food halls where $15 gets you an amazing meal and local beer.

Frontier Airlines regularly drops fares to $102 roundtrip if you can travel light and book during their weekly sales. Early October is the sweet spot when you’ll catch the aspens turning gold without the ski season crowds or prices.

• Read next: Cheap Places to Fly from Denver

4. Santa Ana to Portland ($110–$200 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Southwest, Spirit
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August 🌞 and September to October 🍂 for driest weather and food festivals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Foodies 🍽️, hipsters 🎸, nature lovers 🌲

Portland is where weird is celebrated and donuts are an art form. This Pacific Northwest city delivers all the coffee shop vibes and forest adventures without the Seattle prices.

Powell’s City of Books is literally a full city block of books where you could spend hours getting lost in the aisles. The food cart scene here is unreal with over 500 carts around the city serving everything from Korean tacos to authentic Thai for under $10. Washington Park packs in the Japanese Garden and Rose Test Garden, while the nearby Multnomah Falls is just 30 minutes away but looks like something from a fantasy movie.

Alaska Airlines often drops fares to $110 roundtrip, especially if you book 4-6 weeks ahead for midweek travel. Late September hits the perfect weather sweet spot with sunny days, fewer tourists, and the start of fall colors. 

5. Santa Ana to Salt Lake City ($125–$210 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, Southwest, Alaska Airlines
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May 🌷 and September to October 🍂 for perfect hiking weather and fall colors
• 🏆 Perfect for: Ski bums ⛷️, hikers 🥾, national park hoppers 🏞️

Salt Lake City is basically the ultimate basecamp for outdoor adventures with five national parks within driving distance. This mountain-ringed city offers epic nature without the Colorado crowds or prices.

Temple Square is worth checking out even if you’re not religious, with gorgeous gardens and architecture that’s super photogenic. Just 30 minutes from downtown, Big Cottonwood Canyon has incredible hiking trails with alpine lakes that’ll rack up the likes on social. For the best views in town, hit up Ensign Peak at sunset for a quick 30-minute hike that pays off with panoramic city and mountain vistas.

Delta regularly drops fares to $125 roundtrip from Santa Ana, especially during shoulder seasons. Early October is prime time with perfect 70-degree days, mountain slopes turning gold with aspens, and hotel prices dipping below summer rates. 

• Read next: Cheap Flights from SLC

6. Santa Ana to Dallas ($170–$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, Spirit, Southwest
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for milder temperatures and outdoor events
• 🏆 Perfect for: Sports fans 🏈, foodies 🍖, shoppers 🛍️

Dallas is where cowboy culture meets big-city luxury. This Texas metropolis gives you endless entertainment options without the crazy prices of LA or NYC.

Klyde Warren Park is famous for its food truck scene, while Bishop Arts District is so hip you can actually spend hours browsing indie shops and murals without seeing the same thing twice. Pretty rare for a Texas city. Sixth Floor Museum brings the JFK story to life in the actual spot where history happened, and sports fans can catch the Cowboys or Mavericks depending on the season.

American Airlines slashes fares to $170 roundtrip during their frequent sales, especially for Tuesday/Wednesday departures. Late October brings that perfect Texas weather when you can actually enjoy outdoor patios without melting. 

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Dallas

7. Santa Ana to Chicago ($151–$260 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours
• 🛫 Best Airlines: United, American, Spirit
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for pleasant temperatures and outdoor festivals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Architecture buffs 🏙️, foodies 🌭, culture lovers 🎭

Chicago is a city that refuses to be overlooked. This Midwest metropolis offers world-class everything from food to museums to architecture without the attitude or prices of coastal cities.

Millennium Park is famous for the iconic Bean sculpture, while the Art Institute of Chicago is so impressive you can actually spend an entire day getting lost among masterpieces and still not see it all. The architecture river cruise is worth every penny for the perfect intro to the city, and no trip is complete without trying deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s or a classic Chicago hot dog at Portillo’s for under $10.

United and American frequently battle it out with $151 roundtrip fares, particularly when you book 6-8 weeks ahead. Early October is the sweet spot with warm days, cool nights, and incredible fall colors along the lakefront.

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Chicago

8. Santa Ana to Miami ($111–$220 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, JetBlue, Frontier
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌴 and November to mid-December 🏖️ for lower humidity and smaller crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, nightlife enthusiasts 🕺, art scene explorers 🎨

Miami is SoCal with a tropical twist and Latin flavor. This vibrant city delivers beaches with actual warm water, killer food scene, and nightlife that makes even LA clubs seem tame by comparison.

South Beach is famous for its colorful Art Deco buildings and people-watching, while Wynwood feels like walking through the world’s coolest outdoor art gallery with massive murals covering entire city blocks. The food scene is next level, from authentic Cuban coffee and sandwiches at Versailles to fresh ceviche at Jaguar that will have you planning your next trip before you even leave.

JetBlue and Frontier regularly offer $111 one-way deals, especially during their Tuesday flash sales. Early May hits the sweet spot with perfect 80-degree days and warm ocean temperatures without the spring break crowds. 

• Read next: Budget-Friendly Destinations to Fly from Miami

9. Santa Ana to Mexico City ($189–$290 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Volaris, Aeromexico, Alaska Airlines
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and October to November 🍂 for ideal weather and cultural events
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, art lovers 🎨, food adventurers 🌮

Mexico City is seriously underrated with its mix of ancient sites and modern vibes. This massive city packs in all the culture, food, and nightlife you could want at prices that make California seem like a total ripoff.

The Frida Kahlo Museum lets you explore the actual blue house where she lived, while Teotihuacan has those huge pyramids you can climb for killer views. The food scene is next level, from fancy spots like Pujol to street tacos that cost just $1-2 and will ruin American Mexican food for you forever. Mercado de Coyoacán is where locals actually eat, with food stalls serving up the real deal.

Search Volaris flights for November departures, when $189 roundtrips pop up regularly and the weather is perfect. Unlike other destinations, Mexico City doesn’t have a bad time to visit, but you’ll save by avoiding December holidays and spring break crowds. 

10. Santa Ana to Albuquerque ($150–$230 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, American, United
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌵 and September to October 🎈 for desert blooms and balloon festivals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Desert explorers 🏜️, Breaking Bad fans 🧪, chile enthusiasts 🌶️

Albuquerque is that place your cooler friends visit and never shut up about afterward. This high-desert city serves up a perfect mix of stunning landscapes, Native American culture, and enough chile-infused food to permanently alter your taste buds.

Old Town feels like walking through a movie set with its 300-year-old plaza and hidden courtyards, while the Sandia Mountains turn a crazy shade of watermelon pink at sunset (literally why they’re named “sandia”). The ABQ BioPark is actually worth visiting, unlike most city zoos, and you can score tickets for under $15. 

Flights drop to $150 roundtrip if you catch Southwest‘s Tuesday deals and can travel midweek. October is the magic month when the sky fills with hundreds of rainbow-colored hot air balloons during the International Balloon Fiesta. 

11. Santa Ana to Houston ($142–$230 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: United, Southwest, Spirit
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to April 🌸 and October to November 🍂 for comfortable temperatures and outdoor events
• 🏆 Perfect for: Space nerds 🚀, museum hoppers 🖼️, food fanatics 🍲

Houston is basically the most underrated city in Texas, with a food scene that will blow your mind and museums that could keep you busy for weeks. This sprawling metropolis offers big-city perks without the inflated prices of Dallas.

Space Center Houston is so cool you can actually touch real spacecraft and see Mission Control where they guided the Apollo missions. The museum district packs 19 different museums into a walkable area, with free admission days for most of them if you plan right. Buffalo Bayou Park offers amazing skyline views, while the underground tunnel system downtown is a trippy maze of shops and restaurants that locals use to escape the heat.

United frequently drops fares to $142 roundtrip from Santa Ana, especially for 6-8 week advance bookings. March is prime visiting time when the weather hits that perfect sweet spot between winter and the swampy summer heat. 

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Houston

12. Santa Ana to Sacramento ($88–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, United, Alaska Airlines
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for pleasant weather and outdoor activities
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, farm-to-fork foodies 🍽️, outdoor enthusiasts 🌳

Sacramento is that chill NorCal city everyone forgets about until they visit and go “wait, this place is actually cool.” Just a quick flight from OC and you’re in a totally different California vibe.

Old Sacramento looks straight out of a western movie with wooden sidewalks and historic saloons. The food scene is legit farm-to-fork, with most ingredients coming from farms less than an hour away. Midtown is where the action happens with craft breweries, street art, and restaurants that would be twice the price in LA or SF.

Southwest drops fares to $88 one-way on the regular, especially for midweek flights. October is prime time with perfect weather and the Farm-to-Fork Festival serving up amazing local eats.

The best part? Stay in Sacramento and you can day-trip to Napa, Lake Tahoe, or San Francisco without paying their crazy hotel prices!

• Read next: Affordable Places to Fly from Sacramento

13. Santa Ana to Austin ($112–$200 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, American, Alaska Airlines
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🎸 and September to November 🍂 for festival season and patio weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎵, outdoor enthusiasts 🏊, taco connoisseurs 🌮

Austin is like if someone took the coolest parts of California and dropped them in the middle of Texas. This city refuses to fit the Texas stereotype with its live music scene, outdoor lifestyle, and creative energy.

Barton Springs is where locals escape the brutal Texas heat by jumping into a giant natural pool that stays freezing cold year-round. South Congress packs the best shopping, people-watching, and food trucks into a few walkable blocks. For the ultimate Austin experience, catch live music on Rainey Street where historic houses have been turned into the coolest bars in town.

Southwest regularly offers $112 one-way deals, especially if you book 4-6 weeks out. April hits the sweet spot with perfect weather and bluebonnets blooming everywhere. 

• Read next: Destinations with Cheap Flights from Austin

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Santa Ana

Looking to expand your knowledge about the cheapest destinations from Santa Ana? Here are some common questions I get a lot about cheap flights from Santa Ana to anywhere.

What are some of the cheapest destinations to fly to from Santa Ana?

From the coastal charm of San Francisco to the musical heartbeat of Austin, Santa Ana offers affordable flight options to a diverse range of cities. Popular destinations include Seattle, Denver, Portland, Salt Lake City, Dallas, Mexico City, Albuquerque, Houston, Sacramento, Chicago, Miami, and more. Each of these cities not only offers competitive airfares but also presents a unique tapestry of experiences, catering to various traveler interests.

Which airlines offer the best deals from Santa Ana?

Several airlines are known for their competitive deals from Santa Ana. Southwest, Delta, American Airlines, and United are among the top contenders. While each airline has its own set of promotions and loyalty programs, it’s beneficial to compare prices, check for seasonal offers, and even consider multi-city or round-trip discounts when planning your journey.

How can I find the cheapest flights from Santa Ana to anywhere?

Securing the best flight deals often requires a mix of planning and flexibility. Booking your flight several weeks or even months in advance can yield significant savings. Additionally, being open to traveling on weekdays or during off-peak hours can make a difference in price. Utilizing flight comparison websites, subscribing to airline newsletters, and setting up fare alerts can also keep you informed about price drops or limited-time promotions.

When is the best time to book a flight from Santa Ana for the cheapest rates?

Flight prices fluctuate based on demand, season, and promotions. Generally, booking a few weeks to a couple of months in advance can secure better rates. If you’re not bound by specific dates, consider traveling during off-peak seasons or mid-week. Additionally, many airlines have periodic sales, so staying updated on these can lead to unexpected bargains.

Are there any nearby alternative airports to Santa Ana that might offer cheaper flights?

Absolutely! While Santa Ana provides a convenient departure point, sometimes exploring nearby airports can lead to cost savings. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Long Beach Airport (LGB) are two significant hubs in the vicinity. Depending on your final destination, these airports might offer more flight options or promotional fares worth considering.

What airlines fly out of Santa Ana CA?

Santa Ana, California, is primarily served by John Wayne Airport (SNA). This airport hosts a variety of airlines that offer both domestic and international flights. Here are some airlines that operate out of John Wayne Airport:

1. Southwest Airlines: Offers numerous domestic routes, including to cities like Las Vegas, Denver, and Dallas.
2. American Airlines: Provides flights to several U.S. hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago, and Phoenix.
3. Delta Air Lines: Connects Santa Ana to cities like Salt Lake City, Minneapolis, and Atlanta.
4. United Airlines: Offers flights to hubs like San Francisco, Denver, and Houston.
5. Alaska Airlines: Provides service to cities like Seattle, Portland, and San Jose.
6. Frontier Airlines: A low-cost carrier offering flights to destinations like Denver.
7. WestJet: Canadian airline with flights to Vancouver.
8. Spirit Airlines: Another low-cost option for domestic travel.
9. JetSuiteX: A regional airline offering flights to destinations like Las Vegas and Oakland.
10. Sun Country Airlines: Seasonal service to Minneapolis.

How long are the typical flights from Santa Ana to popular destinations?

Flight durations from Santa Ana can vary widely based on the destination. For instance, a direct flight to San Francisco might be a swift 1.5 hours, while venturing to Dallas could take closer to 3 hours. Longer flights, like those to the East Coast or international destinations, will naturally take more time. Always review the flight itinerary for specifics, including any layovers.