Ninety-five miles from Huntington Beach is San Diego International Airport (SAN). Twenty airlines serve SAN with American Eagle, Delta Connection and United Express all limiting their connecting flight service from Los Angeles only. Flying into and out of SAN is ideal for travelers who want to travel the scenic Pacific Coast Highway to Huntington Beach and to have the option to stop at other popular surfing communities, such as San Clemente, en route to Surf City.
John Wayne Airport (SNA), located in Orange County, is the airport closest to Huntington Beach (11 miles away). SNA is home to 10 commercial airlines including American, Continental, Delta, Southwest, United and US Airways. SNA is surrounded by residential areas, and as such, is subject to noise abatement procedures. Of note, departing flights make a sharp ascent to reach altitude. Pilots and flights attendants typically make an announcement prior to departure in order to prepare travelers from being startled by the louder than usual engine thrust and steep incline.
Long Beach Airport (LGB) is also an option for travelers heading to Huntington Beach from select cities. Service is limited, however, because of a noise abatement policy limiting the number of daily commercial flights to 41 without further authorization from the City of Long Beach. Low-cost carrier JetBlue has a prominent presence at LGB, while Allegiant, Frontier, US Airways, Delta and Alaska airlines offer limited service. Flights into and out of LGB may only operate between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. absent compelling circumstances. Huntington Beach is a 16 mile drive from LGB.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is an optimum choice for travelers who would like to combine their trip to Huntington Beach with the option to also explore Los Angeles. Located 37 miles from Surf City, LAX is a major international airport. The vast number of airlines providing service to LAX can provide more competitive prices for travelers. Using LAX may, however, require factoring more time into clearing security. The airport offers travelers a variety of ground transportation options including long distance vans and rental cars.
