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Why Visit California?

California, located on the west coast of the United States, is celebrated for its vast and diverse landscapes, cultural influence, and economic significance. The state’s capital is Sacramento, while Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego are among its most well-known cities.

California’s landscapes range from the stunning Pacific coastline with iconic destinations like Big Sur and Malibu to the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains with the towering peaks of Yosemite National Park. Its history is marked by Native American heritage, Spanish colonization, the Gold Rush, and the rise of the entertainment and technology industries.

By air
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How to Reach California by Air

Flying is a convenient way to reach California, the westernmost state in the United States, known for its diverse landscapes and major cities.

Here’s how to get to California by air:

  • From Within the U.S.: Travelers from within the United States can find direct flights to major airports in California. Some of the busiest entry points include Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and San Diego International Airport (SAN). Depart from major cities like New York, Chicago, or Dallas, and choose from a variety of airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, or Southwest Airlines. Flight durations can vary based on your departure location but typically range from 3 to 6 hours.
  • From International Locations: If you’re coming from outside the United States, you can find flights to California via several international airports. For example, Los Angeles and San Francisco are major international gateways. Airlines like Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air Canada offer routes to California from cities around the world. Flight durations depend on your departure location and route but can range from 10 to 15 hours or more.
How Long Is the Flight to California?

The average flight time to California, specifically to major airports like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or San Francisco International Airport (SFO), can vary depending on the departure city, airline, and route. Here are approximate flight times from some of the most common origins:

  • New York, USA: Around 5 to 6 hours
  • London, UK: Approximately 11 to 12 hours
  • Tokyo, Japan: About 10 to 11 hours
  • Sydney, Australia: Around 14 to 15 hours
  • Chicago, USA: Approximately 4 to 5 hours
  • Dallas, USA: About 3 to 4 hours
  • Toronto, Canada: Around 5 to 6 hours
  • Mexico City, Mexico: Approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours

These are estimated times and actual flight durations may vary based on the specific route, stopovers, and other factors. Direct flights are available from various cities worldwide.

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Browse Expedia.com’s robust inventory of international and domestic flight deals! We may be compensated when you book after clicking on one of our links.

By road
How to Reach California by Road

California is easily accessible by road, and it has an extensive network of highways and scenic byways. Interstate 5 and Highway 101 are two major routes that run the length of the state. You can embark on epic road trips through California, exploring its iconic locations, including Route 66, Pacific Coast Highway, and more.

By water
How to Reach California by Water

California has several coastal cities with ports that serve as stopovers for cruise ships. You can explore cruise options departing from cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, and experience the beauty of the California coast.

AI Disclaimer Disclaimer: This page was created with help from AI | Reviewed by: Andrew Helling, Editor-in-Chief