Southern California’s bustling metropolis of Irvine stands as a gateway to the region’s diverse attractions, from sun-soaked beaches to world-class theme parks. For travelers seeking to explore this vibrant corner of the Golden State, choosing the right airport can make all the difference in starting their journey on the right foot.
From the convenience of John Wayne Airport just minutes away to the international connections offered by Los Angeles International Airport, the options for air travel in and out of Irvine are as varied as the destinations they serve. Each airport in the region boasts its own unique character, amenities, and advantages, catering to different types of travelers and their specific needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the top 10 major airports serving the Irvine area, exploring their facilities, unique features, and the experiences they offer passengers. We’ll delve into the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed decision for your next trip to or from Orange County.
Now, let’s explore the top airports near Irvine, CA, in detail:
1. John Wayne Airport (SNA / KSNA)
Location: Santa Ana, CA
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Distance from Irvine: Approximately 7 miles
John Wayne Airport, named after the legendary actor and Orange County native, is the closest major airport to Irvine. Its proximity and modern facilities make it a favorite among local travelers.
Facilities:
Three terminals (A, B, and C) with a total of 22 gates
free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
Over 30 shops and restaurants, including local favorites
Nursing mothers’ lounges in each terminal
Pet relief areas, both pre-and post-security
USO lounge for military personnel and their families
Art exhibits featuring local artists
rental car center with major providers
Of passenger services:
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR for expedited security screening
Currency exchange services
AED devices and first-aid stations throughout the airport
Charging stations for electronic devices
Valet parking and curbside valet options
complimentary luggage carts
John Wayne Airport offers a balance of convenience and comfort, with its compact size allowing for quick navigation through security and to gates. The airport’s commitment to showcasing local culture through its art program and dining options gives travelers a taste of Orange County before they even leave the terminal.
2. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX / KLAX)
Location: Los Angeles, CA
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Distance from Irvine: Approximately 42 miles
As one of the busiest airports in the world, LAX serves as a major international gateway and offers the most extensive range of destinations from the Irvine area.
Facilities:
Nine passenger terminals
Tom Bradley International Terminal with duty-free shopping
Over 150 shops and restaurants across all terminals
Multiple airline lounges, including some accessible with Priority Pass
in-airport hotel (Hyatt Regency LAX) connected to the central terminal area
Pet Parks for traveling animals
Interfaith Prayer and Meditation Room
Passenger Services:
FlyAway bus service connecting LAX to various parts of Los Angeles
LAX-it for ride Hailing and taxi services
Currency exchange and ATMs throughout the airport
– Full-service U.S. Postal Service Center
TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR are available
VIP meet-and-greet services
Children’s play areas in several terminals
LAX’s size and scope offer unparalleled connectivity, but it comes with the trade-off of potential crowds and longer processing times. The ongoing modernization program promises to enhance the passenger experience significantly in the coming years.
3. Long Beach Airport (LGB / KLGB)
Location: Long Beach, CA
Distance from Irvine: Approximately 23 miles
Long Beach Airport, known for its Art Deco terminal building and open-air concourse, provides a uniquely Southern Californian experience for travelers.
Facilities:
Historic terminal building with modern concourse
Outdoor seating areas with fire pits
Local restaurants and shops reflect Long Beach’s culture
Bogart’s Coffee, a local favorite
4th Street Vine Wine Bar
rental car center with major providers
Passenger Services:
TSA PreCheck is available
free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
Charging stations for electronic devices
Pet relief areas
Valet parking services
Easy access to public transportation
Long Beach Airport’s compact size and efficient layout make it a stress-free alternative to larger airports. The open-air design allows passengers to enjoy the Southern California weather while waiting for their flights.
4. Ontario International Airport (ONT / KONT)
Location: Ontario, CA
Distance from Irvine: Approximately 35 miles
Ontario International Airport serves as an important alternative to LAX for the Inland Empire and eastern parts of the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
Facilities:
two main terminals (2 and 4) with a total of 26 gates
International arrivals facility
Several dining options are available, including local and chain restaurants
Retail shops and newsstands
Currency exchange services
rental car center with major providers
Passenger Services:
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are available
free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
Charging stations for electronic devices
Pet relief areas
Valet parking and economy lots
Ground transportation options, including ride-sharing and public transit
Ontario International Airport offers a less congested alternative to LAX, with easy access to the eastern parts of the Los Angeles area and the Inland Empire.
5. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR / KBUR)
Location: Burbank, CA
Distance from Irvine: Approximately 50 miles
Formerly known as Bob Hope Airport, Hollywood Burbank Airport is the only airport in the Los Angeles area with a direct rail connection to downtown Los Angeles.
Facilities:
two terminals (A and B) with 14 gates
variety of dining options, including local favorites
Shops and newsstands
rental car center with major providers
USO center for military personnel and their Families
Passenger Services:
TSA PreCheck is available
free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
Charging stations for electronic devices
Pet relief areas
Valet parking and self-parking options
direct connection to Metrolink and Amtrak trains
Hollywood Burbank Airport’s proximity to major studios and attractions in the San Fernando Valley makes it a convenient choice for those heading to the entertainment industry hub.
6. San Diego International Airport (SAN / KSAN)
Location: San Diego, CA
Distance from Irvine: Approximately 85 miles
While further from Irvine, San Diego International Airport offers another major airport option with extensive domestic and international connections.
Facilities:
two terminals (1 and 2) with a total of 51 gates
wide variety of shops and restaurants, including local San Diego favorites
Multiple airline lounges
Reflection Room for quiet Contemplation
arts program featuring rotating exhibits
Rental car center with shuttle service
Passenger Services:
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are available
free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
Charging stations for electronic devices
Pet relief areas
USO Neil Ash Airport Center for military personnel
Ground transportation options include the San Diego Flyer (free electric shuttle)
San Diego International Airport’s location near downtown San Diego and its extensive flight options make it a viable choice for those in southern Orange County or heading to San Diego attractions.
7. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP / KPSP)
Location: Palm Springs, CA
Distance from Irvine: Approximately 85 miles
Palm Springs International Airport serves as a gateway to the Coachella Valley and desert resorts, offering a uniquely relaxing airport experience.
Facilities:
single terminal with 17 gates
open-air concourse with garden areas
Local and chain dining options
Shops and newsstands
rental car center with major providers
USO center for military personnel and their Families
Passenger Services:
TSA PreCheck is available
free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
Charging stations for electronic devices
Pet relief areas
Valet parking and self-parking options
Ground transportation, including ride-sharing and taxis
The airport’s open-air design and mountain views provide a distinctly Palm Springs experience, making it a pleasant option for those heading to desert destinations.
8. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA / KSBA)
Location: Santa Barbara, CA
Distance from Irvine: Approximately 130 miles
While further from Irvine, Santa Barbara Municipal Airport offers a convenient option for those heading to the Central Coast.
Facilities:
Single terminal with 10 gates
Local dining options showcasing Santa Barbara cuisine
Gift shops and newsstands
rental car center with major providers
Art exhibitions featuring local artists
Passenger Services:
TSA PreCheck is available
free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
Charging stations for electronic devices
pet relief areas
Long-term and short-term parking options
Ground transportation, including ride-sharing and taxis
Santa Barbara Municipal Airport’s Spanish-style architecture and relaxed atmosphere reflect the charm of the surrounding area.
9. McClellan-Palomar Airport (CRQ / KCRQ)
Location: Carlsbad, CA
Distance from Irvine: Approximately 55 miles
McClellan-Palomar Airport, while smaller than some others on this list, offers convenient access to North San Diego County.
Facilities:
Single terminal with limited commercial service
Cafes and vending machines
Rental car services are available
Private aviation facilities
Passenger Services:
Free Wi-Fi in the terminal
Charging stations for electronic devices
Short-term and long-term parking
around transportation options, including taxis and ride-sharing
McClellan-Palomar Airport’s small size allows for quick check-in and security processes, making it a time-saving option for those heading to North County, San Diego.
10. San Bernardino International Airport (SBD / KSBD)
Location: San Bernardino, CA
Distance from Irvine: Approximately 50 miles
San Bernardino International Airport, while primarily serving general aviation and cargo operations, is expanding its commercial passenger services.
Facilities:
Modern passenger terminal
Dining options and vending machines
Rental car services
Extensive cargo facilities
Passenger Services:
Free Wi-Fi in the terminal
Charging stations for electronic devices
Parking options, including short-term and long-term
Ground transportation, including taxis and ride-sharing,
As San Bernardino International Airport continues to grow its commercial operations, it may become an increasingly viable option for travelers in the eastern parts of the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
The Irvine area is served by a diverse array of airports, each offering its own unique advantages. From the convenience of John Wayne Airport to the extensive international connections at LAX, travelers have a wealth of options to choose from based on their specific needs and destinations. The smaller regional airports like Long Beach and Burbank offer less crowded alternatives, while more distant options like San Diego and Palm Springs can be ideal for specific travel plans.
When selecting an airport, consider factors such as proximity to your final destination, available flight options, potential traffic and travel time to the airport, and the specific amenities that matter most to you. Whether you prioritize a quick security process, a wide selection of dining options, or easy access to public transportation, there’s an airport near Irvine that can meet your needs.
FAQ’s
What airport do you fly into for Irvine?
John Wayne Airport (SNA) is the closest airport to Irvine, CA. It is located about 5 miles away and serves both domestic and international flights.
What is LAX Airport known for?
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is known for being one of the busiest airports in the world, offering extensive international and domestic flights.
What does SNA Airport stand for?
SNA stands for John Wayne Airport, which serves Orange County and is named after the famous actor John Wayne.
How many gates does SNA Airport have?
John Wayne Airport (SNA) has 22 gates across its two terminals, serving a variety of domestic and international destinations.
Does Irvine have a metro?
Irvine does not have a metro system. The city relies on buses and other public transportation options for local travel.
Does Irvine have trains?
Yes, Irvine has trained. The Irvine Transportation System, served by Amtrak and Metrolink, offers regional and long-distance train services.
Conclusion
Irvine, CA, benefits from its proximity to several major airports, including John Wayne Airport (SNA), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and Long Beach Airport (LGB). Each airport offers unique advantages, from SNA’s convenient location to LAX’s extensive international connections and LGB’s ease of access.
These airports provide residents and visitors with a range of travel options, making it easier to plan trips both domestically and internationally. Whether you’re looking for the convenience of SNA, the global reach of LAX, or the accessibility of LGB, these airports ensure that Irvine remains well-connected.
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