Welcome to Southern California! As you’re planning your trip, you may be trying to decide which Los Angeles area airport to fly into. All Los Angeles area airports have benefits, but some may be more suitable for your travel needs, ultimate destination, and comfort levels.
In this edition of the Xpress Shuttles blog, we’re taking a look at which Los Angeles area airport will best suit your needs. With our help, we can ensure that your travel experiences are as smooth, easy, and enjoyable as possible.
Comparing Flights and Locations
Price is always a consideration, but depending on your travel style, you may want to choose a more highly priced ticket for a better travel experience.
In a perfect world, you have the luxury of choosing from several Los Angeles area airports without budget considerations. When the ticket price is identical, the decision comes down to one core question: How quickly can I get to my destination?
The few dollars you might save on a cheaper flight are quickly lost to the cost of a long, congested freeway drive, the surge pricing of ride-shares, or the delay of a transfer.
In this Xpress Shuttle analysis, we weigh location, speed, and convenience to save you precious time on your trip! Let’s take a look at each Los Angeles area airport:
1. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
The undisputed heavyweight in the area, LAX offers the greatest number of flights and destinations worldwide, making it unavoidable for many travelers. LAX is a fantastic airport, but does come with some pros and cons.
The Traveler LAX Serves Best:
- The International Traveler: If you are flying in from overseas, LAX is almost certainly your only nonstop option. It hosts the Tom Bradley International Terminal and all major world-class carriers.
- The Westside/South Bay Visitor: LAX is physically closest to popular, high-traffic destinations like Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Marina del Rey, and the South Bay (Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach).
- The Schedule-Driven Traveler: If you need specific departure or arrival times that only a major hub can provide, LAX offers the necessary volume of flight options.
The Downside of LAX:
The massive size of LAX is its biggest drawback. With so many flights and terminals, you’re going to be dealing with the infamous LAX traffic congestion that can be notoriously time-consuming and stressful.
Xpress Shuttles’ Solution:
This is where Xpress Shuttles provide maximum value. You don’t need to wait in unpredictably long queues for a rideshare program. You can arrange to have us pick you up ahead of time, and we’ll be there, ready to take you to your destination with ease and efficiency. We’re here to take the headache out of travel, so book with us today.
2. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)
Known locally as Burbank Airport or Bob Hope Airport, Burbank is a friendly, convenient alternative to LAX that’s located just north of Downtown Los Angeles in the San Fernando Valley.
The Traveler BUR Serves Best:
- The Hollywood/Downtown/Valley Visitor: Burbank is geographically the most convenient airport for anyone heading to Hollywood, Universal Studios, Downtown LA (DTLA), Pasadena, or any of the San Fernando Valley communities.
- The Business Traveler: Its smaller size means incredibly short security lines, quick baggage claim, and an easy exit. You can often arrive 30-45 minutes before boarding a domestic flight.
- The Transit Enthusiast: Burbank is the only LA-area airport with a direct connection to both Amtrak and Metrolink train service.
3. John Wayne Airport (SNA)
Located in Orange County (Santa Ana), John Wayne Airport (SNA) is a boutique airport that consistently ranks highly for customer satisfaction thanks to its efficiency and compact size.
The Traveler SNA Serves Best:
- The Disneyland/Orange County Visitor: This is the absolute ideal airport if your primary destination is Disneyland (it’s the closest and easiest commute), Anaheim, Newport Beach, or Huntington Beach.
- The Low-Stress Traveler: SNA handles fewer passengers than LAX, meaning fast security, easy access, and a generally relaxed, upscale travel experience.
- The Coastal Visitor: If your trip is focused on the stunning beaches and resorts of Orange County, this is the most direct and least stressful point of entry.
4. Long Beach Airport (LGB)
LGB is beloved by locals for its laid-back atmosphere, mid-century architecture, and easy access, consistently providing one of the most pleasant travel experiences among all Los Angeles area airports.
The Traveler LGB Serves Best:
- The Long Beach/Northern Orange County Visitor: Perfect for destinations in Long Beach, Signal Hill, and the northern parts of Orange County.
- The Southwest Loyal Customer: LGB is a major hub for Southwest Airlines, making it a great option if you frequently fly with them and want to avoid the crowds at LAX.
- The Quick In/Out Traveler: LGB’s single, compact terminal setup makes it incredibly fast to deplane, grab a bag, and be on your way.
5. Ontario International Airport (ONT)
Located in the Inland Empire (San Bernardino County), Ontario International Airport has experienced significant growth as a key cargo and passenger hub east of the city.
The Traveler ONT Serves Best:
- The Inland Empire/Desert Visitor: If your ultimate destination is Riverside, San Bernardino, Palm Springs, or the Mojave Desert, Ontario International Airport is your most logical and geographically closest option. It saves you the infamous “Inland Empire Slog” through LA traffic.
- The Value-Conscious Renter: While airfare is often the same, rental car rates and ground transportation can sometimes be cheaper out of Ontario International Airport due to lower operating costs in the region.
Your Partner for Los Angeles Area Airports
When airfare is equal, the best choice among the Los Angeles Area airports is the one that minimizes your commute and maximizes your comfort.
No matter which hub you choose, you still need a reliable, comfortable, and affordable ride to your hotel, home, or event. Don’t waste precious vacation time or valuable business hours waiting in long taxi queues or dealing with unpredictable surge pricing from rideshare programs.
Book your Xpress Shuttles ride now to guarantee seamless, stress-free transportation. We know the most efficient ground routes, and offer both shared rides for maximum value and private van service for speed and comfort.
Start your California journey smoothly with Xpress Shuttles. We handle the last mile so you can relax. Traveling over the holidays? Avoid the long lines and congestion. Let us help you with your holiday transportation needs today.
Happy travels!