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BUR destination photo
OAK destination photo

BUROAK

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic views of the California coast and the full panorama of the San Francisco Bay and its iconic bridges during the arrival phase.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏘️

San Fernando Valley

Aerial view of the sprawling Burbank and Northridge areas immediately after takeoff from Bob Hope Airport.

🌊

Central Coastline

Distant glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged terrain of the Santa Lucia Range as you fly north.

🌲

Santa Cruz Mountains

Lush forested ridges that separate the coast from the southern end of the San Francisco Bay Area.

🏢

Silicon Valley

The tech hubs of San Jose, Mountain View, and Palo Alto visible as the aircraft begins its descent.

🌉

San Francisco Bay

Sweeping views of the water, the San Mateo Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline on the horizon.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare and for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific. Keep your camera ready as you cross the South Bay for the best views of the salt ponds and the San Francisco skyline.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

San Gabriel Mountains

The towering peaks of the Angeles National Forest rising sharply from the basin floor north of Burbank.

⛰️

Tehachapi Mountains

The rugged geographic transition zone between Southern California and the vast Central Valley.

🚜

San Joaquin Valley

The massive agricultural heartland of California with its distinct geometric field patterns and canals.

🔭

Mount Hamilton

Home to the Lick Observatory, visible atop the highest peaks of the Diablo Range during the descent.

🏡

East Bay Hills

The rolling golden or green terrain of the Tri-Valley area including Pleasanton and Castro Valley.

The right side is ideal for sunrise flights as the sun illuminates the Central Valley landscape. Look for the massive wind farms near the Altamont Pass during the final approach into Oakland.

Top Activities in Oakland
Route Information

Distance: 523 km (325 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: BUR (34.200698852539055, -118.35900115966795)

Arrival: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)

Route Type: Domestic

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