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CEC → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Jack Mc Namara Field Airport (Crescent City) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled vantage point of the rugged Northern California coastline, including the remote Lost Coast and a potential iconic aerial view of the Golden Gate Bridge upon arrival.
The Lost Coast
The most remote section of the California shoreline where the mountains drop directly into the sea.
Point Arena Lighthouse
A sharp white landmark standing on a dramatic peninsula jutting into the Pacific.
Point Reyes National Seashore
The iconic triangular landmass and sweeping beaches of Drakes Bay.
Golden Gate Bridge
Often visible if the flight path follows the 'Golden Gate' approach into San Francisco.
San Francisco Peninsula
Clear views of Ocean Beach, Golden Gate Park, and the city's western neighborhoods.
Sunset flights are incredible on the right side as the sun sets over the Pacific. To maximize your chance of seeing the Golden Gate Bridge, look for flights that arrive during clear weather, as fog often obscures this view during summer months.
Redwood National Park
Dense, ancient forests covering the hillsides immediately south of Crescent City.
Klamath River Mouth
A massive river outlet into the Pacific, often showing distinct sediment plumes.
Humboldt Bay
Aerial views of Eureka and the surrounding coastal wetlands and oyster beds.
Wine Country
Inland views of the rolling hills of Sonoma and Napa Valley during the descent.
Richmond-San Rafael Bridge
The northernmost major bridge in the San Francisco Bay as you enter the terminal area.
Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the green coastal ranges. This side is superior for seeing the urban sprawl of the East Bay and the dense forest canopy of the Redwood empire.
Distance: 489 km (304 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 49 min
Departure: CEC (41.78020096, -124.2369995)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: Domestic
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