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DEN destination photo
SBA destination photo

DENSBA

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the Front Range of the Rockies shortly after takeoff, followed by the jagged peaks of the Central Rockies and a stunning mountain-hugging approach into Santa Barbara.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

Longs Peak

Dominant northern peak of the Front Range visible during the initial climb out of Denver.

🎿

Vail & Aspen

Fly directly over the high-altitude ski resorts and snow-capped peaks of the central Colorado Rockies.

🎰

Las Vegas Strip

Often visible in the distance as a shimmering oasis of glass and steel in the Nevada desert.

⛰️

Santa Ynez Mountains

Stunning views of the rugged ridge line that drops sharply into the Pacific as you land in Santa Barbara.

🏘️

Montecito Coastline

Aerial views of luxury coastal estates and the iconic butterfly beach just before touchdown.

The right side is superior for viewing the dramatic transition from the Santa Ynez Mountains to the sea. Morning flights offer the best lighting on this side, as the sun illuminates the mountains and avoids direct glare into the cabin.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Pikes Peak

Catch views of the 14,115-foot summit rising from the Colorado Front Range shortly after departure.

🏜️

Canyonlands

Vast stretches of the Colorado Plateau featuring deep canyons and red rock formations in eastern Utah.

🌵

Mojave Desert

Dramatic desert landscapes and dry lake beds visible as you transition into Southern California.

🏝️

Channel Islands

On final approach, look south to see Anacapa, Santa Cruz, and Santa Rosa islands dotting the Pacific.

🌊

Pacific Horizon

The sparkling expanse of the Pacific Ocean as the aircraft turns to align with the SBA runway.

Sit on the left for the best views of the Channel Islands during the final descent. If you are flying in the afternoon, the sun will be on the left side of the aircraft, which may cause glare but offers beautiful golden hour lighting over the Pacific.

Top Activities in Santa Barbara
Route Information

Distance: 1,471 km (914 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 58 min

Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)

Arrival: SBA (34.42620087, -119.8399963)

Route Type: Domestic

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