Loading map...

GCM destination photo
TPA destination photo

GCMTPA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the picturesque West Florida coastline, including iconic beaches and the spectacular Sunshine Skyway Bridge during the approach into Tampa.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Seven Mile Beach

Enjoy a stunning aerial view of Grand Cayman's world-famous white sands and turquoise waters immediately after takeoff.

🇨🇺

Pinar del Río

View the lush, mountainous landscapes of western Cuba, known for its traditional tobacco plantations and limestone mogotes.

🌊

Gulf of Mexico

As you cross the straits, look out for the deep blue waters and large cargo vessels traversing the shipping lanes.

🏖️

Sarasota Coastline

See the brilliant white quartz sands of Siesta Key and the barrier islands of the Florida Gulf Coast.

🌉

Sunshine Skyway Bridge

A highlight of the descent, providing a clear view of the iconic yellow cable-stayed bridge spanning lower Tampa Bay.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. During the final approach, the left side provides the best perspective of the Pinellas County beaches and the mouth of Tampa Bay. Look down for cruise ships docked near Port Manatee.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🚤

North Sound

Glimpse the vast lagoon of Grand Cayman and the famous Stingray City sandbar as the aircraft climbs.

🏙️

Havana Outskirts

Depending on the specific airway, you may see the sprawling urban landscape of Cuba's capital city to the east.

🐊

Florida Everglades

Observe the vast, shimmering wetlands of southern Florida as you transition from the sea to the peninsula.

🏙️

Downtown Tampa

Get a great view of the city's skyline and the Hillsborough River during the final turns for landing.

✈️

MacDill Air Force Base

Spot the runways and military aircraft at this strategic base located on the tip of the Interbay Peninsula.

The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct sun glare while flying north. It offers a better view of the inland lakes of central Florida and the dense urban core of Tampa as the plane aligns with the runway. Watch for the large phosphate terminals at Port Tampa Bay.

Top Activities in Tampa
Route Information

Distance: 973 km (605 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min

Departure: GCM (19.2928009033, -81.3576965332)

Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.