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LAX → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a continuous and breathtaking panorama of the Southern California coastline, iconic beach towns, and a legendary final approach directly over the historic landmarks of San Diego.
Search flights from LAX to SAN
Orange County Coastline
Aerial views of Huntington Beach Pier, Newport Beach, and the luxury estates of Laguna Beach.
Dana Point Harbor
The distinctively shaped marina and the dramatic cliffs of the Headlands Heritage Park.
Camp Pendleton
A rare look at the massive, undeveloped coastal wilderness of the Marine Corps base.
North County Surf Spots
Bird's-eye view of world-class surf breaks at Oceanside, Carlsbad, and Del Mar.
Balboa Park & Zoo
On the final descent into SAN, you fly remarkably low over the historic California Tower and San Diego Zoo.
Downtown San Diego
Glistening skyscrapers and the bustling streets of the Gaslamp Quarter just seconds before touchdown.
Sit on the left (port) side for the most iconic views. For morning flights, the sun will be behind you, perfectly illuminating the coast for photography. On the final approach into SAN (Runway 27), the plane flies very close to the buildings of downtown—be ready with your camera as soon as you pass over Balboa Park.
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Pacific Ocean Expanse
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue Pacific and the white-capped waves of the California Current.
Santa Catalina Island
On clear days, the rugged silhouette of Catalina is visible shortly after departing LAX.
Maritime Traffic
Watch for massive container ships and tankers queuing for the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.
Pacific Sunset
Evening flights provide a front-row seat to the sun dipping below the horizon.
North Island NAS
Views of the Naval Air Station and aircraft carriers across the bay during the final turn.
The right (starboard) side is best for evening flights to avoid direct glare from the setting sun if you want to see the horizon. If the plane circles over the ocean before landing, you may catch a glimpse of the Point Loma peninsula and the Cabrillo National Monument.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 176 km (109 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 18 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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