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LAX → SBA
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (Santa Barbara)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an expansive view of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands, offering a classic California coastal perspective during the short hop north.
Search flights from LAX to SBA
Channel Islands
Clear views of Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands rising from the Pacific on the horizon.
Pacific Coastline
The dramatic meeting of the blue ocean and the rugged California shore as you track northwest.
Point Dume
The iconic sandstone cliffs and crescent-shaped beach of Malibu's famous coastal landmark.
Santa Barbara Channel
Keep an eye on the water surface; whale migrations are often visible from lower altitudes.
Sit on the left for the best views of the ocean sunset if flying in the late afternoon. This side is also superior for viewing the Channel Islands National Park throughout the flight. During the approach into SBA, the left side often looks out over the Goleta Slough and the ocean before touchdown.
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Santa Monica Mountains
The green peaks and deep canyons stretching from Los Angeles through Malibu.
Pepperdine University
The scenic campus overlooking the Pacific, nestled against the mountainside in Malibu.
Oxnard Plain
The patchwork of agricultural fields and berry farms around the city of Ventura.
Santa Ynez Mountains
The dramatic backdrop of Santa Barbara that looms large as the aircraft begins its final descent.
The right side is ideal for mountain lovers and those interested in seeing the geography of the SoCal coast. Morning flights are best for this side to avoid sun glare. As you land, the right side offers a close-up view of the Santa Barbara foothills and the Riviera area if the pilot executes a 'visual' approach from the east.
Book Hotels in Santa BarbaraDistance: 142 km (88 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 14 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: SBA (34.42620087, -119.8399963)
Route Type: Domestic
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