Loading map...
MIA → APF
Which side of the plane to sit from Miami International Airport (Miami) to Naples Municipal Airport (Naples)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the vast southern Everglades wilderness and a spectacular view of the Gulf of Mexico's emerald waters during the final approach into Naples.
Downtown Miami Skyline
Panoramic views of the skyscrapers and the urban density of the Magic City immediately after takeoff.
Everglades National Park
The famous 'River of Grass' stretches to the horizon, showcasing a unique ecosystem of sawgrass and water.
Big Cypress National Preserve
A dense mosaic of cypress domes and subtropical hardwood hammocks visible as you cross the peninsula.
Rookery Bay
Intricate mangrove estuaries and coastal waterways just south of Naples as the plane begins its descent.
Gulf of Mexico
The sparkling turquoise waters of the Gulf provide a stunning backdrop during the final banking maneuvers.
Choose a window seat on the left for evening flights to catch the sunset reflecting off the Everglades' standing water. Because this is a short, low-altitude flight, ground details like airboat trails are highly visible. Polarized sunglasses are recommended to cut the glare from the water-heavy landscape.
Miami International Airport
A bird's-eye view of the massive airfield operations and terminal layouts during the initial climb.
The Tamiami Trail
US Highway 41 is clearly visible slicing through the swamp, often flanked by narrow canals.
Miccosukee Indian Reservation
Identify the cultural hubs and small settlements clustered along the main highway in the central Everglades.
Golden Gate Estates
The unique grid pattern of one of the world's largest semi-rural residential developments on the edge of Naples.
The right side is excellent for spotting the geometric patterns of South Florida's drainage canals and suburban expansion. During morning flights, this side will have the best lighting for photography as the sun is behind you, illuminating the green marshlands below.
Distance: 154 km (96 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 15 min
Departure: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)
Arrival: APF (26.1525993347, -81.7752990723)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.