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OAK → SNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (Oakland) to John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers breathtaking views of the California coastline, the crescent of Monterey Bay, and a stunning final approach over the beaches of Orange County.
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San Francisco Bay
Views of the salt ponds, wetlands, and bridges of the southern SF Bay area.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Lush, redwood-covered ridges separating the Santa Clara Valley from the coast.
Monterey Bay
The iconic sweeping curve of the coastline near Santa Cruz and Monterey.
Channel Islands
On clear days, the distant silhouettes of Anacapa and Santa Cruz islands are visible.
Newport Beach
The pier, Balboa Peninsula, and Pacific waves just moments before landing.
The right side is the clear winner for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Pacific. Keep your camera ready about 15-20 minutes after takeoff for the best views of the Monterey coastline. On the final approach into SNA, this side provides a spectacular view of the Orange County beaches and the Pacific Ocean.
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Mount Diablo
A prominent peak in the East Bay visible shortly after departure from OAK.
Silicon Valley
Aerial views of San Jose and the dense tech campuses of the South Bay.
Diablo Range
Rugged, golden-brown mountains stretching along the eastern side of the flight path.
San Gabriel Mountains
Majestic peaks that mark the entry into the Southern California basin.
Disneyland Resort
Look for the Matterhorn and bright lights of Anaheim during the descent into SNA.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun. It offers better views of the inland mountain ranges and the sprawl of the Inland Empire. If flying at night, this side is superior for spotting the illuminated grid of the LA Basin and Disneyland fireworks.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 597 km (371 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr
Departure: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)
Arrival: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Route Type: Domestic
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