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SAN → MRY
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Monterey Peninsula Airport (Monterey)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the iconic California coastline, featuring expansive Pacific Ocean views, the Channel Islands, and a stunning approach over Monterey Bay.
Search flights from SAN to MRY
Pacific Ocean Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the vast blue Pacific and the sparkling California coastline.
Channel Islands
Aerial views of Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa islands sitting off the coast near Santa Barbara.
Point Conception
The dramatic geographic 'elbow' where the California coast transitions from east-west to north-south.
Monterey Bay
A breathtaking view of the crescent-shaped National Marine Sanctuary during the final descent.
Santa Barbara Coast
Clear views of the pristine beaches and Mediterranean-style architecture of the American Riviera.
For the most dramatic experience, choose a sunset flight to see the sky turn orange over the Pacific. On clear days, the transition from the rugged Big Sur cliffs to the deep blues of Monterey Bay is visible roughly 15 minutes before landing. Be aware that coastal fog (the 'marine layer') is common in the mornings, which may obscure low-level details but creates a beautiful 'sea of clouds'.
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Los Angeles Basin
The immense urban sprawl of the LA metro area, including distant views of the downtown skyscrapers.
Transverse Ranges
Rugged peaks of the Santa Ynez and San Rafael mountains that run parallel to the flight path.
Salinas Valley
The lush, patchwork agricultural fields known as the Salad Bowl of the World.
Pinnacles National Park
Unique volcanic rock formations visible in the distance to the east of the Salinas Valley.
Laguna Seca
The famous WeatherTech Raceway and its legendary Corkscrew turn are often visible just before touchdown.
The right side is best for geography enthusiasts interested in California's mountain systems and agricultural heartland. Morning flights offer the best illumination for the Salinas Valley and the coastal ranges. If the plane approaches from the east, you will get a great look at the hills of Carmel Valley and the famous Laguna Seca racetrack.
Book Hotels in MontereyDistance: 604 km (375 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: MRY (36.58700180053711, -121.84300231933594)
Route Type: Domestic
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