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SAN → OAK
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (Oakland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior coastal experience, featuring the dramatic California shoreline, Channel Islands, and a high-probability view of the San Francisco skyline during the approach into Oakland.
Search flights from SAN to OAK
Pacific Coastline
Continuous views of the rugged California coast, including the pristine beaches of Malibu and Santa Barbara.
Channel Islands
Aerial perspective of Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands rising out of the blue Pacific waters.
Monterey Bay
The massive crescent-shaped bay known for its deep submarine canyon and rich marine life.
San Francisco Skyline
Breathtaking views of the Transamerica Pyramid, Salesforce Tower, and the Bay Bridge during descent.
Golden Gate Bridge
Depending on the approach pattern, a distant but iconic view of the world-famous orange suspension bridge.
Choose a window seat on the left for sunset departures to witness the sun reflecting off the Pacific. During the northern approach, keep your camera ready for the San Francisco city center as the plane banks toward the East Bay. Avoid seats over the wing for unobstructed coastal photography.
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Los Angeles Basin
The vast urban sprawl of LA and the surrounding San Gabriel Mountains shortly after takeoff.
Central Valley
A patchwork of vibrant green and gold agricultural fields that define California's farming heartland.
Diablo Range
Rugged ridges and rolling hills that separate the Central Valley from the coastal regions.
Lick Observatory
The historic white domes visible atop Mount Hamilton as you enter the South Bay area.
South Bay Salt Ponds
Vibrant, multicolored salt evaporation ponds near Fremont and Newark visible during final descent.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the glare of the Pacific sun. Watch for the distinct color variations in the South Bay salt ponds, which range from deep purple to bright orange. This side also provides the best views of the East Bay hills and Mount Diablo before touchdown.
Book Hotels in OaklandDistance: 718 km (446 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)
Route Type: Domestic
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