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SAN → STS
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (Santa Rosa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning sequence of California's coastal gems, including the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands, and the dramatic cliffs of the Bay Area.
SoCal Coastline
Aerial views of La Jolla Cove, Del Mar, and the continuous stretch of Orange County beaches.
Channel Islands
Clear views of Santa Catalina and Santa Cruz Islands floating in the Pacific horizon.
San Francisco Bay
As the plane tracks north, the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline are often visible in the distance.
Point Reyes
The rugged, triangular silhouette of the Point Reyes National Seashore during the descent.
Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the ocean and coastline without glare. Sit forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the San Francisco Peninsula during the descent towards Santa Rosa.
Transverse Ranges
Views of the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains shortly after departing San Diego.
Central Valley
The vast, geometric patchwork of California's agricultural heartland stretching toward the horizon.
Sonoma Vineyards
Low-altitude views of the rolling hills and orderly rows of grapevines in the Russian River Valley.
Mount Saint Helena
The prominent volcanic peak that marks the northern end of the Mayacamas Mountains.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights, as the setting sun casts long, dramatic shadows over the coastal ranges and highlights the textures of the vineyards. Keep an eye out for the peak of Mt. Whitney on exceptionally clear days.
Distance: 819 km (509 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: STS (38.50899887, -122.8130035)
Route Type: Domestic
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