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SEA → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled parade of volcanic peaks including Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, and Mount Shasta, followed by the dramatic Sierra Nevada mountains and an iconic urban approach into San Diego.
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Cascade Volcanoes
Stunning close-up views of Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams shortly after departure from Seattle.
Crater Lake
The sapphire-blue waters of Oregon's famous volcanic caldera are often visible directly to the east.
Mount Shasta
A massive, snow-covered stratovolcano that serves as a landmark for the transition into California.
Sierra Nevada Range
The rugged, jagged peaks of the high Sierras, including views toward Yosemite and Mount Whitney on clear days.
San Diego Skyline
The famous 'urban canyon' approach provides a breathtaking view of downtown skyscrapers and Balboa Park just seconds before touchdown.
Choose a window seat on the left side (typically 'A' seats) for the best mountain views. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the Cascades. On the final approach into San Diego, be prepared for a very low altitude pass over the city; the left side offers the classic view of the high-rises and the San Diego Zoo.
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Olympic Peninsula
Distant views of the lush green forests and the Olympic Mountain range to the west during climb-out.
Pacific Coastline
The rugged meeting of the Pacific Ocean and the North American continent along the Oregon and California borders.
San Francisco Bay
Depending on the flight path, you may see the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco peninsula in the distance.
Channel Islands
The rocky archipelago off the coast of Southern California, including Santa Catalina and San Clemente islands.
Point Loma
The historic peninsula and lighthouse marking the entrance to San Diego Bay visible during the final turn.
The right side (typically 'F' seats) is perfect for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean without the glare. While it lacks the dramatic peaks of the left side, it offers a serene view of the coastline and the Channel Islands. During the landing pattern, you will see the naval base and various ships in the harbor.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 1,692 km (1,051 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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