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SFO → MRY
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Monterey Peninsula Airport (Monterey)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a premier coastal experience, showcasing the dramatic transition from the San Francisco Peninsula to the sweeping arc of Monterey Bay.
Search flights from SFO to MRY
Pacific Coastline
Breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and beaches along Highway 1.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Dense redwood forests and the winding roads of the coastal range.
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
The iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster and the long wooden wharf are clearly visible.
Monterey Bay Sanctuary
The vast crescent of the bay, where you might spot whale spouts in the deep blue water.
Monterey Harbor
Final approach views of Cannery Row, Old Fisherman's Wharf, and the marina.
This is the 'money' side for sunset flights, as the sun sets directly over the Pacific. Keep your camera ready as you pass Santa Cruz; the plane often banks here, providing a perfect angle of the coastline. Be aware of coastal fog (the 'marine layer') which can obscure views in summer mornings.
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San Francisco Bay
Aerial views of the South Bay salt ponds and the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge.
Silicon Valley
Glimpse the sprawling tech campuses of Menlo Park, Palo Alto, and Mountain View.
Lick Observatory
On clear days, the white domes atop Mount Hamilton are visible on the eastern horizon.
Salinas Valley
Deep green patchworks of the 'Salad Bowl of the World' as you descend toward Monterey.
Sit here during morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. This side is excellent for seeing the urban sprawl of San Jose and the geometric patterns of inland agriculture. Look for the Stanford Hoover Tower shortly after departure.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 124 km (77 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: MRY (36.58700180053711, -121.84300231933594)
Route Type: Domestic
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