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SJC → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the preferred choice for this route as it hugs the California coastline, offering expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, Monterey Bay, and the scenic descent over La Jolla into San Diego.
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Monterey Bay
The deep blue crescent of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary is visible early in the journey.
Channel Islands
On clear days, see the silhouettes of Santa Cruz and Anacapa islands off the Ventura coast.
Santa Catalina Island
The famous resort island is frequently visible as the plane passes the Los Angeles coastline.
La Jolla Shores
Stunning views of the turquoise water and white sand beaches during the descent into SAN.
Point Loma
Watch the rugged peninsula that forms the western boundary of the San Diego Bay during landing.
Sit on the right for sunset flights to watch the sun drop into the ocean. This side offers the classic 'California Dream' view of the coastline. For the best photos of San Diego's beaches, keep your camera ready for the last 10 minutes of the flight.
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Silicon Valley
Bird's eye view of the tech campuses in San Jose and Santa Clara immediately after takeoff.
Mount Hamilton
The historic Lick Observatory is visible atop the Diablo Range to the east of the flight path.
San Gabriel Mountains
Dramatic, rugged peaks that border the northern edge of the Los Angeles Basin.
LA Basin Sprawl
An incredible view of the endless urban grid stretching from the mountains to the sea.
Balboa Park
On final approach, you can see the lush greenery and museums of San Diego's famous park.
The left side is best for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun reflecting off the Pacific. It provides a better look at the inland geography and the transition from the Central Valley into the Southern California mountains.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 671 km (417 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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