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SJC → SNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose) to John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a premier view of the California coastline, featuring the dramatic Monterey Bay, the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, and a stunning aerial perspective of the Pacific Ocean throughout the flight.
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Monterey Bay
The massive, deep-blue crescent of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary shortly after reaching cruise altitude.
Big Sur Coastline
The iconic meeting of land and sea where the Santa Lucia Range drops precipitously into the Pacific.
Channel Islands
Distant views of Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands emerging from the ocean haze near Santa Barbara.
Malibu & Santa Monica
A panoramic sweep of the famous Southern California beaches and piers as the plane enters the LA Basin.
Newport & Huntington Beach
Excellent views of the surf breaks and marinas just minutes before touchdown at John Wayne Airport.
The right side is the clear winner for scenic beauty. Book a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. Late afternoon flights are spectacular on this side as the 'golden hour' light hits the coastal cliffs. Keep your camera ready as you pass Santa Barbara, as the transition from wilderness to the dense urban coast is visually striking.
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Silicon Valley
Bird's-eye view of major tech campuses like Apple Park and the urban grid of San Jose immediately after takeoff.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Lush, forested ridges that separate the Santa Clara Valley from the Pacific Coast.
Pinnacles National Park
Unique volcanic rock formations and spires visible as the flight tracks south through the Salinas Valley.
Transverse Ranges
The rugged Santa Ynez and San Gabriel Mountains that frame the northern edge of the Los Angeles Basin.
Anaheim Landmarks
Potential views of Disneyland Resort and Angel Stadium during the final approach into Orange County.
Sit on the left if you prefer inland geography and urban landscapes. This side is particularly interesting during the initial ascent for tech enthusiasts wanting to spot corporate headquarters. For the best lighting, morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the mountains and valleys to the east.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 550 km (342 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 55 min
Departure: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Arrival: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Route Type: Domestic
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