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SJD → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Cabos International Airport (San Jose Del Cabo) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning sequence of the rugged Pacific coastline of Baja California followed by a world-class final approach over Point Loma and San Diego Bay.
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Pacific Coastline
Dramatic views of the untouched, rugged cliffs and turquoise waters along the western edge of the Baja Peninsula.
Magdalena Bay
A vast complex of lagoons and sandbars, famous as a sanctuary for migrating gray whales during winter months.
Vizcaíno Desert
Starkly beautiful desert landscapes where the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve meets the Pacific Ocean.
Coronado Islands
A cluster of four small islands just south of the international border, often visible during the initial descent.
Point Loma & Harbor
The iconic final approach into SAN provides a close-up view of the Point Loma lighthouse and San Diego Bay.
Sit on the left for the most consistent coastal views. For the best lighting, choose an afternoon flight to see the sun illuminating the cliffs. During the final approach, the left side typically looks directly down onto the Cabrillo National Monument and the Navy ships in the harbor. Avoid seats directly over the wing for better downward visibility of the coastline.
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Sea of Cortez
Early in the flight, you can see the deep blue waters and white sand beaches of the Gulf of California.
Sierra de la Laguna
The mountainous spine of the southern peninsula, featuring peaks that reach over 6,000 feet.
Bahía de los Ángeles
A breathtaking coastal area known for its numerous islands and deep blue deep-water channels.
Imperial Valley
The transition from Mexican desert into the massive agricultural grid systems near the U.S. border.
Downtown San Diego
As the plane lines up for Runway 27, the right side offers a spectacular view of the Balboa Park and the downtown skyline.
Choose the right side if you prefer mountain and desert vistas. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the glare of the western sun. As you approach San Diego, the right side provides a fantastic view of the dense urban layout and Balboa Park just before touchdown. This side is also better for spotting the Salton Sea in the distance if the flight path tracks slightly inland.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 1,293 km (803 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min
Departure: SJD (23.15180015563965, -109.72100067138672)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: International
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