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SJD → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Cabos International Airport (San Jose Del Cabo) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for its consistent views of the dramatic Pacific coastline, the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, and the iconic approach into the San Francisco Bay.
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Baja West Coast
Stunning views of the breaking waves and remote beaches along the Pacific side of the Baja peninsula.
Channel Islands
Aerial perspective of Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa islands sitting off the coast of Santa Barbara.
Big Sur Cliffs
The dramatic meeting of the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1.
Monterey Bay
The distinct crescent shape of the bay, often visible from Santa Cruz down to the Monterey Peninsula.
San Francisco Peninsula
A panoramic view of the coastline leading up to the city, with potential glimpses of the Golden Gate.
Book a window seat behind the wing to avoid engine obstruction. On afternoon flights, the left side offers incredible golden hour lighting over the Pacific. If SFO is landing from the south (the most common pattern), the left side provides the best chance to see the city skyline and the ocean simultaneously.
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Sea of Cortez
Deep turquoise waters contrasting against the stark desert landscape during the initial climb out of SJD.
Sierra de la Laguna
The rugged, mountainous spine of the southern Baja peninsula visible shortly after takeoff.
Los Angeles Basin
The massive urban sprawl of LA and the San Gabriel Mountains typically visible to the east.
Central Valley
Geometric patterns of California's agricultural heartland stretching toward the Sierra Nevada.
SF Bay Salt Ponds
Vibrant red, orange, and green evaporation ponds near Redwood City during the final descent.
The right side is better for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. It offers a unique look at the contrast between the Baja desert and the sea. During the final approach into SFO, look for the headquarters of major tech companies in Silicon Valley and the colorful salt ponds.
Book Hotels in San FranciscoDistance: 2,011 km (1,250 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 41 min
Departure: SJD (23.15180015563965, -109.72100067138672)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: International
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