Loading map...
SNA → SJD
Which side of the plane to sit from John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana) to Los Cabos International Airport (San Jose Del Cabo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the dramatic transition from the Southern California urban coast to the rugged mountain ranges and the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez.
Search flights from SNA to SJD
Orange County Riviera
Aerial views of Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and the exclusive coastal enclaves immediately after takeoff.
San Diego Bay
A clear view of the downtown skyline, Coronado Bridge, and the naval fleet stationed in the harbor.
Sierra de San Pedro Mártir
The highest mountain range on the Baja peninsula, featuring Picacho del Diablo at over 10,000 feet.
Cataviña Boulder Fields
A surreal desert landscape filled with massive granite boulders and unique Boojum trees.
Sea of Cortez
As the plane begins its descent, the deep blue waters and islands of the Gulf of California come into view.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is particularly spectacular during the descent into SJD, as the pilot often banks toward the mountains, revealing the stark contrast between the desert peaks and the sea. If the flight path stays slightly inland, you will see the Salton Sea in the distance to the east.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for Mexico
Islas Coronado
A group of four small islands off the coast of Tijuana that serve as a wildlife refuge.
Pacific Horizon
An endless view of the deep blue Pacific Ocean, often featuring dramatic cloud formations.
Laguna Ojo de Liebre
A massive coastal lagoon near Guerrero Negro, famous as a primary breeding ground for Gray Whales.
Pacific Sunset
On late afternoon flights, this side offers an unobstructed view of the sun dipping below the horizon.
The Corridor
As you make the final turn into SJD, you can see the luxury resorts lining the shore toward Cabo San Lucas.
The right side is the best choice for afternoon or evening flights if you want to witness a Pacific sunset. During the winter months (December through March), keep a close eye on the lagoons along the Baja coast; while small from 30,000 feet, the white splashes of breaching whales can sometimes be spotted in the coastal waters.
Book Hotels in San Jose Del CaboDistance: 1,414 km (879 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 53 min
Departure: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Arrival: SJD (23.15180015563965, -109.72100067138672)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.