Right side dominates the outbound leg with Monterey Bay and the Pacific coast, while left side captures San Diego Bay and the city during descent. Right wins slightly for the more dramatic coastal scenery during the longer climb-out phase.
Flown MRY to SAN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Monterey to San Diego is 375 miles (604 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path follows the California coast southbound at 15,000-25,000 feet. Notable features include Big Sur's dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline (visible from right side around 20 minutes into flight), the Santa Lucia Mountains running parallel to the coast, and the transition from central California's rocky coastline to San Diego County's more developed coastal areas. The Los Padres National Forest and Ventana Wilderness appear inland on the left. As you approach San Diego, the Peninsular Ranges become visible inland on the left side, while the coast becomes increasingly developed with beach communities.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MRY
RIGHTRight side offers immediate views of Monterey Bay and the Pacific coastline as you climb out. The left side faces inland toward the Santa Lucia Mountains with less dramatic scenery during initial climb.
Landing at SAN
LEFTLeft side provides excellent views of San Diego Bay, downtown San Diego's skyline, and the Coronado Peninsula as you descend toward Lindbergh Field. The right side faces less populated areas and the inland foothills.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Monterey to San Diego. Right side dominates the outbound leg with Monterey Bay and the Pacific coast, while left side captures San Diego Bay and the city during descent. Right wins slightly for the more dramatic coastal scenery during the longer climb-out phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Monterey Regional Airport in Monterey?
During takeoff from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers immediate views of Monterey Bay and the Pacific coastline as you climb out. The left side faces inland toward the Santa Lucia Mountains with less dramatic scenery during initial climb. Notable sights include: Monterey Bay, Pacific Ocean coastline, Santa Lucia Mountains (distant inland), Monterey Peninsula.
What can I see when landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld in San Diego?
When landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides excellent views of San Diego Bay, downtown San Diego's skyline, and the Coronado Peninsula as you descend toward Lindbergh Field. The right side faces less populated areas and the inland foothills. Notable sights include: San Diego Bay, Coronado Peninsula, Downtown San Diego skyline, Point Loma.
How long is the flight from Monterey to San Diego?
The flight from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 375 miles (604 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Monterey to San Diego flight path pass over?
The flight path follows the California coast southbound at 15,000-25,000 feet. Notable features include Big Sur's dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline (visible from right side around 20 minutes into flight), the Santa Lucia Mountains running parallel to the coast, and the transition from central California's rocky coastline to San Diego County's more developed coastal areas. The Los Padres National Forest and Ventana Wilderness appear inland on the left. As you approach San Diego, the Peninsular Ranges become visible inland on the left side, while the coast becomes increasingly developed with beach communities.