While takeoff offers bay views, the landing approach on right seats provides superior scenery with the dramatic Santa Ynez Mountains and the scenic coastal descent into Santa Barbara, making it the better choice for the full flight.
Flight Path
Pacific coastline north of San Diego, Torrey Pines cliffs, Laguna Mountains inland, Malibu coast and Santa Monica Mountains visible in distance, Ventura County coastal plain
Phase by phase
Takeoff from
Landing at
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Diego to Santa Barbara. While takeoff offers bay views, the landing approach on right seats provides superior scenery with the dramatic Santa Ynez Mountains and the scenic coastal descent into Santa Barbara, making it the better choice for the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld in San Diego?
During takeoff from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer immediate views of San Diego Bay, the downtown skyline, and the Pacific coastline as you climb northwestward. Right seats face inland toward the urban sprawl and foothills with less dramatic scenery. Notable sights include: San Diego Bay, downtown San Diego waterfront, Point Loma peninsula, Pacific Ocean.
What can I see when landing at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport in Santa Barbara?
When landing at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats provide excellent views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the coastal approach into Santa Barbara. You'll see the dramatic north-south oriented mountain range and the city nestled between mountains and ocean as you descend from the south. Notable sights include: Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara coastline, Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara city grid.
How long is the flight from San Diego to Santa Barbara?
The flight from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) takes 0h 35m.
What does the San Diego to Santa Barbara flight path pass over?
Pacific coastline north of San Diego, Torrey Pines cliffs, Laguna Mountains inland, Malibu coast and Santa Monica Mountains visible in distance, Ventura County coastal plain