While takeoff offers Bay Area scenery, the landing descent provides more sustained and dramatic views of the Monterey Peninsula's rugged coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains—the defining geography of this short route. Right seats capture the best of the approach.
Flown SFO to MRY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
San Francisco to Monterey is 77 miles (124 km), a flight of about 35 minutes.
Santa Cruz Mountains (visible to the left during cruise), Monterey Bay opening to the south, transition from San Francisco Bay Area urban sprawl to coastal agricultural lands of the Salinas Valley, Point Lobos and Big Sur coastline approaching from the south
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SFO
LEFTLeft seats offer immediate views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge area, and the Marin Headlands as you climb out southbound. Right seats face inland toward the East Bay hills with less dramatic scenery during initial climb.
Landing at MRY
RIGHTRight seats provide excellent views during descent into Monterey, including the Monterey Peninsula's distinctive coastline, Monterey Bay, and the Santa Lucia Mountains to the east. Left seats face inland over agricultural areas with minimal visual interest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from San Francisco International (SFO) to Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Francisco to Monterey. While takeoff offers Bay Area scenery, the landing descent provides more sustained and dramatic views of the Monterey Peninsula's rugged coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains—the defining geography of this short route. Right seats capture the best of the approach.
What can I see during takeoff from San Francisco International in San Francisco?
During takeoff from San Francisco International (SFO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer immediate views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge area, and the Marin Headlands as you climb out southbound. Right seats face inland toward the East Bay hills with less dramatic scenery during initial climb. Notable sights include: San Francisco Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands, San Francisco city grid.
What can I see when landing at Monterey Regional Airport in Monterey?
When landing at Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats provide excellent views during descent into Monterey, including the Monterey Peninsula's distinctive coastline, Monterey Bay, and the Santa Lucia Mountains to the east. Left seats face inland over agricultural areas with minimal visual interest. Notable sights include: Monterey Bay, Monterey Peninsula coastline, Santa Lucia Mountains, Carmel-Big Sur coast.
How long is the flight from San Francisco to Monterey?
The flight from San Francisco International (SFO) to Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) takes about 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 77 miles (124 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the San Francisco to Monterey flight path pass over?
Santa Cruz Mountains (visible to the left during cruise), Monterey Bay opening to the south, transition from San Francisco Bay Area urban sprawl to coastal agricultural lands of the Salinas Valley, Point Lobos and Big Sur coastline approaching from the south