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HNL destination photo
LAX destination photo

HNLLAX

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most iconic views of the journey, including a direct look at Diamond Head after takeoff and a scenic approach over the Palos Verdes Peninsula and Catalina Island.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
⛱️

Waikiki Beach

A perfect view of the famous white sand beaches and luxury hotels lining the Honolulu shore.

🌋

Diamond Head

The most iconic aerial view of Hawaii, looking directly into the crater of this ancient tuff cone.

🏝️

Catalina Island

Visible on the horizon during the descent, standing out as a rugged peak in the Pacific.

🌊

Palos Verdes

Dramatic views of the coastal cliffs, luxury estates, and the Wayfarers Chapel area on approach.

🚢

Port of LA

Massive container ships and the complex infrastructure of the nation's busiest port during final descent.

The right side is essential for the legendary Diamond Head view upon departure from HNL's Reef Runway. When flying eastbound to LAX, morning flights have the best lighting for the Hawaii departure, while late afternoon flights offer a warm, golden glow over the Southern California coastline during arrival.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
⚓

Pearl Harbor

Aerial views of the historic naval base and the USS Arizona Memorial shortly after departure.

🏙️

Downtown Honolulu

The city's high-rise skyline set against the backdrop of the lush Ko'olau mountain range.

🏖️

Malibu Coastline

As you reach the mainland, the rugged cliffs of Malibu and the Santa Monica mountains are often visible.

🏛️

Getty Center

The white stone museum complex sits prominently in the hills during the northern approach into LAX.

🎬

Hollywood Sign

On clear days, the famous sign and Griffith Observatory can be spotted in the distance to the north.

Sit on the left if you prefer seeing the dense urban sprawl of Los Angeles and the northern mountain ranges during landing. For the best photography of the Oahu coastline, use a faster shutter speed to capture the vivid contrast between the turquoise reefs and the dark volcanic mountains during climb-out.

Top Activities in Los Angeles
Route Information

Distance: 4,108 km (2,553 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 50 min

Departure: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)

Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)

Route Type: Domestic

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