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HNL → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
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.
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.
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.
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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