Loading map...
LAX → RAR
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Rarotonga International Airport (Avarua)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior perspective of the California Channel Islands during departure and the most iconic views of Rarotonga's mountainous landscape and reef during the descent.
Santa Monica Mountains
Dramatic views of the coastal ranges and Malibu coastline as the plane turns over the Pacific.
Channel Islands
Exceptional views of Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands, part of the unique Channel Islands National Park.
Starlit Sky
Minimal light pollution over the open ocean offers incredible views of the Milky Way on clear nights.
Rarotonga Lagoon
The striking contrast between the deep ocean and the vibrant turquoise lagoon encircling the island.
Volcanic Peaks
Clear views of the jagged, jungle-clad interior peaks of Rarotonga, including Te Manga, during arrival.
The right side is the premier choice for arrival; as the plane approaches Rarotonga from the north, you will see the reef break and the lush interior. During departure from LAX, keep your camera ready for the Channel Islands shortly after the landing gear retracts.
South Bay Coastline
Panoramic views of Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach immediately after departure from LAX.
Port of Los Angeles
A birds-eye view of one of the world's busiest container ports and the San Pedro breakwater.
Santa Catalina Island
The rugged, hilly silhouette of Catalina Island visible to the south as the plane reaches cruising altitude.
Pacific Sunrise
On overnight flights, the left side offers the best view of the sun rising over the vast Pacific horizon.
Deep Ocean Blue
The mesmerizing transition from the coastal shelf to the deep, dark blue waters of the central Pacific.
Sit on the left for the best views of the sprawling Los Angeles lights at night. During the flight, this side is shielded from the direct afternoon sun when flying south, making for more comfortable viewing of the horizon.
Distance: 7,536 km (4,683 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 52 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: RAR (-21.2026996613, -159.805999756)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.