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LIH destination photo
LAX destination photo

LIHLAX

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side of the aircraft offers a superior experience, providing iconic views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the luxurious Westside of Los Angeles during the final descent, while also capturing the lush northern coastline of Kauai upon departure.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌴

Kauai North Shore

Vibrant green cliffs and the turquoise waters of the Wailua River valley shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Pacific Expanse

Uninterrupted views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean with dramatic cloud formations at cruising altitude.

⛰️

Santa Monica Mountains

The rugged ridge line that separates the San Fernando Valley from the coastal basin.

🏰

The Getty Center

The distinctive white travertine architecture of the museum perched on the hills of Brentwood.

🏙️

LA Westside

Dense urban views of Century City, UCLA, and the sprawling Santa Monica neighborhoods.

Choose the left side for the best 'landfall' experience. As you approach California, the flight path often parallels the coast, offering views of the Santa Barbara area before turning toward LAX. For day flights, the sun will be on the right side (south) for much of the journey, making the left side better for photography without glare.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
⚓

Nawiliwili Bay

A quick glimpse of Kauai's main harbor and the Haupu Mountain range immediately after takeoff.

🏝️

Channel Islands

Spot the silhouettes of Santa Catalina and San Clemente Islands rising from the Pacific during descent.

🏌️

Palos Verdes Peninsula

The dramatic coastal bluffs, luxury estates, and golf courses of the South Bay.

🛳️

Port of Los Angeles

The massive scale of the San Pedro and Long Beach container terminals and breakwaters.

✈️

LAX South Complex

A detailed view of the airport's southern runways and cargo facilities during the final moments of flight.

The right side is ideal for sunset flights, as you'll have a front-row seat to the sun dipping below the horizon over the ocean. It is also the better side for spotting the iconic Channel Islands. Be aware that midday flights on this side can be quite warm and bright due to the southern sun exposure.

Top Activities in Los Angeles
Route Information

Distance: 4,203 km (2,612 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 57 min

Departure: LIH (21.97599983215332, -159.33900451660156)

Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)

Route Type: Domestic

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