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LIH → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Lihue Airport (Lihue) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side wins due to the spectacular final approach into San Diego, which passes directly alongside the downtown skyscrapers and offers prime views of the northern San Diego coastline and Mission Bay.
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Kauai Shoreline
Views of Kalapaki Beach and the rugged eastern coast of Kauai immediately after takeoff from Lihue.
Pacific Horizon
Vast views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean, often featuring unique maritime cloud patterns en route.
La Jolla Coast
The first sighting of the California mainland, featuring the dramatic sea cliffs and beaches of La Jolla.
Mission Bay
A clear aerial view of the massive aquatic park, SeaWorld, and the surrounding coastal neighborhoods during descent.
San Diego Skyline
An iconic 'urban canyon' approach that flies remarkably close to the high-rises of downtown San Diego just before touchdown.
Select a window seat on the left for the famous landing into San Diego. As the plane descends over the I-5 freeway, you will be level with many downtown skyscrapers. For morning flights, the sun is behind you, providing excellent lighting for photos of the California coast. Avoid seats directly over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the urban landscape during the final two minutes of the flight.
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Nawiliwili Bay
A great perspective of the deep-water harbor and the southern mountains of Kauai during the initial climb.
Oceanic Clouds
Expansive views of the open ocean which are particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset flights.
Point Loma
Views of the historic lighthouse and the rugged tip of the peninsula that guards the entrance to San Diego Bay.
Hotel del Coronado
The famous red-roofed Victorian hotel is often visible on the silver strand of Coronado Island during the final turn.
San Diego Bay
Views of the naval fleet, North Island Air Station, and the Coronado Bridge just before the aircraft lands.
The right side is ideal for passengers interested in military aviation and naval history, as it overlooks North Island Naval Air Station. On departure from Lihue, if the aircraft turns south, you may catch a glimpse of the private island of Niihau. If arriving at night, this side offers a beautiful view of the lights reflecting off San Diego Bay and the illuminated Coronado Bridge.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 4,300 km (2,672 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 4 min
Departure: LIH (21.97599983215332, -159.33900451660156)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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