Loading map...

LNY destination photo
HNL destination photo

LNYHNL

Our Recommendation
9.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the quintessential 'postcard' approach to Honolulu, featuring iconic views of Diamond Head, the Waikiki skyline, and the turquoise waters of the South Shore.

Left Side Highlights
9.5
🏖️

Lanai South Coast

Aerial views of the rugged Lanai coastline and the Manele Bay area immediately after takeoff.

🌋

Diamond Head

An unbeatable perspective of Hawaii's most famous volcanic landmark as the plane aligns for the HNL approach.

🏙️

Waikiki Skyline

Detailed views of the high-rise hotels and white sands of Waikiki Beach against the backdrop of the Ko'olau Mountains.

⛵

Ala Moana & Magic Island

A clear look at the man-made peninsula of Magic Island and the bustling Ala Wai Boat Harbor.

🏗️

Honolulu Harbor

Watch the industrial heart of the Pacific and the iconic Aloha Tower pass beneath you.

Sit on the left for the most scenic descent. Book a morning flight (before 10:00 AM) to have the sun behind you, illuminating Diamond Head and the Honolulu skyline without glare. The flight is exceptionally short, often under 30 minutes, so keep your camera ready from the moment you reach cruising altitude.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🍍

Lanai Interior

Overlook the red dirt and central highlands of the 'Pineapple Island' during the initial climb.

🌊

Molokai Views

Distant views of Molokai's southern coastline and the expansive Penguin Bank coral reef across the channel.

🪖

Pearl Harbor

Depending on the wind and landing pattern, you may see the USS Arizona Memorial and the docked Battleship Missouri.

🏄

Ewa Beach

Views of the residential communities and surf breaks of West Oahu just before touchdown.

🛫

HNL Reef Runway

A close-up look at the engineering of Runway 8R/26L, built entirely on a man-made reef.

The right side is excellent for history buffs interested in a bird's-eye view of Pearl Harbor during the final approach. If the winds shift and the plane lands from the west (Kona winds), the right side actually becomes the preferred side for coastal views. Afternoon flights provide great lighting on the Molokai coastline to the north.

Top Activities in Honolulu
Route Information

Distance: 117 km (73 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 12 min

Departure: LNY (20.785600662231445, -156.9510040283203)

Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.