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OAK → LIH
Which side of the plane to sit from Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (Oakland) to Lihue Airport (Lihue)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the clear winner for this route, providing a front-row seat to the Golden Gate Bridge during departure and the lush eastern coastline of the Garden Isle upon arrival.
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Golden Gate Bridge
An iconic, unobstructed view of the bridge and the entrance to the San Francisco Bay shortly after takeoff.
Marin Headlands
Rugged coastal cliffs and rolling green hills that define the coastline north of the Golden Gate.
Kilauea Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse perched on a high cliff, often the first landmark visible when approaching Kauai.
Sleeping Giant
The Nounou Mountain ridge which distinctly resembles a large human figure lying on its back.
Wailua River
A wide, lush tropical river valley that winds through the island's interior toward the sea.
Coconut Coast
The beautiful eastern shoreline of Kauai, famous for its palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters.
For the most scenic experience, choose a window seat on the right. On departure from OAK, the plane usually banks over the bay, offering a perfect view of the bridges and Alcatraz. As you reach Kauai, the right side tracks the eastern 'Coconut Coast' from Kilauea down to Lihue, providing a stunning introduction to Hawaii's tropical landscape.
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San Francisco Peninsula
Aerial views of the dense urban sprawl and the southern hills of San Francisco during the climb out.
Farallon Islands
A group of rugged, rocky islands and sea stacks located 30 miles offshore in the Pacific Ocean.
Pacific Horizon
Hours of deep blue ocean views featuring unique cloud formations and the sun reflecting off the water.
Haupu Mountain Range
Dramatic, sharp-edged peaks that frame the southern side of Lihue Airport during the final descent.
Nawiliwili Harbor
Kauai's main port with large vessels and beautiful surrounding cliffs visible just before touchdown.
The left side is the best choice if you are on an afternoon flight and want to avoid the direct glare of the sun. While you miss the Golden Gate Bridge, you get a fantastic view of the southern Haupu mountains and the port of Lihue as you land. Watch for the Farallon Islands about 15 minutes after takeoff.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 3,950 km (2,454 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 39 min
Departure: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)
Arrival: LIH (21.97599983215332, -159.33900451660156)
Route Type: Domestic
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