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OGG destination photo
MUE destination photo

OGGMUE

Which side of the plane to sit from Kahului Airport (Kahului) to Waimea Kohala Airport (Kamuela)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular panoramic view of multiple Hawaiian islands and the towering volcanic peaks of the Big Island, providing a more diverse landscape throughout the short flight.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🌙

Molokini Crater

The iconic, partially submerged volcanic crescent is clearly visible in the channel south of Maui.

🏝️

Kahoʻolawe Island

A full view of the uninhabited 'Target Island' and its distinctive red soil and arid landscape.

🏖️

South Maui Coast

Aerial views of the pristine white-sand beaches and luxury resorts of Wailea and Makena.

🏔️

Mauna Kea

The world's tallest mountain from its underwater base, often capped with snow or hosting world-class observatories at its summit.

🌋

Mauna Loa

The massive profile of the world's largest active shield volcano dominating the southern horizon.

The right side is unbeatable for island hopping fans. For the best photography, aim for a midday flight when the water color over the reefs is most vibrant. Ensure your camera is ready immediately after takeoff to catch Molokini before the plane heads further south.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Haleakalā Volcano

Shortly after takeoff, witness the massive slopes and the 10,023-foot summit of Maui's dormant shield volcano.

🌊

Alenuihāhā Channel

The deep blue and often turbulent waters of the channel separating Maui from the Big Island.

⛰️

North Kohala Valleys

On the descent into Waimea, the left side provides a glimpse of the remote, lush sea cliffs of Pololū and Waimanu.

Choose the left side for dramatic, close-up views of the rugged North Kohala coastline during the final approach. Morning flights are preferred as the sun illuminates the deep green valleys and sea cliffs, avoiding the shadows that fall in the late afternoon.

Top Activities in Kamuela
Route Information

Distance: 128 km (80 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 13 min

Departure: OGG (20.8986, -156.429993)

Arrival: MUE (20.001300811767575, -155.66799926757812)

Route Type: Domestic

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