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OGG destination photo
SMF destination photo

OGGSMF

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is favored for the spectacular departure views of Maui's Haleakala Crater and the Hana coast, followed by a panoramic approach into the Sacramento Delta and potential views of the San Francisco Bay Area skyline.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Haleakala Crater

Unrivaled views of the 10,000-foot shield volcano's massive lunar-like crater during departure.

🌊

Point Reyes

The iconic triangular peninsula and lighthouse marking your arrival at the California coast.

🌉

San Francisco Bay

Distant but clear views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline on clear days.

🌾

Sacramento Delta

A complex network of levees, islands, and shimmering waterways where the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers converge.

🏙️

Downtown Sacramento

The Tower Bridge and state capitol building are often visible during the final turn for landing at SMF.

Sit on the right for the most iconic Maui views. Upon reaching the mainland, keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the Bay Area transition. Note that late afternoon flights may experience heavy sun glare on this side during the transpacific crossing.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏄

Maui North Shore

Aerial views of the rugged coastline and famous big-wave surfing spots like Peahi shortly after takeoff.

🌲

Mendocino Coastline

The first sight of the mainland features dramatic rocky cliffs and dense redwood forests of Northern California.

🍷

Napa Valley

Distinctive geometric patterns of world-class vineyards stretching across the valley floor as you descend.

🏔️

Northern Coast Ranges

The rolling green or golden hills of the California coastal mountains transitioning into the flat Central Valley.

The left side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It offers the most consistent views of the lush wine country during the final 30 minutes of the flight. Watch for the Clear Lake area if the flight path tracks slightly north.

Top Activities in Sacramento
Route Information

Distance: 3,866 km (2,402 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 33 min

Departure: OGG (20.8986, -156.429993)

Arrival: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)

Route Type: Domestic

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