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SAN → HNL
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer a similar oceanic view for the majority of the flight, the Right Side is superior for the iconic approach into Honolulu, featuring the world-famous Diamond Head and Waikiki shoreline.
Search flights from SAN to HNL
San Diego Skyline
Excellent views of downtown skyscrapers and the Embarcadero immediately after takeoff.
Coronado Island
A bird's-eye view of the iconic Hotel del Coronado and the unique geography of the Silver Strand.
Diamond Head
The most famous landmark in Hawaii, visible as the plane banks toward Honolulu.
Waikiki Beach
Clear views of the turquoise waters and the dense hotel row along the shore during descent.
Downtown Honolulu
The urban landscape and Aloha Tower are visible just moments before the wheels touch the tarmac.
The right side is essential for the classic 'vacation arrival' view of Diamond Head and Waikiki. Aim for a morning or midday flight to ensure the sun is high, making the coral reefs and ocean gradients highly visible. Sit forward of the wing or behind row 25 to avoid engine glare and wing obstruction.
Book Hotels in HonoluluPoint Loma Peninsula
Aerial view of the rugged cliffs and the historic Cabrillo National Monument at the mouth of the bay.
Pacific Fleet
Potential sightings of Navy vessels and carriers stationed near the San Diego coast during departure.
Open Ocean Horizon
Unobstructed views of the Pacific horizon, perfect for watching the sunset on afternoon flights.
Southern Oahu Coast
Distal views of the southern coastline of Oahu as the aircraft aligns for its final approach.
Choose the left side for spectacular sunset views if you are on a late afternoon flight heading west. Once you leave the California coast, expect about 5 hours of deep blue water; look for the marine layer 'cotton ball' cloud patterns common in this corridor.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 4,201 km (2,610 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 57 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Route Type: Domestic
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