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SEA destination photo
HNL destination photo

SEAHNL

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer stunning views of the Pacific Northwest upon departure, the Right Side is the clear winner for the iconic arrival into Honolulu, offering a front-row seat to Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏙️

Seattle Skyline

Clear views of the Space Needle and downtown Seattle if the flight departs to the north.

⚓

Puget Sound

The intricate network of islands and waterways surrounding Seattle and Bainbridge Island.

🌋

Diamond Head

The most famous landmark in Hawaii, visible as the plane tracks along the southern coast of Oahu.

🏖️

Waikiki Beach

Aerial perspective of the turquoise waters and high-rise hotels along the world-famous shoreline.

🏝️

Koko Head

The dramatic tuff cone crater seen as the plane makes its initial landfall approach toward Honolulu.

The right side is essential for the 'Honolulu Arrival' experience. About 20 minutes before landing, the plane usually flies parallel to the southern shore. For the best lighting, morning or midday flights avoid the harsh afternoon sun glare reflecting off the water. Ensure you are seated forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion during your arrival photos.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏔️

Mount Rainier

If departing to the south, the massive 14,411-foot volcanic peak is visible shortly after takeoff.

🌲

Olympic Peninsula

Aerial views of the dense evergreen forests and the rugged coastline of Washington State.

🚢

Pearl Harbor

During the final approach into HNL, the left side often looks directly down onto the USS Arizona Memorial.

🌊

Pacific Horizon

Expansive views of the deep blue ocean during the 5-hour crossing between the mainland and Hawaii.

Sit on the left if you want the best chance of seeing Mount Rainier on departure. On arrival into HNL, this side provides a technical look at the naval facilities and the Ewa Plain, though it lacks the 'postcard' views of the right side.

Top Activities in Honolulu
Route Information

Distance: 4,308 km (2,677 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 4 min

Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)

Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)

Route Type: Domestic

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