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SJC → HNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose) to Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is the clear winner for this route, primarily due to the spectacular approach into Honolulu. While both sides offer similar views of the Pacific Ocean for most of the flight, the left side typically provides an iconic panorama of Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and the Honolulu skyline as the plane descends towards HNL.
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California Coastline
Shortly after departure from SJC, enjoy views of the Monterey Bay and the rugged Santa Cruz coastline.
Diamond Head
On the standard approach to HNL, this side offers the most famous view of Hawaii's iconic volcanic tuff cone.
Waikiki Skyline
A breathtaking view of the dense high-rise hotels and white sands of Waikiki Beach just minutes before landing.
Southern Oahu Reefs
Vibrant turquoise water and coral reef patterns visible as the plane descends over the Pacific shelf.
Book a window seat on the left (A seat) for the 'Diamond Head' view. For morning flights, this side also stays in the shade for most of the westward journey, reducing glare on your photos. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing as the island first appears on the horizon.
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Silicon Valley
Excellent views of San Jose, the Apple Park 'Spaceship' campus, and the southern San Francisco Bay upon takeoff.
Coastal Marine Layer
Watch the dramatic fog bank often hugging the California coast near Santa Cruz as you head out to sea.
Pearl Harbor
Depending on the specific landing pattern, you may catch a glimpse of the USS Arizona Memorial and Ford Island during final approach.
Pacific Sunset
On late afternoon flights, this side provides front-row seats to a spectacular sunset over the open ocean.
The right side (K or F seats) is superior for seeing the tech campuses of the South Bay immediately after takeoff. If your flight arrives at HNL using a 'Kona' wind approach (landing from the West), the right side actually offers better views of the Ewa Plains and Pearl Harbor.
Book Hotels in HonoluluDistance: 3,886 km (2,415 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 34 min
Departure: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Route Type: Domestic
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