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SMF destination photo
OGG destination photo

SMFOGG

Our Recommendation
8.4

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most iconic views, including a potential glimpse of the San Francisco Bay Area during departure and the dramatic emerald ridges of the West Maui Mountains upon arrival.

Left Side Highlights
8.4
🏙️

Sacramento Delta

Views of the winding Sacramento River and the suburban sprawl of the capital region.

🌉

San Francisco Bay

On clear days, see the distant silhouettes of the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate as you cross the coast.

🌊

Pacific Deep Blue

A long stretch of the deep, mesmerizing blue of the mid-Pacific transition.

🏖️

Maui North Shore

Bird's-eye view of the world-famous surf breaks at Ho'okipa and the town of Paia.

🏔️

West Maui Mountains

The sharp, lush green ridges of Kahalawai dominate the view during the final descent into Kahului.

Sit on the left for the best orientation during the descent into OGG. You will see the northern coastline of Maui first. For morning departures, this side stays in the shade, reducing glare for photography. During the final approach, the plane often banks, giving the left side a perfect downward view of the island's central valley.

Right Side Highlights
7.9
🚜

Central Valley

The vast, patchwork agricultural landscape of California's heartland immediately after takeoff.

🏖️

Point Reyes

The rugged, windswept coastline of the Point Reyes National Seashore as you head out over the ocean.

☁️

Cloud Formations

Impressive maritime cumulus clouds and 'marine layers' often visible over the Pacific.

🌋

Haleakala Crater

The massive 10,000-foot dormant volcano dominates the right-side horizon during the approach.

🏝️

Molokai Coastline

On clear days, the distant but towering sea cliffs of Molokai can be spotted to the northwest.

The right side is the 'volcano side.' As you approach Maui, the massive shield of Haleakala will be on your right. However, be aware that afternoon flights will face direct sun for the majority of the 5-hour journey, which can make the cabin quite hot and the glare difficult for photos. Keep your window shade down during the mid-flight to stay cool.

Top Activities in Kahului
Route Information

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

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 33 min

Departure: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)

Arrival: OGG (20.8986, -156.429993)

Route Type: Domestic

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