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YVR destination photo
HNL destination photo

YVRHNL

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most iconic arrival experience, featuring panoramic views of the Oahu coastline, Diamond Head, and the Waikiki skyline during the final approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌲

Olympic Peninsula

Aerial views of the rugged mountain ranges and dense rainforests of Washington State shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Pacific Expanse

Vast stretches of the deep blue Pacific Ocean, often showing beautiful sun reflections on the water surface.

🏝️

Windward Oahu

The first sightings of the Hawaiian islands, featuring the lush green cliffs of the Koʻolau Range.

⛰️

Diamond Head

A close-up view of the famous volcanic tuff cone and its crater during the descent into Honolulu.

🏙️

Waikiki Skyline

Breathtaking views of the high-rise hotels and turquoise waters of Honolulu's most famous beach.

Sit on the left for the classic 'postcard' arrival into Hawaii. For daytime flights from YVR, the sun will generally be on the right side of the aircraft, meaning the left side will have less glare and better photo conditions. Look out roughly 20 minutes before landing for your first glimpse of the islands.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏔️

Vancouver Island

Spectacular views of the rugged coastline and mountainous terrain of southern Vancouver Island during departure.

🛥️

Strait of Georgia

The bustling maritime corridor between Vancouver and the island, often dotted with cargo ships and ferries.

☁️

Pacific Cloudscapes

Excellent vantage point for observing the transition from temperate to tropical cloud formations.

🚢

Pearl Harbor

Historic views of the harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial just moments before touching down.

⚓

Barbers Point

The industrial and residential western tip of Oahu as the plane lines up with the runway.

The right side is superior for viewing the British Columbia coastline during departure. However, be prepared for intense afternoon sun during the long mid-flight stretch. On arrival, while you miss Diamond Head, you get a clear view of the historic Pearl Harbor naval base.

Top Activities in Honolulu
Route Information

Distance: 4,354 km (2,705 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 7 min

Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)

Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)

Route Type: International

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