Taking a helicopter tour is one of the smartest ways to grasp Maui’s dramatic geography. The island’s most spectacular sights – many inaccessible by road – unfold beneath you during these 45-60 minute flights.
The West Maui and Molokai tour stands out for its views of towering sea cliffs and hidden waterfalls, while the Hana Rainforest route gives you a bird’s-eye view of the lush jungle and iconic Road to Hana. For photographers, the Doors-Off tour offers unbeatable shooting opportunities. The Complete Island tour, though pricier, delivers the fullest experience.
My favorite routes stick to the northern coast, where you’ll see the most dramatic scenery per dollar spent. All tours feature professional pilots providing cultural insights and geological background.
Let’s look at the best helicopter tours Maui has to offer.
Good To Know
- Maui offers a range of helicopter tours, including options for West Maui, Molokai, Road to Hana, and a comprehensive three-island adventure.
- Tours showcase stunning natural features like waterfalls, coastal cliffs, lush valleys, and Haleakala volcano, with high satisfaction rates among travelers.
- Pricing for the tours varies, with options ranging from $419 per person for a waterfalls tour to $1,399.99 for a Maui to Big Island tour.
- Tours accommodate wheelchair users and infants, with safety measures prioritizing passenger well-being, including compliance with weight restrictions.
- Customers consistently praise the tours for their stunning natural wonders, knowledgeable pilots, and safe experiences, with many recommending the helicopter adventures.
West Maui and Molokai Special 45-Minute Helicopter Tour
The West Maui and Molokai Special 45-Minute Helicopter Tour offers adventurous travelers a captivating aerial exploration of Maui’s rugged western landscapes and the dramatic sea cliffs of neighboring Molokai.
Departing from Kahului Heliport, the tour showcases stunning natural wonders, including the world’s tallest sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys.
Accompanied by expert pilot narration, passengers can expect breathtaking views and a unique perspective of Hawaii’s diverse geography.
Although the helicopter’s capacity is limited to six passengers, and strict weight restrictions apply, the tour is highly recommended by 95% of travelers, who praise the professionalism of the pilots and the overall memorable experience.
Despite occasional concerns about space and additional charges, this 45-minute flight is considered a highlight of many Maui vacations.
Read our full review: West Maui and Molokai Special 45-Minute Helicopter Tour Review
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Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury Limo-Van Tour With Helicopter Flight Reverse
This Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury Limo-Van Tour with Helicopter Flight Reverse offers adventurous travelers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of Maui.
The 6-hour tour includes a 3.5-hour scenic drive along the Hana Highway with multiple stops, followed by a 36-minute Eco-Star helicopter flight over the island. Guests can enjoy swim breaks, a Pacific Rim cuisine lunch, and professional guidance from a Hawaii State Certified Driver/Guide.
The tour also includes entrance to the iconic Waianapanapa State Park. With a 97% recommendation rate and positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and incredible views, this tour provides an unparalleled way to explore the Road to Hana and Maui’s natural beauty from both land and air.
Read our full review: Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury Limo-Van Tour With Helicopter Flight Reverse Review
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Doors-OFF West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour
Doors-off West Maui and Molokai 45-minute Helicopter Tour offers adventurous travelers an unparalleled opportunity to soar above the stunning landscapes of these Hawaiian islands.
This scenic flight features mist-shrouded rainbows, cascading waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and lush mountain valleys. With an open-air cabin, passengers can capture breathtaking aerial photos.
The tour departs from Kahului Heliport, with morning and afternoon options available. While passengers must follow safety guidelines, such as wearing provided jackets and securing loose items, the experience promises an unforgettable thrill.
With over 368 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, this helicopter tour is a must-do for visitors seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of Maui and Molokai.
Read our full review: Doors-OFF West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour Review
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Molokai and Maui Helicopter Tour
Maui and Molokai’s stunning landscapes come alive from a bird’s-eye view on the 55-minute Molokai and Maui Helicopter Tour.
Departing from Kahului Airport, this recommended tour (96% traveler satisfaction) showcases scenic highlights like surfers, coastal cliffs, waterfalls, whales, and the Haleakala volcano.
Knowledgeable pilots provide live commentary as passengers take in the unique perspectives of the islands.
With hotel pickup/drop-off and all taxes/fees included, this tour accommodates up to 7 travelers at SEK 4,193.34 per person.
Certain weight and health restrictions apply, and passengers must present photo ID.
While personal photography is limited, overwhelmingly positive reviews praise the pilots’ expertise and the tour’s ability to deliver breathtaking aerial experiences.
Read our full review: Molokai and Maui Helicopter Tour Review
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Hana Rainforest and Haleakala Crater 45-Minute Helicopter Tour
The Hana Rainforest and Haleakala Crater Helicopter Tour takes passengers on a 45-minute aerial adventure over the stunning landscapes of Maui’s eastern coast.
Soaring in an A-star helicopter, travelers enjoy 180-degree views of waterfalls, valleys, and the rugged rainforest. The tour’s highlight is the summit of Haleakala volcano, towering over 10,000 feet.
Along the way, an expert guide provides captivating commentary on the area’s history and natural wonders. With consistently high ratings from travelers, the tour is a popular choice for those seeking an unforgettable Maui experience.
However, weight restrictions and lack of accessibility may pose challenges for some passengers.
Read our full review: Hana Rainforest and Haleakala Crater 45-Minute Helicopter Tour Review
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Complete Island 60-Minute Helicopter Tour
For those seeking a more comprehensive aerial tour of Maui, the Complete Island 60-Minute Helicopter Tour provides a captivating experience.
Soaring over both East and West Maui, this tour offers breathtaking vistas of the Hana rainforest, the iconic Haleakala Crater, and the West Maui Mountains, as well as dozens of cascading waterfalls.
With a professional pilot-guide providing expert narration, guests will gain a deeper appreciation for Maui’s natural wonders and rich history.
While weight restrictions and baggage policies apply, the tour’s high rating and overwhelmingly positive reviews suggest it’s a must-do activity for visitors looking to maximize their aerial sightseeing of this stunning Hawaiian island.
Read our full review: Complete Island 60-Minute Helicopter Tour Review
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West Maui and Molokai 60-Minute Helicopter Tour
Soaring above the lush landscapes of West Maui and the rugged beauty of Molokai, the 60-Minute Helicopter Tour offers an unparalleled aerial experience.
Aboard a luxurious A-star helicopter, passengers enjoy stunning views of green sugar fields, turquoise shorelines, the West Maui Mountains, and the majestic Honokohau Falls.
The flight also showcases the highlights of Molokai, including the Moku Ho’oniki rock, Halawa Valley, and the impressive Moa’ula and Kahiwa Falls.
With an experienced pilot providing expert narration, this tour delivers a thrilling and informative journey.
Passengers should note the weight restrictions and other safety considerations to ensure a seamless experience.
Read our full review: West Maui and Molokai 60-Minute Helicopter Tour Review
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Maui Molokai Helicopter Tour
This 60-minute Maui Molokai Helicopter Tour offers guests an extraordinary aerial adventure over the lush landscapes of Maui and the rugged splendor of Molokai.
With a 94% recommendation rate from travelers and a 4.5/5 rating, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Accommodating up to 6 passengers, the tour includes a professional guide, ground safety briefing, and pilot narration with choreographed music.
Travelers will enjoy custom-built digital recording systems, polarized bubble windows, and air-conditioning. While weight restrictions apply, the tour provides accessibility for assisted passengers.
Passengers are advised to bring cameras and wear dark-colored clothing to capture the stunning aerial views during the flight.
Read our full review: Maui Molokai Helicopter Tour Review
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Maui Circle-Island Helicopter Tour
The Maui Circle-Island Helicopter Tour offers passengers a comprehensive aerial exploration of the island’s diverse landscapes.
This 60-minute flight features live commentary and spectacular views, with a 92% recommendation rate from travelers.
The tour accommodates up to 7 passengers plus the pilot, with a maximum total weight limit of 1,140 lbs.
Passengers must provide a photo ID and observe weight restrictions, with an additional seat required for those over 300 lbs.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all taxes and fees.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though the operator reserves the right to refuse service to intoxicated passengers without a refund.
Read our full review: Maui Circle-Island Helicopter Tour Review
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Oceanfront Landing 75-Minute Helicopter Tour
Offering an unforgettable aerial adventure, the Oceanfront Landing 75-Minute Helicopter Tour provides passengers with a unique opportunity to explore Maui’s stunning landscapes from above.
Soaring over hidden waterfalls and tropical rainforests, the tour includes a flyby of the 4,000-foot Molokai cliffs and a waterfront landing for an immersive experience.
Aboard an ASTAR helicopter with six forward-facing seats, guests enjoy 180-degree views during the 75-minute flight.
While the tour’s highlights receive overwhelmingly positive reviews, some passengers have noted visibility issues due to dirty windows and a lack of detailed commentary from the pilot-guide.
Read our full review: Oceanfront Landing 75-Minute Helicopter Tour Review
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Hana – Haleakala Helicopter Tour
Soaring above Maui’s diverse landscapes, the Hana – Haleakala Helicopter Tour promises an unparalleled aerial adventure.
This 75-minute tour departs from the Kahului Heliport, allowing guests to experience the island’s stunning natural wonders from a bird’s-eye view. Accommodating up to six passengers, the tour boasts a 4.5-star rating based on 21 reviews.
With all taxes and fees included, the tour provides professional guidance, complimentary refreshments, and options for purchasing souvenirs and video recordings.
Safety and accessibility are prioritized, with weight restrictions, wheelchair accommodation, and provisions for infants.
The flight includes a pre-takeoff safety briefing, pilot narration, and immersive audio equipment, ensuring an informative and thrilling experience.
Read our full review: Hana – Haleakala Helicopter Tour Review
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Three Island Helicopter Adventure
What better way to experience the stunning beauty of Hawaii’s tropical islands than the Three Island Helicopter Adventure?
Recommended by 91% of travelers, this 65-minute aerial tour showcases the lush landscapes of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai.
Depart from Kahului Airport and soar over iconic sights like Elephant Rock, ancient fish ponds, and Shipwreck Beach, with a knowledgeable pilot providing live commentary.
The ECO-Star helicopter accommodates up to 7 passengers, offering stunning views of the islands’ coastlines, beaches, and jungles.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, all taxes and fees included, and a lowest price guarantee, this tour provides an unforgettable experience at an exceptional value.
Read our full review: Three Island Helicopter Adventure Review
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Waterfalls of West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour
The Waterfalls of West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour provides travelers with a breathtaking aerial exploration of the lush, cascading waterfalls that adorn the islands’ dramatic landscapes.
Priced at $419 per person, this 92% traveler-recommended tour accommodates up to 6 passengers and features state-of-the-art noise-cancelling headsets, 2-way communication with pilots, and an after-tour video preview.
Though the number of waterfalls seen may vary, reviewers consistently praise the tour’s excellent pilots, stunning views, and safe, enjoyable experience.
Wheelchair-accessible, with weight restrictions and a cancellation policy, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness Maui and Molokai’s natural wonders from the air.
Read our full review: Waterfalls of West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour Review
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Maui Spectacular With Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour
For visitors seeking a more immersive aerial experience on Maui, the Maui Spectacular With Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour offers a captivating journey.
Passengers will enjoy a scenic 45-minute helicopter flight, with stunning views of Maui’s valleys, rainforests, and waterfalls.
The tour also includes a landing at the exclusive Ulupalakua Ranch, providing a unique opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty up-close.
Passengers can utilize Bose noise-cancelling headsets for seamless communication with the pilot, who’s a state-certified tour guide.
With weight and accessibility accommodations, this tour caters to a wide range of guests, making it an unforgettable way to experience Maui from the skies.
Read our full review: Maui Spectacular With Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour Review
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Pau Hana Helicopter Tour
While the Maui Spectacular With Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour offers a captivating aerial journey across the island, the Pau Hana Helicopter Tour provides a more condensed yet equally breathtaking experience.
This 3-star tour whisks travelers above Maui’s stunning landscapes, piloted by state-certified guides. Passengers enjoy Bose noise-cancelling headsets, in-flight communication, and optional video/photo packages.
With a maximum capacity of 6 guests, the tour is wheelchair-accessible and accommodates infants. Passengers should arrive 45 minutes early, wear dark colors, and avoid scuba diving beforehand.
While gratuity is left to individual discretion, credit cards are required for any add-ons. With rave reviews, the Pau Hana Helicopter Tour is an excellent option for those seeking an aerial adventure in Maui.
Read our full review: Pau Hana Helicopter Tour Review
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Hana and Haleakala Scenic Helicopter Tour
Soaring above Maui’s lush landscapes, the Hana Rainforest Scenic Helicopter Tour offers an exhilarating aerial adventure.
Guests ride in an eco-star helicopter with first-class seating and large viewing windows, accompanied by Hawaii state-certified guides who provide captivating narration.
The tour showcases the island’s stunning natural wonders, including the Haleakala Crater, Oheo Gulch, and the quaint town of Hana, all while offering breathtaking vistas of the rainforest and rugged coastline.
With a weight limit of 240 lbs per passenger and wheelchair accessibility, the tour caters to a diverse range of travelers.
Priced from €403.30 per person, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to witness Maui’s natural beauty from the skies.
Read our full review: Hana and Haleakala Scenic Helicopter Tour Review
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Maui to Big Island : Big Island Volcano Helicopter Tour & Ground Tour
The Maui to Big Island: Big Island Volcano Helicopter Tour & Ground Tour offers an exhilarating aerial adventure and in-depth exploration of the volcanic landscapes.
Priced from $1,399.99 per person, the 45-minute helicopter tour and 4-hour ground tour in Hilo provide a comprehensive experience. The tour includes round-trip air travel, bottled water, and gratuities.
Travelers must check in 90 minutes prior to departure and can expect to receive their boarding pass at check-in. The tour accommodates up to 12 guests and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed.
Customers weighting over 240 pounds will need to purchase an extra comfort seat. With an impressive 5-star rating from a single review, this tour promises amazing helicopter views and an accommodating crew.
Read our full review: Maui to Big Island : Big Island Volcano Helicopter Tour & Ground Tour Review
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First Class Pau Hana Helicopter Tour
Set out on a breathtaking First Class Pau Hana Helicopter Tour in Maui, where passengers enjoy State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guides as their pilots.
With all-inclusive fees and taxes, guests can take in the island’s stunning landscapes through floor-to-ceiling windows while communicating with the pilot via Bose aviation-grade, noise-cancelling headsets.
The heliport and helicopter accommodate wheelchairs, and infants are welcome as lap children. However, weight restrictions apply, with an adjacent empty seat required for guests over 240 lbs at an additional cost.
Capture the beauty of Maui with optional in-flight video and photo packages, but be sure to wear dark-colored clothing to avoid reflections.
Read our full review: First Class Pau Hana Helicopter Tour Review
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Maui Complete Island Helicopter Tour
Maui’s captivating landscapes unfold from above as travelers embark on the Maui Complete Island Helicopter Tour. Soaring over the breathtaking Haleakala Crater, the lush rainforests of Hana, and the rugged Ke’anae Point, guests experience the island’s stunning diversity.
With an expert pilot providing insightful narration, the eco-Star helicopter’s first-class seating and large viewing windows ensure an unforgettable journey. Passengers enjoy noise-canceling headphones and microphones for two-way communication.
The tour accommodates up to six travelers and includes all fees and taxes, though transportation to the heliport isn’t provided. Wheelchair users and infants under 23 months are welcome, though weight restrictions apply.
Positive reviews praise the professionalism and knowledge of the pilots, making this an exceptional way to discover Maui from the sky.
Read our full review: Maui Complete Island Helicopter Tour Review
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First Class Waterfalls of West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour
Soaring above the picturesque landscapes of West Maui and Molokai, the First Class Waterfalls of West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour offers an unparalleled aerial adventure.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, this 569 USD per person tour features first-class seating with floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing passengers to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
With a pilot certified by the State of Hawaii, travelers will enjoy noise-cancelling headsets, in-flight communication, and a video preview after the tour.
Although weight restrictions apply, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and scuba diving within 24 hours isn’t permitted.
Gratuity is left to individual discretion, and dark-colored clothing is recommended for optimal photo quality.
Read our full review: First Class Waterfalls of West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Helicopter Tours?
The maximum group size for helicopter tours can vary, but most companies typically accommodate 4-6 passengers per flight. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience during the aerial sightseeing excursion.
Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for Passengers?
Most helicopter tour operators have age and weight restrictions for passenger safety. Passengers may need to be at least 2-3 years old and under a certain weight limit, typically around 300-350 lbs. It’s best to check with the specific tour company for their policies.
How Much Luggage Can Be Brought on the Helicopter Tours?
Passengers on helicopter tours typically have a strict luggage allowance, usually limited to a small carry-on bag or purse. The weight and size of luggage may be restricted to ensure the helicopter’s safe operation and balance. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific luggage policies.
Are the Helicopter Tours Suitable for Those With a Fear of Heights?
Helicopter tours may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights, as they involve flying at high altitudes with panoramic views. However, some tour operators offer more gentle, lower-level flights that could be more comfortable for those with height-related anxieties.
Do the Helicopter Tours Offer Any Discounts for Local Residents?
Many Maui helicopter tour companies offer discounts for local residents to make the experience more accessible. These discounts can range from 10-20% off the regular tour price, making it more affordable for those living on the island.
The Sum Up
Maui offers a wide range of helicopter tours that provide stunning aerial views of the island’s diverse landscapes. From the lush rainforests of Hana to the volcanic crater of Haleakala, these tours offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re interested in a short 45-minute flight or a comprehensive island tour, there’s an option to suit your preferences and budget. With several tour operators to choose from, visitors can easily find the perfect helicopter adventure to make their Maui trip truly special.