Big Island helicopter tours offer the most dramatic way to witness Hawaii’s raw volcanic power and natural beauty. These aerial adventures last between 25 and 135 minutes, typically carrying 4-6 passengers per flight. I’m particularly impressed by the family-operated tours, which consistently earn top ratings for their local knowledge and personalized service.
The best experiences include doors-off flights – perfect for photographers and thrill-seekers – and exclusive landing tours that touch down in otherwise inaccessible valleys. What I love most are the comprehensive tours combining Kilauea volcano views with waterfall-spotting over the Hamakua Coast. These longer flights give you the fullest picture of the island’s diverse landscapes.
Let’s explore our favorite Big Island helicopter tours…
Good To Know
- For breathtaking aerial views of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, family-run helicopter tour companies offer personalized experiences with high traveler satisfaction rates.
- Tour durations range from 25 to 135 minutes, catering to various time preferences, with maximum capacities typically limited to 4-6 travelers for intimate experiences.
- Popular tour options include the Big Island Volcano Deluxe Tour, Helicopter Tour From Kona, Doors-Off Tour, Big Island Spectacular Tour, and Kohala Volcano Tour.
- Unique experiences such as exclusive landing tours, doors-off tours, and scenic flights over active volcanoes provide an immersive and unforgettable adventure.
- Customer feedback highlights stunning aerial views, informative guides, and intimate group sizes, with the Kohala Volcano tour and Kohala Waterfalls tour receiving exceptional ratings and recommendations.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Helicopter Tour – Big Island of Hawaii
What better way to experience the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park than from the air?
Volcanoes National Park Safari offers a helicopter tour that showcases the Big Island’s natural wonders. This family-run company, the longest-running on the island, provides a thrilling aerial adventure.
Travelers can expect views of active volcanoes, lava flows, orchid farms, and lush forests. Knowledgeable pilots share insights into the island’s history and geography.
With a 93% traveler recommendation rate, the tour is a must-do activity. Priced at €364.80 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and flexible rescheduling.
While weather conditions may affect visibility, the overall experience is consistently praised by reviewers for its stunning views and smooth flights.
Read our full review: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Helicopter Tour – Big Island of Hawaii Review
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Big Island Volcano Deluxe Helicopter Tour
Soaring high above the Big Island, the Big Island Volcano Deluxe Helicopter Tour offers an unparalleled aerial experience. Boasting a 4.5-star rating and 92% recommendation, this tour takes passengers on a journey to explore Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes and stunning natural wonders.
With a maximum capacity of 6 travelers, the tour features custom interiors, polarized bubble windows, and choreographed music to enhance the experience. While the specific flight path may vary due to weather conditions, highlights often include volcanoes, ocean vistas, and waterfalls.
Passengers should be aware of weight restrictions and the need for accurate check-in information. This deluxe helicopter tour provides a breathtaking and memorable way to discover the Big Island’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Big Island Volcano Deluxe Helicopter Tour Review
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Big Island of Hawaii: Helicopter Tour From Kona
The Big Island of Hawaii: Helicopter Tour From Kona takes passengers on an aerial adventure over the diverse landscapes of the Big Island.
This 120-135 minute tour, recommended by 98% of travelers, offers breathtaking views of black sand beaches, lush rainforests, live volcanoes, waterfalls, and the stunning Waipio and Waimanu valleys.
Passengers can enjoy preferred window seating and sliding windows for easy photography of flowing lava and cascading waterfalls.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per helicopter, the tour provides an intimate experience with a knowledgeable pilot offering live commentary.
Certified pilots and aircraft ensure a safe and unforgettable journey over the Big Island’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Big Island of Hawaii: Helicopter Tour From Kona Review
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Doors-Off Hawaii Helicopter Tour of Kohala Valleys and Waterfalls From Waimea
Commonly, travelers embark on the Doors-Off Hawaii Helicopter Tour of Kohala Valleys and Waterfalls from Waimea to enjoy close-up views of the island’s towering waterfalls and lush green valleys.
The 25-35 minute flights provide live commentary via two-way headsets, allowing passengers to learn about the area’s volcanic landscapes and historical significance.
With a maximum capacity of 4 passengers, the helicopter tours accommodate larger groups by separating them.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tours welcome children accompanied by adults.
Passengers must follow safety protocols, including weight restrictions and no personal items.
Travelers should dress warmly and secure long hair to make the most of this unique aerial experience over King Kamehameha’s birthplace.
Read our full review: Doors-Off Hawaii Helicopter Tour of Kohala Valleys and Waterfalls From Waimea Review
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Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour
One of the most comprehensive helicopter tours on the Big Island is the Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour. Priced from $719 per person, this 95% recommended tour offers stunning views of lava flows, volcanoes, cliffs, and waterfalls.
The tour includes noise-cancelling headsets, 2-way communication with the pilot, and transportation to and from the heliport. Passengers must check-in an hour prior and adhere to weight restrictions.
While large cameras and selfie sticks aren’t permitted, in-flight video and photo packages are available for purchase. The tour concludes back at the meeting point in Waikoloa Village.
Feedback highlights the pilots’ knowledge, friendliness, and safety, as well as the tour’s ability to provide unique perspectives of the island.
Read our full review: Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour Review
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Volcano and Kohala Landing Helicopter Tour on the Big Island From Kona
Soaring above the Big Island’s captivating landscape, the Volcano and Kohala Landing Helicopter Tour from Kona offers travelers an unparalleled perspective of the island’s natural wonders.
The 100-120 minute tour departs from Kona International Airport, showcasing the island’s rugged coastline, active volcanoes, and cascading waterfalls. Passengers will enjoy a scenic flight over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Kohala Coast, with potential lava sightings at Kilauea Volcano.
The tour also includes a landing at a remote, rarely visited tropical setting, allowing guests to explore the secluded valley. With knowledgeable pilots, FAA-certified aircraft, and exceptional customer reviews, this helicopter tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to witness Hawaii’s natural beauty from above.
Read our full review: Volcano and Kohala Landing Helicopter Tour on the Big Island From Kona Review
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Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure From Hilo
Travelers seeking an aerial adventure over the Big Island’s captivating natural landscapes can embark on the Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure from Hilo.
This 164-review, 4.0-rated tour showcases the island’s volcanoes, waterfalls, and lush rainforests. Passengers receive live commentary and can communicate with the FAA-certified pilot via two-way headsets.
However, weight restrictions apply, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
While most guests praise the knowledgeable pilots and stunning views, some report incomplete tours or cramped seating.
Confirmation is subject to availability if booked within 12 hours of the flight.
Read our full review: Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure From Hilo Review
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Kohala Coast 45-Minute Helicopter Adventure Tour – Big Island of Hawaii
The Kohala Coast 45-Minute Helicopter Adventure Tour provides Big Island of Hawaii visitors with a captivating aerial exploration of the region’s dramatic landscapes.
Boasting a maximum of 6 travelers, the tour offers an immersive experience with state-of-the-art headsets, two-way communication, and a knowledgeable pilot guide.
Passengers can expect breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls, rugged valleys, and the island’s stunning coastline.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable and visually stunning adventure.
The tour’s accessibility, safety protocols, and optional video packages further enhance the overall experience, making it a top choice for visitors to the Big Island of Hawaii.
Read our full review: Kohala Coast 45-Minute Helicopter Adventure Tour – Big Island of Hawaii Review
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Kohala Coast & Waterfalls Helicopter Tour From Kona on Hawaii Island
On the Big Island of Hawaii, the Kohala Coast & Waterfalls Helicopter Tour from Kona whisks visitors away on a captivating aerial adventure.
Soaring over the Kohala Valley, passengers can marvel at stunning cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and frozen lava from past eruptions during the 60-minute flight.
This small-group tour, limited to 6 travelers, is recommended by 93% of past guests who praised the knowledgeable pilots and breathtaking vistas.
However, weight restrictions apply, with an additional seat required for guests over 270 lbs.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, except those with serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Kohala Coast & Waterfalls Helicopter Tour From Kona on Hawaii Island Review
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Exclusive Landing With Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour
This spectacular Big Island helicopter tour offers an exclusive landing experience that’s accessible only by air.
Passengers will fly over lush greenery and volcanic activity, landing at a unique spot to view a freshwater pool and waterfall against a rainforest backdrop.
The tour includes Bose noise-canceling headsets, in-flight video preview, and a state-certified pilot guide who provides informative commentary.
With a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour delivers stunning aerial views of the Kohala Mountains and a memorable on-the-ground experience.
Wheelchair accessibility, weight restrictions, and optional photo packages are also available, ensuring a comfortable and customizable adventure.
Read our full review: Exclusive Landing With Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour Review
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Kohala Volcano, Waterfalls and Coast Private Helicopter Tour – Big Island of Hawaii
Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours offers the private Kohala Volcano, Waterfalls and Coast Helicopter Tour, providing an unparalleled aerial experience across the Big Island of Hawaii.
This up to 1 hour 15-minute tour covers the seven windward valleys of Kohala, including the stunning Waipio and Waimanu Valleys. Passengers can expect to see breathtaking waterfalls, lava flows, and pristine beaches from the air.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 3 passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Priced from $450.81 per person, the tour includes all taxes, fees, and charges, making it an all-inclusive adventure.
With a 5-star rating and positive reviews, this helicopter tour is a must-do for those seeking to explore Hawaii’s natural wonders from the sky.
Read our full review: Kohala Volcano, Waterfalls and Coast Private Helicopter Tour – Big Island of Hawaii Review
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Kohala Waterfalls With Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour
The Kohala Waterfalls With Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour provides visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the grandeur of Hawaii’s natural wonders.
Boasting 12 reviews and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour offers breathtaking views of deep valleys and towering waterfalls reminiscent of Jurassic Park.
Featuring state-of-the-art noise-cancelling headsets and 2-way communication with pilots, the tour ensures an immersive and informative experience.
With a maximum of 6 travelers and certified guides as pilots, the tour offers unparalleled access to the island’s hidden gems.
Priced from $669 per person, the tour includes transportation, fees, and taxes, making it a must-do activity for visitors to the Big Island of Hawaii.
Read our full review: Kohala Waterfalls With Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Helicopter Tours Safe for Pregnant Women?
Helicopter tours can be safe for pregnant women, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider first. They’ll assess the individual’s pregnancy stage and any potential risks before recommending whether a helicopter tour is suitable.
Do the Tours Provide Food and Beverages?
The helicopter tour providers generally don’t offer food and beverages during the flights, though some may provide light snacks or water. It’s best to check with the specific tour company for details on what’s included in the package.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Customers are generally allowed to bring their own camera equipment on helicopter tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions or special considerations regarding personal photography gear.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are typically wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to check with the specific operator beforehand. Many providers offer accommodations for passengers with mobility issues, so they can enjoy the stunning aerial views of the island.
How Do I Choose the Best Tour for My Budget?
To choose the best helicopter tour for your budget, consider factors like flight duration, amenities, and company reputation. Research and compare prices across multiple providers to find the tour that offers the best value for your money.
The Sum Up
The Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of helicopter tours that allow visitors to experience the island’s stunning landscapes from the air. From exploring the volcanoes and waterfalls of Kohala to witnessing the dramatic coastline, these tours provide an unparalleled perspective of the island’s natural wonders. With a range of options to choose from, travelers can find the perfect helicopter adventure to suit their interests and preferences.