Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari

Flying over Hawaii’s Big Island is often described as a must-do experience, and the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari delivers just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers a compelling glimpse into the island’s most spectacular scenery.

This helicopter adventure is praised for its stunning vistas, knowledgeable pilots, and the chance to see some of the island’s most sacred and lush areas. It’s a trip that promises a blend of awe-inspiring natural beauty and authentic Hawaiian landscapes, all from the comfort of a helicopter.

A potential consideration is the timing—since the tour depends heavily on good weather, cloudy or rainy days might mean rescheduling. But for those lucky enough to fly clear skies, the views will be unforgettable and worth the price of $399 per person.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love breathtaking landscapes, want an efficient way to see a large swath of the island, and don’t mind a small group experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply eager for a memorable adventure, you’ll find this helicopter journey offers excellent value for its unique vantage point.

Good To Know:

• Spectacular Views: The tour covers iconic sights like waterfalls, cliffs, and lush valleys.
• Family-Owned & Experienced: Operated for over 35 years with a focus on quality and service.
• Small Group Experience: Max of 6 travelers, ensuring a more personalized flight.
• Authentic Highlights: Includes sacred Waipio Valley and the legendary Waimanu Valley.
• Optimal for Nature Enthusiasts: Perfect for those wanting to see Hawaii’s wild, untouched beauty from above.
• Weather Dependent: Clear skies are essential for the best experience; cancellations are possible if weather turns poor.

An In-Depth Look at the Helicopter Tour

What Makes this Tour Stand Out?

The Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari is distinguished by its rich focus on the island’s natural beauty, especially the famed valleys and waterfalls of the north shore. As the longest-running helicopter company on Big Island, Safari Helicopters brings decades of expertise and a family-run touch that some travelers find more welcoming than larger operators.

With a duration of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including a flight time of around 1 hour 20 minutes, the tour offers a substantial window to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The tour starts and ends in Hilo, making it a convenient option for those staying on the east side of the island.

What is the Itinerary?

The journey begins at a central meeting point in Hilo. After a safety briefing, you’ll hop into the helicopter—small enough to feel intimate but roomy enough for a comfortable experience.

Hamakua Coast is your first stop, where you’ll glide past jagged cliffs, waterfalls cascading into the ocean, and untouched coastline. Reviewers mention that the valleys of the north shore are particularly striking, with lush greenery and waterfalls that appear almost surreal from the sky.

Next, you’ll get a close-up view of Waipio Valley, often called a sacred site. Here, the thick vegetation and cascading waterfalls create a scene so lush it seems otherworldly. One traveler described this stop as “magical,” emphasizing how the helicopter’s vantage point allows you to appreciate its untouched beauty fully.

The final major stop is Waimanu Valley, which is historically significant as the supposed home of a Hawaiian king. This remote, pristine valley is rarely seen from the ground, but from the air, it becomes a vivid tapestry of dense forest, waterfalls, and rugged coastline. One reviewer mentioned that the pilot’s expertise made the experience especially compelling, noting how knowledgeable and skilled Drew and Cookie (the pilots) were.

What Does the Experience Feel Like?

The flight itself is smooth, and the scenic views are breathtaking. Travelers report that the waterfalls look especially impressive from above, with many commenting that they couldn’t believe how close and vivid the landscape appears.

Since the tour accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers, it feels intimate without sacrificing safety or comfort. The small group size also means you get more personalized attention from the pilot, who often shares interesting facts about each location.

How About the Price and Value?

At $399 per person, the price reflects a premium experience, but many reviewers believe it’s justified given the quality of views and expertise involved. The fact that the tour is highly rated (5.0/5 from 2 reviews) and is booked on average 40 days in advance shows strong demand and confidence in the offering.

The tour’s focus on authentic, scenic highlights—like Waipio Valley and Waimanu—adds considerable value, especially considering the exclusivity of seeing these remote locations from the sky. It’s a time-efficient way to absorb incredible scenery without a full day’s commitment.

Practical Details & Logistics

Meeting at 2220 Kekuanaoa St, Hilo, the tour begins with a show 40 minutes prior to departure, allowing time for check-in and safety instructions. The activity is most suitable for most travelers, with a weight limit of 250 lbs per passenger and options for additional seats for heavier guests.

Weather plays a vital role; if conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling option. It’s reassuring that the company has a clear cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Why Travelers Love It (Based on Reviews)

One reviewer,Donna_L, described the experience as “the icing on the cake of an amazing holiday,” emphasizing how magical the valleys looked from the air. She also praised the pilot’s skill and knowledge, which can truly make or break a helicopter tour.

The other review, while briefly summarized, echoes this sentiment of awe and highlights the emotional impact of seeing Hawai’i’s lush valleys from above—a perspective that words can hardly do justice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter safari is perfect for those who want to see Hawaii’s rugged beauty from a unique vantage point. It suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to view the island’s waterfalls, cliffs, and valleys up close.

Since it’s a small-group experience, it appeals to travelers who prefer a more personal, less crowded adventure. It’s also a good choice for visitors with limited time on the island but who want an unforgettable highlight.

Who Might Not Love It?

Those prone to motion sickness or seeking a more active experience might prefer ground-based tours or hikes. Also, travelers on a very tight budget may find the price high for the duration, but the quality and exclusivity of the views tend to justify it.

Final Thoughts

The Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari offers a stunning, authentic aerial view of some of Hawaii’s most treasured landscapes. With skilled pilots, a small group size, and a focus on iconic natural sites, it’s a memorable way to experience the island’s rugged beauty.

If you’re after an adventure that combines awe-inspiring scenery with comfort and safety, this tour is a top contender. It’s especially suited for those who want to see remote valleys like Waipio and Waimanu, which are almost impossible to access from the ground.

While weather can be a variable, the company’s strong reputation and the scenic highlights make this helicopter tour well worth considering for an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, provided they meet the weight restrictions. It’s a good option for those who enjoy scenic flights and want a small-group experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, with a flight time of around 1 hour 20 minutes. You should allocate extra time for check-in and safety instructions.

What are the main sights I will see?
You’ll get views of the Hamakua Coast, waterfalls, the sacred Waipio Valley, and the remote Waimanu Valley, known for its lush landscape and historical significance.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How many people are in each helicopter?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, making it a more intimate experience than larger tours.

Are there options for heavier passengers?
Yes, passengers over 250 lbs or a combined weight of 420 lbs will require an additional seat, and accurate weights are necessary for safety reasons.

To sum it up, the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari stands out as a superb way to witness Hawaii’s natural splendor from a bird’s-eye view. Its focus on iconic valleys, waterfalls, and rugged coastlines makes it an adventure worth considering for those seeking both comfort and authentic scenery. Whether celebrating a special trip or simply wanting a memorable experience, this helicopter tour promises views that will stay with you long after you land.