Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour

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Soaring high above the lush landscapes of Kailua-Kona, the Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour promises an unparalleled aerial adventure. Witness the breathtaking beauty of this Hawaiian paradise as you glide past the iconic Kailua Bay, explore the verdant coffee farms, and uncover the rich history of landmarks like the Captain Cook Monument. But the real thrill lies in the choice – whether to experience the open-air rush of the doors-off option or the comfort of the doors-on flight. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse ecosystems and cultural wonders that unfold before your eyes, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.

Good To Know

  • The Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour provides a one-hour aerial experience starting at $11,603 per person with free cancellation up to 2 days in advance.
  • The tour offers scenic views of Kailua Bay, Kona coffee farms, historical landmarks, and geological features, with live English commentary during the flight.
  • The tour starts and ends at the Rainbow Helicopters base in Kailua-Kona, with key sites including Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park and Ali’i Drive.
  • Guests must arrive one hour before the tour for a safety briefing, and policies are in place for weight, age, and scuba diving considerations.
  • Weather cancellations are possible, and a full refund or rescheduling is offered in case of cancellation.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour offers an exhilarating and immersive experience for adventurous travelers visiting the Big Island of Hawaii.

Priced from $11,603 per person, this one-hour tour allows guests to soar over Kailua Bay, Kona coffee farms, and other iconic landmarks.

Cancellation is free up to 2 days in advance, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Participants can choose between a doors-on or doors-off experience, enjoying live English commentary throughout the flight.

From breathtaking views of the Hualalai Volcano to the diverse ecosystems along the coast, this tour promises an unforgettable aerial adventure.

Highlights and Experience

Soaring over Kailua Bay, guests marvel at the stunning vistas that unfold before them. They glide above Kona’s famous coffee farms and the iconic Magic Sands Beach.

Guests then catch glimpses of historical sites like the Captain Cook Monument and the sacred Place of Refuge. The highlight is undoubtedly the helicopter’s approach to the geological wonders – the Hualalai Volcano and the dramatic Ka’upulehu Crater.

Throughout the flight, passengers are treated to a birds-eye view of the island’s diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to rugged coastlines. Guests can choose between the doors-on or doors-off experience, each offering a unique perspective on Hawaii’s natural splendor.

Itinerary and Key Locations

Starting from the Rainbow Helicopters base in Kailua-Kona, the Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour takes guests on a captivating aerial journey over the island’s most iconic landmarks.

Soar above Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, the vibrant Kailua Bay, and the scenic Ali’i Drive. Admire the stunning Magic Sands Beach Park and glide over lush coffee plantations.

The tour then ventures to Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, where you’ll spot the Captain James Cook Monument, and the Puuhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, known as the "Place of Refuge."

Prepare to be awed by the dramatic Ka’ūpulehu Crater and the majestic Hualālai Volcano before returning to Kailua-Kona.

Inclusions and Requirements

Included in the Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour is a captivating 1-hour aerial experience.

Guests can choose between doors-on or doors-off options to fully enjoy the stunning Big Island landscapes.

The tour includes:

  1. Live guided commentary providing historical and geological insights.
  2. Straps and cases to securely hold your cell phone for photos.
  3. Complimentary parking at the departure point.
  4. Flexibility to add optional tips.

Passengers are advised to wear warm clothing, sunglasses, and closed-toe shoes.

Scuba divers must wait at least 24 hours before taking the tour.

Safety is paramount, and intoxicated individuals will be denied service.

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Weight Policy and Age Requirement

The Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour has specific weight and age policies to ensure a safe and comfortable flight experience.

Guests weighing 260 lbs or more will incur a weight and balance fee, while those over 280 lbs require an additional seat. This is to maintain the helicopter’s stability and performance.

On top of that, all passengers 24 months and older must purchase a full-fare seat, as the tour operator can’t accommodate infants or toddlers on their own.

These policies help create an enjoyable and secure environment for adventurers seeking to soar over Kailua-Kona’s stunning volcanic landscapes.

Scuba Diving Considerations

Scuba divers planning to embark on the Hualalai Volcano Helicopter Tour must wait at least 24 hours after their last dive before taking to the skies.

This mandatory safety precaution helps prevent decompression sickness, also known as the "bends."

To ensure a safe and enjoyable aerial adventure, divers must adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. Allow a full 24 hours between diving and flying.
  2. Disclose any recent diving activities to the tour operator.
  3. Avoid alcohol consumption leading up to the helicopter tour.
  4. Stay hydrated and well-rested prior to the flight.

Following these simple steps will allow scuba enthusiasts to fully enjoy the stunning aerial vistas of Hualalai Volcano without risking their health.

Safety and Cancellation Policy

For the safety of all passengers, the tour provider may cancel flights due to extreme weather conditions. In such cases, they offer the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Intoxicated passengers will be refused service and charged in full, as the activity provider takes safety very seriously.

All guests must arrive an hour before the scheduled tour for a comprehensive safety briefing at the Big Island Jet Center building.

Plus, the provider adheres to strict policies regarding weight and age requirements to ensure a smooth and secure aerial adventure.

With these safety measures in place, guests can enjoy the Hualalai Volcano tour with peace of mind.

Check-in and Meeting Point

Guests must arrive an hour before the scheduled Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour at the Big Island Jet Center building, located near the tour’s starting point in Kailua-Kona.

Upon arrival, guests will:

  1. Check in with the friendly staff and receive their safety briefing.
  2. Have the opportunity to select their desired tour option – doors on or doors off.
  3. Ensure their personal items are secured and their phones are in the provided cases.
  4. Board the helicopter and embark on an exhilarating journey over the stunning volcanic landscapes of Hawaii’s Big Island.

The safety and comfort of guests are the top priorities, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Helicopter Shared With Other Passengers or Private?

The helicopter tour can be either shared with other passengers or private, depending on the traveler’s preference. The tour operator offers both group and private options to accommodate different group sizes and preferences.

Can I Bring My Own Camera or Must I Use the Tour’s Equipment?

You can bring your own camera to capture the stunning aerial views during the tour. The tour allows guests to use their personal photography equipment, so you don’t need to rely on the provided gear.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Seating or Add-Ons?

Guests can upgrade their seating for an additional fee, choosing from options like premium leather seats or a private charter. There are also add-on experiences like a champagne toast or landing at a secluded viewpoint.

What Happens if the Weather Is Poor During the Tour?

If the weather is poor, the tour provider may cancel the flight for safety reasons. However, they offer flexible options to either reschedule the tour or receive a full refund, ensuring a seamless experience.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

There is no specific discount for children or seniors mentioned on the tour details. However, all passengers 24 months and older must purchase a full-fare seat, so families with young children may pay the same rate as adults.

The Sum Up

The Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour offers a thrilling aerial adventure over Kailua-Kona’s stunning landscapes. Soar above the Kona coast, coffee farms, and historic sites, with the option to experience the breathtaking views with the doors off. This unforgettable journey provides a unique perspective on Hawaii’s natural wonders and cultural heritage, leaving you in awe of the island’s captivating beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: