Big Island Helicopter Tours

Hawaii Island's Top Rated Tours & Activities

Explore Paradise from Above: The Ultimate Big Island Helicopter Tour Guide

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Are you considering a big island helicopter tour over the Big Island? This guide reveals what you can expect: upfront looks at lava flows, green rainforests, and even secluded waterfalls. Find out how to select the right big island helicopter flight for your interests, and learn tips for the best experience, from picking a departure airport to dressing for the ride.

The Big Island Helicopter Tour we took by Real Hawaii Tours were such a fun and exhilarating experience!

Robert N. - Hawaii Island Visitor

Big Island Helicopter Tours

Top Rated Tours


Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Per Adult

27 Reviews

Ride in a premier helicopter with large viewing windows

See more from the air in a short time

Choose from morning or afternoon departures

Round-trip transportation available from select Waikoloa and Kona hotels

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Unforgettable Big Island Helicopter Adventures

Big Island helicopter tours take you on a visual feast across Hawaii’s diverse landscapes. From the bubbling lava of active volcanoes to the lush greenery of tropical rainforests, these tours offer a breathtaking panorama that captures the heart and soul of the Big Island. The helicopter rides are a gateway to hard-to-reach places and provide exclusive views of nature’s wonders, all within a short flying time.
These aerial adventures are categorized into distinct experiences, each offering a unique perspective of the island’s beauty. Whether it’s the volcanic spectacle of a lava viewing tour, the serene landscapes of a sunset flight, or the dramatic topography of a waterfall and towering sea cliffs excursion, there’s an adventure that caters to every preference.
Now, we’ll delve into the realm of helicopter tours and uncover the unforgettable experiences they provide.

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Volcanoes National Park Helicopter Tour

Imagine yourself soaring above a volcanic landscape, witnessing the raw power of nature as molten lava flows beneath you. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Helicopter Tour offers this mesmerizing experience, providing aerial views of the active lava flows, the expansive Mauna Loa, and the significantly enlarged Halema’uma’u Crater. This excursion transports you to the center of volcanic activity in the National Park, including an active volcano, promising an experience that is both thrilling and awe-inspiring.

Departing from Hilo, the tour provides quick access to the Kilauea volcano, one of the most active volcanoes on earth. But the experience doesn’t end in the sky. Paradise Helicopters offers a unique ‘Volcano by Air & Land’ tour that allows you to explore the volcanoes both from above and on the ground, providing a comprehensive experience of Hawaii’s volcanic landscape.

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Kohala Mountains and Waterfalls Helicopter Tour

Taking you over the Big Island’s north coast, the Kohala Mountains and Waterfalls Helicopter Tour offers panoramic views of the island’s untouched beauty. The tour showcases the dramatic sea cliffs and cascading waterfalls of the Kohala coast, treating you to a spectacle of nature that is both tranquil and exhilarating.

Mauna Loa Helicopters offers a Private Hawaii Waterfall Tour that highlights the seven valleys of Kohala and the Gold Coast. This immersive experience showcases the island’s diverse climate and striking landscapes, from lush valleys to ancient remains of native Hawaiian settlements. The tour is a testament to the Big Island’s natural diversity, making it a must-do for nature lovers.

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Black Sand Beaches and Lush Rainforests Helicopter Tour

Offering a unique perspective of the island’s diverse landscapes, the Black Sand Beaches and Lush Rainforests Helicopter Tour is a visual treat. From the unique black sand beaches shaped by volcanic activity to the rugged coastlines with powerful waves crashing against the shores, this tour is a testament to the island’s dynamic landscapes.

The adventure doesn’t end there. The tour also takes you:

  • Over the lush rainforests of the Big Island
  • Offers exclusive access to special locations like Hilo’s botanical gardens
  • For those with a daring spirit, some tours even offer the opportunity to combine the helicopter ride with zipline experiences, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
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Top Big Island Helicopter Tour Companies

When choosing a helicopter tour, the company you choose can significantly enhance your experience. The Big Island’s leading helicopter tour companies offer a variety of unique experiences, from customized tours to ‘doors-off’ flights. The latter provides a more exciting experience and unobstructed photographic opportunities, making your aerial adventure even more memorable.

Whether you desire a thrilling flight over active volcanoes or a tranquil sunset journey, several companies cater to your preferences. Here, we’ll highlight some of the top helicopter tour companies on the Big Island and their unique selling points.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters is renowned for its variety of tour options. From showcasing the island’s famous volcanoes and waterfalls to offering panoramic views of the coastline, this company ensures a diverse and immersive experience.

Their tours start at $399.00, making them accessible for a wide range of budgets. However, they do have a policy for passengers weighing over 240 pounds, requiring them to purchase a discounted adjacent empty seat. This is a testament to their commitment to safety and ensuring a comfortable experience for all passengers.

Paradise Helicopters

Offering a diverse range of helicopter tours, Paradise Helicopters stands out with their exclusive landing rights at certain locations. This provides unique and immersive experiences, allowing passengers to explore the island from both the air and the ground.
What sets Paradise Helicopters apart is their customization.

Whether you want a quick flight over the volcanoes or a full-day adventure that covers multiple attractions, they tailor the tours to suit your preferences. Their pilots are renowned for their extensive flying experience and local knowledge, ensuring not only safety but also an informative and enjoyable experience.

Mauna Loa Helicopters

Specializing in helicopter tours, Mauna Loa Helicopters offers a highly personalized private tour experience. Their tours accommodate a maximum of 6 passengers, ensuring intimacy and individual attention.

One of their standout tours is the Private Kona Coast Helicopter Tour, which features stunning landscapes, award-winning beaches, and rich Hawaiian history. This intimate and personalized approach sets Mauna Loa Helicopters apart, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and intimate helicopter adventure.

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Planning Your Big Island Helicopter Adventure

Planning your Big Island helicopter adventure can be as exhilarating as the tour itself, but some considerations are necessary to guarantee the best experience. The optimal times for helicopter tours are during the morning for calmer winds and clearer visibility, or in the evening to catch stunning sunset views.

However, planning involves more than just timing. It’s also important to reflect on your interest in particular attractions and verify that the tour itinerary includes these sites. And don’t forget to provide your accurate weight during the booking process as it’s crucial for safety reasons and helps with the helicopter’s capacity planning.

Choosing the Right Helicopter Tour for You

Selecting the right tour is vital to maximizing your helicopter adventure. Tours come in various lengths, from shorter 50-minute flights to comprehensive full-day circle island tours. If you’re on a tight schedule or budget, shorter, less expensive tours might be more suitable.

However, your interests should also play a significant role in your decision. If you’re fascinated by volcanoes, a tour that flies over the Kilauea volcano might be your best bet. Or if you’re a photography enthusiast, a sunset tour could provide the perfect lighting for stunning shots. Consider your interests, budget, and the physical activities in your Hawaii itinerary to choose the best helicopter tour for you.

Departure Locations: Kona Airport vs. Hilo Airport

Your departure location can significantly impact your tour experience. Kona, Hilo, and Waikoloa serve as departure points for helicopter tours on the Big Island, with tours ranging from 40 minutes to an entire day.


Choosing the right departure location depends on the tour you choose and the attractions you’re most interested in. If you’re looking to explore the active Kilauea volcano, a tour departing from Hilo might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re keen on capturing the stunning sunset views over the Kona and Kohala coast, a tour departing from Kona would be a perfect choice.

What to Expect on Your Helicopter Ride

Once you have chosen your tour and departure location, it’s time to prepare for the adventure. Helicopter tours on the Big Island can range from 50 minutes to over two hours, depending on the tour package selected. To make the most of your flight, dress comfortably and avoid heavy clothing as it might get too warm during the flight.

Since photography is a significant part of the helicopter experience, it’s recommended to wear dark, solid colors to avoid reflections in the helicopter windows. Remember, some tours provide the opportunity to land at exclusive locations for passengers to enjoy the scenery up close and take photographs. So, keep your camera ready, and brace yourself for an unforgettable adventure.

Big Island Helicopter Summary:

Helicopter tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the Big Island and its neighboring islands from a fresh perspective. From the stunning volcanoes and cascading waterfalls to the lush rainforests and black sand beaches, these tours offer an aerial panorama of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking to fly over active volcanoes, a photography enthusiast capturing the stunning sunset views, or a nature lover exploring the untouched beauty of the islands, there’s a helicopter adventure waiting for you. So, embark on this thrilling journey and experience Hawaii like never before.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Big Island helicopter Tour worth it?

Yes, a Big Island helicopter tour is worth it if your budget allows, as it provides an unforgettable experience of the island's beauty.

Can you Island hop in Hawaii by helicopter?

Yes, you can island hop in Hawaii by helicopter for a comfortable and flexible travel experience. Paradise Helicopters offers safe and smooth transfers between the islands to accommodate various travel needs.

How long are helicopter rides in Hawaii?

Helicopter rides in Hawaii typically last around 50 minutes, providing an incredible view of the breathtaking beauty of the island. It's a must-try adventure for anyone visiting Hawaii.

What is the best time for a helicopter tour?

The best time for a helicopter tour is during the morning for calmer winds and clearer visibility, or in the evening to enjoy stunning sunset views. Both times offer a memorable experience for different reasons.

What should I wear for the helicopter tour?

Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and opt for dark, solid colors to avoid reflections in the helicopter windows. This will ensure a pleasant experience and great photos during the tour.