Exclusive Landing with Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour

When it comes to truly seeing the Big Island of Hawaii, nothing beats the sensation of soaring above its stunning landscapes in a helicopter. This tour offers an up-close look at volcanic activity, lush rainforests, and rugged coastlines—all from the comfort of a glass-cockpit chopper. Designed for travelers seeking both adventure and a perspective they can’t get on land, this experience promises to be as spectacular as it sounds.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert pilot-guides who blend professional flying with fascinating commentary about Hawaii’s geology and culture. Second, the unique landing at Laupāhoehoe Nui, where you step out into the rainforest and get an unfiltered view of a 1,200-foot waterfall—something most visitors will never see without a chopper.

A potential consideration? The price tag of over $1,100 per person might seem steep for some, especially given the limited ground-based options. But for those who value once-in-a-lifetime views and exclusive access, this tour offers substantial value.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone craving a deeper connection to Hawaii’s volcanic heart. If you’re comfortable with small-group tours and flying in a helicopter, you’ll find this to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Offers a comprehensive aerial view of Hawaii’s volcanic and lush landscapes
• Includes an exclusive landing at Laupāhoehoe Nui for a rainforest experience
• Guided by knowledgeable, Hawaii-certified pilots who serve as expert storytellers
• Duration of approximately 2 hours 20 minutes, with about 20-25 minutes on the ground
• Appreciated for stunning scenery, safe operation, and professional service
• Best suited for travelers who don’t mind the cost for a truly unique experience

An Introduction to the Big Island Helicopter Experience

This helicopter tour stands out because it combines spectacular aerial views with a rare opportunity to land in a pristine part of the island. If you’re like us, you’ll appreciate the chance to see Hawaii’s volcanoes, rainforests, and coastlines from angles only birds or helicopters can provide.

The tour is a full-immersion—you’ll fly over active volcanoes, including the most recent eruptions from 2022, and land at Laupāhoehoe Nui, where 20-25 minutes on the ground lets you peer into untouched nature with your own eyes. For many, this mix of flight and ground experience is a winning formula.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the stunning scenery is impressively diverse—from tropical valleys to volcanic craters. Second, the knowledgeable guides, who are also State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guides, add depth with facts and stories about the sites you’re flying over. This isn’t just a sightseeing ride; it’s an educational journey.

A thing to keep in mind? The cost can be significant, but many reviews suggest it’s worth every dollar for the memorable views and unique access. Also, as with all adventures, weather plays a role—cloud cover or rain can impact visibility and the actual flight plan.

This tour is ideal if you’re craving a personalized, awe-inspiring experience that broadens your understanding of Hawaii’s geological forces. It’s perfect for photographers, geology buffs, and those seeking a luxurious adventure.

Breaking Down the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The Kohala Area: Ranching and Breathtaking Valleys

The tour begins over the Kohala Coast, known for its rolling pastures and scenic valleys. You’ll appreciate how the pilot’s narration brings this landscape to life, explaining its history as cowboy country and its lush environment. The views here are a prelude to the island’s natural diversity—green, expansive, and dotted with ranches.

Historic Waikoloa and King Kamehameha’s Final Years

Next, you’ll fly over the town of Waikoloa, a place steeped in royal history. While the tour doesn’t involve landings here, it’s a chance to see where Hawaii’s most famous king spent his last days, adding a layer of cultural context to your aerial experience.

The Volcanoes: Mauna Loa and Kilauea

The core of the island’s fiery reputation, the volcanoes are front and center. You’ll get views of Mauna Loa, the world’s largest volcano, and Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, constantly shaping the landscape. The December 2022 eruption flows are visible, giving you tangible evidence of geological activity.

Landing near Kilauea’s southeastern rift zone offers a rare chance to see the erupting volcano from a safe distance—something only a helicopter can facilitate. Many reviews mention how “the volcanic activity is a spectacle you’ll never forget”, and this landing is the highlight for many.

The Volcanoes National Park: A Climatic Journey

Covering over 335,000 acres, the park climbs from sea level to over 13,000 feet, showcasing six different climate zones. Flying over this vast park reveals lava fields, lush rainforests, and stark volcanic craters, all in one trip. Because the park is so expansive, being airborne allows a breadth of scenery that’s impossible to see from the ground.

Rainforest and Waterfalls: Akaka and Laupāhoehoe Nui

The crown jewel of the ground stops is the Laupāhoehoe Nui landing, where you’ll step onto a remote rainforest and witness a towering 1,200-foot waterfall. The reviewer Jennia_S said, “The waterfall landing was well worth the extra cost,” emphasizing how unique this moment is. The lush backdrop and the roar of the waterfall make for stunning photos and a memorable connection with Hawaii’s untouched nature.

Further, flying near Akaka Falls, which drops 442 feet into a valley, offers postcard-perfect views of one of the island’s most iconic sights. The lush rainfall (nearly 84 inches annually) sustains these waterfalls and rainforests, exemplifying the island’s verdant diversity.

Cowboy Country and Historic Pastures

The tour also takes you over ranching regions, where rolling hills and green pastures evoke Hawaii’s frontier days. It’s a reminder that beyond the volcanic and tropical allure, the island has a rugged, working landscape.

The Experience: What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes use of premium Bose aviation-grade noise-cancelling headsets, so you’ll hear your pilot’s commentary clearly amid the rotor noise—crucial for understanding the sites you’re passing over. Communication with the pilot allows you to ask questions and get insights during the flight.

The pilot guides, who are certified Hawaii tour guides, are often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. Multiple reviews mention pilots being both professional and fun, with one describing their pilot “Matt” as “extensive in island knowledge” and another praising “James” for his explanations.

The duration is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, with roughly 20-25 minutes spent on the ground during the Laupāhoehoe Nui landing. This window provides ample time to step out, take photographs, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

All fees and taxes are included, and the tour guarantees a small group size of up to 6 travelers—meaning you’ll have a more personal experience than large, crowded tours.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At just over $1,130 per person, this isn’t a cheap outing. However, considering the exclusive landing, the length of the flight, and the expert guidance, many reviewers believe it offers good value for an unforgettable experience. The opportunity to access remote parts of the island in a way that’s impossible from the ground alone is a rare feature.

The tour’s reviews consistently highlight how “you’ll never be able to see the island like this on your own”, and the stunning scenery combined with the expert storytelling makes it clear why many travelers consider it a highlight. If you’re someone who treasures a personal, immersive perspective of Hawaii’s volcanic heart and lush rainforests, this trip is likely to be a memorable investment.

Practical Details and Tips

• Book well in advance, especially during peak seasons, since the tour is popular and booked about 41 days ahead on average.
• The meeting point is at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters near Waikoloa, about an hour’s drive from Kona or Hilo.
• Weight restrictions: Each passenger must weigh less than 240 lbs; otherwise, an additional seat must be purchased.
• Child policy: Children under 23 months fly free and lap-sit.
• Clothing: Wear dark-colored clothes to reduce reflections in photos; avoid hats, large bags, and selfie sticks for safety.
• Prepare for weather variability: Flight schedules are subject to weather conditions—cloud cover or rain can alter the plan or cancel flights.
• Bring a credit card if you wish to buy in-flight videos or souvenirs.
• Tip: Arrive an hour early for check-in, safety briefing, and seat assignment—lateness may mean missing out or non-refundable costs.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter experience is best for travelers who want a truly immersive view of Hawaii’s volcanic and rainforest landscapes. If you’re comfortable with small-group flights, enjoy photography, and are willing to invest in a luxury adventure, this tour delivers extraordinary sights and memories. The knowledgeable guides and exclusive landing elevate it beyond a simple sightseeing trip, making it an educational and awe-inspiring journey.

For those on a tighter budget or seeking a quick overview, this might feel pricey. But for anyone eager for an authentic, high-quality, and up-close experience of Hawaii’s most remarkable features, this helicopter tour is hard to beat. It’s a way to see the Big Island’s volcanic essence and lush landscapes from a perspective few get to enjoy, creating stories to tell for years.

FAQs

How long is the helicopter tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, including time on the ground during the waterfall landing and sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The price covers flight, guide services, all fees and taxes, and the use of noise-cancelling headsets for clear communication with your pilot.

Can I buy in-flight photos or videos?
Yes, you can purchase USB in-flight video and photo packages after the flight at the heliport.

Are children allowed?
Children 23 months and younger fly free on a lap, but every passenger must meet the weight restrictions of 240 lbs.

What if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Waikoloa—about an hour from Kona or Hilo.

What should I wear?
Dark colors are recommended to prevent reflections, and avoid hats, large bags, or selfie sticks for safety reasons.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 41 days ahead—booking early is advised during busy seasons.

Is the tour suitable for all?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or fear of flying should consider their comfort level.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 6 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience.

This helicopter tour offers an exceptional way to connect with Hawaii’s volcanic landscape and lush rainforests. It combines breathtaking views, expert guidance, and an exclusive landing, delivering a memorable adventure that’s worth considering for your Big Island visit.