15 Most Highly Rated Helicopter Flights & Tours In Oahu

Oahu is a place that offers so much more than what you see from land. The island’s dramatic coastlines, lush valleys, and iconic landmarks come alive from the air—making a helicopter tour an unforgettable way to experience Hawaii’s natural beauty. Unlike other sightseeing methods, helicopter flights give you a sweeping perspective of places like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and the North Shore’s famous surf breaks. Whether you prefer a private journey, tours with doors off for ultimate visibility, or quick scenic rides, there’s a perfect helicopter experience waiting for you. For specifics on what makes each tour unique, check out our comprehensive list of helicopter tours in Oahu.

The list below covers a range of options—from 18-minute rides perfect for a quick glimpse to full-hour excursions with private access—that cater to different tastes and budgets. We’ve examined reviews, route details, and special features to help you find the best fit.

1. From Honolulu: Oahu 60min Helicopter Tour with Doors Off/On

Starting with a full hour, this doors on or off helicopter tour from Rainbow Oahu Helicopter Tours is one of the top-rated options, with a 4.9-star rating from 340 reviews. Its route is carefully designed to include major island landmarks such as Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, Makapu’u Lighthouse, Sacred Falls, and Kaneohe Bay. The tour also covers the USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor, providing a meaningful aerial perspective on Hawaii’s history and scenery. The flexibility to choose doors on or off adds to the experience, making it suitable for those seeking an immersive or more open-air flight.

Guests praise the knowledgeable pilots and spectacular vistas, with one reviewer calling it “worth every penny.” The roughly 1-hour length strikes a good balance, offering comprehensive views without feeling rushed. For travelers who want a full, panoramic experience of Oahu’s highlights, this tour offers excellent value at $440 per person.

Bottom Line: A top choice for those seeking a comprehensive island overview with flexible seating options and stunning views.

2. Private Oʻahu Helicopter Experience: All Window Seats

This private helicopter tour with all window seats offers a personalized, intimate experience of Oahu. For around $415, you’ll spend about an hour in the air, flying over Waikiki, Makapu’u Lighthouse, Kailua Beach, Kaneohe Bay, and the Dole Pineapple Plantation. What makes this tour stand out is the dedicated pilot commentary and the opportunity for photo snapping from multiple angles.

Guests rave about the spectacular, unobstructed views and the professionalism of the crew. One reviewer noted, “Extensive views explained during the trip made this a special birthday treat.” The private setting is perfect for honeymooners, couples, or anyone wanting a more exclusive experience. The route includes iconic spots like Chinaman’s Hat and the surf zones of Banzai Pipeline.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a private, photo-friendly helicopter adventure with expert narration.

3. Oahu: Helicopter Tour with Doors On or Off

This 45-minute shared or private doors on or off helicopter tour offers a shorter but still thorough look at Oahu’s sights. For just $390, it covers overhead views of Aloha Tower, Diamond Head, Sacred Falls, and the Dole Plantation. The tour also flies over Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, and Lanikai Beach, giving a solid introduction to island scenery.

Guests consistently praise the friendly pilot Nikki, calling her “awesome,” and mention how the views are simply stunning despite the shorter flight. This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but still want an aerial highlight reel of Oahu’s most famous landmarks. The 45-minute route packs the necessary sights without being overly long, making it practical for busy schedules or first-time visitors.

Bottom Line: A great choice for a quick, high-impact flight that hits all the essential sights.

4. Private 60 Minutes Helicopter Tour in Honolulu

Spending a full hour in the sky, this private helicopter tour for $509 offers a wide-ranging view of Honolulu and beyond. Departing from HNL, it includes sights like Honolulu Harbor, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Makapu’u, and Rabbit Island. The route also encompasses Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and the famous blowhole at Makapu’u.

Guests love the personalized experience, noting that the pilot uses a cell phone lanyard to keep your phone safe and offers detailed commentary. The extra time allows for more secluded views and a relaxed pace. This tour suits those wanting an unhurried, private experience to truly soak in the scenery.

Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a comprehensive, private flight with plenty of time for photos and exploration.

5. Oahu: Path to Pali 30-Minute Doors On or Off Helicopter Tour

This 30-minute tour, costing $340, focuses on shorter but striking views, such as Waikiki, Diamond Head, and Makapu’u Point. Its highlight is the Nu’uanu Pali cliffs, a breathtaking spot with dramatic mountain views. The tour also includes Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona.

Reviewers mention Tobey as an “awesome pilot,” praising the informative narration. The shorter duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who want a quick, memorable flight. The doors on or off option adds to the versatility, depending on your comfort level with open-air flying.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a concise, scenic flight that covers key viewpoints in half an hour.

6. 60 Minutes SHARED Helicopter Tour in Honolulu

This full-hour shared helicopter ride combines the best of both worlds: comprehensive sightseeing and the chance to share with fellow travelers. For $449, it covers famous landmarks like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and Makapu’u.

Guests describe it as “a truly unforgettable experience,” with friendly pilots and extensive commentary. The route loops around the entire island, giving a full perspective of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes, from waterfalls to valleys. It’s a popular choice for those wanting value and variety from their helicopter experience.

Bottom Line: An excellent option for travelers wanting a longer, more immersive tour that encompasses the whole island.

7. 18 Minutes SHARED Helicopter Tour in Honolulu

This short 18-minute flight is perfect if you want a quick peek at Oahu’s highlights. Starting at $239, it covers Diamond Head, Waikiki, and the shoreline in a swift, scenic loop. The itinerary includes flying over Koko Head, Makapu’u Lighthouse, and Waikiki Beach.

Reviewers mention that Scott and Inna are “very friendly and professional,” and the experience is worth every penny. It’s ideal if you’re tight on time but still want a memorable helicopter ride with good coverage of the island’s main sights.

Bottom Line: Best for a short but impactful helicopter experience that hits the essentials.

8. 30 Minutes PRIVATE Helicopter Tour in Honolulu

This private half-hour tour offers a personalized way to see Honolulu’s skyline, valleys, and beaches for $359. Departing from HNL, you’ll fly over Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and Waikiki with the benefit of privacy and customized routes.

Guests highlight the easy departure point and the personalized attention from pilots like Stefan. The half-hour duration makes it suitable for those wanting an intimate experience without committing to a full hour. It’s perfect for honeymooners or small groups.

Bottom Line: A smart pick for private, flexible sightseeing with a focus on comfort and customization.

9. 30 Minutes SHARED Helicopter Tour in Honolulu

A shared 30-minute flight that offers a rundown of Oahu’s highlights for $319. It includes Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and Waikiki. The route takes you over Honolulu Harbor, Black Point, and the H3 highway, giving a broad look at urban and natural scenery.

Travelers describe it as a “must-do” because it combines affordable pricing with spectacular views. The friendly pilot and informative narration add value, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those who want a quick, scenic overview.

Bottom Line: A cost-effective, short tour that covers significant sights efficiently.

10. Oahu: Waikiki 20-Minute Doors On / Doors Off Helicopter Tour

This brief 20-minute tour for $305 offers a quick but high-quality view of Waikiki and Pearl Harbor. The focus is on city skyline, beaches, and landmark highlights from above, with the flexibility for doors on or off.

Reviewers appreciate the friendly pilot and smooth ride, especially if you’re short on time but want a memorable aerial glimpse. It’s a cost-efficient option for travelers who prefer a fast, scenic orientation of Honolulu.

Bottom Line: Great for a short, impactful flight that showcases the core of Waikiki and Pearl Harbor.

11. 18 Minutes PRIVATE Helicopter Tour in Honolulu

For those seeking privacy and a quick flight, this private 18-minute tour at $269 offers a personalized peek at Diamond Head, Waikiki, and surrounding landmarks. The doors are optional, and the route emphasizes close-up views of Oahu’s southern coast.

Guests mention that Stefan was an “excellent pilot,” and the short duration is perfect for those with limited schedules or wanting a private, intimate experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for private, quick sightseeing with a focus on the most iconic southern sights.

12. Complete Island Oahu Helicopter Tour

This comprehensive 1-hour 5-minute small-group tour provides an in-depth look at Oahu’s most famous sites, including Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and Waimea Bay. The small group size (max 6 people) enhances the experience, with detailed photo opportunities and a full perspective on the island’s diverse geography.

Reviewers call it “spectacular,” praising the high-quality views and expert narration. While pricier at $522.50, the extended duration and small-group focus make it a premium choice for those wanting a comprehensive aerial tour.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a detailed, small-group experience with the fullest island coverage.

13. From Oahu: Big Island Volcano Adventure & Helicopter

This full-day package combines roundtrip flights from Oahu to the Big Island with a helicopter tour over active volcanoes. Highlights include Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea, and Nāpali Lava Tube. The $843 price tags it as a premium experience, ideal for those interested in Hawaii’s volcanic activity.

Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking sights, though some note the long day—about 15.5 hours in total. The optional helicopter tour over lava fields offers a unique perspective few land-based trips can match.

Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure travelers eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic power from both land and air on a full-day trip.

14. Day Trip from Oahu to Hilo: Active Volcanoes & Helicopter Tour

This 12-hour day includes a land tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and an aerial helicopter flight over Kilauea and waterfalls. At $878, it is a long but immersive way to see Hawaii’s volcanic landscape from multiple angles.

Guests value the full itinerary and knowledgeable guides, though some mention the long travel time. It’s well suited for travelers who want a deep dive into Hawaii’s volcanic activity and don’t mind a packed day.

Bottom Line: Best for dedicated volcano enthusiasts wanting a combination of land and air exploration.

15. Day Trip from Oahu to Kauai: Highlights & Movie Sites with Helicopter

This full-day tour takes you from Oahu to Kauai, including a helicopter ride over the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and film sites from movies like Jurassic Park and The Descendants. At $699, it’s a full immersion in another Hawaiian island, with round-trip flights included.

Guests praise Rosario’s engaging tour narration and the spectacular scenery. However, some note that the helicopter ride was canceled temporarily in recent times, so booking early is advisable. It’s perfect for film buffs and island explorers who want comprehensive coverage.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full island experience that combines land, sea, and air.

How to Choose Your Oahu Helicopter Tour

When selecting a helicopter tour, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. If you want a comprehensive, private experience, look at the private tours or full island options. For a quick peek, the shorter flights like the 18-minute tour or 20-minute Waikiki tour are ideal.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular private flights or full-day adventures. Think about if you prefer doors on or off, whether a small group appeals to you, or if land-based excursions combined with helicopter rides better suit your trip plans.

In The Sum Up

From quick scenic flights to full-hour private adventures, the helicopter tours in Oahu offer a range of options for every interest and schedule. The From Honolulu: Oahu 60min Helicopter Tour with Doors Off/On and the Complete Island Oahu Helicopter Tour stand out as top picks for their comprehensive coverage and reviews. For those seeking private, intimate experiences, the Private 60-minute tours are best, while shorter rides still pack a punch for limited time.

Booking early and choosing the right fit for your interests will ensure you experience Hawaii from a perspective only a helicopter can provide. Now, it’s just about picking your route and taking to the skies—Hawaii’s beauty awaits.