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

Planning a trip from Oahu to the Big Island for a full-day adventure centered around active volcanoes and lush waterfalls? This tour, offered by Polynesian Adventure Tours, promises a comprehensive experience combining land exploration with breathtaking aerial views. While it’s designed to give travelers a chance to see Kilauea, Mauna Loa, and iconic waterfalls, it also comes with some considerations about weather and group size.

What we find appealing about this tour is the opportunity to combine ground visits to famous volcanic sites with a helicopter flight that’s sure to be a highlight—if the weather cooperates. The guides’ reputation for knowledge and the chance to see volcanoes from both land and sky are definite pluses. However, a potential hurdle might be the cost, which is on the higher side compared to other day tours, and the fact that lava sightings aren’t guaranteed makes it a bit of a gamble.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers with an interest in geology and natural beauty, who don’t mind a long day and are comfortable with small group sizes. If you’re eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic activity and enjoy scenic helicopter rides, this trip offers a substantial glimpse into the Big Island’s fiery heart.

Key Points

• Combines land and aerial exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with a helicopter tour.
• Includes stunning views of active volcanoes, waterfalls, and tropical landscapes.
• The tour is financed at around $878 per person, which covers transportation, admission, lunch, and the helicopter ride.
• Weather dependent: volcano visibility and helicopter flights can be affected.
• Small group size enhances the experience but requires pre-booking well in advance.
• The tour includes several notable stops like the Steam Vents, Thurston Lava Tube, and Akaka Falls.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters & Safety Briefing
The tour kicks off early with a mandatory 45-minute safety briefing at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. This is standard but worth noting since it sets the tone for the day’s adventure. The helicopter ride, lasting around 1 hour 40 minutes, promises incredible aerial views of Kilauea—one of the most active volcanoes in Hawaii—and the surrounding landscape. Keep in mind, the fly-over of Kilauea isn’t guaranteed—it’s dependent on weather conditions, especially the sky’s clarity. Many travelers in reviews mention that weather can be a limiting factor, so a cloudy sky might mean less impressive aerial scenery.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
After the helicopter, your group heads to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to Kilauea and Mauna Loa. This is where you’ll get a close look at recent volcanic activity—Kilauea’s June 2023 eruption was still fresh in memory for some travelers. Expect about two hours exploring the park, with stops at key sites like the Chain of Craters Road, an iconic 19-mile drive showcasing volcanic formations and coastal lava flows. Some parts of the road might be inaccessible, but even a partial drive offers spectacular views of volcanic landscapes and rugged coastlines.

Kilauea & Steam Vents
The highlight of the park visit is Kilauea itself, a shield volcano frequently erupting in recent years. The last eruption in June 2023 involved fountains of lava reaching up to 50 feet high, though lava sightings are not guaranteed—a common theme in volcanic tours. You’ll also see steam vents, where intense geothermal activity creates plumes of vapor, demonstrating the immense power beneath the surface. This stop is about 20 minutes, but many find it fascinates with its raw volcanic energy.

Thurston Lava Tube (Nahuku)
A walk through the Lava Tube offers a glimpse into the volcanic past: a long, subterranean cave formed by flowing lava. It’s a short 20-minute stop, but one that adds an element of adventure—walking through a dark, cool tunnel surrounded by lush jungle. Many reviews mention the Lava Tube as a favorite feature, despite some disappointment that it’s been closed for over a year, which shows how some sites are subject to maintenance and safety closures.

Akaka Falls State Park
After exploring the volcanoes, the tour shifts gears to lush waterfalls at Akaka Falls. Surrounded by tropical greenery, the 20-minute lookout offers a stunning view of a 442-foot waterfall. It’s a classic Hawaiian scene—easily accessible and very photogenic—perfect for a quick nature break. The reviews note that the drive through Hilo’s Banyan tree-lined streets has a charming, local feel, adding to the authenticity of the experience.

Hilo Town & Coastal Drive
The final stop is a leisurely drive through Hilo, known for its colorful streets and relaxed vibe. Many travelers appreciate the chance to see a less touristy side of Hawaii, with the chance to stroll along the “Hilo Walk of Fame” and soak in the local atmosphere.

The Helicopter Experience: An Aerial Highlight

The helicopter portion, often what makes this tour stand out, offers a bird’s-eye view of the volcanic landscape. Many reviews describe it as “incredible” and “something they always wanted to do”. The route focuses on active volcanoes, lava lakes, and the coastline. It’s a bit tight for some passengers—helicopter seats are limited, and overweight passengers over 240 lbs may pay an extra fee for a “comfort seat.”

While most travelers rave about the views, a handful express disappointment when cloud cover or weather conditions prevent the fly-over of Kilauea. Because of this, it’s wise to keep expectations flexible. A helicopter ride offers unmatched perspective but is inherently weather-dependent, and this is an important consideration when booking.

Value and Price: Is It Worth It?

At $878.06 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it attempts to include a comprehensive experience: inter-island airfare, a guided land tour, a helicopter flight, and lunch. For travelers eager for a full-day adventure packed with diverse sights, the price can feel justified. Review quotes reflect satisfaction with the value for money—many mention that they covered a lot of ground and saw key sights that might take multiple separate tours to experience.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that lava sightings are not guaranteed and weather can significantly influence the experience. Some travelers have expressed disappointment when volcanoes were obscured or the helicopter was canceled. Still, many agree that the guided land portion and scenic views alone make this a worthwhile splurge, especially if you want a “big picture” overview of the Big Island’s volcanic landscape.

Practical Considerations

The tour is designed for small groups of up to 12 travelers, which enhances the experience by offering a more personal touch. The timing is long—roughly 12 hours—so be prepared for an early start and a full day. The price includes lunch, which is a nice touch after a morning of sightseeing.

Transport and logistics are well-organized, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Oahu, plus the flight from Honolulu to Hilo included. However, weight restrictions and the need for ID matching are strict policies, so travelers should be ready with accurate info.

If you have respiratory issues, or if bad weather cancels your helicopter ride, be aware that the experience might be less than perfect. Also, tips are not included, so it’s customary to consider gratuities for guides and pilots if you’re satisfied with their service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for geology buffs, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting an intensive overview of Hawaii’s volcanic activity. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with a long day and small group settings. If you’re primarily interested in photography, the helicopter ride provides some of the best vantage points—but be prepared for the possibility that weather might limit visibility.

Families with older children or teenagers who are excited by volcanoes and waterfalls will find it engaging. However, those seeking a relaxed, leisurely day or with mobility restrictions might find the schedule intense.

The Sum Up

This full-day Oahu to Big Island tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Hawaii’s volcanic core, combining land-based exploration with an extraordinary helicopter perspective. It’s a good value for those who want to see active volcanoes, waterfalls, and lush landscapes in one trip.

The small group size and expert guides help make it more personal, and the variety of stops means you’ll leave with a broad appreciation of the island’s geologic features. However, the experience hinges heavily on weather conditions—a factor beyond control—and lava sightings are not guaranteed. If you’re flexible and eager for a packed day of adventure, this tour can be a highlight of your Hawaiian trip.

In essence, it’s a great choice for travelers who prioritize guided insights and scenic variety over complete certainty of seeing active lava flows. Prepare for a long, rewarding day that captures the fiery spirit of Hawaii’s Big Island.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the schedule is long and involves a fair amount of walking and small group transportation. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of activity.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes interisland round-trip airfare, land transportation, a guided land tour, lunch, and a 45-minute helicopter flight (weather permitting).

Will I see lava flows?
Lava sightings are not guaranteed. Recent eruptions are visible from the park, but smoke or clouds may obscure views. The helicopter ride focuses on scenic views of volcanic landscapes.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, passengers over 240 lbs. may pay an extra fee for a comfort seat due to FAA regulations. Accurate weight disclosure is required at check-in.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather prevents helicopter flight or volcano viewing, the tour provider may offer a different date or a partial refund for the helicopter portion. You might still enjoy the land-based stops.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is usually booked about 72 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and the limited spots in small groups.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
The schedule is fixed and dependent on weather and operational conditions. Once booked, changes are generally not allowed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and camera gear. Remember, the tour involves some walking, so be prepared for outdoor conditions.

In essence, this tour offers a robust taste of the Big Island’s volcanic character—if you’re up for a full day filled with scenic marvels, guided insights, and a dash of adventure, it’s worth considering. Just keep your expectations flexible regarding lava visibility and weather.