Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Hawaii’s Big Island from a perspective that truly takes your breath away, a helicopter tour over Hilo might just be your best bet. Offered by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, this 50-minute flight promises sweeping views of erupting volcanoes, waterfalls cascading down lush cliffs, and the rugged coastlines that define this volcanic paradise.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines adventure and education. The pilot’s insightful commentary, delivered through noise-canceling headphones, enhances the visual spectacle with fascinating tidbits about the island’s geology and natural history.

However, it’s worth noting that the overall cost of $439 per person might seem steep for some, especially if you’re on a tighter budget. Still, for those who value unparalleled views and expert guidance, this helicopter adventure can offer a memorable splurge.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see Hawaii’s active volcanoes and waterfalls from a unique vantage point. Whether it’s your first visit to the Big Island or you’ve been here before, the chance to witness Kilauea and the surrounding landscapes from the sky makes this a standout experience.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of active volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastlines.
• Expert commentary enhances understanding of geological and natural features.
• Small group size (limited to 6 participants) ensures personalized attention.
• Comfortable ECO-Star helicopter with large viewing windows.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for photography and anyone wanting a comprehensive view of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes.

An In-Depth Look at the Hilo Helicopter Tour

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

This 50-minute journey begins at Hilo Heliport, where you’ll check in about 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. The check-in process is straightforward, and if you’ve rented a car, it’s easy to drive to the location—just remember, late arrivals are non-refundable, so punctuality is key.

Once on board the ECO-Star helicopter, known for its large windows and comfortable seating, you’ll be ready to take off over the lush landscapes of the Big Island. The pilot, often described as knowledgeable and engaging—like Dave, who many reviewers mention by name—guides you through the flight with commentary via noise-canceling headsets. This setup ensures you won’t miss an interesting fact while marveling at the scenery.

The flight itself takes you over the most active volcanoes, with particular focus on Kilauea, which is famous for its spectacular eruptions and constantly changing landscape. Viewers can expect to see lava flows, black-sand beaches, and the rugged coastline shaped by volcanic activity. The landscapes are continually evolving, offering new sights even if you’ve visited the island before.

On the way, you’ll also see waterfalls cascading down the cliffs along the Hamakua Coast and the lush rainforests that blanket parts of the island. Reviewers consistently highlight the stunning flight paths, with Adrienne noting how the “flight was stunning” and Annette praising the “perfect organization” and “interesting explanations” from the pilot David.

Highlights of the Experience

The volcanic views are undoubtedly the star of the show. Seeing the eruption sites from above allows for a perspective impossible to get on the ground. The black-sand beaches and newly formed volcanic landscapes are especially captivating, showing the island’s continuous transformation.

Waterfalls are another major highlight, with many reviewers emphasizing the spectacular cascades visible from the air. Greg mentioned he loved seeing whales, which indicates that during certain seasons, wildlife sightings could add an extra dimension to your flight.

Practical Details and Comfort

The helicopter itself is designed for maximum visibility and comfort, with large windows and noise-canceling headphones making conversation with the pilot easy. The group size is limited to six passengers, which helps make the experience intimate and personalized. This also enhances safety and comfort, particularly if you’re sensitive to noise or motion sickness.

Pricing at $439 per person reflects a premium experience, but many find it justified given the unique views and expert guidance. The tour includes the helicopter ride, noise-canceling headphones, and two-way communication with the pilot, enabling you to ask questions and learn about what you’re seeing in real-time.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This is an ideal activity for adventure seekers who want a unique perspective of Hawaii’s volcanic activity. It’s also perfect for photographers, as the panoramic views provide countless opportunities for stunning shots. The small group size and knowledgeable pilot make for an engaging experience, especially for those interested in the geology and natural history of the Big Island.

Important Considerations

There are a few practical points to keep in mind. For travelers over 240 pounds, an adjacent empty seat is required for safety, which comes at half the price of the tour. Be sure to coordinate this after booking.

Infants up to 23 months can sit on laps at no charge, making it family-friendly if your little ones are comfortable with helicopter rides.

As with all helicopter tours, it’s advisable to wear dark clothing—not only for comfort but because it helps prevent reflections in photos. Also, bring your passport or ID for check-in, and avoid hats, luggage, or selfie sticks, which are not permitted onboard.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While the price tag may seem high, when you weigh it against the opportunity to see Hawaii’s volcanoes from above with expert narration, it’s a worthwhile splurge. The flight’s duration of just under an hour allows ample time to cover significant sights without feeling rushed, and the small group size enhances the overall experience.

Many reviews mention the professionalism and friendliness of staff, especially Pilot Dave, who adds an extra layer of enjoyment with his engaging explanations. The stunning scenery combined with informative commentary ensures you’ll walk away with both incredible photos and a deeper understanding of the island’s volcanic activity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime view of Hawaii’s erupting volcanoes and lush waterfalls, this helicopter tour offers the perfect blend of spectacular vistas and insider knowledge. It’s especially suited for those with a passion for photography, natural wonders, or geology.

The experience’s small group size and personalized narration make it stand out from larger tours, while the comfortable ECO-Star helicopter guarantees good visibility. Though it costs a bit more, the value lies in the exclusive access to Hawaii’s most active volcanic landscapes from the sky.

For travelers who want a memorable, visually stunning adventure with a knowledgeable pilot guiding the way, this tour will surely leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, witnessing the Big Island from above is a captivating way to connect with Hawaii’s volcanic soul.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, providing enough time to see key sites and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot early as the tour is limited to small groups (up to 6 passengers) and can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID for check-in. Wear dark clothing to prevent reflections in photos. Avoid hats, large bags, or selfie sticks, as they are not allowed onboard.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, infants up to 23 months can sit on laps at no charge. The small group setting and safety measures make it family-friendly, but consider your child’s comfort with helicopter rides.

What if I have specific health concerns?
While not explicitly addressed, if you have concerns about motion sickness or other health issues, consult with your doctor first. The helicopter is designed for comfort, but individual reactions vary.

This Hilo helicopter tour by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers a compelling way to explore Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes from a breathtaking perspective. Combining stunning scenery, engaging narration, and a small-group setting, it’s a remarkable experience for those eager to see Hawaii’s active volcanoes in their full glory.