Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour

If you’re eyeing a helicopter adventure on the Big Island of Hawaii, the Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing tour promises a memorable blend of spectacular scenery, personal touches, and a taste of untouched Hawaii. This tour isn’t your run-of-the-mill helicopter ride; it’s designed for those who want to see the island from a new angle, with the bonus of stepping onto a remote waterfall for up-close photos and a personal experience.

What we particularly love about this tour is its small-group intimacy—just six passengers—and the chance to land at a stunning waterfall, which adds a real sense of adventure and exclusivity. The knowledgeable pilot-guides not only navigate the skies but also enrich your experience with cultural insights and stories about the land’s history.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the price point —at around $805 per person, this is a premium experience. While many reviews praise the value for the unforgettable views and personalized touch, it’s worth considering if this fits within your Hawaii adventure budget.

This experience suits travelers who seek aerial views, unique landings, and a small-group atmosphere. If you’re a photography enthusiast or a lover of unspoiled natural scenery, this tour could well be the highlight of your Big Island trip.

Key Points

• Exclusive waterfall landing allows up to 25 minutes for photos and exploration.
• Small group size (max 6 travelers) ensures a personalized, intimate experience.
• Expert pilot-guides provide engaging commentary with cultural and historical context.
• The tour covers diverse landscapes—volcanoes, rainforests, lava fields, and valleys.
• The price reflects a premium, but many consider it worth the unforgettable experience.
• The tour is weather-dependent and requires check-in an hour early for safety and seat assignment.

Discovering the Kohala Coast from the Sky

We loved the way this tour offers a panoramic perspective that you simply can’t get from land alone. Flying over the Kohala Coast reveals a tapestry of volcanic craters, lush rainforests, and sprawling ranches that define this historic part of Hawaii. The flight begins with a smooth ascent, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the views of the rolling pastures and valleys that earned the area its cowboy reputation.

From the sky, the bright white beaches and turquoise waters along the west coast appear postcard-perfect. The pilot’s commentary adds context, sharing stories about the land’s past, from King Kamehameha I’s childhood home in the Valley of the Kings to the volcanic activity that shaped the island. The combination of breathtaking vistas and cultural insights makes this tour more than just a pretty flight; it’s a window into the island’s soul.

The Highlight: Landing at Laupahoehoe Nui Waterfall

The true magic of this tour lies in the landing at Laupahoehoe Nui, a majestic 1,200-foot waterfall. This is not a tour where you just fly by; you get out, step onto the ground, and experience Hawaii’s raw beauty firsthand. The 20-25 minutes on the ground provide ample opportunity for photos—many travelers rave about the “spectacular falls” and the “once-in-a-lifetime” feeling of being so close to nature.

One reviewer called it a “breathtaking experience”, emphasizing how the falls near the landing site are truly spectacular. Another review highlighted that landing at the waterfall was “worth every penny” and made for a unique experience that’s difficult to match elsewhere.

This stop delivers an authentic encounter with Hawaii’s untouched landscapes, with views so close that you can almost touch the cascading water. It’s a perfect moment for nature lovers and photography buffs eager to capture Hawaii’s grandeur from a ground perspective.

The Flight Itself: Scenic Diversity & Pilot Expertise

The flight duration is approximately 1 hour 10 minutes, giving ample time to take in the changing scenery from above. You’ll see volcanic mountains, lava fields, and lush valleys, all shaped by eons of geological activity. The pilot’s commentary amplifies this experience — they’re not just pilots, but guides who bring stories and cultural context to the sights.

Guests consistently praise the professionalism and knowledge of their pilots. One review notes that their pilot “explained every question you asked him,” making the flight both relaxing and informative. The use of noise-canceling headsets and microphones means you can clearly hear the commentary even during the most dynamic parts of the flight.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See & Do

• Start with aerial views of the Kohala area, known for its breathtaking valleys, ranching, and historic significance. Expect to see sprawling pastures and charming farmland that evoke a lively cowboy spirit.
• Fly along the coast, enjoying views of the white sandy beaches that are popular with locals and visitors alike.
• As you ascend into the volcanic mountains, the scenery shifts to rugged lava fields and lush green rainforests, demonstrating Hawaii’s dramatic volcanic history.
• The highlight is the landing at Laupahoehoe Nui, where you’ll spend up to 25 minutes on the ground. Many mention the opportunity to capture stunning photos and just soak in the raw beauty of the waterfall and surrounding landscape.
• The final leg of the flight offers additional vistas of the Valley of the Kings, a lush, cliff-surrounded valley rich in history and legend.

What the Reviews Say

Most travelers rate this tour at a perfect 5.0 out of 5, with 94% recommending it. Many reviewers emphasize the “breathtaking views” and the “knowledgeable pilot” who made the experience both informative and fun.

One wrote, “Our pilot Matt was great! He explained every question and even gave us dinner suggestions afterward,” highlighting the personal touch. Others valued the small group size that fostered intimacy, with some describing the experience as “like flying with friends.”

The landing at the waterfall consistently earns praise as a “once-in-a-lifetime moment” and a “spectacular” opportunity to connect physically with the landscape. Several reviews mention that the price, while high, was justified by the unparalleled experience and exclusivity.

Price and Value

At $804.65 per person, this tour isn’t cheap. However, consider what it offers: a personalized helicopter experience, an exclusive landing at a remote waterfall, and expert narration—all wrapped into a compact, 1-hour 10-minute adventure. Many reviewers feel that the value matches the cost, especially if capturing photos and experiencing Hawaii from above are priorities.

The small group size ensures limited crowding and a more personalized experience, which many find well worth the premium. Plus, the up to 25 minutes on the ground at the waterfall is a unique selling point, offering opportunities that larger group tours can’t match.

Practical Considerations

• Booking in advance is recommended—most travelers book about 25 days beforehand, signaling high demand.
• Be mindful of weight restrictions—each passenger must weigh no more than 240 lbs, and an additional seat is required for heavier guests, with a half-price charge.
• Check-in is one hour prior; arriving late might mean missing your flight, as late arrivals are often non-refundable.
• Dress dark-colored clothing to avoid reflections in photos, and leave large cameras, hats, or selfie sticks at home for safety.
• The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions may result in rescheduling or cancellation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves adventure, scenery, and the chance to land in a remote location, this experience is perfect. It’s ideal for photographers, history buffs, or nature lovers who want a blend of aerial sightseeing and ground exploration.

Travelers seeking a small-group, intimate experience will find this tour particularly appealing. If you’re willing to invest a bit more for a truly unique Hawaiian adventure that combines aerial splendor with personal connection, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 23 months and younger are considered lap children and are free of charge. The tour accommodates most travelers, but check-in is an hour before departure, so plan accordingly.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers all fees and taxes, use of noise-canceling headsets, microphones, and the expert pilot-guides who are also certified tour guides. The landing at the waterfall is part of the experience.

Can I buy in-flight photos or videos?
Yes, USB photo and video packages are available for purchase after the flight. Be prepared to bring a credit card for this optional add-on.

How long is the total experience?
The flight lasts about 1 hour 10 minutes, with 20 minutes on the ground at Laupahoehoe Nui. Check-in is an hour prior, so plan to allocate around 2 hours for the entire experience.

What should I wear?
Wear dark clothing to minimize reflections in photos. Avoid hats, large cameras, and selfie sticks on the helicopter for safety reasons.

Is transportation to the heliport included?
No, transportation is not included. Most travelers arrange their own transport to the Waikoloa heliport.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are unsafe, it may be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What if I weigh over 240 lbs?
You’ll need an adjacent empty seat for safety, which costs half the tour price. Contact the tour provider after booking to arrange this.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

The Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour offers a rare chance to see some of Hawaii’s most spectacular scenery from the air and ground. With its small group size, knowledgeable guides, and the thrill of landing at a remote waterfall, it’s a luxury experience that delivers plenty of value — especially for those who prioritize personalized adventure and stunning photography.

While the price isn’t for everyone, many find it well worth the investment for a once-in-a-lifetime view of Hawaii’s natural wonders. If you want a blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery in an exclusive setting, this tour can be a standout highlight of your Big Island visit.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers, photo lovers, and small-group travelers craving a memorable, intimate exploration of Hawaii’s unspoiled beauty.