The 3 Most Popular Helicopter Flights & Tours In Hilo

Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii is a destination known for its impressive volcanoes, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. What better way to experience these natural wonders than from the air? Helicopter tours in Hilo offer a spectacular perspective on the island’s most iconic sights, with options that range from scenic sightseeing to close-up views of active volcanoes and waterfalls. Whether you’re interested in a quick flyover or a full-day adventure, these helicopter experiences provide a unique way to soak in Hawaii’s volcanic power and verdant beauty.

Hilo’s terrain — with its steep cliffs, deep valleys, and dense forests — makes helicopter tours particularly memorable here. Unlike land-based excursions, a helicopter can reach remote spots and give you a sense of the island’s scale and diversity. This list highlights the best helicopter flights in Hilo, with options for different budgets, timeframes, and interests. From the thrill of seeing an erupting volcano to the serenity of waterfalls from above, these tours promise unforgettable views and insights.

Quick Overview

Our list includes three standout helicopter tours in Hilo, each offering a different experience. The Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour is a full-day combo that explores Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and includes an optional helicopter ride for a panoramic look at the volcanoes. The Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour is a 50-minute flight focused on active volcanoes and waterfalls. Finally, the Hilo: Hilo Waterfall Experience Helicopter Tour offers a one-hour flight showcasing waterfalls, Kohala coast, and ancient Hawaiian sites. Each provides a distinctive aerial perspective on Hilo’s stunning landscape.

Now, let’s explore each of these top helicopter tours, highlighting what makes them special and helping you decide which one fits your adventure style.

1. Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour

Starting with a full-day experience, this tour combines a land exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with the option to add a helicopter ride. The tour includes visits to Nahuku Lava Tube, Helema’uma’u Crater, and scenic drives along Chain of Craters Road. You’ll also stop at Rainbow Falls and learn about the volcanoes’ natural history from an expert guide.

The highlight here is the flexibility. For an extra cost, you can add a helicopter flight that provides a bird’s-eye view of Kilauea and the surrounding volcanic landscape. Many reviews praise the guide Dexter for his detailed knowledge and engaging storytelling, which makes the long day feel personal and informative. The tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive experience of Hilo’s volcanic sights plus the thrill of a helicopter view.

The value lies in the combination of land and air, with admission tickets to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park included. The 10.5-hour duration is ideal for those wanting a deep dive into Hawaii’s volcanic activity paired with local history, scenery, and waterfalls.

Bottom Line: This full-day tour offers a well-rounded Hawaii Volcanoes National Park experience, with an optional helicopter for those wanting that added wow factor.

2. Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

At just about 50 minutes, the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour is a shorter, more focused flight that’s perfect for travelers on a tighter schedule. It delivers a stunning view of Kilauea, one of Hawaii’s most active volcanoes, along with waterfalls and other natural sights.

This tour stands out because it combines the excitement of seeing active volcanic vents with the serenity of waterfalls like Akaka and Rainbow Falls. The helicopter is equipped with noise-canceling headphones, so you can listen to expert commentary from the pilot about the geology and formation of these features. Reviewers often mention the pilot Dave, who makes the flight engaging and informative.

Pricing is competitive, and the shorter duration still offers enough time for spectacular views that you can’t get from the ground. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick, high-impact experience without sacrificing quality or scenery.

Bottom Line: A perfect choice for those wanting a concise, intense helicopter tour emphasizing Hawaiian volcano activity and waterfalls with expert narration.

3. Hilo: Hilo Waterfall Experience Helicopter Tour

For a full hour of aerial exploration, this Waterfall Experience takes you over Waipi’o Valley, the Kohala coast, and a series of cascading waterfalls that plunge into rainforests below. Using an Eco-Star (EC-130) helicopter with large windows, this tour provides a clear, unobstructed view of the lush terrain.

The pilot, a State of Hawaii Certified Guide, offers insightful narration about the history and geology of the landscapes, including remnants of ancient Hawaiian settlements. You’ll see waterfalls dropping thousands of feet, with some plunging into deep valleys that can’t be accessed on foot. Reviewers appreciate the sharp focus on waterfalls and the chance to see Hawaii’s native flora and fauna from above.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive scenic flight emphasizing waterfalls and valleys over a longer period. The helicopter’s large windows and expert commentary make it a rich, visual experience, especially if waterfalls are your main interest.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for waterfall lovers and anyone eager to see Hawaii’s rainforests and valleys from above in a full 60-minute flight.

How to Choose

Selecting the right helicopter tour depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you’re looking for a full-day experience with the option to include a helicopter ride, the Volcano Adventure offers the most comprehensive exploration. For a quick but impactful aerial view focusing on active volcanoes and waterfalls, the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour is perfect. If waterfalls are your main focus and you want a longer, more detailed flight, the Waterfall Experience is the way to go.

Consider your fitness level (full-day tours might require some stamina), your interest in volcanic activity versus waterfalls, and your schedule. Booking early is advisable during peak tourist season, especially for the shorter, popular flights.

Final Thoughts

Hilo offers a range of spectacular helicopter experiences that give you unmatched views of Hawaiian volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastlines. For those wanting an immersive, full-day adventure, the Volcano Adventure is a top pick. If you prefer a shorter, high-impact flight emphasizing active volcanoes and waterfalls, the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour stands out. And for waterfall enthusiasts wanting the most extensive aerial glimpse, the Waterfall Experience offers a stunning 60-minute tour.

Whatever your choice, booking early and considering your interests will ensure you get the most out of your aerial adventure over Hilo’s breathtaking landscapes. These flights promise a memorable perspective on one of Hawaii’s most dynamic and lush regions.