City By The Sea – 20 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On

Unlock a new perspective on Oahu’s stunning landscapes with the "City By The Sea" helicopter tour. This 20-minute aerial adventure provides a choice between the exhilaration of a doors-off flight or the comfort of a doors-on sightseeing experience. Soar above iconic landmarks like the Honolulu skyline, Waikiki Beach, and the historic Punch Bowl Crater, all while enjoying breathtaking aerial views. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a sightseer, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you captivated by the island’s natural beauty and urban wonders. Discover what awaits as you take to the skies and…

This experience made our list of the 15 Best City Tours In Honolulu.

Good To Know

• This 20-minute aerial tour showcases Oahu’s stunning landscapes, including the Honolulu skyline, Waikiki beaches, Diamond Head, and Punch Bowl Crater.
• Passengers can choose between a doors-off option for an exhilarating experience or a conventional doors-on option for standard sightseeing.
• The tour departs from Rainbow Oahu Helicopter Tours, located within the Honolulu International Airport, with convenient pick-up and drop-off.
• Strict safety protocols are in place, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all travelers.
• With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation from previous passengers, this aerial adventure is considered a must-do activity for those visiting Oahu.

Tour Overview

Visitors embark on a breathtaking aerial adventure with the City by the Sea Helicopter Tour. This 20-minute excursion offers unparalleled views of Oahu’s stunning landscapes.

Soar over the Honolulu skyline, admire Waikiki’s iconic beaches, and gaze upon Diamond Head and Punch Bowl Crater. For thrill-seekers, the doors-off option provides an exhilarating experience.

Passengers can also upgrade to a private flight for an even more personalized journey. With 100% of travelers recommending this tour and a perfect 5.0 rating, this aerial exploration is a must-do activity for those seeking to experience Oahu from above.

Flight Details

The tour departs from Rainbow Oahu Helicopter Tours, located at 155 Kapalulu Pl #197 in Honolulu.

There’s a total weight limit of 280 lbs per passenger. Infants must sit on laps, while all passengers 24 months and older require a full fare seat.

If you weigh 260 lbs or more, a weight and balance fee applies.

Doors-off tours require jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties; long pants are also recommended.

The tour returns to the same meeting location, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Safety Precautions

Safety is a top priority for the City By The Sea Helicopter Tour. All passengers must adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure a smooth and secure experience. For doors-off tours, jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are required, with long pants recommended. To maintain balance and stability, there is a total weight limit of 280 lbs per passenger, and a weight and balance fee applies for those over 260 lbs. Intoxicated passengers will not be permitted to fly. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, providing inclusive options for all.

Requirement	Doors-On	Doors-Off
Jacket	No	Yes
Closed-Toe Shoes	Yes	Yes
Hair Ties	No	Yes
Long Pants	No	Recommended
Weight Limit	280 lbs	280 lbs

Wheelchair Accessibility

The City By The Sea Helicopter Tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring a seamless experience for all passengers.

Guests can easily board the helicopter with assistance from the friendly staff. Ample space is provided within the aircraft to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices.

Plus, the tour’s departure and return location at the Honolulu International Airport is equipped with accessible pathways and facilities.

This thoughtful accessibility caters to a diverse range of travelers, allowing everyone to enjoy the breathtaking aerial views of Oahu’s iconic landmarks from above.

With this inclusive approach, the City By The Sea Helicopter Tour offers an unforgettable adventure for passengers of all abilities.

Meeting and Pickup

Passengers meet at the Rainbow Helicopters location within the Honolulu International Airport to begin their City By The Sea Helicopter Tour. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at the same meeting point, ensuring a seamless experience. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time with no penalties.

Meeting Point	End Point	Cancellation Policy
Rainbow Helicopters at Honolulu International Airport	Returns to the same meeting location	Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts

This convenient arrangement allows travelers to focus on the excitement of the aerial adventure without worrying about transportation logistics.

Traveler Testimonials

Overwhelmingly positive feedback from travelers highlights the excellence of the City By The Sea Helicopter Tour.

With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation from 29 reviewers, the tour has earned the trust of sightseers.

Passengers praise the tour’s knowledgeable pilots and exceptional customer service, which contribute to an unforgettable experience.

Many recommend upgrading to longer flight durations to enjoy more extensive aerial views of Honolulu’s skyline, Waikiki, Diamond Head, Punch Bowl Crater, and Pearl Harbor.

Travelers consistently describe the breathtaking panoramas and can’t wait to share their once-in-a-lifetime experience with friends and family.

Customization Options

Alongside the standard 20-minute helicopter tour, travelers can customize their City By The Sea experience. Those seeking an unobstructed aerial perspective can opt for the doors-off option, while the doors-on choice offers a more conventional sightseeing experience. Passengers weighing 260 lbs or more may incur a weight and balance fee. For a more immersive journey, consider upgrading to a private flight, which allows for a tailored itinerary and a heightened sense of exclusivity.

Tour Options	Doors-Off	Doors-On
Perspective	Unobstructed	Conventional
Requirements	Jackets, closed-toe shoes, hair ties	Standard attire
Upgrades	Private flight	Private flight
Fees	Weight surcharge for 260+ lbs	None

Breathtaking Aerial Views

Soaring high above Oahu’s picturesque landscapes, the City By The Sea helicopter tour offers a breathtaking aerial perspective.

Passengers are treated to panoramic views of Honolulu’s iconic skyline, the iconic Waikiki beach, the striking silhouette of Diamond Head, and the serene Punch Bowl Crater.

The tour also showcases Pearl Harbor, a historic site that’s integral to Hawaii’s past.

With the option to fly with doors on or off, thrill-seekers can soak in the unobstructed vistas and feel the wind in their hair.

Regardless of the package, this 20-minute journey provides an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Oahu’s natural beauty and urban landmarks.

Things To Known

Can I Bring My Own Camera and Take Photos?

Yes, passengers are encouraged to bring their own cameras and take photos during the helicopter tour. However, they should be mindful of the helicopter’s weight limits and follow the pilot’s instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Helicopter?

There is a total weight limit of 280 lbs per passenger. For passengers over 260 lbs, an additional weight and balance fee applies. Infants must sit on laps, while all other passengers require a full fare seat.

What Happens if I Need to Cancel My Booking?

Customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties. Rainbow Helicopters offers free cancellation, allowing flexibility for travelers’ plans.

Is There a Minimum Number of Passengers Required?

The tour does not have a minimum number of passengers required. Passengers can book individually, and the flight will operate regardless of the number of bookings. However, larger groups may be eligible for discounted rates.

Can I Request Specific Sightseeing Routes or Locations?

Yes, passengers can request specific sightseeing routes or locations. The tour operator offers customizable options, allowing you to tailor the flight to your interests and see the sights you most want to experience.

Sum Up

The "City By The Sea" 20-minute helicopter tour offers an unparalleled aerial experience, soaring over Oahu’s iconic landmarks. Opt for the exhilarating doors-off or the more traditional doors-on option to suit your preference. Witness the stunning Honolulu skyline, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and historic Punch Bowl Crater from a unique perspective, making this tour a must for any traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.