Waikoloa: Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour
If you’re looking to see the Big Island from a perspective few get to enjoy, this helicopter tour offers an unforgettable way to do just that. Designed for travelers eager to witness Hawaii’s volcanic fury and lush scenery in one seamless adventure, this experience combines stunning vistas with a touch of exclusivity—thanks to a rare landing at a remote spot.
What we love about this particular tour is how it balances awe-inspiring scenery with educational commentary. The knowledgeable pilots and guides make the trip both fascinating and fun. Plus, the chance to land at Laupahoehoe Nui for a significant photo op makes it feel more personal and grounded in real adventure.
A possible consideration is the price—at $719 per person, it’s not your budget option. But for the quality of views and the unique land-based photo opportunity, many find it worth the splurge. It’s best suited for those who prioritize memorable, scenic experiences and are comfortable with helicopter travel. If you’re an avid photographer or a geology buff, this tour is probably high on your list.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Unparalleled Views: Over active volcanoes, rainforests, waterfalls, and mountain valleys.
- Exclusive Landing: A rare stop at Laupahoehoe Nui for photos and contemplation.
- Educational Guides: Pilots share insightful info on volcanic activity and island geology.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 6 participants) ensure personalized attention.
- Price vs. Value: While costly, the experience offers a memorable combination of scenery and exclusivity.
- Weather Dependence: Visibility and volcano sightings can be affected by weather conditions.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Waikoloa Village
An In-Depth Look at the Waikoloa Helicopter Experience
Setting the Scene: Starting Your Journey
Your adventure begins with check-in at the Waikoloa heliport, about an hour before your scheduled flight. This timing ensures everyone is comfortably prepared and briefed. Remember, late arrivals may not be accepted and are non-refundable, so punctuality is key. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a headset, which helps communicate with your pilot and enjoy the in-flight narration clearly.
The helicopter itself is a premier aircraft with wide viewing windows—ideal for capturing the scenery as you soar over the island. With only six passengers per flight, the experience remains intimate, allowing everyone a good view and space to take photos.
The Flight Path: Covering Hawaii’s Natural Wonders
The tour kicks off with an immediate focus on Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Since 1983, it has been erupting almost constantly, creating a landscape of raw, unfiltered volcanic activity. From the air, you’ll see the lava flows, black sand beaches, and volcanic badlands that illustrate the island’s fiery origins. One reviewer remarked that, despite no stops during the flight, the route was “a beautiful one with breathtaking scenery.”
Next, your pilot guides you over the verdant Hamakua Coast, a lush stretch that contrasts sharply with the volcanic terrain. Here, you’ll witness cascading waterfalls and thick rainforest canopies—an area rich in natural beauty that’s often missed by land-bound travelers. The flight through the Kohala Mountains offers sweeping views of the island’s ecological diversity, from mountain peaks to coastal plains.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Highlight: Land at Laupahoehoe Nui
The most distinctive feature of this tour, and what justifies its premium price, is the landing at Laupahoehoe Nui. This remote spot on the Kohala Coast is a rare privilege, taking you away from the usual tourist crowds. Perched near a 1200-ft waterfall, this location offers a stunning backdrop for photos and a chance to connect more intimately with the landscape.
You’ll spend about 20-25 minutes on the ground, exploring, taking pictures, or simply soaking in the feeling of being in such an untouched part of Hawaii. Another traveler appreciated the authenticity of this experience, noting that it allowed them to see a “majestic waterfall and unspoiled scenery up close.”
Returning to Waikoloa
As the helicopter lifts off again, you’ll enjoy a final panoramic view of the island, often capped with a sunset or soft mountain light that makes for fantastic photos. The return flight is smooth, with the pilot providing additional insights about the landscapes below.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who crave more than just the usual sightseeing bus tour. It suits those comfortable with helicopter travel, eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic and rainforest landscapes from above, and interested in capturing stunning images. Geology and nature enthusiasts, in particular, will find the educational commentary and exclusive landing spot a major highlight.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
Price and Value: At $719 per person, the tour is a significant investment. But considering the private landing, the high-quality panoramic views, and the small group size, many find it provides good value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Keep in mind that the cost includes a headset and a pilot guide, enhancing the educational aspect.
Duration and Timing: The flight lasts between 105 minutes and 2 hours, typically available in the morning when weather conditions are most favorable. The check-in process is 60 minutes prior to departure, so plan accordingly to avoid missing out.
Group Size: Limited to six participants, which allows for a more personalized, less crowded experience. This also means you’ll get better views and more time to ask questions.
Accessibility and Weight Restrictions: The tour is wheelchair accessible. If you or a travel companion weigh over 240 pounds (108 kg), an additional seat must be purchased for safety—costing half the regular price. Infants under 23 months can sit on laps, free of charge.
Weather Considerations: The tour is weather-dependent. Cloud cover, rain, or fog can obscure views of the volcano or waterfalls, so it’s wise to have flexible plans or be prepared for possible rescheduling.
Authentic Experiences from Fellow Travelers
Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledge of the guides and the stunning scenery as major pluses. One traveler remarked, “Our pilot Shawn was extremely knowledgeable, and the tour was educational about volcanology and geology,” emphasizing the value of informative narration. Another mentioned that, despite the weather preventing a volcano sighting, the route itself was “truly incredible,” which speaks to the scenic quality of the flight regardless of conditions.
Some feedback pointed out that the no-stop nature of the flight means you won’t get off the helicopter during the tour, but the panoramic views and the landing at Laupahoehoe Nui more than compensate for this. The exclusive landing is often described as a highlight, offering a chance to experience Hawaii’s landscapes firsthand rather than just viewing from above.
The Sum Up
This helicopter tour from Waikoloa offers an exceptional way to see the Big Island’s most dramatic landscapes. The combination of soaring over active volcanoes, lush rainforests, and spectacular waterfalls—plus the exclusive landing—makes for a memorable adventure.
While the price tag might seem steep, it reflects the quality of the experience: small groups, high-quality aircraft, knowledgeable guides, and the rare opportunity to step onto a remote Hawaiian site. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a picture-perfect, educational, and immersive view of Hawaii’s natural landscape from above.
If you’re a lover of geology, photography, or simply want to see the island’s raw beauty in a way few ever do, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip. Just remember, weather can play spoilsport, so have flexible plans and go knowing you’ll see something spectacular—whether it’s the volcano in full eruption or a rain-soaked rainforest dripping with waterfalls.
FAQ
How long is the helicopter tour? It lasts between 105 minutes and 2 hours, including the ground time at Laupahoehoe Nui.
What is included in the price? The tour includes a headset, pilot guide, and the helicopter flight itself. Transportation to the heliport is not included.
Is there an age restriction? Infants under 23 months can sit on laps and are free, but check with the provider about any other age or health restrictions.
How many people are in each helicopter? The group is limited to six participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
What if I weigh over 240 pounds? An additional seat is required for safety, which costs half the regular tour price. You’ll need to arrange this after booking.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users? Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour.
Does weather affect the tour? Yes, visibility and volcanic activity depend on weather conditions. Tours may be postponed or canceled if weather is unfavorable.
Will I see the volcano eruption? If the weather permits and volcanic activity is visible from the air, you’ll get a spectacular view of Kilauea.
What should I wear? Dark-colored clothing is recommended to prevent reflections in photos. Dress comfortably for potentially cool mountain and rain forest climates.
This helicopter tour offers a rare, personal glimpse into Hawaii’s volcanic spirit and natural beauty. For those eager to see the island’s most impressive sights from a unique vantage point, it’s a truly worthwhile splurge.
You can check availability for your dates here: