Exclusive Landing with Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour

If you’re considering seeing Hawaii’s Big Island from a whole new angle, this helicopter tour with an exclusive waterfall landing might just be what you’re looking for. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a highly-rated experience that promises not only breathtaking scenery but also an up-close encounter with some of the island’s most iconic natural wonders.

What really stands out about this tour are the stunning aerial views of volcanic activity and lush rainforests, along with the chance to land at a remote, inaccessible site where you can snap photos of a majestic 1200-foot waterfall. On the flip side, some might find the price tag a little steep, especially when compared to other options, but for many, the value of these unique perspectives makes it worthwhile.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see the island’s highlights from the sky and are comfortable with helicopter rides. It’s particularly appealing if you’re eager for that special photo opportunity or want to witness volcanic activity safely from above. Families or travelers with a fear of flying should weigh their comfort level, but overall, it’s a tour that appeals to those craving a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime view of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes.

Key Points

• Unmatched aerial views of volcanic eruptions, lush valleys, and rainforests
• Exclusive landing at Laupahoehoe Nui offers unique photo ops
• Expert pilots and guides provide insightful commentary and safety
• Two-hour-plus flight with plenty of time to take in the scenery
• Good value for the experience considering the landing and views
• Limited group size (max six travelers) for a more intimate tour

Exploring the Tour Itself: What You Can Expect

When we looked into this Big Island helicopter adventure, it quickly became clear that it’s more than just a scenic flight. It’s a carefully curated experience designed to immerse you in the island’s natural grandeur, with a mix of stunning vistas, interesting stops, and plenty of opportunities for photos.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The tour kicks off at the Waikoloa heliport, where you’ll check in about an hour beforehand. This is crucial for safety checks, weight verification, and a brief safety orientation. From there, your pilot—who is also a state-certified tour guide—will take you on a roughly 2-hour 20-minute flight over some of the most iconic spots on the island.

One of the first stops will be the Kohala area, famous for its breathtaking valleys and ranching tradition. It’s a peaceful, scenic region that’s often overlooked once on the ground but looks spectacular from the air. Next, the flight takes you over the former residence of King Kamehameha, adding a cultural layer to the experience.

A highlight for many is the view of one of the island’s active volcanoes, including the most recent lava flows from December 2022. Seeing Mauna Loa or Kilauea from above provides perspective that words or photos simply can’t match. As you circle the volcano, you can expect to see glowing lava flows or recent eruptions, depending on conditions. The ongoing eruption at Kilauea has drawn over 2 million visitors a year, and from the air, it’s an awe-inspiring sight.

The tour will also take you through Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, which spans over 335,000 acres and features six of Earth’s climate zones. From the sky, this vast, varied landscape is stunning—ranging from volcanic deserts to rainforests, all within a single flight.

Next, a special stop is the eastern rift zone of Kilauea, where an eruption lasted from 1983 to 2018. You’ll get a sense of how active, fiery, and dynamic this landscape really is. As you fly along the coast, the views of dramatic waterfalls and lush rainforests come into focus—especially the famous Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet. This waterfall is often considered one of the most beautiful on the island, and seeing it from above adds a whole new perspective.

The Waterfall Landing: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Photo Op

Perhaps the most talked-about feature of this tour is the landing at Laupahoehoe Nui, near the Kohala Coast. Here, you’ll spend about 20-25 minutes on the ground, walking near a massive 1200-foot waterfall. This is where you’ll really get the chance to step out of the helicopter, take photos, and soak in the untouched beauty of Hawaii’s landscape.

Multiple travelers, including those quoted in reviews, called this “well worth the extra cost”. One described it as “a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity,” while another praised the “magnificent” scenery right next to the waterfall. It’s a rare chance to be so close to such a powerful feature, usually only accessible by air or foot on difficult trails.

The Views and Overall Experience

The pilot guides you through each sight, sharing interesting facts and ensuring everyone can see the highlights. The use of noise-cancelling headsets makes it easier to hear commentary despite the helicopter’s engine noise, and the microphone system allows for conversations with the pilot.

Reviews consistently praise the knowledge, professionalism, and friendliness of pilots like Matt, James, and Greg. Many mention how their guides made the experience both fun and informative. The music selection during flights is also appreciated, adding a personal touch.

While some reviews note that weather can impact the flight, most mention that the team is flexible, adjusting prices or itinerary if needed. For instance, if the volcanoes aren’t visible due to clouds, the tour might be shorter but still worthwhile—like one traveler said, “landing by the waterfall was fantastic, even if we didn’t see the volcanoes.”

Group Size, Duration, and Comfort

With a maximum of six travelers, this tour is more intimate than many helicopter experiences. This small group size means more personalized attention and better chances to see everything clearly.

The total cost is around $1,135 per person, which might seem steep, but when you consider the exclusive landing, the volcanic views, and the comprehensive itinerary, many feel it’s good value. Remember, this includes all fees and taxes, plus the use of quality equipment like Bose noise-canceling headsets.

You should note that each passenger must weigh under 240 lbs, and if you’re over, you’ll need an adjacent seat—which costs half the fare. This policy aims to keep the helicopter balanced and safe.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Timing and Booking: Most travelers book about 42 days in advance, reflecting the popularity of this tour. Check-in is required one hour before the scheduled departure, so plan accordingly. Arriving early helps avoid last-minute stress.

Weather and Cancellations: The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the experience can be canceled or rescheduled. In that case, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Transportation: Transportation to the Waikoloa heliport isn’t included, so plan to get there on your own or arrange transfers.

What to Wear and Bring: Wear dark clothing to reduce reflections in photos, and bring a credit card for optional photo or video packages. Large cameras, bags, hats, and selfie sticks are not permitted onboard for safety reasons.

Children: Kids 23 months and younger fly free as lap children. For others, check with the operator about age restrictions or suitability.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime view of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests, this helicopter tour delivers on that promise. The exclusivity of landing at a remote waterfall sets it apart from other aerial tours, providing that perfect photo opportunity and a real sense of adventure.

The small group size and knowledgeable pilots mean you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of interesting facts, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate a mix of comfort and authenticity. While the price point might be high for some**, those who value the spectacular scenery and unique experiences will likely find it well worth the expense.

However, if you’re sensitive to flying or prefer longer tours, you may want to compare this with other options. Also, weather can affect the experience, so flexibility is key.

This tour is a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see the Big Island from above and create lasting memories. It’s an experience that combines natural beauty, adventure, and a touch of Hawaii’s wild side in a way few other activities can match.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, including the time spent on the ground at the waterfall.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters facility in Waikoloa and returns there after the flight.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum number of travelers to operate, but the maximum group size is six people, which keeps things intimate.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent flying, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are children allowed?
Children 23 months and younger can fly free as lap children. For older children, check with the operator regarding suitability.

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

How much does the tour cost?
It’s approximately $1,135 per person, including all fees and taxes. Additional costs may apply if you need a second seat due to weight restrictions.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to arrange your own transportation to the Waikoloa heliport. Plan to arrive at least an hour before your scheduled tour.

This helicopter adventure offers a rare chance to see Hawaii’s volcanic activity, lush landscapes, and waterfalls from an unforgettable vantage point. It’s perfect for explorers who want to add a touch of thrill and exclusivity to their Big Island trip, and who don’t mind investing in a truly special experience.