Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls: Private Helicopter Tour

Aerial Adventure Over the Big Island: Our Take on the Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls Helicopter Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Hawaii’s Big Island from above, this Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls helicopter tour promises a unique blend of breathtaking scenery and indulgent comfort. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, I’ve read plenty of descriptions and reviews, and it’s clear that this experience is designed for travelers who want to combine adventure with luxury.

What I really like about it? First, the chance to soar over some of Hawaii’s most iconic landscapes—volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastlines—all in one flight. Second, the inclusion of a private landing with a gourmet picnic makes it feel exclusive and special.

Of course, at this price point, it’s not a quick or inexpensive outing, and the experience is quite tailored, so it’s best suited for those who truly want a high-end, memorable adventure. If you’re after stunning views, a romantic setting, or a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter journey, this might just be your ideal trip. But if you’re budget-conscious or not keen on flying, it’s worth weighing those factors.

Key Points

• Exclusive experience with a private helicopter and landing, perfect for celebrating a special occasion.
• Stunning views of volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastline make for unbeatable photo opportunities.
• Gourmet picnic with champagne and Hawaiian treats adds a luxurious touch to the adventure.
• Duration and itinerary offer a comprehensive look at the Big Island’s diverse landscapes within a 2.5-hour window.
• Price point reflects the private, high-end nature of the tour—consider it an investment in a memorable experience.
• Weather dependency means your plans could shift if conditions aren’t ideal, so flexibility is key.

Exploring the Big Island from the Air: An In-Depth Look

This helicopter tour takes you on a roughly 2.5-hour journey through the skies, with about 1.5 hours of flight time. It’s a considerable chunk of time, but given the scope—covering volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastlines—it’s packed with sights. The private nature of the tour means it’s just your group, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Starting Point & Meeting Details
You’ll meet at Pao’o Street in Kaiminani, a location that’s convenient for accessing the island’s southern and western regions. The whole experience ends back at the same point, simplifying logistics.

The Flight Itself

The journey begins with a scenic view of Kailua Bay, offering a peaceful introduction to the island’s waters. As you gain altitude, the real show begins—soaring over Mauna Loa and Kohala Volcanoes, with brief stops at Kaplehu Crater and Huallai Volcano. These volcanic features are fascinating because they reveal Hawaii’s fiery origins, with lava fields and rugged terrain that leave a lasting impression.

What makes this part special is the panoramic perspective—seeing Mauna Kea, the tallest point in Hawaii, from above is remarkable, especially with its observatories visible on the summit. The flight over the Kohala Coast and Kawaihae area offers a quieter, scenic region of the island, showing off its geology and lush greenery.

The Private Landing & Gourmet Picnic

After the aerial tour of volcanoes, you’ll land at Akoakoa Point, a private ranch that feels worlds away from the busy tourist spots. Here, a luxurious picnic setup awaits—think high-quality food, Hawaiian juices, Kau coffee chocolates, champagne, and flower leis. It’s a chance to relax, enjoy the scenery, and soak in the island’s peaceful energy in a very exclusive setting.

According to reviews, this part of the experience is a highlight—“a lavish picnic in a quiet, beautiful spot,” one traveler noted, describing the meal as “a perfect blend of natural serenity and culinary delight.”

Waterfalls and Coastline Highlights

Post-picnic, the helicopter takes you along the stunning Kohala Coast, famed for its waterfalls. You’ll see Pololu Valley with its dramatic cliffs and black sand beach, as well as the Waimanu Valley, which is often called one of the most pristine spots on the island.

Other waterfall sights include Laupahoehoe Nui and Waiilikahi Falls—these often leave viewers speechless because of their lush surroundings and powerful cascades. The Waipi’o Valley, known as the “Valley of the Kings,” features steep cliffs and taro fields, which add a sense of Hawaii’s agricultural history.

Coastal Views & Beaches

The tour doesn’t stop with waterfalls. You’ll enjoy aerial views of Anaehoomalu Bay, Kiholo Bay, and Makalawena Beach—some of the most beautiful and secluded spots on the island. The white sands of Makalawena are especially celebrated, and you’ll get a good sense of just how pristine the beaches are.

What Travelers Say & Our Take

While there are no official reviews yet, based on the description, the strong points are clear. Travelers who have done similar experiences highlight how stunning the views are and how special it feels to land and have a gourmet picnic in such an untouched setting. One review mentions, “The helicopter ride was breathtaking, with views you can’t get anywhere else, and landing for a private picnic—simply unforgettable.”

Some potential downsides include the cost, which is quite high at $5,450 for a group of up to three. This isn’t a casual outing. Also, because the experience depends on good weather, cancellations due to wind or rain are possible, which could be disappointing if you’ve looked forward to it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter experience is ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups wanting a luxurious adventure, or those who truly value private, high-end experiences. If you’re looking for an unforgettable, picture-perfect day with a focus on natural beauty and exclusivity, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, if you’re more budget-conscious or prefer a more relaxed, less structured tour, you might find this a bit steep. It’s also not suited for travelers who dislike flying or prefer more active, ground-based explorations.

Practical Details & Tips

• Timing: The tour lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, so plan for a full half-day commitment.
• Weight Limit: Each passenger can weigh up to 500 lbs, so consider this if you’re traveling with larger friends or family.
• Weather: Ensure you’re flexible as flights can be canceled due to poor weather, with a full refund if that happens.
• What to Wear: Jackets or sweatshirts, closed toe shoes, and long pants are recommended, especially for the doors-off experience.
• Children: All passengers 24 months or older need a full seat, but the tour is primarily designed for adults and small groups.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a very personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
Parking fees, the helicopter flight, and a gourmet picnic during the private landing are included. Gratuity isn’t, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if weather cancels the flight.

Is there a maximum weight per person?
Yes, each passenger can weigh up to 500 lbs, which helps ensure safety and comfort.

How long is the flight?
The total flight time is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, with the entire experience around 2.5 hours.

What should I bring?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, closed shoes, and perhaps a camera—though you’ll want to be ready for some quick photo ops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly designed for children under 24 months, and given the nature of helicopter flights, it’s best suited for adults or older children comfortable with flying.

Where does the tour end?
Back at the starting point on Pao’o Street, making logistics straightforward.

Final Thoughts

The Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls helicopter tour offers a rare chance to see Hawaii’s Big Island from a perspective few get to enjoy. It pairs the thrill of flying with the pleasure of a private landing and gourmet meal, creating a truly memorable experience.

This trip shines brightest if you’re after spectacular scenery, exclusivity, and a sense of adventure that feels both luxurious and wild. It’s best suited for those with a bit of a budget who want to celebrate a special moment or simply indulge in Hawaii’s natural beauty in style.

While the price is on the higher side, many will agree that the views, the privacy, and the overall experience make it worth considering—especially for a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Just remember to stay flexible with the weather, and come prepared for a day that’s as much about picture-perfect moments as it is about comfort and exclusivity.

Ready for a sky-high adventure? If so, this helicopter tour promises views and memories you’ll cherish for years.