Waikoloa: Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring over Hawaii’s incredible volcanic scenery, lush rainforests, and powerful waterfalls — all from the seat of a helicopter. That’s what this Big Island helicopter tour promises, and honestly, it’s the kind of adventure that can leave you breathless — literally and figuratively. We haven’t done this tour ourselves, but based on the reviews and details, it’s clear that this experience offers a pretty spectacular perspective on the island’s natural beauty.

What we love about it is the chance to see active volcanoes up close and from above — that’s not something everyone gets to do every day. Plus, the secluded landing at Laupahoehoe Nui sounds like a real highlight, providing a unique photo op and a sense of adventure that’s hard to match. But, as with any helicopter tour, the cost might feel steep, especially considering there are no stops during the flight itself. This tour is best suited for those who want a luxurious, immersive overview of the island’s most stunning landscapes, and who don’t mind paying a premium for it.

Key Points

• Unparalleled views of Hawaii’s active volcano and volcanic landscapes
• Land at a remote, scenic location for photos and a quick exploration
• Expert pilots and small group setting for a more personalized experience
• Duration of around 2 hours, including a 20-25 minute ground stop
• High price reflects the luxury and exclusivity of the experience
• Weather conditions can impact visibility, so flexibility is a plus

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Helicopter Tour Stand Out?

This tour is designed to show you Hawaii’s volcanic heart from a vantage point that’s hard to beat. Starting with the Kilauea volcano, which has been erupting continuously since 1983, you’ll get a chance to witness the raw power of one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The pilot guides seem to be quite knowledgeable, sharing insights into volcanology, geology, and island history, as one reviewer mentioned, making the experience as educational as it is breathtaking.

Flying over the black sand beaches and volcanic badlands offers a stark contrast to the lush rainforests and waterfalls that follow, giving a real sense of the island’s diverse ecosystems. The Hamakua Coast waterfalls are particularly striking, and the helicopter’s wide viewing windows make for excellent photo opportunities. You’re also treated to panoramic views of the Kohala Mountains, which frame the island beautifully.

The Highlight: Landing at Laupahoehoe Nui

What really elevates this experience is the landing at Laupahoehoe Nui, a remote location on the Kohala Coast. Here, you’ll spend about 20-25 minutes on the ground — a rare chance to step out into unspoiled Hawaii, and capture amazing photos of a 1200-foot waterfall. This is a true highlight, especially for photography lovers or those wanting a more immersive experience beyond just flying.

Several reviews praise this part of the tour, with one noting the majestic waterfall as a must-see. The landing isn’t just for photos; it’s an unforgettable moment to experience the untouched beauty of the island firsthand.

The Flight Experience: What to Expect

You’ll start your adventure at the Waikoloa heliport, check in 60 minutes prior, and board a premier helicopter with wide viewing windows. The aircraft is designed to give everyone a clear view of the landscapes below, ensuring you won’t miss a detail. The flight duration is around 105 minutes to 2 hours, which is substantial enough for a rundown but still manageable.

The route takes you over the famous Kilauea volcano, with views of erupting activity if conditions permit, and the lava fields and volcanic badlands that tell the story of recent eruptions. Keep in mind, weather can impact visibility — as one reviewer noted, if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you might not see the volcano at all. The tour operators do offer flexibility with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, which is reassuring.

The Ground Stop: What You’ll Experience

Once you land at Laupahoehoe Nui, you’ll get about 20-25 minutes to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. The remote location promises an authentic experience of Hawaii’s untouched landscape. You might find yourself marveling at the power of nature with the waterfall cascading down in front of you.

This segment of the tour is often highlighted as a unique feature because few helicopter tours include a landing spot like this — it’s a special chance to step onto the ground and really connect with the environment.

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The Return Flight and Final Views

After your ground visit, the helicopter will take you back over the island’s diverse terrains, giving you a second shot at snapping panoramic vistas. The return to Waikoloa is a gentle final chapter to a memorable journey, with many noting the smooth flight and knowledgeable pilot guiding the experience.

Pricing: Is it Worth It?

At $719 per person, this tour is definitely on the higher end for helicopter experiences. When you consider the exclusive landing, the size of the aircraft, and the expert guidance, the price begins to make more sense. Several reviewers feel it’s good value, especially given the personalized attention and the opportunity to see Hawaii’s volcanic features from above, which you simply can’t get any other way.

However, it’s also worth noting that no stops are made during the flight itself, so if you’re expecting a tour with multiple landings or longer stops, this might not be the right fit. But if your goal is to get a comprehensive aerial overview with a unique landing experience, many find it worth the cost.

Considerations for Travelers

• Weight restrictions apply — if you weigh over 240 pounds, you’ll need to purchase an extra seat, which halves the usual price for that seat.
• Infants up to 23 months can sit on laps at no charge, which is a nice feature for families traveling with babies.
• Be aware that weather can impact visibility, so it’s wise to remain flexible.
• The small group size (limited to 6 participants) means more personal attention, but also requires early booking to secure your spot.
• Transportation to the heliport isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Voices from the Reviews

One traveler from France gave it 4 out of 5, noting, “It’s truly incredible! Please note that the description does not match the price, as there are no stops during the trip. Nevertheless, it’s a beautiful route with breathtaking scenery.” This highlights an important point: the scenic flight alone justifies the cost for many, even if it’s all in the air.

Another from the US praised their pilot Shawn as “extremely knowledgeable” and said the tour was “educational about volcanology, geology, and the islands’ history.” That’s a big plus for those interested in learning more than just sightseeing.

Céline from Chile, however, pointed out the weather dependency—the volcano wasn’t visible because of weather — a reminder to keep expectations flexible.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a bird’s-eye view of Hawaii’s volcanic activity. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small-group, personalized tours and are willing to invest in a premium experience. If you’re traveling with someone interested in geology or volcanoes, they’ll find this tour both thrilling and educational.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer ground-based adventures or are worried about weather impacts. Also, if you’re on a tight budget or expecting multiple landings and longer stops, this might not match your expectations.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts between 105 minutes and 2 hours, including the time spent on the ground at Laupahoehoe Nui.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get a headset, a pilot guide, and the aerial tour with a landing. Transportation to the heliport isn’t included.

Is there a weight limit?
Yes, guests over 240 pounds (108 kg) need an additional seat, which is charged at half price.

Can infants join the tour?
Yes, infants up to 23 months can sit on laps at no charge.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent good visibility, the tour could be canceled, and you’d get a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this a good experience for families?
It can be, especially for those comfortable with helicopter rides and seeking an educational adventure. The small group size and scenic views make it engaging, but keep in mind the price and the flight duration.

Are there any discounts or flexible booking options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dark-colored clothing is recommended to prevent reflections in photos.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, the Waikoloa: Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour offers a comprehensive, visually stunning way to experience Hawaii’s volcanic landscape and lush rainforests. It’s best suited for travelers who value high-quality, intimate tours and are eager to see unique sites like the lava flows, waterfalls, and volcanic badlands from the air. The exclusive landing at Laupahoehoe Nui adds a special touch that many find makes the experience worth the price.

If you’re happy to spend a bit more for a luxurious, educational, and memorable adventure, this tour is likely to deliver all that and more. But if weather is uncertain or you prefer a longer, land-based exploration, you might want to consider other options.

Ultimately, this helicopter tour stands out as a highlight for many Big Island visitors, providing views and memories that are truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a geology buff, or simply someone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s worth considering when planning your Hawaii getaway.

You can check availability for your dates here: