What to Expect on This Helicopter Experience
Hey there, I’m Justin, and after years of helping cruise guests discover Hawaii’s hidden treasures, I can tell you that the Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour is one of those rare experiences that genuinely lives up to every bit of hype. This isn’t just another flyover — this is the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour for travelers who want to actually touch paradise, not just photograph it from above.
Safety & Operator Credentials: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Waikoloa
With over three decades of experience and thousands of safe flights across Hawaii, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters has established itself as the premier helicopter tour operator in the islands. Their combination of state-of-the-art aircraft, rigorously trained pilots, and unwavering commitment to safety makes them a trusted choice for exploring Big Island’s spectacular landscapes.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters operates under FAA Part 135 certification, maintaining full compliance with all federal aviation safety regulations.
The company maintains an exceptional safety record with rigorous maintenance protocols and comprehensive safety briefings before every flight.
Blue Hawaiian operates a modern fleet of Airbus EC130 Eco-Star helicopters, known for their quiet cabins, enhanced visibility, and superior safety features.
All pilots are FAA-certified commercial helicopter pilots with extensive flight hours and undergo recurrent training programs exceeding industry standards.
Blue Hawaiian has received numerous accolades including recognition from the Federal Aviation Administration and maintains highly rated reviews on Viator and TripAdvisor.
📅 Check Availability for Your Dates
Tours sell out fast — especially on weekends and during peak season. Enter your travel dates on Viator to see what’s available before it’s gone.
Operated by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Waikoloa, this 1 hour 10 minute journey takes you from the resort corridors of Waikoloa deep into Hawaii’s most dramatic landscapes. You’ll soar over ancient volcanic terrain, witness cascading waterfalls plunging thousands of feet into pristine rainforest, and here’s the incredible part — you’ll actually land beside a thundering 1,200-foot waterfall for 20-25 minutes of pure magic. This helicopter tour review wouldn’t be complete without emphasizing just how rare landing experiences like this truly are. Most helicopter tours keep you airborne the entire time, but this one plants you right at the edge of a freshwater pool surrounded by Hawaii’s most untouched wilderness. If you’re ready for an adventure that’ll redefine your Hawaii vacation, book this Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour on Viator before seats fill up.
Everything That’s Covered in Your Tour
When you book the Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour, you’re getting a premium package that justifies every dollar of the $805 starting price. Here’s what’s included:
Is This Tour Right for You? ✅
- Bose Aviation-grade electronic noise-cancelling headsets — These aren’t cheap consumer headphones. You’ll hear crystal-clear narration while the rotor noise fades into the background
- Two-way communication microphones — Ask your pilot questions in real-time as you fly
- State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guide pilots — Your pilot isn’t just flying the aircraft; they’re delivering expert commentary on Hawaiian history, geology, and culture
- All fees and taxes — No surprise charges at checkout
- Exclusive waterfall landing — 20-25 minutes on the ground at Laupahoehoe Nui
This best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour covers everything you need for an unforgettable experience without nickel-and-diming you on add-ons.
Sights You’ll See from the Sky
The Kohala Coast’s Dramatic Contrasts
The flight begins over the Kohala area, and immediately you’ll understand why this region captivates visitors. One moment you’re looking down at lush tropical rainforest dripping with green vegetation; the next, you’re flying over dry, desert-like terrain that looks like another planet entirely. This Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour Review has to mention how stunning these geological contrasts appear from 1,500 feet up — it’s a visual feast that photographs simply can’t capture.
Cowboy Country and Rolling Pastures
Hawaii and cowboys? Absolutely. The Kohala Mountains are known as cowboy country, and from your helicopter, you’ll spot historic ranches and rolling pastures that stretch to the horizon. This area tells the story of Hawaii’s paniolo (cowboy) heritage, and your certified pilot guide will share fascinating history through your headset as you fly over these working ranches.
Waipio Valley — The Valley of the Kings
One of the absolute highlights is soaring over Waipio Valley, the legendary boyhood home of King Kamehameha I. Surrounded by cliffs up to 2,000 feet high, this lush valley stretches a mile across and over five miles deep. When you see it from the air, you’ll understand why ancient Hawaiians considered this sacred ground. The valley floor is virtually inaccessible by road, making this aerial perspective truly special. Ready to witness this for yourself? Check availability and pricing here to secure your preferred flight time.
The Exclusive Waterfall Landing at Laupahoehoe Nui
Here’s where this helicopter tour review gets really exciting. Your pilot will descend through lush flora along 1,200-foot cliffs to a grassy landing pad at Laupahoehoe Nui. You’ll step out of the helicopter at the edge of a freshwater pool with a thundering waterfall as your backdrop. This 20-25 minute landing experience offers photo and video opportunities you simply cannot get anywhere else. The real Hawaii — unspoiled, untouched, and absolutely magnificent — is right there in front of you.
Beautiful West Coast Beaches
Before returning to Waikoloa, you’ll fly along the beautiful white sandy beaches of Hawaii’s west coast. These popular stretches of coastline look stunning from above, and you’ll spot both residents and visitors enjoying the crystal-clear waters below.
Need-to-Know Info Before You Fly
Helicopter Tour Tip
Check in exactly one hour before your scheduled departure time. Late arrivals may not be accepted, and there are no refunds for missed flights due to tardiness.
| Tour Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Tour Name | Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour |
| Operator | Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Waikoloa |
| Departure Point | Waikoloa, Big Island |
| Duration | 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Price | From $805 per person |
| Rating | 4.8 out of 5 stars |
| Total Reviews | 20 verified reviews |
| Landing Time | 20-25 minutes at waterfall |
| Doors Configuration | Doors on |
Weight and seating information: During check-in, you’ll complete a weight check-in process. This determines seating arrangements for optimal aircraft balance and safety. Don’t be nervous about this — it’s standard procedure for all helicopter tours and ensures the safest possible flight.
What to wear: Dress in comfortable layers and wear closed-toe shoes, especially since you’ll be walking on grassy terrain during the landing. Avoid loose items like scarves or hats that could blow away near the helicopter.
Getting there: Allow plenty of extra travel time. Waikoloa traffic can be unpredictable, and missing your check-in window means missing your flight entirely.
Booking Flexibility & Refund Policy
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers reasonable flexibility with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This gives you peace of mind when booking, especially if you’re planning around weather conditions or other island activities.
Weather cancellations are handled professionally — if conditions make flying unsafe, the operator will work with you on rescheduling or refunds. Hawaiian weather can change quickly, particularly in the Kohala Mountains, so flexibility on both sides makes for a better experience.
The best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour experiences book well in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons (December-April and June-August). I always recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks ahead to secure your preferred time slot.
Insider Tips from Justin
Hey everyone, Justin here. After coordinating hundreds of helicopter excursions during my cruise ship days, I’ve learned a few things about maximizing these experiences:
- Book morning flights whenever possible — The Kohala Mountains can develop afternoon cloud cover, and morning light creates the most dramatic photographs. Plus, thermals are calmer in the morning, making for a smoother ride.
- Charge your camera the night before and bring extra memory cards — You will take hundreds of photos during this flight, especially during the landing. There’s nothing worse than running out of storage at the waterfall. Secure your spot on Viator before it sells out and then spend the night before prepping your gear.
- Skip breakfast or keep it light — Motion sensitivity varies person to person, but a lighter stomach generally means a more comfortable flight. If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication 30 minutes before check-in.
- Wear dark, non-reflective clothing — Bright colors and reflective surfaces can create glare on helicopter windows, ruining your photos. Black or dark blue works best.
- Put your phone in airplane mode — This prevents notifications from interrupting your immersive experience and also preserves battery life for all those photos you’ll be taking.
The Best Times to Book
For this Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour Review, I need to emphasize how much timing matters. Morning departures consistently deliver the best experience — clearer skies, better lighting, and calmer air. If you’re choosing between multiple time slots, always go earlier.
Seasonally, winter months (December through March) often bring more rainfall to the Kohala region, which means more spectacular waterfalls with higher water volume. However, this also means a slightly higher chance of weather-related delays. Summer months offer more consistent weather but potentially less dramatic waterfall views.
Weekday flights tend to be less crowded at the heliport, making for a more relaxed check-in experience. If your schedule allows flexibility, Tuesday through Thursday typically works best.
Why This Helicopter Tour Gets Incredible Reviews
Breathtaking Waterfalls
Visitors are mesmerized by the stunning cascading waterfalls plunging thousands of feet into the lush rainforest below.
Exclusive Landing Experience
Travellers rave about the unique opportunity to land and immerse themselves in this remote, untouched landscape.
Diverse Scenic Beauty
Guests love the dramatic contrast between tropical rainforests and desert-like terrain along the stunning Kohala coast.
Rich Hawaiian History
Visitors appreciate spotting ancient Hawaiian settlement remnants, adding cultural depth to the spectacular aerial adventure.
This helicopter tour review wouldn’t be complete without highlighting why travelers consistently rate this experience so highly:
- Overall Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Verified Reviews: 20 travelers have shared their experiences
- Starting Price: From $805 per person
What makes this the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour for so many travelers? The exclusive landing experience creates memories that standard flyover tours simply cannot match. Standing beside a 1,200-foot waterfall, feeling the mist on your face, and breathing in the pristine Hawaiian air — these aren’t experiences you can get from a helicopter window.
The quality of Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Waikoloa shows in every detail: state-certified pilot guides who know Hawaiian history intimately, premium Bose headsets that make communication effortless, and meticulously maintained aircraft that prioritize both safety and comfort.
Book Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour before it’s too late!
This Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour sells out regularly, especially during peak season. The exclusive landing at Laupahoehoe Nui can only accommodate limited flights per day to protect this pristine environment, so availability is genuinely limited.
If you’ve read this far in my Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour Review, you already know this is the Big Island experience you’ve been searching for. Don’t wait until you’re on the island and discover all the best time slots are gone.
Spots Fill Fast – Reserve Your Flight Before It’s Gone!
Top-rated helicopter tours often sell out weeks in advance. Book now to lock in your spot before peak dates disappear.
Things to Do Near Your Helicopter Tour
While you’re in the area, make the most of your trip! Here are some top things to do near Big Island of Hawaii — from beaches and local eats to landmarks worth exploring.
One of the most beautiful white sand beaches on the island, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
30 min drive from Kona
Explore active volcanoes, lava tubes, and dramatic volcanic landscapes at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
45 min drive from Hilo
Experience an unforgettable encounter swimming with majestic manta rays after dark off the Kona coast.
15 min drive from Kona
Iconic oceanfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and tropical cocktails with stunning sunset views.
5 min drive from downtown Kona
Witness the breathtaking 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and exotic plants.
15 min drive from Hilo
Famous volcanic black sand beach where Hawaiian green sea turtles frequently rest on the shore.
60 min drive from Kona
Helicopter Tour FAQ’s
Question: How long is the Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour?
Answer: The total tour duration is 1 hour and 10 minutes, which includes approximately 45-50 minutes of flight time and 20-25 minutes on the ground at the exclusive waterfall landing site.
Question: What is the cancellation policy for this helicopter tour?
Answer: You can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.
Question: How early should I arrive for check-in?
Answer: Check-in opens exactly one hour before your scheduled tour time. You must complete weight check-in, safety briefing, and aircraft seating before departure. Late arrivals may not be accepted, and no refunds are provided for missed flights.
Question: Is this helicopter tour doors-off?
Answer: No, this tour operates with doors on. This configuration provides a comfortable experience while still offering excellent photo opportunities through the aircraft windows.
Question: What’s included in the $805 price?
Answer: The price includes your flight, the exclusive waterfall landing experience, Bose noise-cancelling headsets, two-way communication microphones, a State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guide pilot, and all fees and taxes.
Question: Can I bring my camera on the helicopter tour?
Answer: Absolutely! Cameras and phones are encouraged, especially for the landing portion. Just ensure loose items are secured during flight. Consider bringing a camera strap for safety.
Question: What happens if weather forces a cancellation?
Answer: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters prioritizes safety above all else. If weather conditions make flying unsafe, they will work with you to reschedule or provide a refund.
Question: Is this suitable for people with mobility issues?
Answer: The waterfall landing involves walking on uneven grassy terrain. Contact the operator directly to discuss specific mobility concerns and determine if accommodations can be made.
Question: Where does the tour depart from?
Answer: The tour departs from Blue Hawaiian Helicopters’ Waikoloa heliport on the Big Island’s west coast, convenient for guests staying in the Waikoloa and Kona resort areas.
Question: How many passengers fly on each tour?
Answer: Helicopter capacity varies, but seating is arranged based on weight distribution for optimal safety and balance. Your specific seat assignment is determined during check-in.
Question: Can children take this helicopter tour?
Answer: Children are generally welcome, but contact the operator for specific age requirements and safety considerations, particularly for the landing portion of the experience.
Question: What makes this the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour?
Answer: The exclusive landing at Laupahoehoe Nui sets this tour apart from standard flyover experiences. Spending 20-25 minutes beside a 1,200-foot waterfall in untouched Hawaiian wilderness is something most helicopter tours simply don’t offer.
If you’re ready to experience the Big Island from a perspective few travelers ever see, this Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour delivers memories worth every penny. From the dramatic Kohala coastline to the sacred Waipio Valley to those incredible 20 minutes beside a thundering waterfall, this is Hawaii at its most spectacular. Don’t just see Hawaii — feel it. Book your Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour today and prepare for an adventure you’ll never forget.
