Top 10 Hilo and Kona, Hawaii – Best Big Island Helicopter Tours

 Hilo, located on the lush and tropical Big Island of Hawaii, is a paradise best experienced from above. From towering volcanic landscapes and sprawling rainforests to hidden waterfalls and breathtaking coastlines, Hilo offers some of the best sights in all of Hawaii. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top 10 Hilo and Kona, Hawaii helicopter tours, featuring trips that showcase active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and dramatic valleys you can only admire from the air. 

Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or looking for a serene way to soak in the sights, these tours are the perfect way to experience the best that Hilo has to offer. Let’s dive into the must-see Big Island helicopter tours that will make your Hawaiian adventure truly unforgettable! 

 Best Big Island Helicopter Tours – Helicopter Tour Preview

Just a few (not all!) of the landmarks you may see on your helicopter tour.

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 Before diving into our list of the Top 10 Big Island Helicopter Tours, take a moment to explore what it’s like to see Hawaiʻi Island from the sky. This Big Island helicopter tour preview offers an unforgettable look at the island’s powerful natural beauty — from the active lava flows and massive craters of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa to the lush jungle valleys, towering waterfalls, and rugged coastlines of Hilo and the Hamakua Coast. You’ll also catch glimpses of black sand beaches and hidden spots only accessible by air. A helicopter tour over the Big Island lets you experience the island’s raw and ever-changing landscapes in a way that no road ever could. If you’re considering a flight, this video is the perfect introduction to what you can expect. 

Hilo vs. Kona: Choosing Your Big Island Departure Point

The first thing to know about the Big Island is that it’s, well, BIG. The two main departure hubs for helicopter tours, Hilo on the east and Kona/Waikoloa on the west, offer completely different experiences right from takeoff. Choosing the right one depends entirely on what you want to see most. Here’s my insider guide to help you pick the perfect flight path.

Flying from Hilo: The Volcano and Waterfall Capital

A Hilo helicopter tour is all about raw, elemental nature. This is the lush, wet side of the island, and it’s the closest you can get to the island’s volcanic heart.

• What You’ll See: This is your front-row seat to Kīlauea volcano, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. You’ll fly over vast, recent lava flows, steaming craters, and the dramatic landscape of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The flight paths from Hilo also typically cover the stunning Hāmākua Coast, famous for its deep green valleys and countless towering waterfalls.
• The Vibe: Expect dramatic, powerful, and lush scenery. You’re flying over the creation and rebirth of the land itself.
• My Take: I recommend flying from Hilo if your top priority is seeing active volcanoes and dense, tropical rainforests. It’s the quintessential “fire and water” experience that defines the Big Island helicopter tour.

Flying from Kona or Waikoloa: Sunny Coasts and Diverse Landscapes

Departing from the west side offers a journey over some of the most beautiful coastlines and historical sites in Hawaii.

• What You’ll See: A Kona helicopter tour showcases the sun-drenched coast with its black lava fields contrasting against turquoise blue water. You’ll see beautiful white-sand beaches, ancient Hawaiian historical sites like the City of Refuge, and the coffee-covered slopes of Hualālai volcano. Longer tours from this side will still fly over to the volcanoes, but you’ll spend more time seeing the island’s incredible diversity.
• The Vibe: It’s a flight of dramatic contrasts—from sunny beaches and resorts to the rugged, remote volcanic landscapes.
• My Take: Choose a tour from Kona or Waikoloa if you’re staying on the west side and want a comprehensive flight that covers beautiful coastlines in addition to the volcanoes. It gives you a fantastic overview of just how varied the Big Island’s terrain really is.

Your Pre-Flight Checklist: What to Know Before Flying on the Big Island

Flying over the Big Island is unlike any other helicopter experience in the world. From the heat of the volcano to the cool mist of the rainforests, a little preparation makes a huge difference. Here are my essential tips to ensure you have a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable flight.

• Dress in Layers: This is my number one tip for the Big Island. You can go from flying over hot volcanic vents to the cool, damp air of the Hāmākua Coast in minutes. I always recommend a t-shirt with a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt you can easily put on or take off.
• Wear Dark Clothing: This is a pro tip for photographers. Bright colors reflect on the helicopter’s windows and will show up in your pictures. Stick to black, navy, or dark gray to get those perfect, glare-free shots of the lava and waterfalls.
• Essential Gear: Bring your camera or phone, but make sure it has a strap, especially if you plan on a doors-off tour. No loose items like hats, scarves, or large bags are allowed on the flight. And don’t forget sunglasses—it gets bright up there!
• Seating for the Best Views: For safety, your pilot will assign seating based on the weight and balance of all passengers. While every seat in a modern tour helicopter is designed for great views, you can always make a request when booking. For a guaranteed prime spot, a private tour is your best bet.
• Worried About Motion Sickness? The Big Island’s dramatic terrain means the helicopter will do some turning. If you’re prone to motion sickness, I suggest taking a non-drowsy remedy about an hour before your flight. The good news is that the flights are incredibly smooth, and the stunning scenery is the best distraction you could ask for.

With so many breathtaking helicopter tours to choose from, it’s easy to see why the Big Island of Hawaii is best explored from the air. From Hilo to Kona, these tours reveal the island’s diverse beauty from fiery volcanic landscapes and misty valleys to emerald rainforests and golden beaches. Whichever adventure you pick, you’re guaranteed memories and sights that will stay with you long after you land. So book your flight, buckle up, and get ready to experience the best of Hilo, Kona, and beyond from a whole new perspective! 

Justin’s Guide: What to Do Before or After Your Flight

A helicopter tour over the Big Island is an experience you’ll never forget—the sheer scale of the volcanoes and coastlines is just mind-blowing. But the adventure doesn’t have to stop when you land! The island is huge and incredibly diverse, so I’ve put together a few ideas for things to do near the main departure points in Hilo, Kona, and Waikoloa. This way, you can easily plan a full day of exploration.

If Your Tour is Near Hilo:

The Hilo side is lush, tropical, and home to some of the island’s most beautiful natural wonders. It’s the perfect place to explore waterfalls and gardens.

• Chase Waterfalls: You’ll see plenty from the air, but some of the most stunning waterfalls are just a short drive from the airport. Visit Rainbow Falls to see the morning mist create rainbows and then head a little further up the road to Boiling Pots to see the powerful river in action.
• Stroll Through Liliʻuokalani Gardens: This is the largest authentic ornamental Japanese garden outside of Japan. It’s a peaceful, beautiful place to walk around and enjoy views of Hilo Bay and Coconut Island.
• Explore Historic Downtown Hilo: Hilo’s downtown has a charming, old-Hawaii feel with unique local shops, art galleries, and a fantastic farmers market where you can find exotic fruits and local crafts.
• Visit a Black Sand Beach: Just a short drive from town, you can find beaches with beautiful black sand. It’s a great spot for seeing green sea turtles resting on the shore.

If Your Tour is Near Kona (Kailua-Kona):

The Kona side is famous for its sunny weather, world-class coffee, and rich Hawaiian history.

• Tour a Kona Coffee Farm: You’re in the heart of coffee country! Drive up the slopes of Hualālai to one of the many local farms for a tour and a tasting of 100% Kona coffee. The views from up there are fantastic, too.
• Walk Through Historic Kailua Village: Stroll along Aliʻi Drive, the heart of Kona, where you can see Huliheʻe Palace (a former royal vacation home) and Mokuʻaikaua Church, Hawaii’s first Christian church.
• Go for a Snorkel: Kahaluʻu Beach Park is a calm, protected bay that’s perfect for snorkelers of all levels. You’re almost guaranteed to see colorful fish and giant sea turtles (honu) swimming just a few feet from shore.
• Step into the Past: Drive south to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, a beautifully restored ancient Hawaiian place of refuge. It’s a powerful cultural site and a great place to learn about the island’s history.

If Your Tour is Near Waikoloa:

This resort area on the sunny Kohala Coast is known for its stunning beaches and ancient cultural sites.

• Relax on a World-Class Beach: You’re just minutes from some of Hawaii’s best beaches. Head to Hāpuna Beach, a long stretch of perfect white sand, or visit ʻAnaehoʻomalu Bay (“A-Bay”) to relax under palm trees next to ancient Hawaiian fishponds.
• Discover Ancient Petroglyphs: Take a short, easy hike to see thousands of ancient rock carvings at the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past.
• Shop and Dine at the Resorts: The Waikoloa area has several outdoor shopping centers with a great selection of restaurants, galleries, and shops. It’s the perfect place to grab a nice meal after your flight.
• Hike to a Hidden Beach: If you’re feeling adventurous, take the hike across the lava fields from the Waikoloa area to reach the stunning and secluded Makalawena Beach. It’s a bit of a trek, but the reward is a pristine, uncrowded paradise.

Big Island by Air: Volcano Legends, Sacred History, and Cinematic Scenery

Helicopter tours over the Big Island reveal more than volcanoes and waterfalls. From ancient lava trails to Hollywood blockbusters, this island is layered with history, myth, and unforgettable moments from the screen.

The Living History of Hawaii Island

• Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the most active volcanoes on Earth, are central to Hawaiian mythology. These peaks are said to be the home of Pele, the fire goddess. Seeing the glowing lava fields from the air offers a connection to one of the island’s oldest stories.
• Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, also known as the City of Refuge, is a historic sanctuary once used by Hawaiians seeking forgiveness. Some helicopter tours along the Kona Coast may pass near this sacred shoreline.
• Hilo’s Rainbow Falls and the surrounding Wailuku River area were considered sacred by ancient Hawaiians. The legend of Hina, mother of the demigod Māui, is tied to the caves behind the waterfall.
• The Parker Ranch near Waimea, one of the oldest and largest ranches in the United States, shaped the history of cattle ranching in Hawaii and helped give rise to the Hawaiian cowboy, or paniolo.

Big Island on the Silver Screen

The Big Island’s raw, otherworldly beauty has made it a popular backdrop for filmmakers looking to portray distant planets, lost worlds, and ancient lands.

• Jurassic Park and Jurassic World used parts of the Big Island for various scenes, especially near active lava fields and lush rainforest backdrops outside of Hilo.
• Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull filmed rainforest scenes on the island, using it as a stand-in for South American jungle terrain.
• Planet of the Apes (2001) and You, Me and Dupree (2006) also featured segments shot on the Big Island, highlighting its diverse terrain from lava deserts to dense forest.
• The sweeping aerial views featured in nature documentaries and National Geographic specials are often filmed from helicopters flying the same routes now offered to guests.

Big Island Helicopter Tour FAQ

Question: Where do Big Island helicopter tours depart from?
Answer: Tours depart from either the Hilo Airport (ITO) on the east side or the Kona International Airport (KOA) on the west side. Hilo tours often focus on volcanoes and waterfalls, while Kona tours offer coastal and sunset views.

Question: What’s the difference between Hilo and Kona helicopter tours?
Answer: Hilo tours typically explore active volcanoes, lava flows, and lush rainforest waterfalls. Kona tours often feature coastlines, ancient lava fields, and Mauna Loa’s slopes, and may fly over to see volcanic areas depending on tour length.

Question: How long do Big Island helicopter tours last?
Answer: Tour lengths vary from 40 minutes to over 2 hours, depending on your departure location and whether you’re doing a full island circle tour or a focused volcano or waterfall route.

Question: Can I see lava during the tour?
Answer: It depends on current volcanic activity. When Kīlauea is active, Hilo-based tours may fly over glowing lava flows and steam vents. Guides will explain current conditions before takeoff.

Question: Are doors-off helicopter tours available on the Big Island?
Answer: Yes, especially from Hilo. These flights are popular for volcano and photography tours, offering unobstructed views of the rugged landscape and craters.

Question: Is it safe to fly over active volcanoes?
Answer: Yes. Tours follow FAA safety regulations and avoid hazardous conditions. Routes are adjusted based on real-time updates from the US Geological Survey (USGS) and local authorities.

Question: What should I wear on a helicopter tour in Hilo or Kona?
Answer: Wear dark clothing to reduce window glare. For doors-off tours, bring a light windbreaker, and avoid loose items like hats or flip-flops.

Question: What’s the best time of day to fly on the Big Island?
Answer: Morning flights tend to have the clearest skies, especially in Hilo, where clouds and rain can build later in the day. Kona often enjoys clear afternoons, making sunset tours a good option.

Question: Are airport or hotel transfers included?
Answer: Some operators provide shuttle service from resorts or cruise ports, but many require you to drive to the departure helipad. Be sure to confirm this when booking.

Question: Are Big Island helicopter tours suitable for families?
Answer: Yes. Most tours welcome children ages 2 and up, but doors-off flights may have age or weight restrictions. Always check tour details for family-friendly options.