Hey there, I’m Justin! After years working as a Shore Excursion Manager on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America in Hawaii, I’ve seen countless helicopter tours come and go. But let me tell you — the Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour is something truly special. This isn’t just another flight over the island; it’s a journey through thousands of years of Hawaiian history, cascading waterfalls, and some of the most dramatic coastal scenery you’ll ever witness. In this helicopter tour review, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about what many consider the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour for waterfall enthusiasts. If you’re ready for an hour of jaw-dropping beauty, you can book this Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour on Viator and secure your seat today.
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What to Expect on This Helicopter Experience
The Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour takes you on a breathtaking 1-hour aerial adventure along the Big Island’s legendary Hamakua and Kohala Coastline. Operated by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Hilo, this tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating for good reason.
Safety & Operator Credentials: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Hilo
With over three decades of experience flying Hawaii’s skies and an unwavering commitment to safety, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters has established itself as the premier helicopter tour operator in the islands. Travelers can trust their well-maintained aircraft, highly trained pilots, and industry-leading safety standards for a secure and unforgettable aerial experience.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters operates under FAA Part 135 certification, maintaining strict compliance with all federal aviation regulations and safety standards.
The company upholds an exemplary safety record through rigorous maintenance protocols, regular safety audits, and comprehensive pre-flight inspections.
Blue Hawaiian operates a modern fleet of American Eurocopter EC130 Eco-Star helicopters, featuring enhanced visibility windows and quiet engine technology.
All pilots exceed FAA requirements with extensive flight hours, local terrain expertise, and ongoing training specific to Hawaiian flying conditions.
Blue Hawaiian has received the FAA Diamond Award for Excellence in aviation maintenance training and is highly rated on Viator and TripAdvisor.
Your journey begins at Hilo Airport, where you’ll meet your pilot at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters counter in the commuter terminal. From the moment you lift off, you’re transported into a world of emerald rainforests, towering sea cliffs, and waterfalls that seem to tumble endlessly into misty valleys below.
What sets this Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour Review apart from other aerial experiences? It’s the combination of natural beauty and rich cultural storytelling. Your pilot isn’t just flying the helicopter — they’re a State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guide who weaves together the island’s volcanic origins, ancient Hawaiian legends, and modern history into one cohesive narrative.
Helicopter Tour Tip
Book early morning flights for the best visibility over the waterfalls — morning light creates magical rainbows in the mist!
Everything That’s Covered in Your Tour
When you book the Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour, you’re getting a premium experience with everything included. Here’s what comes with your ticket:
Is This Tour Right for You? ✅
- Bose Aviation-grade, electronic noise-cancelling headsets — Crystal-clear audio that blocks out rotor noise while letting you hear every word of your pilot’s commentary
- Two-way communication microphones — Ask questions and interact with your pilot throughout the flight
- State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guide — Your pilot is professionally trained in Hawaiian history, geology, and culture
- All fees and taxes — No hidden costs or surprise charges at checkout
This all-inclusive approach is why I consistently recommend Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Hilo when visitors ask me about the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour options. You won’t find yourself nickel-and-dimed for extras — everything you need for an incredible experience is already covered.
Sights You’ll See from the Sky
Historic Hilo: Hawaii’s Oldest City
Your aerial adventure begins with a stunning overview of Hilo, the oldest Hawaiian city. As your helicopter gains altitude, your pilot shares the fascinating story of this historic community. Once a thriving fishing hub for ancient Hawaiians, Hilo transformed into a major commercial center during the sugar industry’s golden era.
Flying over Hilo, you’ll spot remnants of this rich heritage — old plantation roads, historic buildings, and the patterns of fields that once supplied sugar to the world. It’s a living history lesson viewed from the most spectacular vantage point imaginable.
The Lush Hamakua Coast
As you leave Hilo behind, the landscape transforms dramatically. The Hamakua Coast unfolds beneath you in an explosion of green. This is one of the wettest regions on the Big Island, and all that rainfall creates something magical — tropical rainforests so dense and vibrant they look painted.
Meandering valleys cut through the terrain, carved over millions of years by rivers fed by those famous Hawaiian rains. Your pilot points out hidden waterfalls tucked into the forest, their white cascades contrasting brilliantly against the emerald canopy. This section of the Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour alone makes the entire trip worthwhile.
You can check availability and pricing here to experience these incredible views for yourself.
The Dramatic Kohala Coast and Its Legendary Valleys
Here’s where the Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour reaches its crescendo. The Kohala Coast presents some of Hawaii’s most dramatic scenery — towering sea cliffs that plunge hundreds of feet into the churning Pacific below.
But the real showstoppers are Waipi’o Valley and Waimanu Valley. These sacred places open into the dramatically deep valleys of the inner Kohala Mountains, where waterfalls cascade thousands of feet into the rainforest. Yes, you read that right — thousands of feet.
Waipi’o, known as the “Valley of the Kings,” was once home to Hawaiian royalty. From your helicopter, you’ll understand why they chose this location. The valley walls rise steeply on all sides, creating a natural fortress of unimaginable beauty. Waterfalls streak down these cliffs like silver ribbons, feeding the taro fields that still grow in the valley floor below.
Need-to-Know Info Before You Fly
Before booking your Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour, here’s the practical information you’ll need:
| Tour Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Operator | Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Hilo |
| Duration | 1 hour |
| Price | From $505 per person |
| Meeting Point | Blue Hawaiian Helicopters counter, Commuter Terminal, Hilo Airport |
| Rating | 5 stars |
| Doors Configuration | Doors on (climate-controlled comfort) |
Weight and Seating Considerations:
Helicopter tours require weight distribution for safe flight. Be prepared to provide accurate weights for all passengers during booking — this ensures optimal seating arrangements and flight safety.
What to Wear:
- Dark-colored clothing reduces window reflections for better photos
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes
- Light layers (the helicopter is climate-controlled, but Hawaii’s weather varies)
Photography Tips:
- Wear a camera strap to keep your equipment secure
- Clean your phone lens before boarding
- The Bose headsets work perfectly with most smartphone recording apps
Booking Flexibility & Refund Policy
One thing I love about recommending Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Hilo is their customer-friendly cancellation policy. For a full refund, you can cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This gives you excellent flexibility if your travel plans change or if Hawaii’s famous weather decides not to cooperate.
Weather Considerations:
Hawaii’s weather can be unpredictable, especially on the Big Island’s eastern side. If conditions aren’t safe for flying, Blue Hawaiian will work with you to reschedule. Trust me — if they delay a flight, it’s for good reason, and the rescheduled experience will be worth the wait.
Insider Tips from Justin
Hey everyone, Justin here. After years in the Hawaii tourism industry, I’ve picked up a few tricks that will make your Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour even more memorable:
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early — Check-in takes time, and rushing creates unnecessary stress. Plus, you’ll want to use the restroom before your hour-long flight (trust me on this one)!
- Request a window seat when booking — While all seats offer incredible views, window seats give you unobstructed photo opportunities. Mention your preference during booking.
- Skip the big breakfast — If you’re prone to motion sensitivity, keep your pre-flight meal light. The flight is generally smooth, but better safe than sorry.
- Charge your devices fully — You’ll want every bit of battery power for photos and videos. Consider bringing a portable charger for backup. To make sure you don’t miss this experience, secure your spot on Viator before it sells out.
- Book for early in your trip — If weather forces a cancellation, you’ll have flexibility to reschedule. I’ve seen too many visitors miss out because they waited until their last day.
The Best Times to Book
For the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour experience, timing matters. Here’s what I recommend:
Morning Flights (8-10 AM):
- Clearest visibility before afternoon clouds build
- Softer lighting for photography
- Best chance of seeing rainbows in waterfall mist
- Generally calmer wind conditions
Seasonal Considerations:
- December-March: Expect more rainfall, but waterfalls are at their most powerful
- April-September: Generally drier with excellent visibility
- Year-round: This is Hawaii — it’s always beautiful
Why This Helicopter Tour Gets Incredible Reviews
Breathtaking Views
Visitors are blown away by the stunning waterfalls, lush rainforests, and dramatic coastline views at every turn.
Incredible Scenery
Travellers rave about the breathtaking Hamakua and Kohala coastlines with their meandering valleys and untouched beauty.
Educational Experience
Guests appreciate learning about Hilo’s rich legacy and Hawaiian history from knowledgeable pilots during the flight.
Unforgettable Adventure
Reviewers describe the tour as a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left them completely speechless and amazed.
When researching this helicopter tour review, the feedback from previous guests speaks volumes:
- Perfect 5-star rating — Every traveler has rated this experience at the highest level
- 2 verified reviews — Real guests confirming the quality
- From $505 — Premium pricing reflects premium experience
What makes this the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour for many visitors comes down to three factors: the expertise of Blue Hawaiian’s pilots, the stunning route along the Hamakua and Kohala coasts, and the commitment to safety and comfort that comes with industry-leading equipment like those Bose headsets.
Book Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour before it’s too late!
Here’s the reality — helicopter tours on the Big Island sell out fast, especially during peak season. The Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour is limited to small groups, meaning availability disappears quickly.
Don’t let your Hawaii vacation pass without experiencing these incredible waterfalls from the air. The Hamakua Coast’s hidden cascades, Waipi’o Valley’s sacred beauty, and those thousand-foot waterfalls of the Kohala Mountains are waiting for you.
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 largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
30 min drive from Kona
Home to two active volcanoes including Kilauea, offering dramatic craters, lava tubes, and hiking trails.
45 min drive from Hilo
Iconic oceanfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and tropical drinks with stunning sunset views.
5 min drive from Kona
A bucket-list experience swimming with gentle manta rays attracted by lights after dark.
15 min drive from Kona
Sacred ancient Hawaiian site of refuge featuring reconstructed temples and royal grounds.
25 min drive from Kona
Stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and accessible via a short loop trail.
15 min drive from Hilo
Helicopter Tour FAQ’s
Question: How long is the Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour?
Answer: The flight itself is approximately 1 hour, giving you ample time to experience the Hamakua Coast, Kohala Coast, and all the incredible waterfalls along the route.
Question: What is the meeting point for this helicopter tour?
Answer: You’ll meet at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters counter located in the commuter terminal at Hilo Airport. Arrive 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Question: Is this a doors-off helicopter tour?
Answer: No, this is a doors-on experience, providing climate-controlled comfort throughout your flight while still offering spectacular views through large windows.
Question: What happens if the weather is bad on my scheduled flight day?
Answer: Blue Hawaiian prioritizes safety. If conditions aren’t suitable for flying, they’ll work with you to reschedule. Their 24-hour cancellation policy also allows flexibility if you need to change plans.
Question: Can I take photos and videos during the helicopter tour?
Answer: Absolutely! Photography and videography are encouraged. The Bose headsets won’t interfere with your devices, and the large windows provide excellent shooting angles.
Question: What’s included in the tour price of $505?
Answer: Everything! Your price includes the flight, Bose noise-cancelling headsets, two-way communication, a State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guide pilot, and all fees and taxes.
Question: Is this helicopter tour suitable for first-time flyers?
Answer: Yes! Blue Hawaiian’s experienced pilots and modern aircraft make this an excellent choice for helicopter first-timers. The doors-on configuration adds extra comfort.
Question: How far in advance should I book the Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour?
Answer: I recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (December-April). This popular tour fills up quickly.
Question: Are there any age or health restrictions?
Answer: Contact Blue Hawaiian directly for specific health considerations. Generally, guests of all ages can enjoy this tour, though infants may need to sit on a lap.
Question: What’s the cancellation policy?
Answer: You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure time — generous flexibility for travel planning.
Question: Why is this considered one of the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tours?
Answer: The combination of Blue Hawaiian’s safety record, certified tour guide pilots, premium equipment, and the stunning Hamakua-Kohala route make this an exceptional experience that earns its perfect 5-star rating.
Question: What makes the Hilo departure special compared to Kona departures?
Answer: Departing from Hilo puts you immediately over the lush windward coast, maximizing your time viewing waterfalls and rainforests without a long transit flight over dry lava fields.
After completing this Hilo Waterfalls Experience Helicopter Tour Review, I can confidently say this ranks among the most spectacular aerial experiences in Hawaii. The combination of historic storytelling, world-class equipment, and absolutely jaw-dropping scenery creates memories that last a lifetime. Ready to see those thousand-foot waterfalls for yourself? Book your Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour today and prepare for the flight of a lifetime!
