What to Expect on This Helicopter Experience
Hey there, I’m Justin! After years of managing shore excursions on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America, I’ve sent thousands of travelers up into Hawaii’s skies. And let me tell you — the Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour consistently ranks as one of the most breathtaking aerial experiences on the Big Island.
Safety & Operator Credentials: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Waikoloa
As Hawaii’s largest helicopter tour company with over three decades of safe operations, Blue Hawaiian has earned a stellar reputation for professionalism and excellence. Travelers can trust their commitment to safety, state-of-the-art aircraft, and expertly trained pilots to deliver a secure and unforgettable Big Island experience.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters operates under FAA Part 135 certification, maintaining full compliance with all federal aviation safety regulations.
The company maintains an exemplary safety record with rigorous maintenance protocols and comprehensive pre-flight safety procedures exceeding industry standards.
Blue Hawaiian operates a modern fleet of Airbus EC130 Eco-Star helicopters, known for their spacious cabins, panoramic windows, and quiet turbine engines.
All pilots are highly experienced aviators with extensive flight hours, thorough knowledge of Hawaiian terrain, and ongoing recurrent training programs.
Blue Hawaiian has received numerous accolades including recognition from the FAA and tourism organizations, and they are highly rated on Viator with excellent customer reviews.
📅 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.
This 45-minute flight with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Waikoloa takes you on a journey through some of Hawaii’s most dramatic landscapes. We’re talking about ancient volcanic terrain, thousand-foot waterfalls, and the legendary Waipi’o Valley — the childhood home of King Kamehameha I himself. This isn’t just a helicopter tour; it’s a time machine that whisks you over landscapes that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries.
What makes this the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour for many visitors? It’s the incredible diversity you’ll witness in just 45 minutes. One moment you’re soaring above lush tropical rainforest, and the next you’re hovering near dry, desert-like terrain. The Kohala Mountains — formed by the oldest volcano on the island — create some of the most spectacular scenery you’ll find anywhere in Hawaii. If you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, book this Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour on Viator and prepare to have your breath taken away.
Everything That’s Covered in Your Tour
When you book the Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour, you’re getting the full premium experience. Here’s what’s included in your $461 ticket:
Is This Tour Right for You? ✅
- Bose Aviation-grade electronic noise-cancelling headsets — These aren’t your standard airline headphones. Bose makes some of the best aviation headsets in the world, and they’ll ensure you hear every word of your pilot’s narration crystal clear
- Two-way microphone communication with your pilot — Got a question about that waterfall you just passed? Ask away! This interactive element makes the experience so much more engaging
- State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guide — Your pilot isn’t just flying the helicopter; they’re a certified expert on Hawaiian history, geology, and culture
- All fees and taxes included — No surprise charges at checkout
Helicopter Tour Tip
Blue Hawaiian requires check-in a full hour before your flight time. This allows for weight distribution calculations, a thorough safety briefing, and ensures an on-time departure. Late arrivals may be turned away without a refund, so plan accordingly!
Sights You’ll See from the Sky
This helicopter tour review wouldn’t be complete without diving into the incredible landmarks you’ll witness. The Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour covers some of the Big Island’s most iconic and inaccessible terrain.
The Kohala Coast and Ranch Country
Your aerial adventure begins as you lift off and head toward the Kohala region, an area famous for its historic ranching heritage and absolutely breathtaking valleys. From your vantage point high above, you’ll see the patchwork of green pastures that have supported cattle ranching for over a century, contrasted against the dramatic volcanic landscape.
Cascading Waterfalls of the Kohala Mountains
Here’s where this tour truly earns its name. The Kohala Mountains are home to countless waterfalls that cascade thousands of feet into the rainforest below. Many of these waterfalls have no names — they’re too remote and inaccessible for anyone but helicopter passengers to appreciate. You’ll see water tumbling down sheer cliff faces, creating ribbons of white against the deep green of the tropical vegetation.
If you want to witness these hidden waterfalls for yourself, check availability and pricing here before your travel dates fill up.
Ancient Hawaiian Settlements
As you fly over the remote valleys, keep your eyes peeled for the remnants of ancient Hawaiian settlements. These archaeological sites are visible from the air and offer a haunting glimpse into Hawaii’s pre-contact history. Your certified pilot guide will share stories about the Hawaiians who once called these remote valleys home.
Towering Sea Cliffs
The Kohala coastline features some of the most dramatic sea cliffs in all of Hawaii. These towering walls of volcanic rock plunge straight into the Pacific Ocean, creating a rugged and awe-inspiring backdrop. The contrast between the deep blue water and the dark volcanic rock is absolutely stunning — and virtually impossible to see from anywhere except a helicopter.
Waipi’o Valley — The Valley of the Kings
The crown jewel of this best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour experience is undoubtedly Waipi’o Valley. This magnificent valley stretches a mile wide and over five miles deep, surrounded by cliffs reaching up to 2,000 feet high.
This sacred place served as the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I, the legendary warrior who united the Hawaiian Islands. As you hover above, you’ll see ancient taro fields still being cultivated today, rivers winding through the valley floor, and countless waterfalls streaming down the towering cliff walls.
The Hawaiians call this the “Valley of the Kings” for good reason — it was once the political and spiritual center of Hawaiian civilization on the Big Island. Your pilot will share the rich history and legends associated with this sacred place.
Need-to-Know Info Before You Fly
Before you head to Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Waikoloa, here’s everything you need to know to make your Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour experience perfect.
| Tour Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Operator | Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Waikoloa |
| Duration | 45 minutes |
| Price | From $461 per person |
| Rating | 4.925 out of 5 stars |
| Reviews | 40 verified reviews |
| Check-in | 1 hour before departure |
| Doors Configuration | Doors on |
| Cancellation | Full refund if cancelled 24+ hours in advance |
Weight Requirements
Helicopter tours require careful weight distribution for safety. Be prepared to provide accurate weight information at check-in. Passengers over a certain weight threshold may need to purchase an additional seat. Blue Hawaiian handles this professionally and discreetly.
What to Wear
Dress in layers — helicopter cabins can be cool with the air conditioning. Avoid loose items like scarves or wide-brimmed hats. Dark-colored clothing reduces reflection on the windows, which is great for photography.
Photography Tips
- Bring your camera, but secure it with a strap
- Turn off flash to avoid reflections
- Shoot through the window at an angle to minimize glare
- Video mode captures the experience beautifully
Booking Flexibility & Refund Policy
Life happens, and travel plans change. Here’s the good news about this helicopter tour review — Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers reasonable cancellation terms.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This gives you flexibility if weather conditions look unfavorable or your plans shift unexpectedly.
Speaking of weather — Hawaiian conditions can change quickly, especially around the mountains. If Blue Hawaiian cancels your flight due to weather, you’ll typically be offered a reschedule or full refund. Morning flights generally have better visibility, which brings me to my next section.
Insider Tips from Justin
Hey everyone, Justin here. After helping countless visitors choose the right helicopter experience during my cruise ship days, I’ve picked up some insider knowledge that’ll help make your Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour absolutely unforgettable.
- Book the earliest morning flight available — The Kohala Mountains tend to attract clouds as the day progresses. Early morning flights offer the clearest skies and best visibility. Trust me on this one — I’ve seen the difference firsthand.
- Request a front seat if possible — While all seats offer great views, the front seats provide an unobstructed perspective. Blue Hawaiian tries to accommodate requests, but it’s not guaranteed. It never hurts to ask politely at check-in!
- Don’t eat a heavy meal beforehand — Motion sickness can sneak up on you, even if you’ve never experienced it before. Eat light and consider taking motion sickness medication if you’re at all prone to it.
- Arrive even earlier than the one-hour requirement — I know an hour seems like a lot, but the Waikoloa area can have unexpected traffic, especially if there’s a resort event. Give yourself buffer time so you’re not stressed. Want to secure your spot on Viator before it sells out? Do it now while times are still available.
- Bring a small pair of binoculars — While the helicopter gets you close to the action, binoculars can help you spot details like hidden waterfalls or wildlife that you might otherwise miss.
The Best Times to Book
If you want the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour experience possible, timing matters. Here’s what I recommend:
Best Time of Day: Early morning flights (first departure of the day) offer the clearest conditions. Cloud cover typically builds over the Kohala Mountains throughout the day, potentially obscuring those incredible waterfalls you came to see.
Best Time of Year: The Big Island offers good helicopter touring year-round, but the winter months (November through March) often produce more impressive waterfalls due to increased rainfall. Spring (April-May) offers a nice balance of good weather and flowing falls.
Best Day of Week: Weekday flights tend to be less crowded at the heliport, making for a more relaxed check-in experience. That said, this tour is popular regardless of the day.
Why This Helicopter Tour Gets Incredible Reviews
Breathtaking Waterfalls
Visitors are mesmerized by cascading waterfalls plunging thousands of feet into the lush rainforest below.
Dramatic Coastal Scenery
Travellers rave about the towering sea cliffs and stunning contrast between rainforest and desert landscapes.
Ancient Hawaiian History
Guests love spotting remnants of ancient Hawaiian settlements nestled within the remote valleys.
Spectacular Mountain Views
The majestic Kohala Mountains are consistently praised as the most breathtaking landscape in all of Hawaii.
This helicopter tour review wouldn’t be complete without looking at what actual travelers think. The Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour boasts an impressive track record:
- Overall Rating: 4.925 out of 5 stars
- Total Reviews: 40 verified traveler reviews
- Price: From $461 per person
- Duration: 45 minutes of pure aerial magic
With a rating that high from 40 reviews, you know this experience consistently delivers. Travelers rave about the professionalism of the Blue Hawaiian pilots, the stunning scenery, and the educational commentary that brings Hawaiian history to life.
The combination of Blue Hawaiian Helicopters’ safety record, state-certified pilot guides, and premium Bose headsets creates an experience that justifies every penny of the investment. This is, hands down, one of the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour options available.
Book Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour before it’s too late!
Here’s the reality — helicopter tours have limited seats, and the Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour is one of the most sought-after experiences on the Big Island. Morning flights, especially during peak travel seasons, book up weeks in advance.
Don’t let your dream Hawaiian helicopter experience slip away because you waited too long to book. With a 4.925-star rating and the backing of Blue Hawaiian Helicopters — one of Hawaii’s most respected operators — this tour delivers an unforgettable aerial adventure.
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.
Explore active volcanoes, lava tubes, and stunning volcanic landscapes at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
45 min drive from Hilo
Relax on one of Hawaii’s largest and most beautiful white sand beaches with excellent swimming conditions.
30 min drive from Kona
Experience an unforgettable nighttime swim with majestic manta rays along the Kona coast.
15 min drive from Kona
Enjoy fresh seafood and tropical cocktails at this iconic oceanfront restaurant with stunning sunset views.
5 min drive from downtown Kona
Witness the breathtaking 442-foot waterfall cascading through lush tropical rainforest vegetation.
20 min drive from Hilo
Visit this famous beach featuring striking black volcanic sand and endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles.
1 hour drive from Kona
Helicopter Tour FAQ’s
Question: How long is the Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour?
Answer: The tour lasts 45 minutes of flight time. However, you should plan for about 2 hours total including the required 1-hour early check-in for weight verification and safety briefing.
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. This gives you reasonable flexibility if your plans change.
Question: Is this a doors-off helicopter tour?
Answer: No, this is a doors-on flight, which keeps the cabin comfortable and climate-controlled. This is ideal for passengers who prefer a more secure feeling during the flight.
Question: What’s included in the tour price?
Answer: Your $461 ticket includes premium Bose noise-cancelling headsets, two-way communication with your pilot, a State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guide, and all fees and taxes. There are no hidden charges.
Question: How early do I need to arrive for my helicopter tour?
Answer: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters requires check-in 1 hour prior to your tour time. Late arrivals may not be accepted and are non-refundable, so allow extra travel time for potential traffic delays.
Question: Will I see Waipi’o Valley on this tour?
Answer: Absolutely! Waipi’o Valley, also known as the “Valley of the Kings,” is a major highlight. You’ll fly over this mile-wide valley surrounded by 2,000-foot cliffs and see ancient taro fields and cascading waterfalls.
Question: What makes this the best Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour?
Answer: The combination of diverse landscapes (rainforest to desert), the historic significance of Waipi’o Valley, the expertise of certified pilot guides, and Blue Hawaiian’s exceptional safety record makes this tour stand out.
Question: Can I take photos and videos during the flight?
Answer: Yes! Photography and video are encouraged. Just secure your camera with a strap, turn off your flash, and consider wearing dark clothing to reduce window reflections.
Question: What happens if weather cancels my flight?
Answer: If Blue Hawaiian cancels due to weather conditions, you’ll typically be offered a reschedule to another available time or a full refund.
Question: Is this helicopter tour suitable for children?
Answer: Yes, children can participate. However, all passengers regardless of age require their own seat. Young children should be able to wear the headset and sit still during the 45-minute flight.
Question: What should I wear on the helicopter tour?
Answer: Dress in layers as the cabin can be cool. Avoid loose accessories like scarves or floppy hats. Comfortable, dark-colored clothing works best for reducing window glare in photos.
Question: How do I get to Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Waikoloa?
Answer: The heliport is located in the Waikoloa area of the Big Island. Detailed directions will be provided in your booking confirmation. Allow extra travel time, especially if coming from Kona or Hilo.
There you have it — everything you need to know about the Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour. From the ancient taro fields of Waipi’o Valley to the countless unnamed waterfalls cascading down the Kohala Mountains, this 45-minute flight delivers memories that last a lifetime. Ready to experience the Big Island from above? Book your Big Island of Hawaii helicopter tour today and see Hawaii the way it was meant to be seen!
