When it comes to helicopter tours, the Big Island of Hawaii offers one of the most unique aerial experiences in the world. It’s an island of incredible contrasts, home to 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones. More importantly, it’s a place of active creation. Flying here gives you a direct view of volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and towering waterfalls, all in one trip. My goal is to give you the practical information you need to choose the best tour for your itinerary and understand what makes this flight so special.
Key Sights on a Big Island Helicopter Tour
The primary draw for most visitors is Kilauea volcano. From the air, you can truly appreciate the scale of its craters and the vast lava fields from recent and historic flows. While seeing red, flowing surface lava is dependent on current volcanic activity and is never guaranteed, a helicopter tour provides the best and safest vantage point for any active vents or steam plumes.
Beyond the volcano, the island’s geography is stunningly diverse. A comprehensive tour will typically include:
- The Hamakua Coast: The wet, eastern side of the island is covered in dense rainforest and carved by countless waterfalls.
- The Kohala Valleys: The northern tip of the island features the oldest mountains, which have eroded into deep, dramatic valleys like Waipio and Waimanu. These are largely inaccessible from the ground and feature some of Hawaii’s tallest waterfalls.
- The Kona and Kohala Coasts: The dry, western side provides a stark contrast, with black lava fields running down to meet beautiful beaches and resort areas.
Choosing Your Departure: Hilo vs. Kona
Where you start your tour from is the most important factor in determining its length and focus.
- Hilo Departures: Hilo is located on the east side, very close to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Flights from here are shorter, usually 45-60 minutes, and focus almost exclusively on the volcano and the nearby waterfalls of the Hamakua Coast. This is the most efficient option if your primary interest is seeing the volcanic activity.
- Kona or Waikoloa Departures: The west side (Kona and the Waikoloa resort area) is where most visitors stay. To see the volcano from here, the helicopter must fly across the island. This results in a much longer “circle island” tour, typically lasting from 1.5 to over 2 hours. While longer, this flight gives you a complete overview of the island’s diverse ecosystems, covering the dry coasts, the wet rainforests, the northern valleys, and the volcano all in one trip.
Information for Pride of America Cruise Passengers
The Pride of America conveniently docks at both Hilo and Kona, giving you excellent options on either side of the island.
- From the Hilo Port: A helicopter tour is a fantastic shore excursion here. The heliport is a short distance from the cruise pier, and the shorter flight times (45-60 minutes) mean you can experience the volcano and still have plenty of time to explore other nearby sights like Rainbow Falls or downtown Hilo.
- From the Kona Port: Docking in Kona allows you to take one of the longer “circle island” tours. This will be a more significant time commitment for your port day but offers the most comprehensive view of the entire island. It’s a great choice if seeing the full diversity of the Big Island is a top priority.
For both ports, I strongly recommend booking your tour well in advance, as they are popular excursions that sell out. Tour operators are very familiar with the ship’s schedule and often provide transportation to and from the port.
30 Big Island Helicopter Tour FAQ’s
1. Question: What are the main sights to see on a Big Island Helicopter Tour?
Answer: The main attraction is the Kilauea volcano within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Other incredible sights include the lush rainforests and countless waterfalls of the Hamakua Coast, the deep, remote valleys of the Kohala mountains like Waipio Valley, and the starkly beautiful lava fields contrasting with the vibrant resorts of the Kona and Kohala coasts.
2. Question: Can I see active lava on a Big Island Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Seeing flowing, red-hot surface lava is not guaranteed as volcanic activity changes daily. However, a Big Island Helicopter Tour is your best chance to see any active lava flows, steaming vents, and the immense scale of the Kilauea crater and recent lava fields, which is a spectacular sight even without visible surface flows.
3. Question: What is the difference between departing from Hilo versus Kona for a Big Island Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Hilo is much closer to the Kilauea volcano and the waterfalls of the Hamakua Coast. Tours from Hilo are typically shorter and more focused on the volcano. Kona (or Waikoloa) is on the opposite side of the island. Tours from Kona are longer as they must traverse the island, but they offer a comprehensive ‘circle island’ experience, covering volcanoes, waterfalls, and the beautiful Kohala and Kona coastlines in one flight.
4. Question: Which departure point is better for a volcano-focused Big Island Helicopter Tour?
Answer: For a tour focused primarily on Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, departing from Hilo is the most efficient choice. The shorter flight time means more of your tour is spent directly over the volcanic landscapes of Kilauea.
5. Question: Where do Big Island Helicopter Tours depart from?
Answer: Tours depart from three main locations: Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the east side, Kona International Airport (KOA) on the west side, and the Waikoloa Heliport, which serves the major resorts on the Kohala Coast.
6. Question: How long are the helicopter tours on the Big Island?
Answer: From Hilo, tours are often around 45-60 minutes. From Kona or Waikoloa, a full island tour can last from 1 hour 45 minutes to over 2 hours, as the flight path covers much more ground.
7. Question: Is it safe to fly over an active volcano?
Answer: Yes, it is very safe. Pilots operating Big Island Helicopter Tours are highly experienced in flying in this unique environment. They follow strict FAA guidelines and maintain a safe altitude and distance from volcanic vents and any potential hazards, ensuring a secure and awe-inspiring experience.
8. Question: Are doors-off Big Island Helicopter Tours available?
Answer: Yes, several companies on the Big Island offer doors-off tours, which are extremely popular with photographers and thrill-seekers for providing completely unobstructed views and a more immersive experience. Be sure to dress warmly for these flights.
9. Question: What should I wear for my Big Island Helicopter Tour?
Answer: It is best to wear dark-colored clothing to reduce glare and reflections on the helicopter windows, which will improve your photos. Even for doors-on tours, it’s wise to bring a light jacket or sweater, as it can be cooler at higher altitudes.
10. Question: What are the ‘Valleys of Kohala’ that tours mention?
Answer: The Kohala Mountains on the northern tip of the island are ancient and deeply eroded, creating some of the most dramatic and inaccessible valleys in Hawaii. A Big Island Helicopter Tour will fly you over places like Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley, revealing towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls that are thousands of feet high.
11. Question: Which major helicopter tour companies operate on the Big Island?
Answer: Leading operators for Big Island Helicopter Tours include Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Paradise Helicopters (which offers doors-off options), Safari Helicopters, and Sunshine Helicopters. All have excellent safety records.
12. Question: How far in advance do I need to book a Big Island Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Booking weeks or even months in advance is highly recommended, especially for the popular circle-island tours from Kona and during peak seasons. These tours have limited capacity and are often the highlight of a visitor’s trip.
13. Question: Are there weight restrictions for passengers?
Answer: Yes, for safety and aircraft balance, all passengers are subject to weight restrictions. Most companies have an individual seat limit of around 250 lbs and may require the purchase of an additional ‘comfort seat’ if a passenger exceeds this limit. All passengers are weighed at check-in.
14. Question: What happens if weather or volcanic fumes (‘vog’) are bad?
Answer: Your safety is the highest priority. The pilot will cancel or alter the flight path if weather conditions (like heavy rain or low clouds) or volcanic smog (‘vog’) are unsafe. If the company cancels the tour, you will be offered the chance to reschedule or receive a full refund.
15. Question: What is the best time of day for a tour?
Answer: Morning tours are generally preferred as weather over Hilo and the volcanoes is often clearer. However, afternoon flights can offer dramatic lighting. The most important factor is to book the tour that best fits your schedule.
16. Question: Can I see black sand beaches from the air?
Answer: Yes, many Big Island Helicopter Tours, especially those departing from Hilo, fly over the Puna district where you can see stunning black sand beaches that were newly formed by recent lava flows, offering a remarkable view of creation and destruction.
17. Question: What should I do in Hilo before or after my helicopter tour?
Answer: Hilo is a great base for exploring the east side. Before or after your flight, you can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park from the ground, see the beautiful Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, or explore the charming historic downtown Hilo.
18. Question: What activities are near the Kona and Waikoloa departure points?
Answer: The Kona side is famous for its beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and coffee farms. Before or after your Big Island Helicopter Tour, you can relax on Hapuna Beach, snorkel at Kealakekua Bay, or tour a Kona coffee plantation.
19. Question: Will I be able to take good photos?
Answer: Absolutely! The helicopters used for tours feature large windows for excellent viewing. For the best photos, wear dark clothing to minimize reflections and use a fast shutter speed. A doors-off tour provides the ultimate photographic opportunity.
20. Question: Do some tours include a landing?
Answer: Yes, some premium Big Island Helicopter Tours offer exclusive remote landings. These can include touching down at a scenic waterfall overlook or another secluded location, offering a truly unique experience. Check with individual companies for landing tour availability.
21. Question: Can I use my cell phone during the tour?
Answer: Yes, you can use your cell phone or camera to take pictures and videos. However, for safety on doors-off flights, all devices must be secured with a wrist or neck strap, which the company will typically provide if you don’t have one.
22. Question: Will the pilot talk to us during the flight?
Answer: Yes. You will be provided with a two-way headset that allows you to hear the pilot’s expert narration about the geology, history, and legends of the Big Island. You can also use it to ask questions and communicate with other passengers.
23. Question: Is a Big Island Helicopter Tour suitable for children?
Answer: Yes, these tours are a fantastic experience for all ages. Most companies allow children, with those under two often flying free on a parent’s lap. However, doors-off tours may have a higher minimum age requirement for safety, so always check with the operator.
24. Question: Can I see marine life from the helicopter?
Answer: When flying along the coastline, it is possible to spot marine life. During the winter whale-watching season (December to April), you have a great chance of seeing humpback whales breaching or swimming. Dolphins are also frequently spotted.
25. Question: Which tour is better if I only have time for one: volcano or waterfalls?
Answer: This is a tough choice! The volcano is unique to the Big Island and offers a raw, powerful view of nature. The waterfalls and valleys showcase the lush, tropical beauty of the island. A ‘circle island’ tour from Kona or Waikoloa is the best option as it covers both landscapes.
26. Question: What does ‘circle island tour’ mean?
Answer: A ‘circle island tour’ is a comprehensive Big Island Helicopter Tour, almost always departing from the Kona or Waikoloa side. It flies you over the entire island, showcasing the diversity of its 10 different climate zones—from the sunny western coasts to the wet, tropical east, and the volcanic landscapes in between.
27. Question: How early should I arrive for my flight?
Answer: It is recommended to arrive at the heliport 45 to 60 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This provides ample time for check-in, passenger weight verification, a thorough safety briefing, and stowing your belongings.
28. Question: Will I get assigned a seat?
Answer: Yes, seating is pre-assigned by the ground crew and pilot. Seating arrangements are based strictly on the weights of all passengers to ensure the helicopter is properly balanced for a safe flight. While every seat provides great views, you cannot request a specific seat.
29. Question: Is a helicopter tour worth the price on the Big Island?
Answer: For most visitors, the answer is a resounding yes. The Big Island’s most spectacular features—the active volcano and remote, towering waterfalls—are either impossible or very difficult to see from the ground. A Big Island Helicopter Tour offers a perspective and access that is unparalleled, creating a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
30. Question: Should I be concerned about motion sickness?
Answer: Helicopter flights are typically very smooth. However, if you are particularly susceptible to motion sickness, taking an over-the-counter remedy before your flight is a good precaution. Informing the ground crew is also helpful, but most people do not experience any issues.
A helicopter tour of the Big Island provides a perspective that’s impossible to get from the ground. It’s the most effective way to understand the sheer scale of the volcanic activity and the incredible diversity packed into a single island. It’s a significant investment, but it delivers an experience you will remember for years.
When you’re ready to plan your flight, we’ve compiled detailed information to help you make the best choice. Head over to our site to check out our Best Big Island Helicopter Tours and reviews.
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