Overview of Big Island Helicopter Tours
The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the youngest islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, and a helicopter tour offers the fastest way to see its most dramatic landscapes in a single trip. This video showcases eight different helicopter tour options that fly you over active volcanoes, black sand beaches, lush rainforests, and towering waterfalls—sights that would take days to reach by car or on foot. Whether you have 30 minutes or more than two hours, there's a tour length and route to match your schedule and interests.
These tours suit travelers who want to maximize their time on the Big Island, those who can't hike to remote locations, or anyone who simply loves the thrill of seeing a volcanic landscape from above. If you're torn between exploring Mauna Kea, Volcanoes National Park, or the Kohala Coast, a helicopter ride lets you experience multiple regions in one flight.
Key Moments
Key Sights and Flight Routes Covered
- Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa—two of Hawaii's most massive volcanoes, visible from multiple tour routes
- Kīlauea volcano and active craters within Volcanoes National Park, with views of Crater Rim and Puʻu ʻŌ vent
- Akaka Falls State Park and its lush forest canopy, featuring a 1,200-foot waterfall visible on some tours
- Waipio Canyon with its colorful rock formations and steep ocean cliffs
- Kohala Coast valleys and the North Shore's ancient mountains and picturesque waterfalls
- Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach and the Kona Coast with its resort towns and pristine ocean views
What You Need to Know Before Booking
- Tour Durations: Options range from 30 minutes (Kona Coast tour) to 2 hours 20 minutes (exclusive landing tour), with most mid-range tours lasting 45 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
- Exclusive Landing Option: One tour includes a landing at Lapohoi where you can disembark and enjoy waterfall views up close
- Window Seat Priority: Some tours (Kona Coast and Private Big Island tours) specifically offer guaranteed window seats for better photography
- Departure Locations: Tours depart from either Hilo, Kona International Airport, or Hyo airport depending on which route you choose
- Pilot Communication: The Big Island Spectacular tour is noted for good communication between pilot and passengers, so ask about this when booking
- Book Early: Helicopter tours on the Big Island fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so reserve your spot as soon as your travel dates are confirmed
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Island Helicopter Tours
Which tour is best if I want to see active volcanoes?
The two tours specifically designed for volcano enthusiasts are the Volcanoes National Park Tour (1 hour 45 minutes) and the 55-Minute Volcanoes National Park Safari, both offering aerial views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, active Kīlauea, and Crater Rim features. The Circle of Fire tour (50 minutes) is another volcano-focused option flying over Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
What's the difference between the 2-hour tours?
The Big Island Spectacular tour (2 hours) covers the most ground—Waialeale, Kỳ Aona, Mauna Kea, Kīlauea, Volcanoes National Park, Puʻu ʻŌ vent, Hilo, Akaka Falls, Hamakua Coast, and Waipio. The Helicopter Tour With Exclusive Landing (2 hours 20 minutes) is slightly longer and includes a scenic landing at Lapohoi near a 1,200-foot waterfall.
Is there a short tour option if I have limited time?
Yes. The Private Kona Coast Tour is the shortest at just 30 minutes, flying over the Kona Coast, Kona town, and beautiful beaches. The Kohala and Hamakua Coast Flight is 45 minutes and focuses on the Big Island's east coast valleys and cliffs.
Do I need special clothing or gear for a helicopter tour?
The video doesn't specify required clothing, but typical recommendations for helicopter tours include wearing layers (it's cooler at altitude), avoiding loose items that could blow away, and bringing a camera or phone secured in a case. Closed-toe shoes are usually required for safety.
Can I book these tours directly or through a travel agent?
The video provides links to all eight tours on Viator, a well-established travel booking platform. You can book directly through those links, and booking in advance is strongly recommended since spots fill up quickly.
