Overview of This Big Island Helicopter Tour to a Remote Waterfall
This video documents a one-hour helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters along the Kohala Coast of Hawaii's Big Island, culminating in a 30-minute landing at an air-only accessible waterfall. The flight showcases the island's dramatic geography—from whale-filled waters during peak season to vast lava fields, feral goat-grazed highlands, and towering cascades—all narrated by an informed pilot who explains the island's geology, ecology, and volcanic history. The experience is designed for travelers seeking a unique, unfiltered perspective on one of Hawaii's most underrated islands.
This tour suits adventurous couples, small groups, or anyone with a bucket-list appetite for remote natural wonders and aerial photography. If you've dismissed the Big Island as less scenic than Maui or Kauai, this flight proves otherwise—and the chance to land at a waterfall inaccessible by any other means makes it a rare offering. Spots fill up quickly, especially during whale season, so booking well in advance is essential.
Key Moments
Highlights from the Kohala Coast Flight
- Spotting multiple humpback whales from the air during peak season, visible by their ripples and shadows beneath the surface
- Aerial views of Waiehuikahi Falls (1,500 feet) and the "keyhole" formation, home to waterfalls as tall as 2,600 feet—higher than the Empire State Building
- Landing at a remote 1,200-foot waterfall with a 700-foot drop, accessible only by helicopter and empty of other visitors
- Witnessing the stark division between the rainforest and desert sides of the island, with brown patches marking areas stripped bare by feral goats
- Viewing fresh lava flows from Mauna Loa, an active volcano that last erupted in 1984
- Harvesting and tasting apple bananas grown on the landing site, a local fruit variety superior to store-bought bananas

What to Know Before Booking Your Helicopter Tour
- Duration: Approximately one hour in the air with a 30-minute ground landing at the waterfall
- Best time to visit: Whale season (winter months) increases your chances of spotting humpback whales from the air
- Booking tip: Book directly through bigislandhelicopters.com rather than Blue Hawaiian's main website—the video creators saved approximately $40 per person using this route while receiving the same quality experience
- What to expect on landing: The waterfall landing is remote with minimal development; wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain near the falls
- Operator quality: The video highlights Shane from Big Island Helicopters as an excellent, knowledgeable pilot who explains geological and ecological features throughout the flight
Frequently Asked Questions About This Waterfall Helicopter Experience
Is this waterfall really only accessible by helicopter?
Yes. The video confirms that the remote waterfall landing site (approximately 1,200 feet tall with a 700-foot drop) is accessible only by helicopter—there are no hiking trails or alternative routes. This exclusivity is part of what makes the experience special.
What is the best season to fly this route?
Winter months (roughly December through April) align with whale season, when humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters. The video shows multiple whales visible from the air during this period, though the tour operates year-round.
How cold is it inside the helicopter?
The video does not specify cabin temperature or climate control details. Contact the operator in advance if you have concerns about comfort during the flight.
Can you bring cameras or GoPros on this tour?
The video shows Holly and Luke filming throughout the experience, suggesting cameras are permitted. Confirm camera policies with Blue Hawaiian or Big Island Helicopters when booking.
What if I book through bigislandhelicopters.com instead of the main Blue Hawaiian website?
According to the video, bigislandhelicopters.com is an authorized booking partner that offers the same helicopter tour at a lower price (approximately $40 per person cheaper) than booking directly with Blue Hawaiian. The tour quality and operator remain the same.



