Big Island Helicopter Tour - Hawaii Day 4

Overview of This Big Island Helicopter Tour

This Big Island helicopter tour takes you on a sightseeing flight with Paradise Helicopters, specifically their Waterfall and Lava Tour. The video documents Ben's experience exploring two of Hawaii's most dramatic natural features from the air—cascading waterfalls and active lava formations. If you're drawn to volcanic landscapes and dramatic water features, and you want to see them from a perspective that ground-level exploration simply cannot match, this tour showcases exactly what that vantage point offers.

The tour is designed for travelers seeking a memorable aerial experience on the Big Island. Whether you're a photographer, nature lover, or someone who wants a different perspective on Hawaii's geology, the video shows what a professional helicopter operator provides and helps you understand what equipment and planning make sense for this type of adventure.

What You'll See on the Paradise Helicopters Tour

• Dramatic waterfall formations viewed from directly above, revealing their full scale and cascading patterns
• Active lava landscapes and volcanic terrain unique to the Big Island
• Aerial perspective of the coastline and surrounding terrain that frames the geological features
• Extended views of Hawaii's volcanic character that are inaccessible from hiking trails or ground level

Practical Details Before Booking Your Flight

• The tour operator is Paradise Helicopters, offering their Waterfall and Lava route specifically
• You'll be mounted to a single lens for the entire flight—a critical decision, as you cannot change lenses mid-tour
• A telephoto zoom lens (70–200mm or 100–400mm range) is recommended for capturing distant landscape details
• Compact action cameras like GoPro can be mounted alongside your primary camera for dual recording options
• Helicopter tours typically require weather-dependent scheduling and advance booking; confirm availability with the operator

Common Questions About Big Island Helicopter Tours

What camera lens should I bring on a helicopter tour?

The video shows that your lens choice is crucial since you can only fly with one mounted lens. Ben used a 100–400mm telephoto zoom, which allowed him to frame both distant features and wider landscape shots. A 70–200mm is also viable. The key is choosing a versatile zoom rather than a fixed focal length, as you'll encounter subjects at varying distances and won't be able to swap lenses during the flight.

Can I use a GoPro or action camera alongside my main camera?

Yes. The video mentions Ben had a GoPro mounted on top of his primary camera, which provides an additional recording angle and a wider field of view. This is a practical setup if you want both high-detail zoom footage and a broader perspective of the landscape.

How long does the Paradise Helicopters Waterfall and Lava Tour last?

The video does not specify the exact duration of the tour. Contact Paradise Helicopters directly for flight length, as this varies by tour package and may range from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on the route.

What should I wear on a Big Island helicopter tour?

Helicopter tours are exposed to the elements and wind noise. Wear layers, as altitude and wind can be cool even in Hawaii. Avoid loose items that could be pulled away by rotor wind, and bring sunscreen and sunglasses. Closed-toe shoes are essential for safety during boarding and disembarking.

Is this tour suitable for first-time helicopter visitors?

Yes. The video shows a standard sightseeing flight with a commercial operator, making it accessible to travelers new to aerial tours. Paradise Helicopters is an established provider, so you can expect professional safety protocols and experienced pilots familiar with Big Island routes.