Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour

An Unmatched Aerial Adventure Over Hawaii’s Kohala Coast

The Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour offers a chance to see some of Hawaii’s most dramatic landscapes from above. For $460.90 per person, this 45-minute flight takes travelers over the lush Kohala region on the Big Island, known for its rivers, waterfalls, and rugged coastlines. With a maximum of six passengers, this tour combines personalized attention with incredible views, making it ideal for those seeking an intimate, high-quality helicopter experience.

This tour is popular, often booked 20 days in advance, and it is recommended for anyone eager to explore Hawaii’s natural beauty from a new perspective. The tour’s highlights include ancient Hawaiian sites, towering cliffs, and waterfalls, all explained by Hawaii Certified Tour Guides. While the price may seem steep, the unforgettable scenery and expert narration make it a worthwhile investment for many visitors.

Key Points

• 45-minute helicopter flight over Kohala’s valleys, waterfalls, and coastlines
• Small-group experience with no more than six travelers for a personalized ride
• Expert guides who are also Hawaii Certified Tour Guides
• Spectacular views of cliffs up to 2,000 feet high and lush valleys
• Inclusive of noise-cancelling headsets and two-way communication with the pilot
• Flexible departure times to fit your schedule

Departure and Meeting Details at Waikoloa

This helicopter tour departs from Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, located at 68-690 Waikoloa Rd, Waikoloa Village. The check-in begins one hour prior to the scheduled departure, giving ample time for weight checks, safety briefings, and boarding procedures. The activity concludes back at the same meeting point, simplifying logistics.

Visitors should plan for early arrival to ensure on-time departure, especially considering potential traffic delays. It’s worth noting that transportation to and from the heliport is not included, so arranging your own transfer is advisable. The tour’s near public transportation makes it accessible, but personal transportation offers more flexibility.

Experience the Unique Highlights of the Kohala Valleys

The tour’s primary focus is on the spectacular scenery of the Kohala region. Passengers fly over ranching areas and breathtaking valleys that showcase Hawaii’s lush landscape. The Valley of the Kings, the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I, is a notable stop when flying over the area, surrounded by steep cliffs and deep forests.

Additional flybys include ancient Hawaiian settlements and rugged coastlines, providing visual context for Hawaii’s cultural and natural history. The flying experience emphasizes covering more ground in just 45 minutes, allowing for multiple viewpoints of the scenery that cannot be accessed by land.

Soaring Over Cliffs and Waterfalls in the Kohala Region

One of the tour’s standout features is the flight around cliffs reaching 2,000 feet high. These towering formations create an impressive backdrop as you glide over lush valleys that stretch over five miles deep and a mile across. The waterfalls cascading through the valleys are a major visual highlight, with many viewers describing them as breathtaking.

The waterfalls are often close enough to see in vivid detail, providing photo opportunities that are impossible from the ground. The pilot skillfully navigates around these natural wonders, ensuring every passenger gets a good view and plenty of opportunities to snap photos.

The Role of the Pilot and Guide During the Flight

The pilot guides are also Hawaii State Certified Tour Guides, adding an educational dimension to the flight. They provide insights into the history, geology, and cultural significance of each site. All noise-cancelling Bose headsets ensure clear communication, and microphones allow passengers to interact with the pilot.

Passengers often praise the pilot’s expertise and friendliness, noting how they quickly help nervous flyers overcome fears. The informative commentary and passion for the area enhance the experience, making it both entertaining and educational.

What You Can Expect During the Flight Itinerary

The tour includes several key flybys:
– The Kohala area, famous for ranching and breathtaking valleys
– A flyover of ancient Hawaiian settlements and coastlines
– The Valley of the Kings, surrounded by cliffs up to 2,000 feet high, known for its lush environment and historical importance

Each stop provides a different perspective on Hawaii’s landscape and history, with the pilot offering informative commentary throughout. The flights are designed to maximize visual impact within the 45-minute window, covering more ground than typical land tours.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Helicopter Experience

To ensure a comfortable ride, passengers should wear dark clothing to prevent reflections in photos. Large cameras, bags, selfie sticks, and hats are not permitted onboard for safety reasons. Bringing a credit card for optional video or photo packages is recommended, as these are available for purchase post-flight.

For those over 240 pounds (108 kg), an additional seat is required to maintain aircraft balance. The second seat costs half off the regular tour price, so plan accordingly. Travelers should also arrive at least one hour early for check-in, which includes a weight check and safety briefing.

Weather Conditions and Cancellation Policy

The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling. Full refunds are offered if the tour is canceled due to weather or insufficient bookings, provided cancellation occurs at least 24 hours in advance. It is advisable to check local conditions on the day of the tour to avoid disappointment.

Why This Tour Stands Out From Other Hawaii Helicopter Rides

This small-group experience with a maximum of six passengers makes it more intimate than larger tours. The highly experienced guides, combined with spectacular views of cliffs, waterfalls, and valleys, elevate this tour above many standard helicopter rides. The 45-minute duration strikes a good balance between time and value, giving you ample scenery without feeling rushed.

The inclusion of noise-cancelling headsets and live commentary enhances the overall quality, making the flight both enjoyable and informative. Many reviews mention how friendly and professional the staff is, and how easy it is to relax during the flight despite initial nerves.

The Sum Up: A Scenic Flight for Nature and History Enthusiasts

The Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour offers a personalized, scenic way to see Hawaii’s coastline and lush interiors. The expert guides, breathtaking vistas, and small-group atmosphere create a memorable experience, especially for those eager to combine natural beauty with cultural insights.

While the price may deter some, the quality of the flight and the views justify the cost for many. This tour suits adventurous travelers who want a comfortable, informative, and awe-inspiring helicopter experience over Hawaii’s diverse landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing ample time for multiple scenic flybys.

Where does the helicopter depart from?
The departure point is Blue Hawaiian Helicopters at 68-690 Waikoloa Rd, Waikoloa Village.

Is there a limit on passenger weight?
Yes, each passenger must weigh 240 pounds (108 kg) or less. If over, an additional seat is needed at half the tour price.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes noise-cancelling headsets, two-way communication with the pilot, expert guides, and all fees and taxes.

Can I take photos during the flight?
Yes, photo and video packages are available for purchase after the flight, but large cameras and selfie sticks are not permitted onboard.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 23 months and younger are free as lap children. For safety, check the age restrictions and consider the flight’s duration.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 20 days ahead for this popular experience.

What makes this helicopter tour special?
The small group size, expert guides, and stunning scenery of Kohala’s cliffs, waterfalls, and valleys set this experience apart.

Is transportation to the heliport included?
No, transportation is not included, so plan your transfer accordingly.