Hamakua Coast Waterfalls and Valleys Safari

Discover the Spectacular Hamakua Coast from the Sky for $499

The Hamakua Coast Waterfalls and Valleys Safari offers an unforgettable aerial view of Hawaii’s Big Island for $499 per person. This 55-minute helicopter tour takes you over some of the island’s most stunning landscapes, including native rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and towering sea cliffs. Departing from Hilo Airport, the tour provides an exhilarating way to see the coast’s natural beauty without leaving the sky. It’s designed for small groups, limited to just 6 participants, which ensures an intimate experience and plenty of opportunities for personalized insights.

While the tour’s short duration makes it accessible for most travelers, note that it runs typically in the morning and afternoon, with the option to reserve now and pay later—adding flexibility to your plans. The air-conditioned helicopter adds comfort, and the live English-speaking guide enhances the storytelling. This tour is ideal for those seeking a quick, high-impact scenic flight that showcases some of the most picturesque spots on the Big Island’s north shore.

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Key Points

• Price of $499 per person for a 55-minute helicopter tour
• Departure from Hilo Airport with small groups limited to 6 participants
• Scenic views include waterfalls, sea cliffs, and lush valleys of the Hamakua Coast
• Tour operates in the morning and afternoon, with flexible booking options
• Includes an air-conditioned helicopter ride with a live English guide
• Additional comfort fee for passengers over 250 lbs or combined over 420 lbs

The Hamakua Coast: One of Hawaii’s Most Beautiful Coasts

The Hamakua Coast on the Big Island is renowned for its lush native rainforest, rugged sea cliffs, and pristine valleys. This tour highlights the coast’s most dramatic features, all seen from the comfort of a helicopter. The scenery is breathtaking, with towering waterfalls cascading into the valleys below and breathtaking sea cliffs lining the coastline. The tour captures the essence of the north shore, once home to Hawaiian royalty, offering a glimpse into the island’s natural grandeur.

The scenic views from above emphasize the rugged beauty of the coast’s geography. The native rainforests add vibrant greenery to the landscape, while sea cliffs provide dramatic backdrops. The tour’s vantage point makes it easier to appreciate the scale and diversity of the terrain, which is difficult to fully grasp from land.

Flying in a Comfortable, Air-Conditioned Helicopter

This 55-minute helicopter flight provides a comfortable and enjoyable ride in an air-conditioned aircraft, ensuring a pleasant experience even on warm days. The helicopter’s large windows maximize your view, allowing unobstructed access to the scenery below. The live tour guide offers insights during the flight, explaining the history and geology of the coast, making the experience both visually stunning and educational.

The small group size of six participants guarantees a more personalized experience. The reserve now, pay later option adds flexibility, allowing travelers to secure a spot without immediate payment. The tour’s flexible scheduling usually offers departure times in the morning and afternoon, accommodating different travel plans.

Scenic Highlights Over the Native Rainforests and Waterfalls

From the air, the native rainforests appear as vibrant green patches amid the rugged landscape. The tour showcases dramatic waterfalls, which cascade down the cliffs into the valleys below. These waterfalls are a signature feature of the Hamakua Coast, and their scale and beauty are best appreciated from above.

The pristine valleys of the north shore offer a glimpse into the area’s natural untouched beauty. These valleys once served as the home of Hawaiian royalty, adding historical significance to their natural charm. The sea cliffs are towering formations that rise dramatically from the ocean, creating a stunning contrast against the lush greenery.

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Logistics: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour departs from Hilo Airport, a convenient location for travelers staying on the east side of the island. The wheelchair accessible design makes this experience available to a broader range of visitors. The small group format enhances the overall comfort and allows more direct interaction with the guide, who provides commentary throughout the flight.

For those weighing over 250 lbs, or a combined total exceeding 420 lbs for two passengers, an additional Comfort Seat fee applies. This policy helps ensure safety and comfort for everyone on board.

What’s Included in the Tour Price

The $499 fee covers the 55-minute helicopter flight, which is both safe and enjoyable. The air-conditioned helicopter provides a smooth ride, and the live English guide offers engaging commentary during the flight. The experience is designed to showcase the most scenic parts of the Hamakua Coast, including waterfalls, cliffs, and valleys.

There are no additional costs mentioned for food or drinks, and the tour is generally available in the morning and afternoon, giving flexibility for travelers’ schedules. The full refund option is available if cancellation is made 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind when booking.

The Experience Provider: Safari Helicopters

Safari Helicopters is the company behind this scenic tour, known for providing high-quality helicopter experiences on the Big Island. Their fleet and safety standards are designed to ensure a reliable and enjoyable adventure. The tour is operated with experienced pilots and guides who know the region thoroughly.

Comparing Similar Big Island Helicopter Tours

While this tour emphasizes the Hamakua Coast, other helicopter options explore areas like Mauna Kea, volcanoes, or the full island circle. The Hilo Waterfall Experience Helicopter Tour shares some similarities, but this specific safari focuses on the north shore’s waterfalls and valleys. For travelers interested in waterfalls and lush landscapes, this tour offers a distinctive, scenic flight experience.

Practical Tips for Your Flight

Since the tour lasts 55 minutes, it fits well into most travel schedules, allowing plenty of time for other activities. Wearing comfortable clothing and bringing sunglasses can enhance your experience. Remember to reserve early to secure your preferred time, especially during peak travel seasons.

Be mindful of the weight restrictions—passengers over 250 lbs or those traveling together over 420 lbs will pay an extra fee. This helps ensure safety and comfort for everyone on board.

Why This Tour Stands Out on the Big Island

This helicopter safari excels in showcasing the natural beauty of the Hamakua Coast from a unique vantage point. The scenic waterfalls, sea cliffs, and valleys form a captivating tableau, made even more impressive by the comfortable, air-conditioned helicopter. The small group size and professional guide ensure a personalized and informative experience.

Unlike longer tours, this 55-minute flight offers a quick yet comprehensive look at some of Hawaii’s most stunning coastal scenery. It’s especially suitable for travelers with limited time but who do not want to miss the chance to see the coast from above.

The Sum Up: A Scenic Flight Worth Adding to Your Hawaii Trip

The Hamakua Coast Waterfalls and Valleys Safari provides a breathtaking perspective on one of Hawaii’s most scenic regions. The cost of $499 reflects the quality of the experience, which combines stunning views, a comfortable helicopter ride, and insights from a knowledgeable guide. The short duration makes it an excellent option for those eager to fit a scenic flight into a busy itinerary.

This tour is best suited for adventurers seeking spectacular vistas and those who appreciate small-group experiences. The spectacular waterfalls and rugged cliffs seen from above make it a memorable highlight of any trip to the Big Island’s east side. While the weight restrictions and limited duration are considerations, the overall experience offers remarkable value for the scenery it showcases.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts 55 minutes, offering a comprehensive aerial view of the Hamakua Coast.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Hilo Airport, providing convenient access for travelers on the east side of Hawaii.

What is included in the price?
The helicopter ride in an air-conditioned aircraft and live English commentary are included in the $499 fee.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, passengers over 250 lbs or two guests combined over 420 lbs will pay an additional Comfort Seat fee.

When can I book this tour?
The tour is usually available in the morning and afternoon, with a flexible reservation policy allowing booking now and paying later.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby