Day Trip from Oahu to Hilo: Active Volcanoes & Helicopter Tour

Key Points

• Full-day adventure combining land and air exploration of Hawaii’s volcanoes and waterfalls
• Includes a 45-minute helicopter tour with scenic views of Kilauea, Mauna Loa, and lush landscapes
• Visits Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to Kilauea’s recent eruption in June 2023
• Stops at notable sites like Rainbow Falls, Steam Vents, and the Thurston Lava Tube
• Price of approximately $878 per person, with most bookings made 72 days in advance
• Group size limited to 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience with knowledgeable guides

Exploring Volcanoes and Waterfalls from Oahu to the Big Island

This tour offers a comprehensive day trip from Oahu to Hilo on the Big Island, with an emphasis on Hawaii’s active volcanoes and stunning natural scenery. The $878.06 per person price covers a full 12-hour experience that balances ground exploration with an exhilarating 45-minute helicopter flight. The tour is designed for those eager to see Kilauea, Mauna Loa, and other volcanic wonders, while enjoying scenic views of waterfalls and tropical landscapes.

While the helicopter ride is optional, it is a highlight praised for its incredible aerial views. However, guests should note that lava sightings are not guaranteed, and the flight depends heavily on weather conditions. The tour books out about 72 days in advance, making it a well-anticipated choice for those planning ahead.

The Itinerary: Land Stops in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The adventure begins with a mandatory 45-minute safety briefing at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters before takeoff. The helicopter tour offers a scenic fly-over, weather permitting, to view the active Kilauea volcano and surrounding volcanic features.

Next, the group heads into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where Kilauea and Mauna Loa are the stars. Visitors get around 2 hours to explore the park’s landscape, including Chain of Craters Road, which stretches 19 miles through the volcanic east Rift and coast. Some areas along this route may be inaccessible, but the stops still showcase the park’s volcanic power and rugged terrain.

The Kilauea volcano itself is a key focus, with a 20-minute stop to admire the active shield volcano, which last erupted in June 2023 from vents in the Halema’uma’u crater. An additional 20-minute visit to steam vents allows guests to feel the heat and see water seeping into volcanic rock, highlighting the ongoing geothermal activity.

Visiting the Thurston Lava Tube and Iconic Waterfalls

A stop at Nahuku – Thurston Lava Tube offers a walk through a long underground cave, formed by ancient lava flows. The subterranean cave is surrounded by lush tropical forest, providing a striking contrast to the volcanic landscape.

The tour also includes a 20-minute visit to Akaka Falls State Park, where visitors view a majestic waterfall cascading from a lush jungle backdrop. The falls are easily accessible from a lookout point, allowing for great photos and a moment to appreciate Hawaii’s diverse natural beauty.

Driving Through Hilo’s Charm and Coastal Streets

After exploring the volcanic sites, the tour passes through Hilo Town, known for its magnificent Banyan trees lining the streets along the coast. This drive-through is a chance to enjoy the town’s relaxed vibe and tropical scenery. The stops are designed to show a different side of the Big Island—its quaint streets and lush coastline—away from the volcanic parks but equally scenic.

The Helicopter Experience: Views and Practicalities

The 45-minute helicopter flight is a key feature, offering breathtaking aerial views of Kilauea and the surrounding landscape. The flight is led by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, with a mandatory safety briefing. While the flight is dependent on weather conditions, it is praised for its spectacular vistas when operational.

Guests should note that lava sightings during the flight are not guaranteed. Plus, the helicopter includes a weight restriction of 240 lbs per passenger, and any over that limit incurs a comfort seat surcharge. The helicopter ride is a fantastic way to see Hawaii’s volcanic activity from above, providing perspectives impossible from the ground.

Practical Details: Transport, Food, and Group Size

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle for ground transportation, with professional narration by guides who are well-versed in the islands’ geology and landmarks. The group is limited to 12 travelers, fostering a more personalized experience.

Lunch is included, giving participants a chance to refuel after a busy morning of sightseeing. The tour also covers interisland round-trip airfare, though additional overage charges may apply depending on flight availability.

Guests should prepare for a long day of activity, with some physical walking at stops like the lava tube and waterfalls. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with respiratory issues should consider the potential fumes near volcanic vents.

Special Requirements and Considerations

Passengers must provide full name, date of birth, and gender at booking for TSA compliance. The tour is non-refundable once booked, and cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

For safety and comfort, passengers over 240 lbs will need to pay a surcharge for a comfort seat. The tour provider’s policies also specify that lava sightings are not guaranteed, and weather conditions may cause cancellations or adjustments, including the helicopter flight.

Guests with asthma or respiratory conditions are advised to evaluate whether this tour suits their health needs due to fumes and geothermal activity.

Reviews and Traveler Feedback

The tour receives a solid 4.0 out of 5 rating from 48 reviews. The most praised aspects include knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and good value for the experience.

Many reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Hugh and Anthony, who are described as funny, smart, and very informative. The seamless coordination of flights, buses, and helicopters is often praised, making the day flow smoothly.

A common positive theme is the scenic beauty of Hawaii’s volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastlines. Some guests express disappointment if lava is not visible during the helicopter flight, which is a known limitation due to weather or volcanic activity at the time.

The tour has also been appreciated for being family-friendly, with arrangements for transport from hotels and accommodations for children.

Limitations and Considerations for Future Participants

While the full-day itinerary covers a lot of ground, it is intensive and involves some tightly scheduled stops. The helicopter experience adds a cost and weather dependency element to the trip.

Some reviews mention not being able to walk through the lava tube due to closures, a reminder that access to specific sites can vary. The group size of 12 helps maintain a personalized experience, but it means early booking is essential.

Guests should also be prepared for the possibility of cancellations due to weather, and should be aware of the non-refundable policy once booked.

Final Thoughts on the Day Trip from Oahu to Hilo

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Hawaii’s volcanic landscape, combining ground exploration with an aerial perspective through helicopter flight. The visits to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and Akaka Falls showcase the island’s diverse scenery.

While lava sightings are not guaranteed, the experience’s educational guides, stunning vistas, and well-organized logistics make it a worthwhile choice for those eager to see Hawaii’s active volcanoes and natural beauty in one day. It suits travelers who appreciate a full schedule and are comfortable with some physical activity and weather variability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the helicopter ride included in the tour price?
Yes, the 45-minute helicopter tour is included, provided by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters.

Can I see lava during the helicopter flight?
Lava sightings during the helicopter are not guaranteed and depend on weather and volcanic activity at the time of flight.

What should I know about the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience with guides.

Are meals provided?
Yes, lunch is included in the tour price, making it easier to sustain energy during the long day.

What if I weigh more than 240 pounds?
Guests over 240 lbs need to pay a comfort seat surcharge for the helicopter for safety and comfort.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.