Key Points

Price and Duration: The tour costs $1,134.65 per person and lasts approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.
Exclusive Landing: Enjoy a 20-25 minute landing at Laupahoehoe Nui, near a 1200-ft waterfall, for unique photos and close-up views.
Comprehensive Itinerary: From volcanic activity at Mauna Kea and Kilauea to lush rainforests and waterfalls, this tour covers the island’s most striking features.
Expert Guides: The pilots are also State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guides, sharing detailed insights during the flight.
Group Size & Accessibility: The tour is limited to 6 travelers, with weight restrictions of 240 lbs per passenger, and includes essential safety equipment.
Booking & Cancellation: Most bookings are made 42 days in advance, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Experience Big Island’s Natural Beauty from the Air

The Exclusive Landing with Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour offers a comprehensive view of Hawaii’s largest island from a virtually unmatched perspective. For $1,134.65 per person, travelers get a 2-hour 20-minute flight that combines sweeping vistas of volcanoes, rainforests, waterfalls, and coastal landscapes. The tour’s highlight is an exclusive landing at Laupahoehoe Nui, where a 1200-foot waterfall provides an extraordinary photo opportunity and a chance to get close to Hawaii’s untouched scenery.

With a high 5.0-star rating based on 33 reviews and a 91% recommendation rate, this helicopter experience stands out for its stunning views and knowledgeable guides. The small group size (max 6) ensures a more intimate and personalized experience, ideal for those who appreciate expert commentary and detailed explanations of the island’s geological features.

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The Unique Itinerary Including Volcano and Waterfall Views

This tour takes you over Hawaii’s five volcanoes, including Mauna Kea and Kilauea, both renowned for their recent lava flows and ongoing eruptions. Notably, the latest flows from Mauna Kea are visible from the air, with some eruptions notably occurring in December 2022. The Kilauea volcano, located along the eastern rift zone, has been erupting continuously since 1983 and draws over 2 million visitors annually.

The National Volcano Park, encompassing more than 335,000 acres and climbing to over 13,000 feet, features six of Earth’s climate zones. The flight offers views of Kilauea’s long-lasting eruption that lasted from 1983 to 2018, showcasing one of the island’s most historically significant volcanic events. The itinerary emphasizes volcanic activity, giving passengers a rare vantage point to witness eruptive landscapes that are normally inaccessible.

The Highlight: The Waterfall Landing at Laupahoehoe Nui

The Laupahoehoe Nui landing is the tour’s most distinctive feature. During this 20-25 minute stop, travelers get to step out of the helicopter and stand close to the spectacular 1200-foot waterfall. This experience offers a unique photo opportunity amidst Hawaii’s unspoiled environment and verdant rainforest backdrop.

This stop is notable for providing a personal, up-close view of Hawaii’s natural power and beauty. The waterfall landing is praised in reviews as well worth the extra cost, with many describing it as a breathtaking moment that cannot be replicated on land. It’s an ideal addition for those who want an authentic, memorable experience that captures the island’s raw natural beauty.

The Flight Experience and Pilot Expertise

The pilots on this tour are also Hawaii-certified tour guides, sharing insights about each location as they fly. Greg, Matt, James, Kai, and Shane are among the guides praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and extensive knowledge. Many reviews highlight how guides explain the scenery and history, enriching the experience with interesting facts and personalized commentary.

The use of Bose aviation-grade noise-canceling headsets and two-way communication with the pilot ensures clear conversation and safety. The music playlist during the flight adds a fun touch, as noted by passengers who appreciated the relaxed atmosphere created by the guides and crew.

Practical Details: Booking, Group Size, and Safety

Most bookings are made about 42 days in advance, reflecting high demand for this premium experience. The tour operates with a maximum of 6 travelers, which contributes to a more comfortable and personalized ride. Passengers must adhere to weight restrictions of 240 lbs, with an additional half-price seat available if over this limit.

Check-in occurs one hour before departure, allowing time for weight checks and safety briefings. Late arrivals may not be accepted, and cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable. The tour provider emphasizes good weather conditions—if canceled due to weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

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The Logistics of Meeting and Departure

The tour begins at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, located at 68-690 Waikoloa Rd, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, and the activity concludes at the same location. Travelers should plan to arrive at least one hour prior to ensure smooth check-in and safety procedures.

Transportation to the heliport is not included, so visitors should plan accordingly. The check-in process involves guest weight verification and a safety briefing, providing peace of mind before takeoff.

What Sets This Tour Apart: The Waterfall Landing and Expert Guides

The most distinctive aspect of this helicopter tour is the exclusive landing at Laupahoehoe Nui, which offers a rare chance to step out of the helicopter into Hawaii’s pristine wilderness. Many passengers describe this as a highlight that elevates the experience beyond standard helicopter rides.

Plus, the guides’ expertise is a key strength. They are praised for their friendly approach and detailed explanations, making each flight both an aerial sightseeing tour and an educational experience. The ability to see volcanic activity, lush rainforests, and coastal scenery, all from a safe distance, makes this tour particularly value-adding.

The Value and Limitations

While the price point is on the higher side, the exclusive waterfall landing and comprehensive itinerary justify the cost for many. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the well-organized safety protocols add peace of mind.

A notable limitation is the weight restriction of 240 lbs per passenger, and the additional seat charge for those exceeding it. Also, weather conditions can impact the sightseeing, particularly the volcano views—some reviews mention not flying over the volcanoes due to weather but still praising the overall experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This helicopter tour suits travelers seeking a luxury, personalized experience with a focus on volcanic landscapes and waterfalls. It appeals to those who value expert guides, spectacular photo opportunities, and the chance to step out into Hawaii’s wilderness.

It’s ideal for adventurers eager for up-close views of active volcanoes and waterfalls, and for photographers wanting stunning aerial shots from unique vantage points. Due to its limited group size and high-quality service, it fits visitors looking for a premium, memorable exploration of the Big Island.

✨ Book This Experience

Exclusive Landing with Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour

5.0

(33 reviews)

88% 5-star

“This trip was amazing! Our pilot, Matt, was professional and fun. His knowledge of the island was extensive. We lucked out on a beautifully clear d…”

— Jennia S, Featured

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The total flight lasts approximately 2 hours 20 minutes, including a 20-25 minute stop at Laupahoehoe Nui for the waterfall landing.

What does the itinerary include?
Passengers view volcanoes like Mauna Kea and Kilauea, explore rainforests, and visit coastal areas. The waterfall landing at Laupahoehoe Nui is the tour’s signature feature.

Is the waterfall landing safe?
Yes, the 20-25 minute landing at Laupahoehoe Nui is designed for safety and offers a memorable opportunity to step out into Hawaii’s natural environment.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits up to 6 travelers per helicopter, ensuring comfort and personalized attention.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, each passenger must weigh less than 240 lbs; those over this limit need an additional seat, which costs half the regular tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, noise-canceling headsets, a pilot guide, and an in-flight video preview.

Are children allowed?
Children 23 months and younger are free as lap children. It’s recommended to check age restrictions with the provider.

How should I prepare for the flight?
Wear dark clothing to avoid reflections in photos. Hats, large cameras, and selfie sticks are not permitted on the helicopter.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from and returns to Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Waikoloa.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.