Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour

Explore the Big Island from Above with the Kailua-Kona Helicopter Tour

The Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour offers an exhilarating way to see some of Hawaii’s most iconic sights in just one hour. Priced at $540 per person, this flight departs from Kailua-Kona and provides stunning panoramic views of the coast, volcanic landscapes, and marine preserves. The tour is known for its flexibility, allowing you to choose between doors-on or doors-off flying, making it ideal for those seeking an immersive experience or a more comfortable ride.

This helicopter adventure is perfect for travelers who want to appreciate Hawaii’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point. While the flight duration is one hour, the memories and vistas are sure to last much longer. Keep in mind, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, and suitable clothing and safety gear are recommended for maximum comfort.

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Key Points

• Duration: 1 hour helicopter flight, with options for doors-on or off
• Price: $540 per person
• Highlights: Kailua Bay, Magic Sands Beach, Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, Hualalai Volcano, Kaupulehu Crater
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, private groups available
• Booking flexibility: Free cancellation up to 2 days in advance

The Kailua-Kona Departure Point and Check-In Process

The tour begins at the Big Island Jet Center, where guests are advised to arrive one hour early for check-in and a safety briefing. The parking lot is located south of the brown building, and guests must go inside the front doors. This straightforward process ensures a smooth start to the adventure, with friendly staff guiding you through safety procedures before the flight.

Since hotel pickup is not included, travelers should plan to drive or arrange their own transport to the launch site. Arriving on time is essential, especially considering the mandatory safety briefing and potential weather-related delays.

Flying Above Historic Hawaiian Sites and Landmarks

The helicopter journey begins with a departure over Kaloko Fish Ponds, showcasing an important part of Hawaii’s cultural history. As the helicopter ascends, the view extends over Kailua Bay, where the vibrant energy of Alii Drive is visible beneath.

One of the highlights is the flyover of the Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay, offering a rare aerial perspective of this historic site. The tour also passes the Place of Refuge, a sacred Hawaiian location, providing a chance for reflection at high altitude.

Viewing the Volcanic Wonders: Hualalai and Kaupulehu Crater

The tour offers dramatic views of Hualalai Volcano, a towering presence on the island, along with Kaupulehu Crater. These geological formations display the raw power and beauty of Hawaii’s volcanic activity. The crater’s rugged terrain is particularly striking from the helicopter, emphasizing the island’s volcanic landscape.

Travelers get an up-close look at these formations, which are otherwise inaccessible, making this a fantastic opportunity to understand the island’s geology firsthand.

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Soaring Over Lush Forests and Diverse Ecosystems

Beyond the coast and volcanoes, the helicopter glides over Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve, known for its unique native flora and fauna. The lush green landscapes contrast sharply with the volcanic black and red terrain, showcasing Hawaii’s diverse ecosystems.

This part of the flight illustrates how the island’s volcanic activity has shaped its verdant ecosystems, providing a visual story of nature’s resilience and beauty.

Coastline and Beach Highlights: Magic Sands, Anaehoomalu, Kiholo Bay, and Makalawena Beach

The tour highlights several stunning coastal sights, including Magic Sands Beach, known for its white sands and clear waters. The flight continues past Anaehoomalu Bay, famous for its golden sands, and Kiholo Bay, with turquoise waters on display.

The unspoiled beauty of Makalawena Beach is also visible from above, offering a glimpse of Hawaii’s pristine beaches. These views are especially captivating when viewed from the helicopter, where the contrast between land, sea, and volcanic backdrop creates exceptional photo opportunities.

The Unique Experience of Doors-On and Doors-Off Flying

One of the most distinctive features of this tour is the option to choose doors-on or doors-off flying. The doors-off experience offers an unobstructed view and makes taking photos easier, appreciated by those who want to capture Hawaii’s scenery in full detail.

Conversely, the doors-on option provides a more sheltered ride, suitable for those who prefer a bit more comfort while still enjoying spectacular vistas. Both options are guided by a live commentary, adding context and insights into what you see.

Practical Details and Safety Considerations

The tour is suitable for most guests, with wheelchair accessibility and the option for private groups. Guests are advised to bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a jacket, hair tie, and closed-toe shoes. Since the helicopter has weight restrictions, a weight and balance fee applies for passengers over 260 lbs (118 kg).

It’s important to arrive at least one hour early for check-in and safety instructions. The activity may be canceled due to extreme weather or unforeseen events, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of iconic sights, volcanic landscapes, and the flexibility of doors-on or off flying sets this tour apart. The guided commentary enriches the experience, with guides providing detailed explanations about each site and the island’s geology. The one-hour duration strikes a good balance, offering ample views without feeling rushed.

While some reviews note that cloud cover can limit views of the volcano or inland craters, the coastline and marine preserves still provide breathtaking scenery, making the tour worthwhile even in less-than-ideal weather.

Who Will Enjoy This Helicopter Tour?

This tour appeals most to those eager to see Hawaii’s natural beauty from a bird’s-eye view. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers interested in geology, history, or scenic photography. The private group options and wheelchair accessibility also make it a flexible choice for various needs.

Since the tour does not include hotel pickup, planning transportation is necessary, but the straightforward check-in process and clear instructions make it easy to join. The value for the experience and the opportunity to see volcanoes, coastlines, and cultural sites from above make this a memorable activity on the Big Island.

Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Helicopter Tour – Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour provides a stellar overview of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to pristine beaches. The live guided commentary enhances the experience, making it both educational and visually stunning. The flexibility of doors-on or off flying appeals to different preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy the views comfortably.

While weather conditions can sometimes restrict views of inland volcanic features, the coastal and marine scenery alone makes this tour a worthwhile investment. It’s especially suited for adventurers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking a unique perspective of the Big Island.

The $540 price tag reflects the quality of the experience, panoramic vistas, and the opportunity to see Hawaii’s natural wonders from above in just one hour. This helicopter tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting an engaging, scenic, and flexible aerial adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included with this helicopter tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Guests must arrive at the Big Island Jet Center on their own.

Can I choose to fly with the doors off?
Yes, the tour offers a doors-off flying option for an unobstructed view and better photo opportunities.

What should I bring for the helicopter ride?
Guests should bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a jacket, hair tie, and closed-toe shoes for comfort and safety.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, there is a weight and balance fee for guests over 260 lbs (118 kg), with additional charges for higher weights.

What sites will I see from the helicopter?
Expect views of Kailua Bay, Magic Sands Beach, Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, Hualalai Volcano, Kaupulehu Crater, Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve, and various beaches.

How long is the actual flight?
The helicopter flight lasts approximately one hour.

Is the helicopter tour accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The activity provider reserves the right to cancel the tour due to extreme weather, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private group options are available, offering a more personalized experience.

What time of day does this tour operate?
The tour is typically available in the morning and afternoon.

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