West Maui and Molokai 60-Minute Helicopter Tour

Travelers seeking a quick yet immersive aerial adventure over Maui’s stunning landscapes will find the West Maui and Molokai 60-Minute Helicopter Tour a compelling option. Priced at $443.34 per person, this tour offers an hour of high-flying exploration that captures the most iconic sights, including waterfalls, rugged coastlines, and the tallest sea cliffs in the world. With a high recommendation rate of 91% and an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 75 reviews, it clearly appeals to visitors eager for a memorable, scenic experience.

The tour departs from Kahului Heliport and is operated by Air Maui Helicopter Tours. Travelers on this journey will enjoy a shared 6-seat A-star helicopter, providing intimate and flexible viewing. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its booking window—most guests reserve their spots about 35 days in advance—highlighting its status as a sought-after Maui activity. While it does not include hotel pickup or a flight recording, it delivers spectacular vistas and informative narration that make the cost worthwhile for those looking to see Maui from above.

Key Points

• 60-minute helicopter flight over west Maui and Molokai offers iconic views of waterfalls, cliffs, and lush valleys.
• Prices stay around $443.34 per person, with most bookings made about 35 days ahead.
• The tour includes famous sights like Honokohau Falls (1,100 feet), Halawa Valley, and the tallest sea cliffs in the world.
• Expert pilots provide engaging commentary, with one pilot called Dylan praised for professionalism.
• The helicopter is a shared cabin with up to 6 passengers, emphasizing a small, intimate experience.
• Weather-dependent routes mean sights may vary; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, with options for a different date or full refund.

The Tour Starts at Kahului Heliport for an Aerial Journey of Maui and Molokai

The West Maui and Molokai helicopter tour begins at 108 Lelepio Place, Kahului. The departure point is convenient for visitors staying in central Maui, and the tour lasts approximately one hour, offering a compact but comprehensive view of the islands’ highlights. Most bookings are secured well in advance, given the tour’s popularity, and confirmation is received at booking unless arranged within three days, in which case it’s within 48 hours.

This tour involves a shared helicopter cabin with a capacity of up to six passengers, including one pilot. Passengers should be prepared with accurate weight information due to FAA regulations, as the safety and comfort of all are prioritized. The activity does not include hotel pickup nor offers a USB recording of the flight, so visitors should plan to bring their own cameras and be ready for the scenic views.

Soar Over West Maui’s Rugged Mountain Ranges and Lush Valleys

Once airborne, the journey takes travelers over the West Maui Mountains, showcasing verdant rainforests, rugged ridgelines, and deep valleys. As the helicopter cruises through the area, the guide provides commentary about the landscape, making the experience both scenic and educational. The Wall of Tears, a notable feature with cascading waterfalls, is a highlight of this section.

The middle of the West Maui Mountains reveals Honokohau Falls, which drop 1,100 feet (approximately 335 meters)—the tallest waterfall on Maui. The contrast between lush greenery and powerful waterfalls creates a vivid picture of the island’s volcanic origins and tropical climate. Passengers get the chance to look down into deep valleys filled with native ferns and see dormant volcanoes from a unique perspective.

Stunning Views of Halawa Valley and Molokai’s North Shore

Crossing from Maui to Molokai, the tour passes above Halawa Valley, a site of historic importance and natural beauty. Here, visitors can see Moaula Falls spilling through the back of the valley and Kahiwa Falls, which cascades 1,750 feet (about 533 meters) towards black sand beaches below. The views of Molokai’s isolated coastline are especially striking, as the landscape remains largely untouched.

One of the earliest sights offshore of Halawa Valley is Moku Hooniki, an islet used historically for target practice by US military bombers. The tour also crosses the Pailolo Channel, where winter offers the chance to spot Humpback whales—these gentle giants may be seen spouting, slapping fins, or diving beneath the water’s surface.

Flying Over the Tallest Sea Cliffs in the World on Molokai’s Coastline

The journey culminates with an awe-inspiring view of the tallest sea cliffs on the planet—these seem to plunge directly into the Pacific Ocean. The cliffs are a defining feature of Molokai’s north coast and contribute to the island’s rugged, untouched character. You’ll also see Kahiwa Falls from above as it pours into the black sand below, adding to the dramatic scenery that makes this tour special.

The coastlines and cliffs are among the most unforgettable sights on this flight, giving a sense of the vastness and raw beauty of Hawaii’s landscapes. The tour’s brief duration does not diminish these incredible vistas, which are often described as “breathtaking” in reviews.

The Experience Includes Close-Up Views of Maui’s Waterfalls and Volcanoes

This helicopter tour covers an array of Maui’s natural features, from dormant volcanoes to cascading waterfalls. The route’s flexibility means sights may vary slightly due to weather, but the focus remains on the iconic landscapes. Travelers enjoy close proximity to waterfalls like Honokohau and Kahiwa, along with panoramic views of the coastlines and the rugged terrain.

The expert pilot guides guests through the landscape, explaining the significance of various features. Popular stops and sights are accessible only from the air, making this a privileged way to see areas that remain out of reach by land.

Practical Details: Booking, Group Size, and Tips

The maximum group size is six passengers, making the experience intimate and less crowded. Tour bookings are made about 35 days in advance on average, reflecting high interest and limited availability. The meeting point is at the Kahului Heliport, with no included hotel pickup—guests are responsible for their own transport to the location.

For safety, all passengers must be weighed at check-in, with additional seats required for passengers over 240 pounds. The tour features a two-way headset for dialogue and narration, enhancing the experience with engaging commentary. Travelers are advised to wear dark clothing to reduce reflection in the helicopter windows for better photos.

Final Thoughts: Is the West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour Worth It?

This one-hour helicopter adventure offers striking views of Maui’s waterfalls, volcanoes, and coastlines, as well as Molokai’s sea cliffs and waterfalls. Its high praise for pilot expertise and scenic variety makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a quick but powerful overview of these islands’ natural wonders.

While weather sensitivity and no hotel pickup might be considerations for some, the tour’s cost reflects its exclusivity and the quality of sights seen. The small group size and personalized commentary provide a more engaging experience compared to larger tours. It’s especially suited for visitors eager to capture stunning aerial photos and learn about Hawaii’s diverse geography in a short amount of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, giving ample time to see Maui and Molokai’s key features from above.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $443.34 per person, which includes the scenic flight over west Maui and Molokai.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Kahului Heliport, located at 108 Lelepio Place.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, all passengers must be weighed at check-in. Passengers over 240 pounds or groups with an average weight over 200 pounds per person require an additional seat.

Can I record the flight?
No, the tour does not include flight recordings on USB.

What sights can I expect to see?
Highlights include Honokohau Falls (1,100 feet), Kahiwa Falls (1,750 feet), Halawa Valley, Moku Hooniki, the tallest sea cliffs, and the rugged coastlines of Maui and Molokai.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The activity is most appropriate for guests who can meet the weight requirements; younger children should be prepared for the noise and confined space.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Flights are weather-dependent. In case of poor conditions, the tour is canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup is not included. Guests must make their own way to the Kahului Heliport.

How far in advance should I book?
Most reservations are made around 35 days in advance; early booking is recommended due to high demand.