Which Big Island of Hawaii Helicopter Flights & Tours To Choose? Our Best 11 Picks

Big Island of Hawaii offers some of the most spectacular helicopter experiences in the world. With its unique landscape of volcanoes, lush rainforests, and rugged coastlines, seeing the island from above reveals secrets you won’t catch on the ground.

We especially love the Private Kona Coast Helicopter Tour for its all-window seats and intimate setting, offering incredible views of Kona Town, Kua Bay, and even whales in season.

For those seeking a deep dive into volcanic activity, the Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour combines lava flows, waterfalls, and rainforests into a two-hour flight that’s hard to beat.

If you’re after a personalized adventure, the Exclusive Landing with Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour even lands you at a remote waterfall, perfect for photos.

Whether you’re after a short scenic jaunt or a private luxury experience, this list covers the best options for everyone.

Quick Overview

Our list features a range of helicopter tours, from quick 30-minute flights to two-hour epic journeys, including options with door-off views, private landings, and luxury picnic trips. Some tours focus on coastal scenery, like the Kona Coast Scenic, while others explore volcanoes and lava flows, such as the Big Island Spectacular.

There are also exclusive landings, like at waterfalls and remote valleys, perfect for photography and nature lovers. Dive into the descriptions below to find your ideal aerial adventure.

1. Private Kona Coast Helicopter Tour: All Window Seats

At number 1, the Private Kona Coast Helicopter Tour offers an exclusive 30-minute flight with all window seats, making it perfect for couples or small groups who want unobstructed views. This tour covers Kona Town, Kua Bay, and the Captain Cook monuments, with the chance to spot migrating humpback whales during season.

The flight is flown in a small helicopter with a maximum of three passengers, ensuring a private and intimate experience.

Passengers rave about the friendly staff and the breathtaking scenery, with reviews highlighting the seamless safety measures and the pilot’s storytelling.

The cost is $240.64 per person, which provides excellent value considering the personalized service and all-window seating.

It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want a memorable overview of the Kona coast, especially during whale season. Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, private, and highly scenic experience with top-rated service.

2. Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Number 2 on our list is the Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour, a two-hour adventure that takes you over volcanoes, rainforests, and waterfalls. This tour is the most comprehensive, offering views of Kilauea, Mauna Loa, and the Kohala Mountains. It highlights recent lava flows, including those from December 2022, giving a real-time snapshot of the island’s volcanic activity.

The helicopter features wide viewing windows and two-way communication with the pilot, making it easy to ask questions and learn about what you’re seeing. Reviewers describe it as “absolutely stunning” and mention how seeing Hawaii from the air makes it feel more sacred.

For $790.90, it’s a worthwhile splurge for those eager to experience as much of the island’s natural drama as possible. Bottom Line: A top choice for nature lovers wanting a deep dive into Hawaii’s volcanic heart.

3. Exclusive Landing with Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour

At number 3, this exclusive landing tour combines flying over volcanoes with stepping out into Hawaii’s wild landscape. The 2-hour 20-minute experience costs $1,134.65 per person and includes a landing at a remote site, where you can view a freshwater pool and waterfall. The pilot’s commentary enriches the journey, pointing out landmarks like Kohala’s lush valleys and recent lava flows.

It’s perfect for photographers and adventurers who want a truly immersive experience. The reviews emphasize the joy of landing at a waterfall and the feeling of being in untouched nature.

Keep in mind, this is a pricier, more luxurious option suited for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking the ultimate adventure. Bottom Line: An unforgettable, personalized trip for those who want to get off the beaten path and into the wild.

4. Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour

Number 4 is the Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour, a 45-minute flight that offers a great balance of scenery and value.

Flying in a luxury helicopter with a small group of up to six passengers, you’ll swoop over cliffs, waterfalls, and the Valley of the Kings, the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I. The highlight here is the exclusive landing at a lush valley surrounded by 2,000-foot-high cliffs, giving you 20-25 minutes to explore and take photos.

Reviewers mention how nervousness quickly fades into awe, with one calling it “unbelievable and unexpected.” This tour suits travelers who want a mix of scenic flying and a brief but memorable ground experience.

Costing around $460.90, it’s a fantastic option for those seeking an adventure with a touch of exclusivity. Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a scenic flight with a memorable waterfall landing.

5. Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Number 5 takes you over Hawaii’s volcanic East Coast with the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour. Lasting about 50 minutes and costing $482.90, this flight is ideal for those eager to see lava flows and volcanic craters. You’ll fly above Kilauea and Mauna Loa, with the possibility of witnessing glowing lava if eruptions are active. The pilot’s commentary is highly praised, bringing the landscape to life.

Reviewers recommend this tour for its ability to show parts of the island inaccessible by land, giving a real sense of the island’s fiery core. It’s a good choice for travelers interested in volcanoes and geological phenomena.

The limited passenger count of six makes it more personal. Bottom Line: An excellent pick for volcanic enthusiasts wanting a close-up view of Hawaii’s fiery landscape.

6. Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour

Number 6 offers the Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing, a 1-hour 10-minute tour at $804.65 per person. It combines flying over volcanic mountains and rainforests with a landing at Laupahoehoe Nui, home to a 1,200-foot waterfall. The landing provides 20-25 minutes for photos and exploration. The pilot’s commentary enhances the experience, making the landscape’s history and geology come alive.

Reviewers love the personal touch, and many mention how landing at the waterfall is worth the extra cost. It’s suited for travelers wanting a more in-depth experience with time on the ground in nature.

The small group size and remote landing make it an intimate and memorable trip. Bottom line: A top choice for nature lovers seeking a combination of scenic flight and a waterfall adventure.

7. Kona Coast Hualalai Volcano-60Min Helicopter Tour – Door Off or On

Number 7, the Kona Coast Hualalai Volcano Tour, offers a 60-minute flight that covers coastlines, volcanoes, and cultural sites like Kaloko Fish Ponds and Kealakekua Bay. Priced at $540, it features panoramic views with the option of door-off flying for an up-close experience.

The tour includes flying over Kailua Bay, Magic Sands, and Hualalai volcano, providing a well-rounded snapshot of Kona’s natural and cultural treasures.

Reviewers mention the pilot’s expertise and the spectacular scenery, especially when flying door-off for unobstructed views.

This is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive coastal and volcano tour with flexibility. Bottom line: A versatile tour that balances scenery and cultural highlights in a one-hour flight.

8. Kona Coastal Sights Unseen – 45Min Helicopter Tour

Number 8 is a 45-minute scenic flight focusing on Kona’s coastline and Hualalai Volcano, with options for doors off or on. It covers main sights like Kona Coast Kaloko Fish Ponds and Kohala’s waterfalls, with detailed views of Kailua Bay and Magic Sands Beach. Passengers describe it as “unforgettable,” with one noting how the scenic flight really showcases the landscape’s diversity.

Ideal for those short on time but who want a comprehensive view of Kona’s natural beauty, it’s priced at $490. Bottom line: A great choice for a quick but thorough aerial tour of Kona’s coast and volcanoes.

9. Kona Coast Scenic – 30 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On

Number 9 is the shortest in our list, a 30-minute scenic flight that covers Kona’s historic aquaculture, Kailua Bay, and Magic Sands Beach. At $440, it’s a budget-friendly way to get a quick overview of the coast. While no reviews are available, the focus on key sites like Kaloko Fish Ponds and Kona Coffee farms makes it appealing for first-timers or those with limited time.

The tour is well suited for travelers who want a fast, scenic overview without breaking the bank. Bottom line: Ideal as a quick intro or a supplement to other activities.

10. Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls: Private Helicopter Tour

Number 10 is the most luxurious, with a private helicopter and a gourmet picnic at a remote waterfall. Priced at $5,450 per group, it’s for couples or small groups seeking a high-end experience.

The 2.5-hour trip includes flyovers of Mauna Loa, Kohala, and Mauna Kea, with access to exclusive sites and an elegant meal amidst nature. Reviewers mention the “unparalleled panoramas” and the special atmosphere for celebrations.

This is definitely for those willing to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime romantic adventure. Bottom line: Perfect for honeymooners or special occasions who want privacy, luxury, and spectacular scenery.

11. Romantic Kona Coffee & Landing: Private Helicopter Tour

Number 11 is tailored for romance, combining scenic flying with a 20-minute landing at a Kona coffee farm for tastings and photos. Costing $2,890 for up to three people, this private trip offers an intimate experience with views of Kaloko Fish Ponds, Kailua Bay, and Magic Sands. The itinerary emphasizes romantic scenery and special touches like leis and chocolates.

Reviewers say it’s perfect for proposals or anniversaries, highlighting the “unforgettable experience.” It’s best for couples seeking an exclusive, romantic getaway with breathtaking vistas. Bottom line: A luxurious, romantic choice for celebrating love in style.

How to Choose Your Helicopter Adventure

When selecting a helicopter tour on Big Island, consider your budget, time available, and what sights excite you most. For a quick overview with fantastic views, the Kona Coast Scenic offers a budget-friendly, 30-minute ride. If you want a full volcanic experience, the Big Island Spectacular is a great two-hour exploration.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, the Luxury Picnic provides a private, romantic adventure with gourmet food and remote landings.

Consider door-off options if you want unobstructed views, especially over the coast or volcanoes. Also, if photography is a priority, the tours with private landings or all-window seats enhance your picture-taking possibilities. Booking early is advised during peak seasons, and check the weather — volcanic activity and cloud cover can affect flight plans.

In summary, Big Island offers a range of helicopter tours tailored to every interest and budget. For quick scenic flights, the 30-minute Coastal Tour is perfect. Want to see volcanoes up close? The Spectacular Tour is the most comprehensive. For a romantic splurge, the private Kona Coffee Landing is unmatched. Whatever your choice, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable views.