6 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Kailua Kona (With Reviews & Prices)

Kailua Kona offers some of Hawaii’s most stunning landscapes, and there’s no better way to see them than from the air. Helicopter flights here aren’t just about getting from point A to B — they’re about soaring over ancient volcanoes, lush coastlines, and iconic landmarks like Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument.

Whether you want a quick scenic flight or a luxurious private tour, Kailua Kona’s helicopter options deliver unforgettable views and unique experiences.

For instance, the Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour stands out for its sweeping vistas, flying over Kailua Bay, Kona coffee farms, and volcanic craters with the flexibility of doors on or off.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls: Private Helicopter offers a personalized adventure with a landing for a private meal amid waterfalls and volcanic scenery. For couples looking for romance, the Romantic Kona Coffee & Landing: Private Helicopter Tour combines aerial sightseeing with an intimate visit to a coffee farm.

And if time is tight but you want a taste of it all, the Coastal Sights Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour offers a quick 45-minute flight over Kailua Bay, ancient fish ponds, and coffee plantations. Below, we’ll break down each of these great options to help you choose the right one.

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

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive aerial tour with great flexibility. For $540 per person, you’ll get a one-hour flight that covers Kailua Bay, Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, and iconic volcanic features like the Hualalai Volcano and Ka’upulehu Crater.

The “doors on/off” option gives you the choice of an open-air experience, which makes photography and feeling the breeze much easier, especially if you’re a photo enthusiast.

What makes this tour stand out is the varied scenery — from the smooth coastlines and sandy beaches of Magic Sands Beach to the rugged volcanic terrain. Flying over the Captain Cook Monument and the Place of Refuge offers a touch of history and culture, making it a well-rounded experience.

The pilot’s commentary provides insights into the volcanic activity and ecological diversity of the Big Island, which adds educational value.

This tour is ideal for those who want a general overview in a short time but with high-quality views. The 4.6/5 rating from nine reviews indicates strong satisfaction, especially for the views and professionalism.

Bottom Line: If you’re after a classic, well-rounded helicopter tour with the option for doors on or off, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for first-timers or those wanting a flexible, scenic experience.

2. Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls: Private Helicopter

This is the most exclusive tour on our list — a two-and-a-half-hour private adventure costing $5,450 for up to three people. It’s designed for travelers craving privacy, romance, and a touch of luxury. The flight includes views of Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano, as well as Kohala Coast waterfalls and volcanic craters like Kaupulehu and Hualalai.

What makes this tour stand out is the customizable experience — you can choose doors on or off and land for a private picnic with ocean views. This is ideal for celebrating a special occasion, such as an anniversary or honeymoon.

The pilot shares detailed commentary on the volcanic features and the lush Kohala Coast, making it both a breathtaking and educational experience. The review score of 5/5, though from just one customer review, suggests it’s a memorable, premium experience.

If you want to combine stunning scenery with an intimate, gourmet experience, this tour is unmatched. The landing spot for the picnic is carefully chosen for privacy and beauty, making it a truly special moment.

Bottom Line: Best suited for romantics or those seeking an exclusive, personalized adventure. It’s a hefty price tag but offers a level of luxury not found elsewhere.

3. Romantic Kona Coffee & Landing: Private Helicopter Tour

For around $2,890 per group (up to 3 people), this tour combines incredible aerial views with a visit to a Kona coffee farm. It lasts about 65 minutes and is perfect if you want to surprise a loved one with both scenic beauty and a unique local experience. The flight covers the Kona Coast, Kailua Bay, Kealakekua Bay, and the Kealakekua Marine Preserve, including the Captain Cook Monument.

What makes this experience special is the landing at a coffee farm, where you can enjoy a private tasting and learn about Kona coffee’s history and cultivation. The helicopter can be doors off or on, depending on your preference, making photography easier or more comfortable.

Reviewers mention that the views of Hualalai Volcano and Ka’upulehu Crater are spectacular, and the landing adds a memorable personal touch to the trip.

This tour appeals most to couples seeking a romantic, intimate experience with a taste of local culture. The combination of aerial sightseeing and a coffee tasting makes it more than just a flight — it’s a moment to cherish.

Bottom Line: A great choice for couples wanting a private, romantic experience that blends scenery with local flavor.

4. Kailua-Kona: Kohala, Volcanoes and Waterfall Helicopter Tour

At 1.5 hours and costing $795 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at the Big Island’s volcanic and lush landscapes. It includes flying over Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano, the Pololu and Waimanu Valleys, and the erupting Kilauea if active. The flight also covers the vibrant reefs of Kailua Bay, the towering Mauna Kea, and the crater of Hualalai.

This tour is versatile — available as a private or shared experience — and you can choose doors on or off. Its detailed route highlights waterfalls on the Kohala Coast, making it ideal for those interested in both volcanic activity and lush scenery. The 4.5/5 rating from six reviews shows it’s well-liked for its broad coverage and scenic diversity.

If you’re looking for an all-encompassing volcanic and waterfall experience with enough time to appreciate multiple sites, this is a solid pick. It’s suited for travelers wanting a deeper dive into the island’s geology and landscapes, especially those with a moderate budget and adventurous spirit.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a full Big Island overview, combining volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastlines in one tour.

5. Kailua-Kona: Coastal Scenic Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour

This half-hour, $440-per-person flight offers a quick but comprehensive look at Kailua Kona’s coast and volcanic features. It’s perfect if you’re limited on time but still want a memorable aerial experience. The tour covers ancient fish ponds, Magic Sands Beach, Kailua Bay, and coffee farms, with the flexibility of doors on or off.

What makes this flight attractive is its short duration combined with high-impact sights. Guests are particularly fond of flying over the Captain Cook Monument and Kealakekua Bay, with many noting that even in half an hour, the views felt expansive. The doors off option enhances the experience for photography and feeling more connected to the scenery.

Ideal for those on a tight schedule or wanting a quick introduction to the Big Island’s natural beauty, this tour packs a punch in a short time.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a concise, scenic overview of Kailua Kona’s coastal and volcanic scenery.

6. Kailua-Kona: Coastal Sights Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour

At around 45 minutes and $490 per person, this tour combines a scenic flight with a variety of sights including Hualalai Volcano, Ka’upulehu Crater, Kailua Bay, and the Captain Cook Monument. It’s suitable for those who want to see key landmarks without committing to a longer tour.

What sets this apart is its diverse route, flying over ancient Hawaiian fish ponds, lush coffee farms, and coastal waters. The options of doors on or off allow for better photos or a more comfortable ride, and the reviews suggest that this tour strikes a good balance between duration and value.

If you want a compact yet scenic experience that touches on Hawaii’s volcanic and coastal highlights, this tour offers a solid option. It’s especially good for travelers who want a varied view in a shorter time frame.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a quick, scenic overview with flexibility in experience.

How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour in Kailua Kona

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a comprehensive, flexible experience, the Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour is hard to beat. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a private, luxury experience, the Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls offers unmatched exclusivity, though at a premium price.

Couples seeking a romantic touch should consider the Kona Coffee & Landing, blending scenic views with a private coffee farm visit. For travelers with limited time, the Coastal Sights or Coastal Sights tours provide quick but impactful glimpses of the island’s highlights.

It’s wise to book early, especially for private or luxury tours, as they tend to fill up fast. The best times are during Hawaii’s shoulder seasons — spring and fall — when weather is generally clear and the island less crowded.

Final Thoughts

Kailua Kona’s helicopter tours span a range of experiences that can satisfy nearly every traveler. If you want a full, scenic overview with a good value, the Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour is hard to beat. For those celebrating a special moment or seeking privacy, the Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls delivers an unforgettable, personalized experience.

Couples or those after a romantic surprise should look toward the Kona Coffee & Landing, combining scenic beauty with a taste of local culture. Meanwhile, if your goal is to see as much as possible in a short window, the Kailua-Kona Kohala, Volcanoes, & Waterfalls offers a comprehensive adventure.

Whatever your preference, booking early and choosing the right tour for your interests will ensure you get the most out of your Big Island helicopter experience. The stunning landscapes and volcanic majesty are waiting — it’s just up to you to take to the skies.