Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see Hawaii’s Kohala Coast from a perspective most visitors never get—high above the rugged cliffs, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls—this helicopter tour might just be your ticket.

We haven’t taken it ourselves, but from what travelers rave about and the detailed information available, it’s clear this experience offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, expert guides, and good value for a once-in-a-lifetime view.

What we love about this tour is firstly its small-group format, capping at six passengers. That means a more intimate, less crowded experience, allowing you to truly take in the sights and ask questions. Secondly, the professional, knowledgeable crew—pilot and guides alike—make a big difference in how safe and informed you feel during your flight.

On the flip side, the price of around $460 per person may seem steep for some, but considering the views and the 45-minute flight time, many feel it’s worth it.

If you’re a lover of natural beauty and unique perspectives, this tour is well-suited to you. Just keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the experience, so flexibility is key.

This experience made our article of Which Big Island of Hawaii Helicopter Flights & Tours To Choose? Our Best 11 Picks.

Key Points

• Unparalleled aerial views of waterfalls, valleys, and coastlines from a luxury helicopter.
• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Expert pilot-guides provide insightful commentary, enriching the scenery.
• 45-minute flight covers a significant amount of ground, making it a good value.
• Limited weight per passenger (240 lbs) and seat charges for heavier guests ensure safety.
• Excellent reviews highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of staff, and the breathtaking scenery.

An Overview of the Experience

This helicopter tour is designed for those eager to see Hawaii’s Kohala Coast from above—an experience that’s both exhilarating and deeply scenic. It’s not just about the flight; it’s about the stories the pilot shares, the panoramic vistas, and the feeling of floating over some of Hawaii’s most famous landscapes.

The tour begins at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters base on Waikoloa Road. After a check-in process that takes about an hour, including safety briefings and weight checks, you’ll be assigned your seat in a small, comfortable helicopter. With a maximum of six passengers, the experience feels exclusive, and the crew’s professionalism puts nervous flyers at ease.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting with the Kohala Ranchettes and Valleys — your adventure kicks off with views of lush, expansive ranch lands and deep, winding valleys. Travelers note how these valleys are some of Hawaii’s most scenic, surrounded by cliffs up to 2,000 feet high. One of the most remarkable sights is “The Valley of the Kings,” the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I. Here, the terrain is so lush and vibrant that it seems almost untouched, a testament to the island’s natural beauty.

Next, the flight takes you along the rugged coastlines, where the sea cliffs carve dramatic outlines into the horizon. These cliffs aren’t just picturesque—they’re part of what makes Hawaii’s coastline so iconic. Expect to see waterfalls tumbling down the cliffs—some wide and powerful, others more delicate—adding to the sense of drama.

The real highlight (for many) is flying over the lush valley surrounded by steep cliffs, an area that has fascinated visitors for decades. As one reviewer put it, “Waterfalls were spectacular,” and another mentioned spotting a humpback whale—an unexpected bonus during whale season—demonstrating how dynamic Hawaiian waters can be.

What Makes This Tour Special

Incredible Views — With 45 minutes in the air, this isn’t just a quick flyby. You’ll cover a lot of ground, from the valleys and waterfalls to the coastlines and beyond. The vantage point from above reveals the true scale and beauty of Hawaii’s landscape, often missed from the ground.

Expert Guides and Pilots — All guides are State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guides, adding depth to the experience with insights into the island’s history and geography. The pilots are not just skilled fliers but also friendly storytellers, making the journey informative and relaxing.

High-Quality Equipment — The included Bose noise-cancelling headsets, along with microphones for two-way communication, ensure you can hear and ask questions without disruption. This makes the experience more engaging, especially with the pilot sharing details about the sights below.

Safety and Comfort — The aircraft is designed for safety, with guests over 240 lbs needing an additional seat (at half price), ensuring comfort for all. The check-in process includes a safety briefing, and the aircraft’s design minimizes turbulence, making the ride smooth and enjoyable.

The Experience and Reviews

Travelers consistently rate this helicopter tour nearly perfect, with a 4.9/5 from 28 reviews. Many describe it as “breathtaking,” “unforgettable,” and “a bucket list experience.” One reviewer noted how her husband’s fear of helicopters was quickly overcome, describing the flight as “unbelievable and unexpected,” highlighting how the scenery often exceeds expectations.

Several reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, with comments like “the pilot was fantastic” and “all crew very knowledgeable.” The personalized, small-group format ensures that everyone feels well cared for and has ample opportunity to ask questions or simply take in the views.

One review describes flying through valleys and waterfalls, shedding tears at the beauty: “Will definitely make you shed a tear flying through the valleys and by the waterfalls! Bucket list experience for sure!” Another excited passenger mentioned spotting a whale and circling to give everyone a good look, adding a special touch to the tour.

Not everyone had a perfect experience, though. Some noted issues with microphone usage when a child was talking loudly, which distracted from the experience. This highlights the importance of understanding the small-group setup, where every passenger’s experience can be impacted by others’ behavior.

Practical Details That Matter

Duration — About 45 minutes of flight time, which is substantial compared to many helicopter tours. It allows enough time to see diverse sights without feeling rushed.

Pricing and Value — At $460.90 per person, it’s on the higher side, but considering the intimate size, expert guides, and breathtaking scenery, many see it as good value. The tour is booked on average 20 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise.

Meeting Point and Logistics — The tour begins at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters in Waikoloa. Check-in is an hour before departure, so allow for travel time and possible delays. The tour ends at the same location.

Weather and Cancellations — The experience requires good weather; if canceled, a full refund or alternative date is offered. Late cancellations or modifications less than 24 hours before result in no refund, so flexibility is advised.

Additional Costs — Video and photo packages are available after the flight for purchase, and souvenirs can be bought at the heliport. Remember to bring a credit card for these extras.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter tour is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those eager for a bird’s-eye view of Hawaii’s spectacular landscapes. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate personalized experiences—those who value safety, comfort, and insightful commentary. Families with older children (over 23 months) will find it memorable, as long as everyone is comfortable with heights.

If you’re short on time and want a rundown of Kohala’s waterfalls and valleys, this is an excellent choice. The small size and expert guides ensure a more engaging experience than larger, busier tours.

Final Thoughts

The Kohala Waterfalls & Valleys Helicopter Tour offers a remarkable view of some of Hawaii’s most iconic landscapes from the sky. With its combination of expert guides, small-group intimacy, and stunning vistas, it delivers a memorable adventure that’s worth the price for many travelers.

While weather and personal comfort with flying are considerations, the chance to see waterfalls, lush valleys, and rugged coastlines from above makes it more than just a sightseeing tour—it’s an experience that stays with you. Ideal for those seeking a special, authentic perspective of Hawaii’s natural beauty, this tour is a high-value option for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

FAQ

What is the duration of the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters on Waikoloa Road in Waikoloa Village.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a weight limit for passengers?
Yes. Total weight per passenger should not exceed 240 lbs. Guests over this weight need an additional seat, which can be arranged after booking at half price.

Are children allowed?
Children 23 months and younger are considered lap children and are free of charge.

What should I wear?
Dark-colored clothing is recommended to avoid reflections in photos. Hats, bags, large cameras, and selfie sticks are not permitted on the helicopter.

Will I be able to buy photos or videos?
Yes. Video and photo packages are available for purchase after the flight at the heliport.

How many people are in each helicopter?
The aircraft is limited to six passengers, ensuring a more personalized and less crowded experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable guides, and small-group intimacy makes this tour particularly memorable.

What kind of views can I expect?
Expect to see waterfalls, lush valleys, rugged coastlines, and possibly marine life such as whales during the season.

This helicopter tour is a wonderful way to see Hawaii’s Kohala Coast from a new angle, blending adventure, comfort, and awe-inspiring views. It’s a top-notch choice for travelers who want to make their Hawaiian trip truly unforgettable.