Hilo is a fantastic place to experience Hawaii from above. Its location on the Big Island means you can fly over active volcanoes, lush rainforests, and spectacular waterfalls—all in one trip. For many travelers, a helicopter tour is the ultimate way to see the island’s most dramatic sights.
We’re especially fond of the Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour for its impressive views of Kilauea’s fiery eruptions, and the Hilo: Hilo Waterfall Experience Helicopter Tour for its lush river valleys and cascading waterfalls.
Both provide a perspective that’s hard to match from the ground and offer a chance to witness Hawaii’s natural beauty in a way that’s truly unforgettable.
Quick Overview
Our list covers two standout helicopter tours in Hilo, each with its own unique focus. The first emphasizes active volcanoes and Kilauea, perfect for those wanting to see Hawaii’s fiery side. The second offers a full hour exploring waterfalls, rainforests, and ancient Hawaiian sites, making it ideal for travelers wanting a broad scenic adventure.
Both tours have excellent ratings, with the waterfall tour earning a perfect 5-star review. Now, let’s explore what makes each one special.
1. Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour
At number one, the Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour offers a 50-minute flight over Hawaii’s most iconic volcanic activity. This tour is perfect for those eager to witness Kilauea’s ongoing eruptions, which have been active for decades. From the air, you’ll get a front-row seat to lava flows, volcanic craters, and steaming fissures.
The experience is enhanced by expert commentary, delivered through noise-canceling headphones, making it easier to understand the geology behind these impressive sights.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 29 reviews, travelers praise the breathtaking views and the knowledgeable pilot commentary that brings the landscape to life. The price of $439 per person might seem steep, but it includes a carefully curated 50-minute flight that covers Hawaii’s fiery heart in detail.
This tour is best suited for those who want an immersive volcano experience without the longer flight times or additional stops. Keep in mind, it’s a relatively short tour, so if you love extensive sightseeing, you might prefer something longer.
Bottom Line: If volcanoes and Hawaii’s fiery landscape are your main interests, this tour offers a compelling combination of stunning visuals and expert narration — a truly memorable way to see Kilauea.
2. Hilo: Hilo Waterfall Experience Helicopter Tour
For around $459 per person, the Hilo Waterfall Experience Helicopter Tour is a full hour of flying that reveals some of Hawaii’s most lush and dramatic scenery. This helicopter adventure from Hilo takes you over the North Shore, showcasing Waipi’o Valley cliffs, the Kohala coast, and countless waterfalls plunging into rainforests below.
The helicopter used here, an Eco-Star (EC-130), is equipped with large windows that maximize your view and make every waterfall, cliff, and green patch look like a scene from a nature documentary.
This tour is lauded for its insightful narration by a State of Hawaii Certified Guide. Travelers consistently mention how the waterfalls, valleys, and ancient Hawaiian sites visible from the sky created a special sense of connection to Hawaii’s natural history. The review score of 5/5 reflects the high satisfaction of those who value comprehensive, scenic aerial views.
It’s ideal if you want a longer, more detailed tour that includes waterfalls descending thousands of feet, rainforests, and cultural remnants.
Some might find the price slightly higher than other options, but considering the longer duration and superior views, many agree it’s good value. Note: the flight includes a detailed commentary, making it suitable for those interested in both scenery and Hawaiian history.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a broader view of Hawaii’s lush landscapes and waterfalls. It combines natural beauty with cultural insights for a well-rounded aerial experience.
How to Choose
When deciding between these helicopter tours, consider your main interests and how much time you want to spend flying. If seeing active volcanoes and lava flows is your top priority, the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour is a strong pick. It’s shorter but packed with impressive volcanic visuals.
On the other hand, if waterfalls, rainforests, and Hawaiian history excite you, the Hilo Waterfall Experience offers a longer, more comprehensive scenic journey.
Budget-wise, both tours are comparable, but the waterfall tour provides slightly more value in terms of duration and scope. For travelers on a tight schedule, the volcano flight is a quick, impactful experience. For those wanting to soak in the lush scenery and cultural sites, the waterfall tour offers a more relaxed pace and extended viewing.
Booking early is always smart, especially during peak tourist season. Also, consider the weather; Hawaii’s clouds and rain can impact helicopter visibility, so flexible dates help ensure the best experience.
Final Thoughts
Both of these helicopter tours in Hilo deliver unforgettable views and a chance to see Hawaii from a perspective few land travelers enjoy. For explorers interested in volcanoes, the Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour provides a fiery spectacle. If lush landscapes and waterfalls are more your style, then the Hilo Waterfall Experience offers a lush, scenic journey with cultural insights.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance will secure your spot for this once-in-a-lifetime view of Hawaii’s natural wonders. Prepare to be amazed as you see the islands’ volcanic activity and waterfalls from the sky—an experience that’s well worth the cost.