Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Our review takes you through the highlights of the Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour offered by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. While we haven’t taken this flight ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of a memorable aerial adventure. This tour offers a rare chance to see many of Hawaii’s most iconic sights from above — lava flows, waterfalls, volcanoes — all in just under two hours.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with expert guidance. The wide viewing windows on the premier helicopters promise excellent visibility, and the ability to communicate directly with your pilot makes every feature more engaging. The short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy trip, and the cost, while not cheap, seems justified given the variety of sights and expert commentary.

A possible consideration is the weather’s role; this experience is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to rain can occur. Also, the price per person can seem steep for some, but the panoramic perspective and the chance to see erupting volcanoes up close tend to justify the expense.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick, comprehensive introduction to the Big Island’s natural wonders and don’t mind flying in a group of up to six people.

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

Key Points

• Unmatched aerial views of volcanoes, waterfalls, and lush rainforests
• Expert pilots and guides who are also Hawaii-certified tour guides
• Compact, 2-hour itinerary designed for easy scheduling
• Premium helicopter design with wide viewing windows
• Opportunity to communicate with your pilot via two-way microphones
• Great for multiple interests, from geology and scenery to photography

What to Expect from the Tour

This helicopter flight is designed to give you a sweeping overview of the Big Island’s diverse landscapes. It starts from the Waikoloa heliport, where check-in is an hour prior to departure. Here, you’ll be weighed, briefed on safety, and seated on your helicopter, with a maximum group size of six travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Itinerary Breakdown

1. Kohala Area:
Your journey begins over the ranching country, with views of the valleys and rolling pastures that characterize this less-visited but stunning part of the island. Reviewers describe this as a “breathtaking” introduction that sets the tone for the entire flight.

2. Historic Waimea (Kamuela):
Flying over the town where King Kamehameha spent his final years, you’ll see a slice of local history from the sky. While not a stop, this part of the flight offers a sense of the island’s cultural roots amid the scenery.

3. Volcanoes and Lava Flows:
One of the main draws is flying over the Kilauea volcano, one of Earth’s most active volcanoes, with recent eruptions in December 2022. Viewers say seeing the latest lava flows from the air is “an emotional experience” and a highlight of the trip. You also fly over the Mauna Loa, one of the largest volcanoes on Earth, with views of recent lava flows and the active caldera.

4. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:
Encompassing over 335,000 acres, this park showcases the island’s volcanic origins. You’ll see landscapes that range from sea level to over 13,000 feet, with climates changing dramatically along the way—something that makes the park so unique.

5. Kilauea’s Eruption Rift Zone:
Flying along the southeastern rift zone, where eruptions have occurred from 1983 to 2018, is a mesmerizing experience. Many reviewers note how close and detailed these views are, providing a rare perspective on ongoing volcanic activity.

6. Rainforest and Waterfalls:
Moving eastward, the lush rainforests of Hamakua Coast come into view, with waterfalls cascading down cliffs. The Akaka Falls, famous for its 442-foot plunge, is a favorite photo stop from the air. With nearly 84 inches of annual rainfall, this area is bursting with greenery, streams, and waterfalls that seem to tumble into the clouds.

7. Kohala Mountains and Ranches:
The flight concludes over the verdant landscapes of cowboy country, with broad pastures and historical ranches. It’s a quiet but striking contrast to the volcanic and rainforest zones seen earlier.

What You’ll Love

• The wide viewing windows make for excellent photos and allow everyone in the helicopter to get a good look.
• The two-way microphones turn the flight into a personalized tour, with your pilot explaining the sights and answering questions mid-air.
• Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides/pilots, who are also Hawaii-certified tour guides, adding depth and context to the visual experience.
• The short 2-hour duration fits easily into most schedules while still offering a comprehensive view of the island’s diverse landscapes.

The Practicalities

Cost and Value:
At around $791 per person, this tour isn’t cheap. But it’s important to see it as an all-in-one package: a way to see multiple highlights in a fraction of the time it would take to drive, with the added thrill of flying. Several travelers mention that the experience is “much better than driving” because you cover so much ground in a short period. Many also note that paying extra for the front seats or the in-flight video and photo packages is worthwhile if you want the best views or souvenirs.

Group Size and Seating:
Limited to six travelers, the helicopter offers an intimate experience, but your seat choice affects your view. Reviewers suggest requesting front or left seats for the best vantage points, especially over the valleys and coastlines.

Weather and Cancellations:
The tour is weather-dependent, so rain or high winds can cause cancellations. A full refund or rescheduling is possible if this happens. Travelers recommend planning your flight early in your trip, so you have flexibility if weather delays or cancels occur.

Additional Tips:
– Wear dark clothing to prevent reflections in photos.
– Bring a credit card for optional photo or video packages.
– The helicopter is limited in weight per passenger (240 lbs), and those over that will need an adjacent empty seat at half price.
– No large cameras, hats, or bags are permitted during flight for safety reasons.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

If you’re captivated by volcanoes, waterfalls, and lush landscapes, this helicopter tour packs a lot into a short, manageable trip. Many travelers rave about the stunning views and expert guides, making it a top-rated experience with consistent high marks, including an average 4.8 out of 5 from 92 reviews.

The tour’s biggest strength lies in its ability to present Hawaii’s natural beauty from a perspective only accessible by air. It’s a chance to see lava bubbling from volcanoes, waterfalls cascading into valleys, and the expansive rainforests that blanket the island—all in one go. And, because the pilots are also Hawaii-certified guides, you gain insights into the landscape’s geology and history that enrich your understanding and appreciation.

However, it’s not a spontaneous activity. The average booking window of 47 days in advance indicates this is a popular experience, and you’ll want to reserve early, especially if you prefer a specific seat or time slot. Also, if you’ve got limited time in Hawaii, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s most unforgettable sights.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This helicopter ride is perfect for travelers seeking a convenient, scenic overview of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes. It’s suited for those comfortable with flying and looking to maximize their sightseeing with minimal hassle. It’s also an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts, given the panoramic windows and the opportunity to capture volcanic eruptions and waterfalls from above.

Families with older children, couples celebrating special occasions, and solo travelers who enjoy adventure and scenery will find this tour rewarding. It’s less suitable for very young children (under 23 months are free as lap children) or anyone with a fear of heights.

Final Thoughts

The Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour offers a powerful glimpse into the natural wonders of Hawaii. From erupting volcanoes and ancient lava flows to lush rainforests and waterfalls, the views are breathtaking and accessible in an efficient, guided format. The high praise from travelers underscores the value of experienced pilots and the carefully curated itinerary.

While priced at nearly $800, most agree that the experience delivers excellent value for the sights and stories you’ll take home. It creates a sense of scale and scope that ground-based exploration simply can’t match, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to the Big Island.

If you’re eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic heart, vibrant coastlines, and emerald valleys all from a perspective that’s as exhilarating as it is informative, this helicopter tour deserves serious consideration. Just remember to book early, prepare for weather variability, and sit back for an unforgettable aerial adventure.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The total flight time is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, with the entire experience lasting about 2 hours including check-in and safety briefing.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the helicopter flight, the use of noise-cancelling headsets, microphones for communication, a pilot guide who is also a Hawaii-certified tour guide, and all fees and taxes.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, each passenger must weigh less than 240 lbs. If over, an adjacent empty seat is required, which costs half the regular price.

Can I bring my own camera or phone?
Large cameras and extending selfie sticks are not permitted on the helicopter for safety reasons, but you can purchase video or photo packages afterward.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to rain or wind, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 23 months and younger can go as lap children at no charge. Most travelers find it suitable for teens and older, given the safety and excitement.

How far in advance should I book?
The average booking window is 47 days, so early planning is recommended to secure your preferred date and seat.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Waikoloa, at 68-690 Waikoloa Rd.

Are meals or transportation included?
No, transportation to the heliport is not included, and meals are not part of the package.

Can I get a video or photos of my flight?
Yes, optional video and photo packages are available for purchase after the flight. It’s a popular way to capture the experience.

This helicopter tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and educational experience, ideal for those wanting to see Hawaii’s volcanic core and lush landscapes from a remarkable vantage point. It’s a memorable investment for anyone eager to grasp the island’s grandeur from the sky.