We Rank Maui’s 10 Top Helicopter Flights & Tours

Maui’s rugged landscapes, towering waterfalls, and volcanic craters make it a perfect island for aerial adventures. While exploring these sights on land can be limited or strenuous, a helicopter flight lifts the veil on the island’s most spectacular features. Whether you’re looking for a quick thrill, a luxurious day trip, or an immersive experience with landings, Maui offers something for all.

We especially love the West Maui and Molokai Special 45-Minute Helicopter Tour because of its combination of inaccessible waterfalls and dramatic sea cliffs, providing a comprehensive view of two islands in one short flight. Plus, the personal narration and the chance to see vertical sea cliffs spilling over 4,000 feet are unforgettable.

Maui’s helicopter tours stand out for their ability to reveal the island’s hidden valleys, lush rainforests, and rugged coastlines. These tours are ideal for travelers who want a convenient, breathtaking view without hiking or driving long distances.

With options ranging from 45-minute scenic flights to multi-hour adventures with landings, Maui’s helicopter experiences are a highlight for anyone wanting to see the true scale and beauty of this island from above.

Quick Overview

Our list features helicopter tours with various highlights, including scenic flights over waterfalls, volcanoes, and rainforests, small-group adventures, and luxury packages with exclusive landings. Some tours focus on the dramatic sea cliffs of Molokai, while others explore Haleakala Crater or the Hana Rainforest.

We’ve included options with different durations and prices, from budget-friendly 45-minute flights to deluxe 90-minute trips with private landings.

All have excellent reviews, emphasizing safety, knowledgeable pilots, and stunning views. Read below to find the perfect helicopter tour for your Maui trip.

1. West Maui and Molokai Special 45-Minute Helicopter Tour

At number one, this 45-minute scenic flight hits a perfect balance—covering hidden waterfalls, rugged valleys, and the world’s tallest sea cliffs on Molokai. The tour flies past the North shore of Maui and Molokai, offering breathtaking bird’s-eye views of rainforests, beaches, and dramatic coastlines.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of accessible waterfalls and vertical cliffs that are only visible from the air.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable narration and the pilot’s ability to point out details like the “Wall of Tears” and Molokai’s towering sea cliffs over 4,000 feet tall. Many consider it the highlight of their Maui trip, especially with an upgrade to doors-off flying for maximum thrill.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a short but immersive experience, with high-quality views at a reasonable price. At $332.67 per person, it offers excellent value considering the comprehensive scenery and expert commentary. The reviews speak volumes—”This helicopter ride was the highlight of our trip,” says one, emphasizing the breathtaking vistas and personalized narration.

Bottom Line: A superb choice for those who want an impactful overview of Maui and Molokai with memorable waterfalls and sea cliffs in just under an hour.

2. Road to Hana Luxury Limo-Van Tour with Helicopter Flight

This 6-hour tour combines a luxury ground trip along the famous Road to Hana with a stunning helicopter flight back. You’ll relax in a plush Limo-Van, stopping at Ke’anae, Wai’anapanapa State Park, and a scenic waterfall where swimming might be possible.

The highlight is the 36-minute helicopter ride over Haleakala Crater, remote waterfalls, and the rugged coastline, []offering a unique aerial perspective that’s impossible from the ground. The tour’s small size—limited to six passengers—means personalized service and fewer crowds.

Guests love the beachside lunch and the opportunity to explore Hana’s black sand beaches, combined with the aerial views of Haleakala and waterfalls.

The tour costs $565, which might seem steep but is justified by the combination of luxury land transport, gourmet lunch, and an exclusive helicopter flight. The reviews highlight how this is the best way to experience Hana’s scenery without the long drive or crowded tours.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious, all-in-one experience, blending ground exploration with aerial vistas of Hana’s incredible scenery.

3. Doors Off West Maui and Molokai 45-minute Helicopter Tour

For the adrenaline junkies and photography enthusiasts, this doors-off helicopter tour offers an experience few others can match. Flying over the North Shore of Molokai and West Maui, you’ll get unobstructed views of waterfalls, rainforests, and cliffs, with the added thrill of no windows.

This setup allows you to capture spectacular photos with your cell phone—no glare or reflections—making it a favorite among photographers. The flight lasts about 45 minutes and is praised for its spectacular vistas and the pilot’s skill.

Guests report it’s “the best experience ever” and highlight how the doors-off aspect intensifies the connection to the scenery. The price of $388.67 is reasonable for such an exclusive view and adventure level. Because of the intensity and unique perspective, this tour is well-suited for those comfortable with flying and looking for a thrilling photo opportunity.

Bottom Line: A must for adventurous travelers wanting unmatched photo angles and an immersive, adrenaline-pumping experience.

4. Molokai & Maui Scenic EcoStar 130 Helicopter

This 55-minute EcoStar flight is for those who want to see both Maui and Molokai in one smooth ride. It covers Kahiwa Falls, Halawa Valley, and Iao Valley, along with the tallest sea cliffs on Molokai.

The eco-friendly EcoStar helicopter provides excellent visibility with larger windows and audio narration that shares insights about the landmarks and ecosystems. The flight’s balanced mix of coastal scenery, waterfalls, and volcanic formations makes it a rundown.

Reviewers love the informative pilot and the breathtaking views of Molokai’s cliffs and waterfalls. The tour is priced at $385.13, offering good value considering the diverse sights and duration. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full, yet relaxed, overview of the islands’ highlights without rushing.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic flight for those interested in a broad view of Maui and Molokai’s natural wonders.

5. Hana Rainforest Helicopter Flight with Landing from Maui

This 1-hour 15-minute tour combines a scenic helicopter flight with a ground exploration in the Hana Rainforest. You’ll fly over the Jaws surf break, Jurassic Rock, and see the Road to Hana from above. Then, you’ll land in Wailua Valley, a pristine taro plantation, where you can stretch your legs and explore tropical vegetation.

The landings are a rare feature in Maui tours, offering a personal touch and a chance to enjoy the rainforest environment up close.

Guests rave about the landscape views and the informative pilot. The total cost is $341.11, making it a good value for the opportunity to explore two different environments—air and ground—in a single tour. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a combination of sightseeing and a nature walk.

Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers who want an immersive experience with aerial and terrestrial exploration.

6. Maui: Road to Hana Helicopter & Waterfall Tour with Landing

This 75-minute tour provides a comprehensive view of Hana’s waterfalls and rainforests, with a landing in Wailua Valley. The flight over sea cliffs, waterfalls, and the Hana rainforest is complemented by a ground walk among banana and coconut plantations. The combination makes it perfect for those who want a longer, detailed experience with plenty of photo opportunities.

Guests mention how the scenery is unforgettable and that the pilot’s commentary enhances understanding. At $329, it offers excellent value for a longer, more detailed tour with a ground stop. It’s best suited for travelers willing to spend extra time exploring and capturing Maui’s lush landscapes.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for travelers seeking an in-depth, longer aerial and land experience of Hana’s waterfalls.

7. Central Maui: Two-Island Scenic Helicopter Flight to Molokai

This 55-minute flight offers a bird’s-eye view of Maui and Molokai from a central location. Starting at Kahului, it passes over Iao Valley, Molokai’s tall sea cliffs, and Haleakala. The compact nature of this tour makes it perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to see both islands in one sitting. Reviewers love the informative pilot and the panoramic views of waterfalls and lush coasts.

Priced at $369, it provides a cost-effective way to get a broad perspective without committing to longer flights. It’s suited for those who want a quick, comprehensive tour that hits the highlights.

Bottom Line: For a short, scenic overview of Maui and Molokai, this tour delivers a lot in a limited time.

8. Oceanfront Landing 75-Minute Event Helicopter Tour

This 1 hour 15-minute tour is notable for its oceanfront landing in Maui’s North Shore. It combines scenic views of waterfalls, rainforests, and sea cliffs, with the added excitement of landing at a private oceanfront location. The helicopter seats only six passengers, providing an intimate experience, and the guided commentary enriches the views of Hawaii’s untouched landscapes.

Guests consistently mention how the waterfront landing is a highlight, along with the spectacular views of Molokai’s cliffs. The price of $404 is reasonable considering the extra thrill of landing and the personalized experience. This tour appeals most to travelers who want an adventure with a special touch.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those looking for a short but exclusive and scenic helicopter experience.

9. Complete Island 60-Minute Helicopter Tour

The “full-Maui” helicopter tour covers both East and West Maui in just an hour. It includes waterfalls, Haleakala Crater, and hidden coves, providing a rundown of the island’s diverse terrain. The stereo narration and luxury helicopter make it engaging, with many reviewers calling it a “must-do”. It’s a perfect introduction for first-timers or those with limited time.

At $443.34, it offers good value for such an extensive tour, especially with the personalized narration. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a well-rounded experience of Maui’s highlights in a single flight.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a complete aerial tour that maximizes Maui’s most iconic sights.

10. Hana Rainforest and Haleakala Crater Helicopter Tour

This 45-minute tour offers an aerial journey over Haleakala Crater, East Maui, and the Hana Rainforest. Flying high above bamboo forests and valleys, you’ll see hidden waterfalls and bays. The landings in Hana and the rainforest add a personal touch to the experience, giving you time to explore and take photos. The expert narration makes this trip both scenic and informative.

Many reviewers emphasize how the views of waterfalls and the Haleakala volcano are unforgettable. The price of $332.67 makes it a great value for those wanting to combine volcano and rainforest scenery. It’s best for travelers seeking a shorter, but immersive aerial adventure.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a focused trip on Haleakala and Hana’s lush landscapes with a landing experience.

How to Choose Your Maui Helicopter Tour

When selecting the right helicopter experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and specific interests. For a short, impactful tour with waterfalls and cliffs, the West Maui and Molokai Special is hard to beat. If you want luxury and landings, the Road to Hana with helicopter offers extra value. For thrill-seekers who want maximum photos, the doors-off tours are the best choice.

Book early, especially for popular dates, and check the weather—Maui’s skies are often unpredictable and can affect visibility.

If you’re into combining aerial views with ground exploration, the Hana Rainforest helicopter with landing or the Road to Hana with helicopter are ideal. For a rundown of the entire island, the Complete Island tour covers all the highlights in an hour. And for a special occasion or romantic adventure, the oceanfront landing adds that extra touch of exclusivity.

Final Thoughts

Maui’s helicopter tours showcase the island’s rugged beauty like no other experience. From the towering sea cliffs of Molokai to the lush rainforests of Hana, each tour offers a different perspective.

If you’re after breathtaking scenery and expert narration, the West Maui and Molokai Special 45-Minute Helicopter Tour is hard to beat. For those wanting a luxury experience combined with landings, the Road to Hana with helicopter offers a memorable day.

And if you’re craving adventure and photos, the doors-off tours deliver an adrenaline rush along with jaw-dropping views.

No matter which tour you choose, booking early and considering weather conditions will ensure you get the most out of your Maui helicopter adventure. These flights are a marvelous way to see the island’s most inaccessible corners and create lasting memories from the sky.