Helicopter tours on the Big Island (also known as the Hawaii Island) take off from Kailua-Kona, Hilo, and Waimea.
Since it offers better weather, beaches, snorkeling, the latest resorts, and more nightlife, most tourists prefer to stay in Kailua-Kona.
As a result, most of the helicopter tours on the Big Island take off from Kona and nearby areas.
In this article, we share the best helicopter tours in Kona, Hawaii.
Table of contents
The Big Island Experience
You get treated like a VIP on this tour because it is a private 4-passenger helicopter tour of the Big Island from Kona.
Departing from Kona International Airport, take your Hawaii vacation to the sky.
Your pilot narrates the terrain below, including valleys, waterfalls, coastline, and—of course—an active volcano.
You will head straight to Kilauea via the saddle running between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, Hawaii’s tallest mountains.
Duration in the air: Two hours
Cost of the tour: US$671 per person
Volcano and Kohala Landing Helicopter Tour
Experience the breathtaking scenery of Hawaii’s Big Island from the air, the way it was designed to be seen.
On this fantastic helicopter trip, soar over the Big Island’s rocky coastline, active volcanoes, and gushing waterfalls.
While soaking up stunning airborne views of the smoldering Kilauea Volcano and the magnificent mountains and sea cliffs of the Kohala Coast, listen to expert narration from your pilot.
Land on a remote rarely visited section of the island and explore the quiet tropical paradise.
After you have had your fill, climb back aboard the helicopter to continue your flying tour of Hawaii’s natural landmarks.
Duration in the air: Three hours
Cost of the tour: US$962 per person
Kona Coast Helicopter Tour
This trip is the best helicopter tour to explore Kona Coast from the air.
You will fly from Kona Airport (Southbound) past Honokohau Bay, Kona Town, Keauhou to the famous Captain Cook or (Northbound) to the famous Kua Bay, Kiholo Bay, Hapuna Beach, and Kawaihae.
This heli tour gets even more popular during the whale season because you get to spot whales from the top.
Duration in the air: 30 minutes
Cost of the tour: US$241 per person
Circle Island Experience from Kona
The Circle Island Helicopter tour is an excellent way to see Big Island from the air if you stay in or around Kailua-Kona.
On this deluxe, two-hour helicopter tour of the Big Island, you’ll take off from Kona and fly above newly created black sand beaches, spectacular waterfalls along the coastline, and over the Waipio and Waimanu valleys.
You will also soar above rainforests, macadamia nut orchards, and live volcanoes.
The Bell 407 helicopter has executive seating and sliding windows, making snapping pictures of flowing lava and secret waterfalls much easier.
Duration in the air: Two hours 15 minutes
Cost of the tour: US$880 per person
Magical Waterfall Tour from Kona
Big Island is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in all of Hawaii.
Upon departing from Kona International Airport, the tour first takes you to the seven windward valleys of Kohala.
Over the next one hour and 15 minutes, you will see all of the best waterfalls on the island.
Tour will conclude with a beautiful coastline flight over sparkling ocean waters, ancient lava flows, and spectacular luxury resorts.
Duration in the air: One hour 15 minutes
Cost of the tour: US$451 per person
Flight Departure and Return
The helicopter tours we have listed below take off from the heliport in Waikoloa Village or Kona International Airport.
There are multiple take-offs daily, and you are sure to get your preferred timing if you book early.
Where does the helicopter return?
After your sightseeing trip is over, you will land at the same place from where the helicopter took off.
Restrictions strictly followed
- An adult must accompany all children below 18 years.
- Due to the aircraft’s comfort and weight/balance, passengers weighing over 113 Kg (250 lbs) will be required to purchase an additional seat. This happens on the day of the tour, and you can pay them directly.
- The maximum weight limit for any single passenger is 170 Kg (375 Pounds), and visitors over this weight won’t be allowed to board the flight.
- As per FAA regulations, all passengers 18 years and older will be required to show a photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport at the time of check-in.
- Infant children are considered lap child if they are under the age of two and have proof of age, such as a passport or a copy of their birth certificate.
- These tours aren’t recommended for pregnant women, travelers with back problems, heart problems, or other severe medical conditions.
- Participants must not have done scuba diving within 24 hrs of taking off. Read why
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Carry an extra layer of warm clothes
- It is better NOT to take along large bags and backpacks
- For security reasons, the tour operator can search everything you carry onboard
- In case of bad weather, the pilot can change the helicopter ride’s route at the last minute
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% percent cancellation fee is applicable.
No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.
Helicopter tours require good weather.
If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.
Recommended Reading
# Helicopter tours in Kauai
# Helicopter tours in Big Island
# Helicopter tours in Oahu
# Helicopter tours in Maui
# Helicopter tours from Honolulu
# Helicopter tours from Lihue
# Helicopter tours in Hawaii