The Hawaiian Islands are filled with natural wonders. While most explore by land and sea, there are even more hidden gems only accessible from the sky. Think hidden waterfalls plunging down sheer cliffs, rainbows forming over sun-drenched valleys, and volcanic craters so vast they look otherworldly.
Hawaii helicopter tours allow you to witness all this and more in just a magical hour or two.
“Helicopter tour over Kauai = life changed. Don’t even think about skipping it.” — @sunsetsandseastars
Doors-off helicopter ride (Shutterstock)
Hawaii Helicopter Tours for Breathtaking Aerial Views
You can choose between doors-on and doors-off flights, each offering unique experiences:
- Doors-on tours are ideal for those seeking comfort, narration, and climate control.
- Doors-off tours cater to thrill-seekers and photographers wanting unobstructed views.
Can’t decide which island to fly over? Most operators offer tours by island so you can tailor your adventure:
- Oahu: Great for first-timers where urban meets natural beauty. See Pearl Harbor, Waikiki, and Sacred Falls from the sky.
- Maui: Volcanoes and waterfalls galore. Hover over Haleakalā Crater, the world’s largest dormant volcano, and the Road to Hana.
- Kauai: The most dramatic terrain makes it ideal for photographers. Explore the Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon from a unique perspective.
- Big Island: The best for volcano lovers and thrill-seekers. Witness active lava flows and dramatic black sand beaches from above.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters: A Leader in the Skies
One of the most reputable operators is Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, known for its safety record, experienced pilots, and modern fleet. They operate on four islands and offer narrated tours in quiet, eco-friendly helicopters. On my second trip to Hawaii, I flew with them out of Hilo. The highlight? Circling the molten lava flows of Kīlauea while the pilot explained the island’s ever-changing geography.
“Flew with @bluehawaiianheli and it was unreal. The volcano tour on the Big Island blew my mind. Worth every penny!” — @explorewithlana
Kauai Hawaii Helicopter Tours: Napali Coast and Beyond
Kauai, often called the “Garden Isle,” is arguably the most dramatic island to see by air. Many parts of the island — like the Napali Coast and parts of Waimea Canyon — are unreachable by road. The Kauai experience offers unique and adventurous activities that are best appreciated from above.
During the Kauai Hawaii helicopter tour, you’ll fly into the heart of Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest spots on Earth. The pilot guides you into a lush, cloud-kissed crater surrounded by slender waterfalls streaming down like silver threads. Sounds like a dream, right?
Highlights include:
- Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Falls)
- Hanalei Bay
- Waimea Canyon
- Napali Coast sea cliffs
Hawaii Big Island Helicopter Tours: Fire Meets Sky
If you want a tour unlike any other, Hawaii Big Island helicopter tours delivers. The Big Island is home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness live lava activity (depending on the season), as well as vast deserts, lush rainforests, and dramatic coastlines. The flight from Hilo includes a rare view of active lava glowing beneath the clouds — a view that literally gives you goosebumps.
Most flights leave from Hilo or Kona and cover sights like:
- Kīlauea Volcano
- Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea
- Rainbow Falls
- Black sand beaches at Punalu‘u
Waterfall on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii (Shutterstock)
Private Tours
Imagine soaring above the Big Island’s natural wonders, visiting remote lands, or simply enjoying a romantic getaway — all curated just for you. Experienced pilots will work with you to create a customized itinerary that suits your interests and travel style, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
Private helicopter tours are designed to provide an intimate and exclusive experience with a maximum of three passengers per flight. This allows for a more personalized and interactive journey, where you can ask questions, take photos, and enjoy the breathtaking views without distractions.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, proposing to a loved one, or simply looking for a unique vacation memory, private tours are the perfect way to experience the beauty of Hawaii from a new perspective.
Na Pali Coast, Kauai (Shutterstock)
Cost of Hawaii Helicopter Tours
Prices vary based on island and tour, but here’s a rough breakdown:
- 30-45 minutes: $250-$300 per person
- 60-75 minutes: $350-$500 per person
Tip: Look for package deals or early bird specials on tour company websites or travel sites like Viator or Get Your Guide.
Are Hawaii Helicopter Tours Safe?
Yes, reputable companies follow strict FAA regulations. Pilots are highly trained and experienced and helicopters undergo frequent maintenance checks. For added peace of mind, look for companies certified under the “Tour Operators Program of Safety.”
Best Time of Day to Fly
- Morning flights generally offer clearer skies and calmer winds
- Afternoon flights offer dramatic lighting and sunsets
Your best bet? Ask the tour operator for their recommended time based on weather patterns for the day.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Motion sickness? Take Dramamine an hour before flying.
- Doors-off? Dress warmly and don’t wear loose items.
- Fear of heights? Sit in the middle or next to the pilot for extra security.
What to Know Before You Go
- Book early: Tours often fill up days or weeks in advance.
- Check weight limits: Helicopters are weight-balanced for safety.
- Wear dark clothing: This reduces window glare in photos.
- Bring a camera or GoPro: Your phone works too, but be sure to secure it if flying doors off.
- Listen to the pilot: They’re often expert guides with fascinating local knowledge.
Other Bucket List Adventures
f you’re chasing a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Hawai‘i, few adventures compare to the thrill of a helicopter tour. But the adventure doesn’t stop when the rotors do — Hawai‘i is made for bucket list moments.
Take to the waves and learn to surf where the sport was born — Waikīkī Beach. Even first-timers can ride the gentle rollers with the guidance of a local surf school. For a glimpse beneath the surface, snorkel the vibrant reefs of the North Shore or explore the calm, crystal-clear lagoons of Hanauma Bay, where schools of colorful fish swirl around you like confetti.
Back on solid ground, follow the winding Hāna Highway on Maui as it curves past cascading waterfalls and emerald valleys. Trek through the misty trails of Kōkeʻe State Park on Kaua‘i or marvel at the panoramic views from Waipiʻo Valley Lookout on the Big Island. Book a sunrise tour to the summit of Haleakalā, where you can watch the dawn unfold above the clouds — an experience that feels almost otherworldly. And don’t even think about missing Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, where active craters and ancient lava flows tell the story of the island’s fiery beginnings.
Looking for more thrills? Fly over treetops on a zipline, roar through the jungle on an ATV, or head out after dark for a night snorkel with manta rays off the Kona Coast — their majestic silhouettes dancing just below the waves. Cap it all off with a traditional lū‘au, where food, music, and hula come together to celebrate the spirit of aloha.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It? (Absolutely.)
Hawaii helicopter tours aren’t cheap, but they are worth every dollar. They offer access to sights few people ever get to see and memories that last a lifetime. After experiencing the islands from above, you’ll realize just how much of Hawaii is hidden from the road. And you won’t imagine seeing it any other way! So take the leap, buckle up, and get ready to soar over paradise.
