Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour is a chance to see the Big Island’s volcanic activity, waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes from above. For $439 per person, you’ll soar in an ECO-Star helicopter for 50 minutes, departing from Hilo Heliport. The tour is perfect for those eager to witness active volcanoes up close, complemented by insightful pilot commentary.

What we love about this tour? First, the expansive windows of the ECO-Star provide unbeatable views, ensuring no detail of the volcanic terrain or waterfalls is missed. Second, the knowledgeable pilot commentary enriches the experience, turning a simple flight into a mini-lesson on Hawaii’s volcanic forces and natural beauty.

However, a possible consideration is the price, which might seem steep for some, especially since additional costs, like a custom recording, are extra. Also, this tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with helicopter rides, as the experience is quite immersive and airborne.

This helicopter adventure appeals most to those wanting a bird’s-eye perspective of Hawaii’s active volcanoes and lush coastlines, especially if they value expert insights and comfortable, small-group settings.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll get an eye-popping perspective of Kilauea and its eruptions, along with waterfalls and coastlines.
• Expert Commentary: Pilot narration offers in-depth explanations, making this more educational than just sightseeing.
• Comfort and Safety: The ECO-Star helicopter’s large windows and noise-canceling headphones ensure a smooth, engaging ride.
• Small Group: Limited to six participants, creating an intimate atmosphere and more personalized experience.
• Time and Flexibility: With 50 minutes available in the morning or afternoon, the timing works well for most schedules.
• Value for the Price: While at $439, it’s not cheap, but for the unique views and insights, many consider it worth the cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Hilo Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Starting Point and Practicalities

We begin by meeting at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters counter, located at the commuter terminal of Hilo Airport. Arriving 45 minutes early is essential; latecomers might miss out entirely, as their policy is strict, and refunds are not offered for missed flights. For those concerned about transportation, it’s worth arranging your own ride, as the tour doesn’t include transfers.

The check-in process is straightforward and friendly. Once onboard, you’ll board an ECO-Star helicopter, a model praised for its roomy interior, which provides excellent visibility through huge panoramic windows. This design means you’ll feel less like a sardine and more like a bird on the wing, which is especially appreciated during the longer stretches of volcanic landscape.

What to Expect During the Flight

The first thing to note is that this isn’t a long tour — just 50 minutes, but that’s enough time to see the island’s most compelling sights. The flight usually departs in the morning or afternoon, offering flexibility depending on your plans.

As you lift off, the pilot will begin sharing commentary through noise-canceling headphones. Expect to learn how the massive eruptions of Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, have shaped the island’s landscape. You’ll see newly formed lava fields, black-sand beaches, and the rugged Hamakua Coast.

One of the most striking sights is Kilauea from above, often with glowing lava visible if conditions are right, giving a real sense of the volcano’s raw power. The tour also takes you over lush rainforests and waterfalls cascading down cliffs, providing a stark contrast between fire and water.

Highlights and Scenic Stops

Active Volcanoes: The main draw, and rightly so, is the chance to view Kilauea’s volcanic activity from above. The pilot’s commentary helps you understand how the eruptions reshape the landscape daily, with some recent eruptions having created new land. Many reviews highlight the stunning vistas of lava flows and the dynamic nature of the volcano.

Waterfalls: You’ll see waterfalls tumbling from the rainforest, which are especially vibrant in the lush, green part of the island. The flight offers a rare perspective on these natural features, often missed from ground level.

Hamakua Coast: The rugged coastline, with its towering cliffs and lush greenery, adds a dramatic backdrop to the volcanic scenery. It’s a reminder of how diverse this part of Hawaii truly is.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pilot Commentary and In-Flight Experience

The pilot acts as your personal guide, offering insights into Hawaii’s geology, volcano activity, and local ecosystems. Many travelers praise how knowledgeable and engaging the pilots are, making the flight both educational and entertaining. The two-way communication system allows you to ask questions mid-flight, which adds to the feeling of a personalized experience.

The noise-canceling headphones ensure you can hear the pilot clearly, no matter the roar of the helicopter or the wind outside. This thoughtful feature is especially appreciated by reviews, with some noting that the commentary made the scenery come alive with stories and explanations.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring your passport or ID, as required.
• Wear dark-colored clothing to avoid reflections in the windows.
• Avoid hats, large bags, or selfie sticks — they’re not allowed for safety reasons.
• For anyone over 240 pounds (108 kg), an extra seat is mandatory, and the second seat costs half the booking price. Be sure to arrange this after booking.
• Infant passengers up to 23 months can sit on laps at no charge.
• Remember, no scuba diving within 24 hours of the tour.

Reviews and Real Traveler Experiences

The traveler reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect:

• Jennifer from Germany called the experience “tolle Aussicht, tolle Infos, mega Erlebnis” (great views, great info, fantastic experience). She highlights how the tour’s scenery and commentary made it memorable.
• Andreas from the U.S. appreciated that the “pilot was very calm, safe, and informative”, describing the flight as “traumhaft” (dreamlike).
• Denise from Italy noted, “we saw waterfalls and volcanoes, and the pilot was fantastic,” emphasizing how the tour offers “a great overview of the volcanoes and landscapes.
• Lydia from Austria described the tour as “an absolute must on Big Island”, specifically mentioning that only from a helicopter could she see the full extent of the lava fields.

Some reviews also point to minor drawbacks:

• A traveler from Germany expressed frustration, saying, “150 dollars for a front seat felt unfair,” highlighting that seat pricing can be a sticking point.
• One reviewer from the U.S. experienced a cancellation due to mechanical problems, emphasizing that, like all aircraft, sometimes plans can change unexpectedly.

The Value Proposition

While $439 is a significant investment, many feel that the unparalleled views and expert narration justify the cost. You’re paying not just for the flight but for a unique perspective that ground tours cannot provide. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more intimate and engaging, especially for photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see Hawaii’s volcanic activity from a unique vantage point. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate learning about the landscape with a knowledgeable guide, and who don’t mind a flight that’s both thrilling and scenic.

If you’re after breathtaking visuals, personalized insights, and access to otherwise hard-to-see areas, this tour is hard to beat. It’s an experience that leaves many travelers with unforgettable memories, a new appreciation for the power of nature, and plenty of stunning photos to share.

That said, it’s not ideal if you’re on a tight budget or uneasy about flying in a helicopter. The price, while justified by the views and small group setting, might be a hurdle for some. Still, for those who value a combination of adventure, education, and spectacular scenery, this helicopter ride provides a genuinely worthwhile splurge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, providing ample time to see volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and coastline.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Check-in is at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters counter at the Hilo Airport commuter terminal, 45 minutes before your scheduled departure.

Is the helicopter comfortable?
Yes, the ECO-Star helicopter is designed with large windows and noise-canceling headphones, offering a comfortable and engaging flight experience.

What if I weigh over 240 pounds?
You’ll need an adjacent empty seat for safety, which costs half the regular price. Make sure to arrange this after booking.

Can infants participate?
Yes, infants up to 23 months can sit on laps at no charge.

Are there any restrictions on clothing?
Wear dark clothing to prevent reflections in the windows. Hats and large bags are not allowed onboard.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to mechanical issues or unsafe conditions, you can cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I buy a recording of my flight?
Yes, in-flight recordings are available for purchase, though not included in the tour price.

Is this suitable for everyone?
While generally accessible, the tour is best suited for those comfortable in helicopters and willing to spend around four dozen dollars for the experience.

What makes this tour special?
It offers a combination of breathtaking views, expert narration, and a small group setting that makes for a personal and memorable Hawaii adventure.

To sum it up, the Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour is a superb way to experience the Big Island’s most spectacular sights from an exhilarating perspective. Its blend of awe-inspiring scenery, informative pilot commentary, and small-group intimacy makes it stand out among nature excursions. It’s ideal for travelers who prioritize visual drama and learning, willing to invest in a memorable, high-quality experience. While it’s not the cheapest option, many consider it a highlight of their trip to Hawaii, offering insights and views that are simply impossible to replicate from the ground. If you’re ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and don’t mind the price tag, this helicopter tour won’t disappoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: