Exclusive Landing with Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring above the lush rainforests, fiery volcanoes, and deep valleys of Hawaii’s Big Island, with a chance to land in places only accessible by air. For those craving a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of this volcanic paradise, this helicopter tour offers an unforgettable adventure. Priced at around $1,135 per person, it lasts roughly 2 hours and 20 minutes—an investment in breathtaking sights and unique experiences.

Two features that truly stand out are the exclusive landing at Laupahoehoe Nui beside a majestic 1,200-foot waterfall and the comprehensive view of the island’s volcanic activity, including recent eruptions. The second is the knowledgeable pilot guides, who blend safety with fascinating commentary, making the journey both informative and fun. A potential consideration? The tour’s price might seem steep for some, but the included waterfall landing and personalized view make it well worth the cost.

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see Hawaii’s diverse landscapes from above, especially those interested in volcanoes and waterfalls. If you love immersive natural beauty and unique photo opportunities, this experience could be the highlight of your trip. It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate detailed guides and are comfortable with limited group sizes — this tour caps at just six travelers, ensuring a more intimate adventure.

Key Points

• Unique Perspective: See Big Island’s landscapes from above, including volcanoes, valleys, and coastlines.
• Waterfall Landing: An exclusive stop at Laupahoehoe Nui offers amazing photo ops and a moment of real Hawaii untouched by crowds.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable pilots, also certified Hawaii tour guides, share insights and point out landmarks.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect views of Kohala Valleys, Mauna Kea, and recent volcanic flows, including December 2022 eruptions.
• Limited Group Size: Tours are intimate, with a maximum of six travelers, enhancing safety and experience.
• Cost-Value Balance: While at over $1,100, the tour includes a waterfall landing, private views, and expert narration, it offers a memorable alternative to more generic helicopter rides.

An In-Depth Look at the Big Island Helicopter Experience

First Impressions and Booking

Booking this tour usually requires planning at least 42 days in advance, revealing how popular it is among visitors eager for an aerial adventure. The total cost of about $1,135 per person includes all fees and taxes but excludes transportation to the heliport. The meeting point at Blue Hawaiian Helicopters in Waikoloa Village is accessible, and check-in occurs an hour before departure — a smart move to handle weight checks, safety briefings, and seat assignments.

Some reviews mention booking hiccups — notably, a couple of travelers received different tour times than booked. While this can be frustrating, most found the actual experience to be worth the effort and adjustments. If you’re tight on time or traveling with children, note that kids under 23 months are free but considered lap children.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The itinerary is structured to highlight the island’s most iconic features, along with the exclusive landing. Here’s what to expect:

• Kohala Valley and Ranching Country: Your flight begins with expansive views of lush valleys and ranchlands in the Kohala region. This area is known for its spectacular scenery and historic cowboy roots. One reviewer praised the flight here as a “great way to see the island” and “learn about the terrain,” emphasizing how much you can grasp about Hawaii’s natural landscape from above.

• Historic Hawi and King Kamehameha’s Final Years: Flying west, you’ll pass through Hawi, a small town with significant historical ties, where King Kamehameha spent his later years. While not specifically detailed in the reviews, the scenery here is often described as picturesque and peaceful.

• Volcanoes and Recent Eruptions: A highlight is the flight over Hawaii’s volcanoes, including Mauna Loa, one of the largest on Earth. The recent December 2022 lava flows are visible, providing a rare glimpse of ongoing volcanic activity. For many, this view is the core reason to choose this tour over others. During this segment, the guide will point out the continuously erupting Kilauea and the over 13,000-foot elevation of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which spans six climate zones.

• Laupahoehoe Nui Waterfall Landing: The tour’s crown jewel is the 20-25 minute stop at Laupahoehoe Nui, where your helicopter lands beside a towering 1,200-foot waterfall. This is a rare and striking experience. One traveler called it “the best part of the trip” and “well worth the extra cost,” noting the photo opportunities and the feeling of being truly immersed in Hawaiian wilderness.

• Rainforests and Waterfalls: Flying along the southeastern coast, you’ll see thick rainforests, fertile valleys, and waterfalls, including the famous Akaka Falls, which drops 442 feet. The heavy rainfall (nearly 84 inches annually) keeps these landscapes lush, and your pilot will describe how these ecosystems thrive.

• Kohala Mountains and Coastal Views: On the return leg, you’ll gaze over tropical valleys and the Kohala Mountains, making this a full-circle experience that captures the island’s diverse climates and terrains.

The Experience of Flying with a Skilled Pilot

According to many reviews, the quality of your pilot can make or break the trip. Several descriptions praise pilots like Matt, James, and Greg for being both professional and personable—able to share insights without overwhelming. They also handle safety seamlessly while maintaining an engaging, friendly demeanor.

One review mentioned how their pilot explained everything clearly and even played a good playlist, adding to the overall enjoyment. The use of noise-cancelling headsets makes it easy to communicate and hear the commentary, which enhances the experience.

The Waterfall Landing: Why It Matters

Landing at Laupahoehoe Nui is what makes this tour truly special. This exclusive landing provides a rare chance to step out of the helicopter and stand beside a massive waterfall, surrounded by pristine rainforest. Many reviews highlight how this spot is a “photo and video dream” — a way to connect intimately with Hawaii’s raw beauty.

Some travelers noted that this extra feature, while adding to the cost, significantly enhances the overall adventure, making the experience more memorable. One reviewer even said, “You’ll never see the island like this on your own.”

The Practical Side: Comfort, Safety, and Cost

The tour is quite exclusive, limited to six travelers, which ensures a more personalized experience. The group size is small enough for safety and comfort, and the aircraft is equipped with Bose aviation-grade headsets and microphones for easy communication.

At over $1,100, some might hesitate, but reviews consistently cite the value in the overall experience, especially when considering the waterfall landing and the guided commentary. For many, this is a ‘once in a lifetime’ type of trip, and they express satisfaction with what they received.

The pricing also accounts for special considerations like weight limits—passengers over 240 pounds require an additional seat (at half price). This policy emphasizes safety and comfort for everyone onboard.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Hawaii’s weather plays a big role; flights are weather-dependent. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, providing flexibility in case of poor weather. If the sky is cloudy or windy, the tour might be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This helicopter tour delivers an unmatched view of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes, from volcanoes to waterfalls. The small group size and expert guides make it a personalized experience that many travelers rave about. The waterfall landing is often cited as the highlight — a rare opportunity to step into the wilderness with a spectacular backdrop.

While the price may seem high, the combination of stunning scenery, informative narration, and exclusive landing makes it a worthwhile investment for those craving an authentic, memorable adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the best of Big Island’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point, along with a good dose of Hawaiian culture and geology.

If you’re comfortable with a small group, are excited about volcanoes and waterfalls, and want to capture unforgettable photos, this tour should be near the top of your Hawaii bucket list. It’s a “trip of a lifetime” for many, and a wonderful way to understand the island’s wild, volcanic soul.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All fees and taxes are included. You’ll also get noise-cancelling headsets, a guide/driver, and access to an in-flight video preview. The waterfall landing is part of what you pay for.

Can I bring my own photos or videos?
You can bring a camera or phone, but large cameras, hats, bags, and selfie sticks are not permitted on the helicopter for safety reasons. You can purchase video and photo packages after the flight.

How long is the helicopter ride?
The flight lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutes, with around 20-25 minutes spent on the ground during the waterfall landing.

Is this suitable for children?
Children 23 months and younger are free, considered lap children. For safety and comfort, check the weight restrictions and make sure they’re suitable for helicopter travel.

What happens if the weather isn’t clear?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, your flight may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on each helicopter?
The maximum group size is six travelers, ensuring a more intimate, personalized experience.

In the end, this Big Island helicopter tour offers a rare blend of adventure, education, and spectacular scenery. It’s a prime choice for those seeking a deep connection with Hawaii’s volcanic heart, combined with the thrill of a helicopter flight and the beauty of an exclusive waterfall landing.