Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour

Kohala Waterfalls with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring over volcanic mountains, lush rainforests, and sweeping coastlines on a helicopter adventure that ends with a landing by an untouched waterfall. Priced at around $805 per person, this roughly one-hour, ten-minute tour from Waikoloa offers a rare chance to see the Big Island’s most stunning landscapes from the sky—and get up close at a private waterfall stop. Led by knowledgeable pilots, many of whom are Hawaii-certified guides, this trip is tailored for those seeking a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and memorable photos.

Two things stand out for us: first, the personalized experience with only six passengers, making it intimate and flexible; second, the extraordinary landing at Laupahoehoe Nui, giving you a rare opportunity to step out and take photos of the majestic 1200-foot waterfall. The main consideration might be the cost, which is higher than many helicopter tours, but the exclusivity and landing experience justify this for many travelers. If you’re a lover of natural beauty and unique adventures, especially if you appreciate expert narration and photo opportunities, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Unique Landing Experience: Get off the helicopter at a majestic waterfall—an uncommon feature that adds a personal touch.
• Small Group Size: With only six passengers, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed, engaging experience.
• Expert Guides & Commentary: Your pilot provides insightful commentary, often including cultural and historical context.
• Exceptional Views: Fly over volcanic mountains, rainforests, lava fields, and the Kohala Coast.
• Photographer’s Dream: Up to 25 minutes on the ground at the waterfall allows for plenty of photos and videos.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Fees, taxes, and high-quality noise-canceling headsets are included, with optional photo/video packages available.

An In-Depth Look at the Kohala Waterfalls Helicopter Tour

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

This tour packs a lot into its 70-minute window, starting at the Waikoloa heliport. You’ll first climb into a helicopter with a maximum of six passengers, ensuring an intimate experience. The flight begins with an aerial tour of the Kohala Coast, famous for its ranching, valleys, and rugged coastline. Your pilot, often praised for their knowledge—such as Greg or Matt—will point out landmarks and share stories that bring the scenery to life.

One of the tour’s highlights is the stop at Laupahoehoe Nui, a private landing site on the Kohala Coast. Here, you’ll step out and find yourself just feet from the towering 1200-foot waterfall. This isn’t just a quick photo op—we get about 20-25 minutes on the ground, which is enough time to take plenty of photos, soak in the surroundings, and just marvel at unspoiled Hawaii. One review enthusiastically noted, “It was great to land at the waterfall,” emphasizing how special this experience is compared to standard aerial tours.

Before and after the landing, you’ll circle over breathtaking valleys, some surrounded by cliffs up to 2,000 feet high. One notable area is the “Valley of the Kings,” known as the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I—an area steeped in native significance, often highlighted during the pilot’s commentary.

The tour concludes with a scenic pass over white sandy beaches along the west coast, which are popular with both locals and visitors. This final view offers a gentle reminder of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes—volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches—all within a single flight.

What We Love About This Experience

The personalized touch of a small group makes this feel more like a private tour than a crowded sightseeing bus. The expert guides—most notably, the pilot—are praised for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to weave local lore into the flight. This adds depth to the experience, transforming a sightseeing trip into a cultural journey.

The waterfall landing stands out as the true star—an unusual feature that makes this tour memorable. As one delighted traveler put it, “Definitely worth the extra bucks for the landing,” because it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand amidst Hawaii’s raw, untouched beauty.

Considerations and Practical Tips

The main drawback for some might be the price. At over $800, it’s certainly an investment, but many reviewers feel the value, especially considering the exclusive landing and personal attention. It’s also worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent, so poor conditions could mean rescheduling or cancellation. But the company’s policy is to offer full refunds or alternative dates, which provides peace of mind.

Also, consider your comfort with flying—though most reviews mention smooth flights, helicopter rides are inherently different from fixed-wing aircraft. If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring appropriate remedies.

Another practical point is the weight limit of 240 lbs per passenger, with a half-price seat for an extra passenger over that limit. This ensures safety, but it’s good to plan ahead.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, adventurers, and photographers looking for a distinctive experience. It’s especially suited for those who want to see Hawaii’s less-visited, pristine landscapes from above and get a rare landing experience. Families with children over 23 months, and those comfortable with small aircraft, will find this a perfect fit.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the sticker price might seem high, the exclusivity, personalized service, and spectacular views justify the cost. Unlike larger helicopter trips, this one minimizes crowds and maximizes interaction, with a pilot who acts as both guide and storyteller. The 20-25 minutes on the ground at the waterfall is a rare feature, providing ample time for photos and reflection—something most aerial tours lack.

The all-inclusive pricing simplifies planning—no hidden fees, high-quality headsets, and a professional pilot guide. Plus, many reviews mention how this tour became the highlight of their trip, with some calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking an authentic, memorable adventure that combines stunning scenery, expert narration, and a rare landing, this Kohala Waterfalls helicopter tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and want to capture sweeping vistas from a unique vantage point.

This experience isn’t just about flying—it’s about connecting with Hawaii’s untouched beauty in a way that few get to. While the price might stretch some budgets, the memories, photos, and stories you’ll bring home make it a worthwhile splurge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, including the flight and the ground time at the waterfall.

What’s included in the price?
All fees and taxes are included, along with the use of noise-canceling headsets and microphones for communication with the pilot.

Can I buy photos or videos?
Yes, optional USB in-flight video and photo packages are available for purchase after the flight.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled due to weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a weight limit?
Yes, each passenger can weigh up to 240 lbs. An additional half-price seat is available if needed.

How many people will be on the helicopter?
The maximum group size is six passengers, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience.

When should I check in?
Check-in is required 1 hour prior to your flight for safety briefings and weight checks.

Is this suitable for children?
Children 23 months and younger fly free as lap children. Older kids who meet the weight limit will enjoy the experience just as much.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Large cameras, hats, bags, and selfie sticks are not permitted in the helicopter for safety reasons. You should bring a credit card for souvenirs and optional photo packages.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot in advance, with trips often booked about 25 days ahead. It’s recommended to plan early, especially during peak seasons.

This helicopter tour offers an exceptional blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable highlight of your Big Island visit, it promises an experience you’ll cherish and retell for years to come.