Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari

A helicopter ride over Hawaii’s Big Island offers a whole new perspective on its stunning landscapes. For $399 per person, you’ll soar for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with the entire experience lasting roughly 1.5 hours. The tour takes you over the Hamakua Coast, renowned for dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys, along with the sacred Waipio Valley and the historic Waimanu Valley—once called the home of a great Hawaiian king. Led by Safari Helicopters, a family-owned operation with over 35 years of experience, this tour promises both professional service and authentic Hawaiian scenery.

What we love most are two things: First, the breathtaking aerial views of waterfalls tumbling down cliff faces and the sweeping, green valleys that carve into the island’s terrain. Second, the family-friendly atmosphere that makes safety and comfort a priority, especially for those who may be hesitant about flying. A possible consideration is the weight limit of 250 lbs per passenger, which might require some planning for larger travelers. This tour suits travelers who crave authentic, scenic encounters with nature and aren’t afraid of a short helicopter adventure to see the island’s most photogenic spots.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience Hawaii’s famous waterfalls and lush valleys from above.
• Family-Owned Business: Over 35 years of expertise with a focus on safety and customer care.
• Sacred and Historic Sites: See Waipio Valley and Waimanu Valley, both culturally significant.
• Limited Group Size: Max of six travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Weather Dependent: The tour is subject to good weather conditions, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.
• Cost-Value Ratio: Priced at $399, it’s a memorable splurge that offers unique perspectives not found elsewhere.

Why Consider the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari?

This helicopter tour is perfect for travelers who love stunning landscapes and are eager to see the Big Island from a different vantage point. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or someone wanting a memorable adventure, you’ll appreciate how the aerial perspective accentuates the island’s waterfalls and valleys. The professional pilots—noted for their skill and knowledge—add a layer of trust and insight, making it more than just a sightseeing flight.

While the tour is relatively short, the quality of views compensates for the limited time. It’s especially appealing if you’ve already seen some of Hawaii’s land-based attractions and want to add a spectacular aerial experience to your trip. The small group size guarantees a more personal, less rushed adventure, which many travelers find worth the extra expense.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

How the Itinerary Unfolds

The tour begins at the designated meeting point in Hilo, a convenient location for those staying on the east side of the island. Once aboard the helicopter, you’ll quickly ascend into the sky, where the Hamakua Coast unfolds beneath you in all its rugged glory. This coastline is famous for its spectacular waterfalls that cascade down cliffs into the ocean—an image you’ll never forget once you see it from above. The perspective from the helicopter emphasizes the scale and power of these falls, which are often hidden from the ground.

The scenic flight then takes you over the pristine valleys of the north shore, where the lush greenery seems to stretch forever. The valleys themselves are more than just pretty scenery; they are deeply tied to Hawaiian culture and history. The pilot, possibly Drew or Cookie based on reviews, is praised for their knowledge and skill, enhancing the experience with interesting facts and a smooth ride.

Visiting Waipio Valley

A highlight is the view of Waipio Valley, often called the Valley of the Kings due to its historical significance. From the air, you will see its verdant vegetation, waterfalls, and steep cliffs that cradle this sacred area. The valley’s remote beauty makes it a must-see, and seeing it from a helicopter allows you to appreciate its scale and majesty in a way impossible from the ground.

The Waimanu Valley Perspective

Next, the flight passes over Waimanu Valley, once considered the home of Hawaiian royalty. The landscape here is equally impressive—dense forests and rugged terrain that hint at its historical importance. The views are both dramatic and serene, offering a sense of connection to Hawaii’s past.

What You Can Expect

Expect a comfortable, family-friendly ride with a maximum of six travelers, ensuring personalized attention. The flight time of 1 hour and 20 minutes is enough to soak in the sights, but it’s wise to keep your camera ready—these panoramas deserve plenty of snaps. The helicopter itself is described as beautiful and well-maintained, adding to the overall impression of quality.

Practical Details and Tips

Pricing and Value

While $399 may seem steep for a 1-hour scenic flight, the value lies in the unique vantage points and expert guidance. The views of waterfalls, valleys, and coastlines are breathtaking and hard to replicate from land. The intimate group size enhances comfort and allows for better interaction with the pilot, making the experience more personal.

Booking and Cancellation

Advance booking is recommended—on average, travelers book about 40 days ahead. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, providing peace of mind if plans change. Be aware that weather conditions can impact the schedule; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Weight and Transportation

Passengers should note the 250 lbs weight limit per person, with additional seats needed for heavier travelers. Accurate weight disclosure is crucial to ensure safety and avoid penalties or cancellations. The meeting point is conveniently located in Hilo, with the show starting 40 minutes before the flight time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter safari is best suited for travelers looking for a memorable, scenic adventure that provides extraordinary views of Hawaii’s waterfalls and valleys. It’s perfect for those who want to see sacred sites from a respectful distance and appreciate Hawaii’s natural beauty from above. The tour’s small size and professional crew make it ideal for travelers seeking a more personal experience, especially if they’re comfortable with short flights.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a comfortable, informative, and visually stunning activity, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if you prefer longer or more extensive helicopter rides, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari offers a genuine and visually stunning way to experience Hawaii’s natural splendor. It combines the thrill of flying with the tranquility of seeing lush valleys, waterfalls, and historic sites from a perspective few get to enjoy. The professionalism of Safari Helicopters, paired with the remarkable scenery, makes for a worthwhile splurge if your travel style values unique, memorable moments.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a high-quality, intimate experience that emphasizes authentic Hawaiian landscapes. It’s an excellent choice for photographers, history enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see the island’s dramatic coastlines from a new height.

FAQs

What is the duration of the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, with the entire experience around 1.5 hours including check-in and safety briefings.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 2220 Kekuanaoa St, Hilo, and returns to the same meeting point after the flight.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but since it’s a helicopter, you should be comfortable with flying and able to handle brief safety procedures. Children are generally welcome, but the maximum group size is six.

How does the weather affect the tour?
Good weather is essential. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the weight limit for passengers?
Each passenger must not exceed 250 lbs. For heavier passengers or combined weights above 420 lbs, additional seats are required.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight. Changing plans last-minute may not be possible within that window.

Are safety measures in place?
As a long-established company, Safari Helicopters prioritizes safety with experienced pilots and well-maintained aircraft.

Is this experience worth the price?
If breathtaking views, cultural sites, and a personal touch matter to you, then yes — this tour offers a memorable glimpse of Hawaii’s most photogenic landscapes from the sky.

In all, the Hamakua Coast & Valleys Safari provides a memorable, well-organized, and visually spectacular way to see some of Hawaii’s most iconic scenery—perfect for those who want to add a touch of adventure and awe to their island visit.