Venture Hawaii

There’s something transformative about rising above the Big Island and witnessing the raw beauty of Hawaiʻi from the sky—active lava fields, cascading waterfalls, and emerald valleys that disappear into the clouds. I’ve lived on this island for years, but the first time I took a helicopter tour, I understood why visitors call it a life-changing experience. The Big Island offers some of the most spectacular aerial views in the world, and the helicopter tour industry here has matured into a range of excellent, well-established operators. Whether you’re chasing volcanic drama, photographing the Kohala Coast, or simply want a different perspective on Hawaiʻi’s size and scale, the best helicopter tours on the Big Island deliver unforgettable moments while respecting both safety standards and Hawaiian culture. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top operators, explain what makes each one special, compare departure locations, and share practical tips so your experience is as smooth and memorable as possible. Why Take a Helicopter Tour on the Big Island? The Big Island is massive—roughly 76 miles long and 50 miles wide—but much of its most dramatic geography is difficult or impossible to access by car. From the ground, you might spend an entire day trying to see a fraction of what you can witness in an hour from the air. A helicopter tour gives you perspectives you simply cannot get any other way. You’ll see the scale of Kīlauea volcano and understand why it shaped Hawaiian culture for centuries. You’ll peer into Waipio Valley—the “Valley of the Kings”—and grasp why ancient alī’i (chiefs) chose it as their seat of power. You’ll witness the Kohala Coast’s white-sand beaches and turquoise coves from directly above, angles that make you forget you’re in Hawaiʻi and not somewhere on another planet. Photography enthusiasts especially find helicopter tours transformative. The aerial perspective reveals patterns in the landscape—lava flows, ocean currents, geological formations—that reveal the island’s story in ways ground-level photography simply can’t match. Per person, most tours run $350–$1,200 depending on length and operator, but many visitors say it’s the single best use of their vacation budget. Beyond the visual spectacle, there’s something deeply grounding about seeing the entirety of the ‘āina (land) from above and understanding your smallness within it—a humbling perspective that often prompts visitors to treat Hawaiʻi with greater respect during the rest of their stay. Kīlauea volcano as seen from the air — one of the most dramatic sights on any Big Island helicopter tour. Photo by James Lee via Pexels. Top Helicopter Tour Operators: What Sets Them Apart Quick Pick: Our Rankings by Category Best Overall: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters — largest fleet, most tour options, both Hilo and Waikoloa departures, 22,000+ reviews Best for Photographers & Adventure: Rainbow Helicopters — free doors-off on every tour, unobstructed views, consistently 5-star rated Best Value Private Tour: Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours — every tour is private starting from $229, intimate personalized experience Best Budget Option: Safari Helicopters — tours from $349 with discount code, Hilo departure means more time over volcanoes and waterfalls Best Splurge Experience: Rainbow Helicopters Luxury Picnic — private charter with chef-catered landing for a once-in-a-lifetime experience I’ve worked with or spoken to guides from all the major operators on the island, and each brings something different to the table. Here’s what you need to know about the best helicopter tours on the Big Island right now: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters: The Established Leader Departures: Hilo Airport and Waikoloa Heliport | Website: bluehawaiian.com Blue Hawaiian operates the largest fleet on the island, and there’s a reason they’re still here after decades: consistency, safety, and multiple departure options. Their signature aircraft, the Airbus EC130 Eco-Star, is incredibly quiet (especially important when you want to hear your pilot’s narration and enjoy the experience without ear fatigue). Their “Big Island Spectacular” (1 hour 45 minutes, $719 from Waikoloa) is the most comprehensive tour available, covering Kohala’s windswept north tip, green Waipio Valley, Hamakua Coast waterfalls, and the Hilo side’s lush landscape. For those based on the Kona side without time to drive to Hilo, this is a logical choice. They also offer the “Waterfalls and Volcano by Air and Land” full-day experience ($1,009), which includes ground time at a waterfall and a guided volcano exploration—great if you want ground context to complement the aerial views. Best for first-timers who want a premium, established operator with proven safety records and flexibility in departure locations. The Hamakua Coast is home to stunning waterfalls like Akaka Falls — a highlight of many helicopter tours. Photo by Florian Süß via Pexels. What Travelers Say: Blue Hawaiian consistently earns praise for professional, well-organized tours with knowledgeable pilots who bring Hawaiian history to life. Reviewers on TripAdvisor and Viator highlight the quiet Eco-Star cabin and panoramic windows. With over 22,000 reviews on their Hilo tours alone, they maintain a strong 4.5+ star average. Common praise: “worth every penny,” “pilots make the experience,” and “best views of the volcanoes.” Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours: Affordable Private Tours Departures: Kona Airport | Website: maunaloahelicoptertours.com Here’s the secret many visitors don’t know: Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours offers private helicopter tours at price points that rival group tours elsewhere. Every single tour here is private—just you, your group, and the pilot—yet their rates start at just $229 per person for a 20–30 minute Kona Coast scenic flight. The longer “Private Big Island Experience” (100–120 minutes, $639 per person) gives you dedicated flight time over active lava fields, waterfalls, and volcanic formations without sharing the helicopter with strangers. If budget-conscious travelers want to upgrade from a group experience to private luxury, this is the gap-closer. Their “Kona Coffee & Coastline Adventure” ($541.55, 90 minutes) even includes a landing at Kona Joe Coffee for a farm tour and coffee tasting—unique airtime that other operators don’t offer. The trade-off: Kona-based only, so Hilo-side visitors would need to travel 2+ hours to the departure point. What Travelers Say: Mauna Loa earns rave reviews for their private-tour model — guests love having the helicopter to themselves without sharing with strangers. Yelp reviewers describe the experience as “intimate” and “personalized,” with pilots who tailor the flight to your interests. With a solid rating and over 120 photos from guests, the consistent theme is exceptional value for a private experience. Rainbow Helicopters: Doors-Off Adventures Departures: Kona Airport | Address: 73-4370 Pao’o Street, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 | Website: rainbowhelicopters.com Rainbow Helicopters operates the newest fleet on the island and pioneered the “FREE doors-off” experience for all their tours—not an upsell, but the standard. Doors-off flying isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a photographer or thrill-seeker, it’s transformative. You get unobstructed 360-degree views, no window reflections, and the visceral connection of being so close to the landscape you feel like you’re floating. They also offer a “pilot experience” option where you can actually fly the helicopter under supervision—incredibly popular with aviation enthusiasts. Their Robinson R-44 takes 3 passengers for the more intimate experience, while their Airbus Astar accommodates up to 6. Tours range from $540 (30 minutes, Kona Coast Scenic) to $1,180 (105 minutes, Kīlauea Volcano Eruption tour). Best for adventure seekers and photographers who want that unfiltered connection to the landscape. The Kona and Kohala coastlines reveal stunning turquoise waters from helicopter altitude. Photo by Jess Loiterton via Pexels. What Travelers Say: Rainbow Helicopters earns consistent 5-star reviews, with guests calling the doors-off experience “absolutely thrilling” and “the best thing we did in Hawaii.” Reviewers frequently highlight the educational narration and genuine passion of the pilots. Photographers especially love the unobstructed shooting angles. The main caveat: the premium positioning means higher prices, but most reviewers say the experience justifies the cost. Safari Helicopters: Budget-Friendly Hilo-Based Option Departures: Hilo Airport | Website: safarihelicopters.com If you’re based on the Hilo side or simply want the lowest prices, Safari Helicopters delivers. Their “Volcanoes National Park Safari” is just $349 with promotional code (regular $379, 55 minutes), and they offer private versions for larger groups. Because they depart from Hilo—much closer to Kīlauea and the volcano national park—you get more airtime actually flying over volcanic features rather than traveling to get there. Their “Hamakua Coast Waterfalls & Valleys” tour ($349 with code, 60 minutes) is perfect if you want to see lush East Side waterfalls without the Kona-side pricing. Best for budget-conscious travelers, especially those staying in Hilo or Waimea. What Travelers Say: Safari Helicopters draws praise for being the most affordable option on the island without sacrificing the experience. Reviewers appreciate the witty, knowledgeable pilots and the Hilo departure advantage — more flight time over the volcano and waterfall zones. Most reviews are positive, though a few guests note the experience can vary depending on weather conditions. The best feedback: “we actually saw lava” and “incredible volcano views at half the price.” Big Island Helicopter Tours: Newer Kona Operator Departures: Kona Area | Website: bigislandhelicoptertours.com A smaller, newer player with private Kona Coast tours. Less established than Blue Hawaiian or Safari, but if you’re seeking a boutique experience with personalized service, worth a call for current availability and pricing. A Note on Paradise Helicopters You may find outdated listings for Paradise Helicopters online. This operator ceased operations in early 2024 and is no longer taking bookings. If you were planning with them previously, contact one of the active operators above instead. Comparison: Pricing, Locations & Tour Types at a Glance To help you compare quickly, here’s a summary table of the major operators: Operator Departure Location Price Range (Per Person) Tour Types Key Features Blue Hawaiian Hilo Airport, Waikoloa Heliport $419–$1,009 Group scenic, Big Island Spectacular, Waterfall+Land combo Largest fleet, Eco-Star quiet aircraft, multiple departure options Mauna Loa Kona Airport $229–$639 All private tours, includes coffee farm landing Affordable private tours, unique coffee experience add-on Rainbow Kona Airport $540–$1,180 Group and private, doors-off standard, pilot experience FREE doors-off, newest fleet, pilot-in-command option Safari Hilo Airport $349–$2,100 Group and private, volcano-focused, waterfall tours Most affordable pricing, Hilo location = more airtime over volcanoes Big Island Helicopter Tours Kona Area Call for pricing Private Kona Coast tours Newer operator, boutique experience The map ID you have entered does not exist. Please enter a map ID that exists. Doors-Off vs. Doors-On: Which Experience Is Right for You? One of the biggest questions I hear from visitors is whether they should try doors-off or stick with doors-on. Let me break down the key differences: Doors-On Tours What it’s like: You fly in a traditional helicopter with windows. You’re completely enclosed, warm, and secure. The view is excellent—you can see everything clearly, and there’s no wind noise or disorientation. Best for: First-timers nervous about heights, families with young children, anyone sensitive to wind or disorientation, and those wanting a relaxed, conversational flight where you can easily hear the pilot. Photography: Windows create reflections and distortion, especially in bright sun. You can still get good photos, but you’ll lose some sharpness and may get unwanted glare or reflections of yourself in the glass. Cost: Typically $50–$150 less per person than doors-off on most islands, though on the Big Island, Rainbow Helicopters offers doors-off as standard (no upsell). Doors-Off Tours What it’s like: The helicopter doors are completely removed. You’re secured with a multi-point harness, and you fly with the full sensory experience—wind, sound, and an unobstructed 360-degree view. It’s thrilling, exhilarating, and unlike anything most people have experienced. Best for: Photographers wanting unfiltered images, adventure seekers, those comfortable with heights, and anyone wanting maximum immersion in the landscape. Photography: Crystal-clear, unobstructed shots. No window reflections. Professional photographers consistently rate doors-off as worth the experience alone. Motion sickness: Paradoxically, some people find doors-off less nauseating because the visual cues align better with what your body is sensing. The fresh air and unrestricted view can actually settle queasy stomachs. Cost: Usually the same price as doors-on (or included for free, as with Rainbow). My take: If you’re a photographer, do doors-off. If you have any hesitation about heights or motion sickness, start with doors-on. You can always upgrade next visit. The Big Island’s dramatic contrast of mountains, beaches, and turquoise waters is best appreciated from the air. Photo by Snapwire via Pexels. Which Departure Location Is Best for You? Hilo vs. Kona vs. Waikoloa The Big Island has helicopter tours departing from three main regions, and your choice dramatically impacts what you’ll see and how long you’ll spend in the air versus traveling to the airport. Kona-Based Departures (West Side) Operators: Mauna Loa, Rainbow, Big Island Helicopter Tours Best if: You’re staying in Kona, Waikoloa, or anywhere on the west side. It’s convenient—just a short drive to the airport. What you’ll see: Kona Coast and its volcanic history, Kohala Coast, lush valleys on the north and east sides, and if you book longer tours, Kīlauea volcano (though you’re flying a greater distance to reach it). Trade-off: Longer flight times to reach volcano sights means less actual airtime over the most dramatic volcanic features. Hilo-Based Departures (East Side) Operators: Blue Hawaiian (Hilo Airport), Safari Helicopters Best if: You’re staying in Hilo, Volcano (village), or anywhere on the eastern side. You’re also here if you want maximum airtime over Kīlauea and the volcano national park—you’re departing from much closer. What you’ll see: Kīlauea volcano, lava fields, Hamakua Coast waterfalls, Waipio Valley, and verdant East Side valleys. Trade-off: If you’re staying in Kona, it’s a 2+ hour drive to Hilo Airport. The journey might eat into your vacation time, but the volcano views are unmatched. Waikoloa Heliport (South Kona) Operator: Blue Hawaiian Best if: You’re staying at a resort in Waikoloa or South Kona and want to avoid driving to Hilo. Blue Hawaiian’s Waikoloa departure is convenient and offers the comprehensive Big Island Spectacular tour. What you’ll see: Everything a Kona departure covers, but with Blue Hawaiian’s fleet and narration. Trade-off: Similar to other Kona-based departures—you’re flying a longer distance to reach the most dramatic volcanic sights, though Blue Hawaiian’s longer tours (1h 45m+) give you ample time to cover it all. What to Know Before Your Flight: Planning Tips for First-Timers I’ve spoken with dozens of first-time helicopter tour participants, and a few planning steps make the difference between an amazing experience and a stressful one: Motion Sickness Prevention Here’s what works: Take ginger supplements or ginger candy about 30 minutes before your flight. Avoid heavy meals 2–3 hours before departure. Sit in a seat with a window or door view (not in the middle) so your visual system aligns with the motion your body is sensing. Ask your pilot if you can request a specific seat at check-in. And honestly? The smoother, more modern helicopters (like Blue Hawaiian’s Eco-Star) produce less vibration and bouncing than older models—one more reason to choose established operators with newer fleets. What to Wear Secure, flat shoes (no flip-flops). A lightweight jacket, even in Hawaiʻi—you’ll be at altitude and moving fast, and the air temperature drops. For doors-off tours, wear athletic wear that won’t flap around. Avoid loose jewelry or anything that could fall out and hit the rotor or become a hazard. Wear neutral colors if you’re planning to photograph—bright colors in your peripheral vision can distract from photos. Camera & Photography Bring a secure camera strap or GoPro mount. If you’re using a smartphone, a phone mount or strap is essential—dropping your phone from 1,000 feet is a $1,000 mistake. Start with a wider lens (16–35mm equivalent) to capture the landscape scale. Avoid filters for doors-off tours; you want maximum light gathering. Bring lens cloths or a small squeegee—salt spray from the ocean can create haze on windows. And most importantly: don’t spend the entire flight behind a lens. Take photos, yes, but experience the moment with your own eyes too. Health & Safety Listen carefully to the safety briefing. These aren’t legal formalities—they exist because helicopter flying, while statistically very safe with these commercial operators, requires your participation in safety protocols. If you have inner ear problems, severe claustrophobia, or recent shoulder/neck injuries, mention this to your pilot or operator before boarding. Most operators have flown people with various conditions and can make accommodations. Booking Timing Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during winter months (December–March) when the island has peak visitor traffic. Tours can fill up quickly, and you want flexibility if the first day’s weather isn’t ideal. Most operators allow one free weather reschedule. Weight Restrictions Smaller helicopters (like Rainbow’s Robinson R-44) have passenger weight limits, sometimes around 250 lbs per person, though this varies. Larger aircraft (Blue Hawaiian’s Eco-Star, Airbus models) have more generous weight limits. Be honest about this when booking so the operator can ensure proper weight balance and your comfort. Respecting Hawaiʻi: Cultural and Environmental Considerations As someone who’s lived on this island for years, I need to say this plainly: helicopter tours can seem extractive if not done respectfully. We’re flying over sacred lands, ancient sites like Waipio Valley, and ecosystems that deserve protection. Choose operators committed to low-noise flight paths and environmental stewardship. Blue Hawaiian’s Eco-Star aircraft are specifically designed to reduce noise pollution—important when you’re flying over communities and protected areas. Respect Hawaiian place names and culture. Kīlauea isn’t just “the volcano”—it’s Pele’s home in Hawaiian tradition. Waipio isn’t just a scenic valley—it’s where generations of alī’i lived and governed. Mahalo to your pilot if they explain these connections rather than just naming geological features. Don’t photograph people or homes without consent. Don’t post the exact coordinates of sacred sites to social media, encouraging crowds that damage fragile areas. Understand that some lands are private ‘āina and your access—even from the air—is a privilege, not a right. Frequently Asked Questions About Big Island Helicopter Tours Is it safe to take a helicopter tour on the Big Island? Yes. Commercial helicopter tours on the Big Island have strong safety records. All operators we’ve mentioned employ experienced pilots with hundreds or thousands of flight hours, maintain modern aircraft with regular inspections, and follow FAA regulations. The Big Island’s trade winds and relatively smooth airspace (compared to other islands) make for comparatively stable flying conditions. That said, like any flight activity, there’s inherent risk—which is why you listen to safety briefings, follow crew instructions, and choose reputable operators with established safety records. How long is a typical Big Island helicopter tour? Tours range from 20–30 minutes (shortest, often just $200–$300) to full-day experiences with ground time (4–6 hours, $1,000+). Most popular sweet spot: 50–90 minutes of airtime, covering the major sights (waterfalls, volcano, coast, valleys) at a leisurely pace. This gives you time for narration and photography without feeling rushed, and your body adjusts well to the motion. Will I experience motion sickness on a helicopter tour? Most people don’t, especially on modern helicopters. That said, everyone’s different. The factors that increase risk: empty stomach, recent meals, anxiety, and sitting in a seat that doesn’t align your visual system with aircraft motion. Follow the prevention tips above—ginger, light meals, window seats, asking for placement near the door on doors-off tours—and you’ll likely be fine. If you’re prone to motion sickness, mention it when booking; operators can suggest lighter tours or seating positions. What’s the best time of year for helicopter tours on the Big Island? Honestly? Year-round is good. Winter (December–March) has the most stable weather on the Leeward (west) side, making Kona-based tours excellent. Spring and fall offer clear skies and fewer crowds. Summer can have afternoon trade wind turbulence on the windward (east) side, but morning flights are typically smooth. Avoid booking right after heavy rain if you want the clearest visibility, but expect a 1–2 week wait for the islands to dry out. All of this said: the Big Island’s diverse microclimates mean that on a cloudy Kona day, Hilo might be clear, or vice versa. Book 2–3 weeks ahead and you’ll have flexibility to reschedule if weather isn’t ideal. Can I bring a GoPro or drone on a helicopter tour? GoPro-style cameras are generally allowed (secure them with a strap—don’t rely on your hand). Drones are absolutely not allowed; they create safety risks and most operators explicitly prohibit them. Personal cameras and smartphones are fine for doors-off; windows-on tours may have reflections, so be prepared to adjust angles. Check with your specific operator when booking about their camera policy. How much should I budget for a helicopter tour on the Big Island? Budget $350–$700 per person for a 50–75 minute helicopter tour, which covers most sights comprehensively. Premium experiences (full-day with ground component, doors-off on smaller aircraft, private tours) run $700–$1,200+. The most affordable options start around $200–$350 for short scenic flights. Compare the operator prices in the table above, but remember: a slightly higher price from Blue Hawaiian or Rainbow often gets you a newer fleet, better pilots, or included features (like Rainbow’s doors-off standard) that enhance value. Plan Your Best Helicopter Tour on the Big Island There’s a reason helicopter tours are on so many visitors’ bucket lists: nothing compares to seeing the Big Island from 1,000 feet up, watching lava-scarred landscapes, emerald valleys, and turquoise coasts unfold beneath you in a way that transforms your understanding of Hawaiʻi’s raw power and beauty. The best helicopter tours on the Big Island start with choosing the right operator for your priorities—whether that’s affordability (Safari or Mauna Loa), established reputation (Blue Hawaiian), adventure thrills (Rainbow), or flexibility in departure location. Add in thoughtful planning around motion sickness, camera setup, and what you want to see, and you’re set for an experience that will linger in your memory long after you leave the islands. Mahalo for choosing to explore Hawaiʻi respectfully. Fly safe, enjoy every second, and come back with stories that remind everyone why this ‘āina is so special. Related topics on VentureHawaii: Ultimate Guide to a 7-Day Big Island Hawaiʻi Itinerary | Best Beaches on Big Island Hawaiʻi | Where to Stay on the Big Island