Top 15 Helicopter Tours in Hawaii for Stunning Views

Hawaii, the fiftieth and most recently incorporated American state, is many people’s vision of paradise. The islands of this Pacific archipelago each possess unique characteristics yet collectively evoke images of turquoise waters gently lapping against pristine white sand beaches, magnificent lava-spewing volcanoes, and a relaxed culture that many can only aspire to experience.

Hawaii is not merely an ordinary vacation destination; it also offers an adventurous dimension. Elevate your visit to this tropical archipelago by considering an aerial perspective of the islands from a helicopter. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity promises to be an unforgettable experience.

However, selecting the right helicopter tour can be daunting. To assist you in finding the ideal flight, we have curated a list that will facilitate your pursuit of viewing Hawaii from above, thereby allowing you to fulfill your bucket list aspirations.

1. Big Island: Helicopter, Zip-Line & Volcano Tour with Meals

This comprehensive experience on the Big Island is ideal for adventure enthusiasts. This eight-hour guided excursion includes helicopter rides, ziplining, and a delightful picnic lunch set in the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park.

In the morning, you will soar through the lush green jungles on the longest zip line in Hawaii. Following this exciting experience, you will witness the hillside transforming from verdant jungles to stark black lava as you glide over the active Kilauea volcano. The journey will also feature the stunning rainbow waterfalls, culminating in a dinner at a local winery.

As the day draws to a close, enjoy a sunset view in the national park before you are transported back to your accommodation.

2. Maui Dream 65-minute Helicopter Flight

Arrive at Kahului airport on Maui to embark on this unforgettable aerial excursion. This flight lasts just over an hour, allowing you to circle around Hawaii’s second-largest island, appreciating its tranquil beauty from above.

During this 65-minute glide, you will encounter hidden valleys nestled within the West Maui Mountains, the verdant landscapes of the Hana rainforest, and the volcanic craters of Haleakala National Park, all enveloped by the endless blue of the Pacific Ocean.

Ensure that your camera is ready, as you will have ample opportunity to capture breathtaking photographs.

3. Maui and Molokai Scenic Helicopter Flight

This 55-minute journey encompasses not only one but two majestic islands: Maui and Molokai. Commencing at Kahului airport, your flight will traverse the world’s largest sea cliffs before showcasing some of Molokai’s most stunning waterfalls.

With informative in-flight commentary, you will learn about notable sites, such as the vast fish ponds and Elephant Rock. The latter portion of the flight over Maui will present spectacular views of the island’s highest waterfall and the West Maui mountains, and with some luck, you might spot the Wall of Tears waterfall, contingent on weather conditions.

4. Maui Spirit Helicopter Flight over Hana And Haleakala

This tour specifically concentrates on the eastern region of Maui. Experience a surge of excitement as you depart from the Kahului heliport and head towards Haleakala National Park. Observe the crater of the world’s largest dormant volcano and glide above the Hana rainforest.

Additional highlights include Maui’s unrivaled coastline, the historic Old Hana Town, and the rich landscape of the Manawainui valley.

During the winter months, those with keen eyesight may even spot humpback whales in the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean.

5. Maui: Multi-Island Sunset Odyssey Helicopter Tour

Undecided about which island to experience at sunset? Consider this tour, where you will not only soar above Maui but also glide over Molokai and Lanai within a span of 40 minutes.

During this twilight excursion, you will view several prominent attractions from each island, including the historic fish ponds of Molokai, the shipwreck beach of Lanai—featuring a stranded U.S. World War II vessel—and Maui’s Molokini crater.

Prepare to be captivated by the vistas over the water as you pass the iconic Elephant Rock and the crystalline waters of the Pailolo Channel.

6. Maui: 75-Minute Hana Rainforest Helicopter Tour

This helicopter tour is more than a simple aerial showcase; the 75-minute Hana Rainforest Helicopter Tour allows you to land in the Wailua Valley, once home to a taro plantation.

The round-trip flight features 40 minutes of exploration over breathtaking sea cliffs, winding roads cutting through the rainforest, and even the world-renowned Jurassic Rock. Thirty minutes on the ground may seem brief, but it offers ample opportunity to learn from your pilot about this remote Hawaiian landscape, home to exotic crops like coconut and banana.

7. Oahu 60-Minute Helicopter Tour: Doors On or Off

Simplifying your transportation experience, this tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel to the heliport, offering magnificent views of Oahu from above.

You may select whether to have the doors of your helicopter on or off before elevating above the iconic Waikiki skyline, admiring the island’s most striking sights. Expect to see volcanic cliffs, coral reefs, and an impressive lighthouse among the many stunning views on this escapade.

The tour concludes poignantly as you fly over Pearl Harbor.

8. Oahu: 30-Minute Night Lights & Fireworks Helicopter Tour

While fireworks are enjoyable to observe from the ground, few can claim to have experienced them at eye level. With this tour, you will be picked up from your hotel and strap in to photograph fireworks like never before.

Your flight commences at sunset, allowing you to witness the last rays reflecting on the pristine waters of the South Shore. Once darkness falls, observe the weekly fireworks display from the Hilton Hawaiian Village, illuminating the beaches and waters below. The tour will conclude with a flyover of the USS Arizona Memorial.

9. Oahu: Waikiki 20-Minute Doors On / Doors Off Helicopter Tour

Witness Waikiki from a whole new perspective during this helicopter ride. Spot sunbathers and surfers as you depart from Honolulu harbor and glide over the pristine sands of Waikiki Beach.

An affable and knowledgeable guide will accompany you, providing live commentary on iconic landmarks such as Diamond Head and Punchbowl Crater.

The tour concludes as you soar above the USS Arizona; your guide will provide insights into the significant historical events leading up to the attack on Pearl Harbor.

10. Oahu: 30-Minute Helicopter Tour over Honolulu City Lights

What could be better than viewing the enchanting city of Honolulu by night? Experience it from a helicopter! After enjoying the day’s offerings, you will be collected from your accommodation, eager for your evening flight.

You will relish breathtaking panoramic views of the skyline, observing how the lights from the skyscrapers illuminate the sand and sea, creating a mystical and captivating atmosphere. Hover over the city harbor, Honolulu Tower, and the Ala Moana center, followed by a view of the beautifully illuminated Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona memorial.

11. Oahu: Waikiki Sunset Doors On or Doors Off Tour

This introductory flight lasting 20 minutes is perfect for first-timers eager to experience the thrill of helicopter travel. You will receive guidance from your instructor, imparting insights about the sites visible from above as the vibrant hues of a sunset in paradise intertwine.

Marvel at Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline, painted in shades of orange, pink, and red, before your descent past the moving USS Arizona memorial. This brief yet exhilarating flight will certainly spark your desire for further helicopter adventures.

12. Oahu Circle: Island Helicopter Tour Doors On or Doors Off Tour

This tour presents an opportunity to explore the more secluded areas of Oahu Island for those familiar with the city. You will soar over all of the major attractions highlighted in other Oahu tours, but this adventure pivots to feature the island’s natural wonders.

Glide up the coast and enjoy the striking vistas of Manalua Bay, one of the island’s many coral reefs, the Windward Coast, and Lanikai Beach.

Prior to your return to Waikiki, you will witness the full array of Oahuan landscapes, observing the Ka’a’awa valley and the Sacred Falls from above.

Following this exhilarating flight, you will be transported back to your hotel in a comfortable, private vehicle.

13. Oahu: Path to Pali 30-Minute Doors On or Doors Off Tour

This half-hour journey begins with a hotel pickup, taking you to the island’s South Shore. Here, a friendly guide will assist you as you embark on your helicopter adventure.

After departing from the city, enjoy a bird’s eye view of the stunning Diamond Head before traveling along one of the world’s most picturesque coastal regions, the Windward Coast.

The tour will subsequently venture inland, allowing you to glimpse the splendid Mount Olomana and the steep Nu’uanu cliffs.

This excursion perfectly highlights Oahu’s most treasured natural and constructed marvels.

14. Kauai: 25-Minute Scenic Flight Tour Over Western Kauai

While Maui is often referred to as the “Valley Isle,” smaller Kauai has earned the moniker of the “Garden Isle.” This 25-minute tour is an excellent means of understanding how Kauai acquired such a name. Arrive at Port Allen Airport, where your guide will greet you and provide insightful in-flight commentary.

The majority of Western Kauai’s natural wonders are not accessible via ground transportation, making this tour an appealing choice. Experience the remarkable Waimea Canyon—known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific—as well as the Manawaiopuna Falls, which were featured in the film Jurassic Park, before returning by way of the agricultural lands and mountains of the Hanapepe Valley.

15. Kauai: 55-Minute Flight from Waimea Canyon to Na Pali Coast

This nearly one-hour tour departs from Port Allen airport and showcases the best that Kauai has to offer. The primary highlights include the island’s most notable landmarks, Waimea Bay and the Na Pali coast.

The dramatic emerald cliffs of Na Pali appear to plunge into the shimmering blue waters of the Pacific Ocean along the 17-mile stretch. You will also navigate inland towards the arid landscapes of Waimea Canyon. Along this route, several filming locations from Jurassic Park will be visible, as will Mount Makana and the rainforest on Mount Waialeale, known for being one of the wettest locations on Earth.

This trip offers the ultimate opportunity to uncover Kauai’s most spectacular features from the air.