Best Helicopter Tours on Big Island, Hawaii You Can’t-Miss
Soar Above Paradise: The Best Helicopter Tours on Big Island, Hawaii You Can’t-Miss
Hawaii’s Big Island offers an unforgettable experience for those exploring its natural wonders from the skies. From towering waterfalls to active volcanoes, the breathtaking scenery is best appreciated from above. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a frequent traveler, helicopter tours on the Big Island provide a unique perspective that leaves a lasting impression.
Discover the Wonders of Big Island
The Big Island is home to some of Hawaii’s most iconic sights, and the only way to fully appreciate their grandeur is by taking a helicopter tour. Helicopter tours in Hawaii’s Big Island take you over some of the most stunning features, like the Kilauea Volcano, where you can witness the raw power of nature as it continues to shape the island. This tour often includes views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, the two towering volcanoes that dominate the island’s skyline. These tours provide a perspective that’s impossible to achieve from the ground.
In addition to the volcanic activity, the best Big Island Hawaii helicopter tours showcase the lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged coastlines. The diverse scenery offers an incredible contrast, and it’s all accessible in one amazing flight. It makes helicopter tours an essential part of experiencing the island’s beauty.
Must-See Highlights on Big Island Helicopter Tours
Kilauea Volcano: An active volcano has been erupting for decades. Flying over it, you might see the glowing lava and smoke rising from the crater, a sight that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling.
Waipio Valley: Known for its cliffs and black sand beaches, this valley is a must-see on any helicopter tour in Hawaii Big Island. The area is often called the Valley of the Kings, with towering waterfalls like Hiilawe Falls adding to its mystique.
Akaka Falls: A spectacular 442-foot waterfall that plunges into a deep gorge. This natural wonder is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, making it a highlight of many helicopter tours.
Kohala Coast: The rugged northern coastline of the Big Island offers dramatic views of sea cliffs and pristine beaches. Flying over this region, you’ll understand the island’s diverse topography.
Hamakua Coast: A lush region known for its verdant valleys, cascading waterfalls, and cliffs. Helicopter tours provide a bird’s-eye view of this picturesque area, allowing you to appreciate its natural beauty fully.
Choosing the Right Helicopter Tour for Your Adventure
When planning your aerial adventure, consider what you most want to see. Helicopter tours in Hawaii’s Big Island vary in duration and focus, with some offering comprehensive island tours and others focusing on specific regions. If volcanoes fascinate you, opt for a tour that covers Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Those interested in the island’s natural beauty might prefer tours that explore the rainforests, waterfalls, and coastline.
It’s essential to book your tour with a reputable company known for safety and customer service. Reviews from other travelers can provide valuable insight into what to expect. Some companies also offer private tours, allowing for a more personalized experience.
The Best Time to Experience Big Island from the Sky
The time of day can significantly impact your helicopter tour experience. Morning flights often offer the clearest views, as the weather tends to be calmer and the air more straightforward. It is significant for seeing distant features like Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Afternoon flights can offer dramatic lighting as the sun sets, molding a golden glow over the island’s features.
The best Big Island Hawaii helicopter tours are available year-round, but the winter months can bring more rain, affecting visibility. Regardless of when you visit, the experience of soaring above the island’s incredible scenery will surely be a highlight of your trip.
Tips for an Unforgettable Helicopter Tour
To make the most of your helicopter tour on the Big Island, consider the following tips:
Dress Comfortably: Wear light, comfortable clothing, and consider bringing a jacket, as it can get cool at higher altitudes.
Choose a Window Seat: Opt for a window seat to ensure the best views and photo opportunities.
Bring a Camera: A good camera or smartphone is essential for capturing stunning views. Ensure your device is fully charged; you’ll want to take plenty of photos.
Listen to the Pilot: The pilot often provides commentary on the sights below, offering fascinating insights into the island’s history and geology.
Plan Ahead: Popular tours can be booked quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons, so it’s wise to reserve your spot in advance.
Exploring Big Island’s Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known attractions, helicopter tours in Hawaii Big Island can take you to lesser-known spots that are just as stunning. These might include remote valleys, hidden waterfalls, and secluded beaches inaccessible by land. The island’s diverse terrain means there’s always something new to discover, even for those who have visited.
For those interested in photography, these hidden gems provide incredible opportunities to capture unique shots of the island’s natural beauty. The air’s combination of light, color, and texture creates breathtaking images that are hard to replicate from the ground.
The Environmental Impact of Helicopter Tours
While helicopter tours provide an incredible way to see the Big Island, it’s also essential to consider their environmental impact. Helicopter noise can disrupt wildlife, and fuel emissions contribute to pollution. Choosing a company that adheres to strict environmental guidelines can help mitigate these effects. Some operators use quieter, more fuel-efficient helicopters and follow flight paths designed to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
Supporting companies committed to sustainability ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy the island’s beauty from above. It’s also worth considering combining your helicopter tour with other eco-friendly activities during your visit to the Big Island.
Making the Most of Your Big Island Experience
After completing one of the best Big Island Hawaii helicopter tours, there’s still plenty to explore on the ground. Whether visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or rambling through lush rainforests, the island offers many activities that complement your aerial adventure.
You might also consider staying in a vacation rental with easy access to the island’s many attractions. Accommodations in areas like Hilo or Waikoloa allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the island at your own pace.
Final Thoughts:
Helicopter tours on the Big Island of Hawaii offer a unique opportunity to see the island’s most stunning features from a perspective that’s impossible to achieve on the ground. From active volcanoes to hidden waterfalls, the breathtaking views provide memories that will last lifetime.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a weathered traveler, these tours provide an unparalleled way to experience the island’s natural beauty. So, when planning your next trip to Hawaii, be sure to include a helicopter tour on your itinerary—it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss. As the rotors start spinning and the helicopter lifts off the ground, prepare to soar above paradise and witness the island like never before.