For an unforgettable Big Island perspective, book a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian. From Hilo’s volcano country to Waikoloa’s Kohala sea cliffs, you’ll float above lava fields, lush valleys, and thousand-foot waterfalls—no hiking required. Blue Hawaiian operates as an FAA Part 135 Air Carrier with robust training and safety programs—one reason they’re among Hawaiʻi’s most established operators.
Where Tours Depart From
Blue Hawaiian flies from two Big Island bases:
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Waikoloa (Kohala Coast) — convenient to Mauna Lani and Waikoloa Beach resorts. Great for coastline/valley itineraries and all-island routes. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters
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Hilo — ideal for volcano-focused flights near Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, with frequent waterfall flyovers.
Popular Helicopter Tour Options
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Big Island Spectacular (Waikoloa): A signature loop combining volcanic landscapes with the emerald Hāmākua Coast—waterfalls, rainforests, and remote valleys you can’t reach by road.
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Kohala Coast Adventure (Waikoloa): A 50-minute showcase of sheer sea cliffs and deep valleys (think Waipiʻo area) with multiple cascading falls.
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Discover Hilo (Hilo): A ~50-minute volcano-and-waterfalls flight; recent seasons have featured heightened lava activity—nature never guaranteed, but always dramatic terrain.
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NEW: Waterfalls & Volcano by Air + Land (Waikoloa): Start with a scenic flight, then continue by ground to explore Kīlauea up close—an all-day experience.
What to Know Before You Book
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Timing: Morning flights often have steadier air and clearer views. Volcano glow is best pre-dawn/after dusk when active, but availability varies.
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Weight & seating: Helicopter seating must balance the aircraft. Blue Hawaiian notes specific weight limits and policies (including front-row limits); you’ll be weighed at check-in. Review the details when you book.
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What to wear/bring: Dark (non-reflective) clothing to reduce window glare, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, and a compact camera/phone.
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Motion comfort: If you’re sensitive, take motion sickness medication 30–60 minutes beforehand.
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Weather: Routes may adjust for safety and visibility—your pilot will chase the best conditions of the day.
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Tip: Helicopter tours are popular during peak weeks—book early, and review confirmation emails for check-in time, ID requirements, and parking details.
Choosing The Right Tour For You
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Staying on the Kohala Coast? Pick Kohala Coast Adventure or Big Island Spectacular from Waikoloa for the easiest logistics and epic coastline/valley scenery.
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Chasing lava & craters? Book Discover Hilo from Hilo to maximize time over Kīlauea’s summit region and waterfall country.
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One big day out? The Air + Land combo gives you both aerial views and a guided ground visit to Kīlauea.
How to Book
Reserve directly on Blue Hawaiian’s site; you’ll see live pricing, durations, and seat options for each base. (Tours and rates change seasonally.)