Big Island of Hawaii , United States

Private Magical Waterfall Tour

Active

(12 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Big Island is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in all of Hawaii. Our Waterfall Tour will enchant you! Upon departing from Kona International Airport, we will whisk you away to explore the seven windward valleys of Kohala. First stop is the windward side of the Kohala Mountains where we will fly the coastline of Waipiʻo Valley and then move westward to Waimanu Valley. Waimanu can experience annual rainfall of up to 200 inches, fueling 1500+ ft waterfalls, some of the tallest in all of Hawaii.

Available options

Magical Waterfall Tour

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Fuel surcharge

Airport/Departure Tax

Environmental Management Charge (Reef Tax)

Detailed itinerary

This tour is done DOORS ON ONLY. Big Island is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in all of Hawaii. Our Waterfall Tour will enchant you! Upon departing from Kona International Airport, we will whisk you away to explore the seven windward valleys of Kohala. First stop is the windward side of the Kohala Mountains where we will fly the coastline of Waipio Valley and then move westward to Waimanu Valley. Waimanu can experience annual rainfall of up to 200 inches, fueling 1500+ ft waterfalls, some of the tallest in all of Hawaii.

Following the valleys west, we fly over Honopue, Honokea, Honokane Iki, the historic valley of Honokane Nui or “big” Valley and Pololu Valley. We will climb and cross over the summit of Kohala, the oldest of the five volcanoes that make up the Big Island of Hawaii.

Tour will conclude with a beautiful coastline flight over sparkling ocean waters, ancient lava flows and the spectacular luxury resorts that make their homes on the island’s leeward shore.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless specified

Hotel drop-off

Hotel pickup

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Minimum age requirement of 7 years old

A Minimum of 3 people and a Maximum of 4 people per booking

Due to comfort and weight / balance of the aircraft, weight limit of 275lbs per person or 750lbs total for all passengers

If individual and/or group weight limit is exceeded, tour will be cancelled with no refund

Weights are taken at the time of check in with all items

Check in is 30 minutes prior. Late check ins will be considered as a no show and subject to full price.

Strict 24 hour cancellation policy

For doors off there is a fee.

Meeting point

Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours
73-310 Uu St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Important notes

Check-In times are NO LATER than 30 minutes prior to the flight time. Late check ins will result in a forfeited tour with no refund.

The following MUST be presented at check-in for each passenger:
- Photo ID (State ID, Driver's License, Passport)

We are located at 73-310 UU Street, Kailua Kona. Look for our Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours Sign. Parking is FREE->Park in the gravel parking lot south of the building. We will meet you in the Tiki Hut at your designated check in time. Have a seat and make yourselves comfortable.

Attire Policy:
-Jacket/Light Long Sleeve Layers (temperatures can get as low as 55° F/ 15° C). Any hoods can be tucked for comfort (Long pants if you get cold easily)
-Long hair tied back into a braid or bun
-Secured footwear or will be barefoot during flight
-No earrings, head/hair accessories, loose items
-Glass/Sunglasses are permitted (no straps required, held in place with headsets)
- Cell phone straps are provided and must be used (Any phone strap self-bought will not be allowed)

With forceful 100+mph winds, ALL items used for pictures/video footage during the flight MUST BE secured with a strong strap; otherwise, they will not be permitted during the flight. NO extra lenses for cameras will be allowed.

All pictures/videos will be up to passengers to capture during the flight.

For weather, cancellation, all other policies: visit https://maunaloahelicoptertours.com/tour-policies/

About Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. It offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

This national park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. It offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate ($30 per vehicle)

Mauna Kea Summit

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day Free (but requires acclimatization)

Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.

Nature/Cultural Half day Free (but parking fee applies)

Hapuna Beach State Park

Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.

Beach Half day Free (but parking fee applies)

Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The park offers a scenic loop trail leading to the falls.

Nature 1-2 hours Moderate ($5 per person)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A raw fish salad marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, often served with rice.

Appetizer Contains fish, can be made with various types of seafood

Loco Moco

A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.

Main Course Contains beef, eggs, and gluten (from the gravy)

Shave Ice

Finely shaved ice flavored with syrups and often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.

Dessert Vegetarian, can be made with various toppings

Kona Coffee

A premium coffee grown in the Kona region, known for its rich and smooth flavor.

Drink Caffeinated, can be decaffeinated

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano exploration Water sports Beach lounging Spa treatments Scenic drives Traditional Hawaiian luaus Local markets

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit the Big Island, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The ocean is warm, and the weather is generally dry and sunny.

21-30°C 70-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Big Island is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards such as volcanic activity and ocean conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Rent a car with full insurance coverage
• Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs and tours, and research options in advance
• Be aware of ocean conditions and currents when swimming and snorkeling

Getting there

By air

Kona International Airport • 20 km from Kona
Hilo International Airport • 10 km from Hilo

By bus

Hilo, Kona

Getting around

Public transport

The Hele-On Bus is the public bus system on the Big Island. It is affordable but has limited routes and schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kona Hilo Waimea

Day trips

Mauna Kea Summit

30 km from Waimea • Half day to full day

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Waipio Valley

60 km from Hilo • Half day

Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.

Hapuna Beach State Park

30 km from Waimea • Half day

Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.

Festivals

Merrie Monarch Festival • April Kona Coffee Cultural Festival • November Ironman World Championship • October

Pro tips

Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace and access remote areas
Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park early in the day to avoid crowds and see the best views
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on the elevation and location
Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic taste of the Big Island
Respect the environment and local culture, and follow guidelines for visiting protected areas and sacred sites