Kona Coast Scenic - 30 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On

Big Island of Hawaii , United States

Kona Coast Scenic - 30 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On

Active

30m

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the rich history and breathtaking beauty of the Kona coastline from above on our exclusive 30 minute helicopter tour. Take flight over the ancient Kaloko Fish Ponds, marveling at traditional Hawaiian aquaculture. Coasting along the scenic Ali’i Drive, lined with charming shops and restaurants, soar over to the picturesque waters of Kailua Bay and the powdery white sand of Magic Sands Beach. From there, the diverse landscape offers aerial views of lush Kona Coffee farms, showcasing the world-renowned coffee plantations. Gliding through the air, the rich farmland flows into the pristine Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, home to vibrant coral reefs and lively marine life. While circling the bay, connect with the history of Hawai’i with a view of the Captain Cook Monument, where the famous explorer met his end. This unforgettable aerial adventure offers a one-of-a-kind perspective on some of Kona's most iconic sights.

Available options

Doors ON Private Tour

Private Tour: Make your tour private with just your party!

Doors OFF Private Tour

Private Tour: Make your tour private with just your party!

Doors ON Tour

Doors On Helicopter

Doors OFF Tour

Doors Off Helicopter

What's included

Straps and cases for cell phones

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Passengers on this tour are treated to a long list of Kailua-Kona's beautiful views, including famous sites like:
Kona Coast
Kaloko Fish Ponds
Kailua Bay
Alii Drive
Magic Sands beach
Kona Coffee farms
Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve
and the Captain Cook Monument

Begin by flying over the historic Kaloko Fishponds, the site of ancient Hawaiian aquaculture practices.

Stop 3 Pass by

Then, the picturesque waters of Kailua Bay come into view as you soar along the coast. It's known for its clear, calm waters and the surrounding area's nearby shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.

Follow in-air over Ali'i Drive, a scenic coastal road that offers stunning ocean views, a variety of shops and restaurants, and access to historical sites.

Traveling along the coast, the powdery sand of Magic Sands Beach is impossible to miss. A popular spot for swimming and sunbathing on the Kona Coast.

Climbing off the coast, Kona's renowned coffee farms await. A stunning view of lush green plantations with neatly arranged coffee trees, creating a patchwork of vibrant greenery.

Stop 7 Pass by

Soar from the green farmland to the pristine marine sanctuary known as Kealakekua Bay, known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Stop 8 Pass by

Nestled in the biodiverse sanctuary, glimpse at the final resting place of British explorer Captain James Cook. His memory is monumentalized on the shore of Kealakekua Bay.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Service animals allowed

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Safety of flight is our primary concern. The operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or appear to be intoxicated. Intoxicated passengers will not fly and they will be charged in full.

For doors off tours, jackets and/or sweatshirts, closed toe shoes, and hair ties are required. Long pants are recommended.

For each guest weighing 260 pounds or more, a weight and balance fee is required to safely balance the aircraft. For guests weighing between 260-279 lbs, a fee in the amount of 50% of the seat price will be assessed after booking. For guests weighing 280 lbs or higher, an additional seat purchase will be assessed after booking.

All passengers 24 months and older must purchase a full fare seat.

When booking the doors off experience, your seat may or may not be directly adjacent to an open door.

Meeting point

We are located in the Big Island Jet Center building. Please park in the large parking lot south of the brown building. Come inside the front doors of the brown building. Our direct address is 73-4370 Pao’o Street, Kailua Kona, HI 96740.

Important notes

You are required to arrive 60 minutes before your scheduled flight time or you may miss your scheduled departure.

We are located in the Big Island Jet Center building. Please park in the large parking lot south of the brown building. Come inside the front doors of the brown building. Our direct address is 73-4370 Pao’o Street, Kailua Kona, HI 96740.

If you did not provide the following information at check-out, please call Rainbow Helicopters at +1 808-492-8706:

• All travelers full names and weights
• Your contact number. An in-destination contact number is preferred.

All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.

You must present either an electronic or paper voucher at the time of the tour.

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