Big Island of Hawaii , United States

Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Active

(108 reviews)

50m

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 Kilauea's power! Projecting some of the most unique and cherished cultural landscapes in the world, get a birds-eye-view of the most geologically active environment on earth which has been continuously erupting since 1983. View the UNESCO World Heritage Site with opportunity to see historic lava flows while learning about the history and culture of Hawai'i. You’ll embark on a breathtaking adventure, seeking out the island’s newly formed volcanic landscapes, black-sand beaches, lush rainforest and waterfalls.
Volcanic activity varies hourly.

Blue Hawaiian’s fleet consists of the best touring helicopters in the industry. Featuring state-of-the-art Airbus Eco-Star helicopters. The custom upgraded VIP interior has all forward-facing seats with 180 degree views & “theater-style” platform in rear seating. The advanced 4-camera in-flight video system capturing pilot narration and cinematic music choreographed to scenery is available for viewing and purchase after your flight.

Available options

Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

What's included

Use of microphones with 2-way communication with pilot

Pilot Guide who are also State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guides

All Fees and Taxes

Use of Bose Aviation-grade, electronic noise-cancelling headsets

Detailed itinerary

First inhabitated in 1100AD, get a birds eye view of Hilo Town

Tour along the shoreline of the volcano area and admire the constantly changing, rugged landscape of the ever-growing Hawaii Island.

Stop 3 Pass by

Seek out the island’s newly formed volcanic landscapes and view historic lava flows.

What's not included

USB in-flight video and photo packages available after flight for purchase.

Transportation to and from heliport

Parking fees at heliport, $10 USD

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

74 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

34 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Heliport and helicopter are wheelchair accessible. A wheelchair lift is available at base to assist boarding.

Children 23 months and younger are complimentary and considered a lap child.

Check-in is 45 minutes prior to tour time. This allows for guest weight check-in, a safety briefing, and to be escorted and seated on the aircraft to ensure an on-time departure. You will receive confirmation of tour time after booking. Late arrivals will not be accepted and non-refundable. It is the guest responsibility to allow ample travel time to our bases in case of traffic delays.

For each guest weighing over 240 pounds (108 kg), an adjacent empty seat is required to safely balance the aircraft. The second seat charge is half off of the regular tour price. Please arrange your additional seat after booking.

Tour sights vary depending on weather.

No scuba diving within 24-hours of tour departure

Gratuity is not included and is left to individual discretion.

Bags, large cameras, extending selfie sticks are not allowed in the helicopter.

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund

This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers

Important notes

• Check-in is 45-minutes prior to tour time. This allows for guest weight check-in, a safety briefing, and to be escorted and seated on the aircraft to ensure an on-time departure. Late arrivals may not be accepted and non-refundable. Please allow ample travel time to your check-in location in case of traffic delays.

• Tours/Times may vary according to wind and weather conditions
• No scuba diving within 24 hrs of departure
• For each guest weighing over 240 pounds (108 kg), an adjacent empty seat is required to safely balance the aircraft. The second seat charge is half off of the regular tour price. Please arrange your additional seat after booking.
• You should wear dark colored clothing so not to reflect in photos.
• Hats, Bags, large cameras, extending selfie sticks are not permitted on the helicopter.
• You should bring a credit card for optional video/photo packages and souvenirs at heliport.
• Gratuity is not included and is left to individual discretion.

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