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Big Island Hawaii , Activities & Tours

7 best big island helicopter tours (+ volcano flights).

Are you looking for the best Big Island helicopter tours? This guide has you covered!

If you’re traveling to the Big Island last minute, you want to ensure you have your tours booked ahead of time ! These are our top picks:

Best Helicopter Rides and Tours on the Big Island:

• Best helicopter tour of Volcanoes National Park (my #1 Hilo helicopter tour!)
• Helicopter tour from Kona (my #1 Kona pick – lasts two hours!)
• Most affordable Kona helicopter tour
• Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Tour from Kona (likely to sell out!)
• Volcanoes National Park + coffee farm (popular tour!)

Traveling to the Big Island independently? Be sure to book your rental car ahead of time to ensure availability!

In this guide, we disclose the best helicopter tours on the Big Island of Hawai’i. They range from ones that take you over the coast to ones that fly you above an active volcano!

Did we miss any of the best Big Island helicopter tours? Let us know in the comments!

Big Island Helicopter Tours Overview

Best helicopter tours on the big island, what to expect on a helicopter tour on the big island, what to wear on a hawaii helicopter tour, more big island travel guides, pin this big island helicopter rides guide.

We have quite a variety of tours on this guide and the main reason is that they all offer something different that may be important to travelers. 

Below, you can find our favorite tours put into categories as we see fit!

• Longest helicopter tour on the Big Island: Helicopter tour from Kona (around 100-120 minutes!)
• Most affordable Kona helicopter tour: Kona coast helicopter tour (does NOT go to Volcanoes NP)
• Best Kona helicopter tour: Big Island helicopter flight from Kona (literally a 2-hour flight!)
• Best Hilo helicopter tour: Volcanoes NP helicopter tour (family-run business!)
• Best Waimea helicopter tour: Big Island deluxe tour
• Best Waikoloa helicopter tour: Big Island spectacular tour
• Best Volcanoes National Park helicopter tour: Volcanoes helicopter ride from Hilo

1. Big Island Helicopter Flight from Kona

Duration: 100-120 minutes Departure point: Kailua-Kona BOOK HERE

This Kona helicopter tour on the Big Island is one of the top-rated and one of the reasons people love it is that it gives riders the ability to open the windows to take better photos! 

This tour is longer than most helicopter tours there and it starts with flying over Waimanu and the Waipio Valleys where you can check out beautiful scenery as well as the macadamia nut orchards.

You’ll also witness Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano, as well as several waterfalls and the peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. 

It is not guaranteed a window seat unless you upgrade and this is not a wheelchair-accessible experience.

2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Helicopter Adventure

Duration: 55 minutes Departure point: Hilo BOOK HERE

We always watch volcanoes on TV or in some videos. However, exploring them with your own eyes is another level of experience for sure.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island, is home to the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes – Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. It is also considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This Volcanoes National Park helicopter tour is offered by Safari Helicopters, the longest-running helicopter company on the Big Island.

After getting debriefed on safety protocol, you will start your flight from Hilo Airport.

When you glide over the famous summits, your pilot will explain in detail the geographical background of lavas and volcanoes and tell you about different climate zones in Hawaii.

During your 55-minute aerial adventure, you will also see orchid farms and lush native forests that are primarily only found on the Big Island.

You will get a birds-eye view of the waterfalls surrounding the park and even marvel at the rainbows over the island.

After looking at the breathtaking scenes from above and learning about the locals and history of the island from your pilot, you will end your unforgettable journey back at the meeting point.

3. Kona Coast Helicopter Tour

Duration: 50 minutes Departure point: Kailua-Kona BOOK HERE

Discover the sunny Kona coast and its residential area from the aerial perspective with Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours .

This private tour with up to three passengers will take 30 minutes.

You will soar over Kona Town, Kua Bay, and the famous Captain Cook’s white obelisk marking the site where Captain James Cook was killed.

If you end up in Hawaii somewhere between June to October, then you’ll get a chance to see migrating humpback whales along the coast from above when you take this helicopter tour.

Admire aerial views of the sunny beaches and bays showered by turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean.

This quick but fantastic tour takes you either from Kona Airport (Southbound) past Honokohau Bay, Kona Town , Keauhou to the famous Captain Cook or (Northbound) to the famous Kua Bay, Kiholo Bay, Hapuna Beach, and Kawaihae.

Though 30 minutes will seem little time for the tour, you will cover far more sights than you could on the ground.

4. Doors-On Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure 

Duration: 1 hour Departure point: Hilo BOOK HERE

It is common practice to explore the rich flora and fauna of Hawaii from the birds-eye view. Paradise Helicopters is another company offering the captivating experience of a helicopter flight over the Big Island.

This doors-on helicopter tour will let you marvel at the active volcanoes and see the lava flowing.

You will be able to look at the beautiful waterfalls of Hawaii , such as Rainbow Falls, Pe’epe’e Falls, or Wai’ale Falls, and enjoy the view that you would’ve never seen from the ground.

From the very beginning of your tour at Hilo Airport, the professional staff of Paradise will meet and guide you during your whole experience.

Any of the three departure times available will be led by certified pilots who will tell you the history of the Big Island and its fabulous nature.

This 1-hour aerial adventure indeed will become the most unforgettable experience not only for your trip to Hawaii but also for your life.

In the end, the helicopter will bring its four passengers back to the starting point.

5. Big Island Volcano Deluxe Helicopter Tour

Duration: 1 hour, 45 minutes Departure point: Waimea BOOK HERE

Sunshine Helicopters offers a condensed helicopter tour of the Big Island , the youngest and the most beautiful island in the island chain.

The departure is from the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort. You can choose one of the three available flight times in advance and enjoy the marvelous 1-hour 45-minute adventure with six other members of the tour.

During the flight, you will hover over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and explore Mount Kilauea, considered one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Kea, the tallest sea mountain in the world at more than 33,000 feet.

Due to the different climate zones on the island, you will see lush rainforests followed by volcanic deserts or snow-capped mountains and black sand beaches.

The gem of the tour will remain the hidden tropical valleys of the Kohala mountains, alive with dozens of roaring waterfalls.

Professional pilots will make your experience more informative by telling you about the island’s history and geographic nuances. In the end, souvenir photos and an HD flight video on a USB will be available for purchase.

6. Circle of Fire Helicopter Tour from Hilo

Duration: 50 minutes Departure point: Hilo BOOK HERE

You won’t be able to see volcanoes every day, but when you’re in Hawaii, consider taking the Circle of Fire Helicopter Tour from Hilo with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and marvel at the views of the world’s most geologically active environment.

You can choose from the eight available timings for the flight with your certified pilot guide, who will tell you the most astonishing secrets about Hawaiian nature during the flight via the 2-way communication microphones.

The 50-minute flight will start from Hilo and let you discover the most scenic views of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

You will get a birds-eye view of the Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, which have been continuously erupting since 1983.

When learning about the history and culture of Hawaii, you will also see the lava flow, which is changing hourly. 

Later your helicopter will glide over the Halemaumau Crater and other national park sights, making your experience even more adventurous.

The video camera system will record the entire flight process, which you can purchase after the flight.

The flight is intended for six people, so this is also an excellent opportunity to meet new people or to go with your friends and family.

7. Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Duration: 2 hours Departure point: Waikoloa BOOK HERE

Indeed, this two-hour-long helicopter flight with Blue Helicopters will become the most unforgettable memory from your trip to Hawaii.

The company that continuously incorporates the latest in cutting-edge technologies and safety features offers incomparable passenger comfort.

You will have a great chance to discover the volcanic fury of the Big Island and get an up-close look at the famous Kilauea volcano, sometimes referred to as Madame Pele’s volcano, which has been continuously erupting since 1983.

Here you will see the lava bubbling up and flowing. Next, your aerial journey will include exploring the Hamakua Coast and the meandering valleys of the Kohala Mountains, rich with the most impressive waterfalls cascading down to the Pacific.

From the wide viewing windows of the helicopter, you will also see the Mauna Kea summit and the town of Hilo.

Along with the five passengers, you will hear your knowledgeable pilot via the two-way communication microphones, who is also a State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guide.

Only a helicopter tour allows you to see so many of Hawaii’s delights on a single ride and from a unique perspective.

In the end, when you land at your starting point, you will have a chance to purchase a USB in-flight video and photo package of your flight.

Every company is a little bit different but the general practical info remains the same!

So, you don’t really get as many doors-off experiences on the Big Island as you would get on Kauai . Most tours on the Big Island last from 50 minutes to 100 minutes (just depends on the trip).

You will have a chance to see volcanoes, waterfalls, coastal scenery, and more.

But, please note that the helicopter pilot has zero control over what Kilauea is doing at the moment so check before your flight to keep your expectations in check.

There are many departing points on the Big Island – Hilo , Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa , and Waimea. It really depends on where you are, but several resorts have helipads where you’ll find tours (as you can see above).

You do not automatically get a window seat! So, please work this out with the company before your flight. You may have to pay extra to get one. 

Most flights do not take more than 6 people… unless you book a private trip, of course!

Although you’re probably used to the advice that you should dress warmly for a trip to the skies, that certainly isn’t the case for a helicopter tour.

You can certainly wear shorts, open-toed shoes, and other light clothes if you wish.

You may find that it’s too hot to wear a jacket. However, it is recommended that you wear dark and solid colors to prevent your reflection from distracting the pilot.

Otherwise, you can largely wear whatever you want to!

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Discover the Big Island's magnificent beauty and its volcanic fury on this all-in-one Big Island helicopter tour. Get an up-close look at the famous Kilauea volcano, which has been continuously erupting since 1983; the results of its historic 2018 eruption provide phenomenal views. From the black sand beaches, and Madame Pele’s amazing volcanic badlands, to the lush rainforests of the Hamakua Coast and the meandering valleys of the Kohala Mountains, you won’t miss a thing on this Big Island helicopter tour!

A Blue Hawaiian exclusive! Land at remote, isolated Laupahoehoe Nui.

Make your tour departing from Waikoloa even more unforgettable. Our exclusive landing at Laupahoehoe Nui on the Kohala Coast, with its majestic 1200-ft. waterfall, gives you a one-of-a-kind photo and video opportunity during 20-25 minutes on the ground. Get up close and personal with the real Hawaii: unspoiled, untouched, magnificent.

• Guided Helicopter Tour
• Use of Bose Aviation-grade, electronic noise-cancelling headsets
• Use of microphones with 2-way communication with pilot
• Live tour commentary in English
• High-definition USB in-flight video and photo packages available after flight for purchase
• Transportation to/from heliport not included
• We require 24 hours’ notice in order to change or cancel your reservation. Cancellations and no-shows within 24 hours will be assessed a 100% cancellation fee. If you need to change or cancel your reservation, please provide us with 24 hours’ notice prior to your tour time and we will be happy to accommodate you.
• All helicopter tours are subject to weather cancellations. While we make every effort to notify you as soon as possible for changes, the pilot will make a weather call up to 15 minutes prior to flight.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters 68-690 Waikoloa Rd, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738

World's Finest Helicopters

The helicopter you fly in has a huge impact on the quality of your air-tour experience, which is why Blue Hawaiian provides the best helicopters in the industry. Compare our state-of-the-art Eco-Star (EC-130) helicopters to others in the industry. Blue Hawaiian EC-130’s offer incomparable passenger comfort and an advanced technological experience.

What an amazing adventure! The waterfalls were breathtaking! Our pilot, Dale, provided us with some wonderful insights and information during our flight. The trip was an excellent way to see some of the most beautiful parts of Hawaii.

One of the most spectacular experiences of my life!

Great way to see the Big Island!

So amazing, beautiful views, great service.

This was our second trip with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and we loved it. Highly recommended. You’ll see and experience the Big Island very few have. Great pilots, equipment, and support staff.

$699.00 per/person, starting from rate

Front-Row Seat Reservation

Combined front row seat weight must be under 470 lbs and individual passenger weights must be 240 lbs. Should actual weights during check-in exceed any of these limits guests will be accommodated in other seats and a refund will be made for the premium upgrade fee. Front row passengers must occupy their own seats and must be able to refrain from interfering with the pilot and instrumentation. At least one of the front seat occupants must be 15 years of age or older and capable of performing emergency aircraft egress procedures. Lap children cannot be accommodated in the front row. In the event of an emergency front row passengers must be able to receive instructions in English and be physically capable of operating exit doors. Our chair lifts are only able to access the rear row of seats therefore guests requiring a chair lift to board the helicopter cannot be accommodated in the front row.

Other Big Island Tours

Witness the stunning Kohala coast of Big Island’s North Shore, where the towering sea cliffs of Waipi’o Valley open into the dramatically deep and meandering valleys of the Kohala Mountains. On this helicopter ride, you’ll experience beautiful waterfalls cascade thousands of feet into t...

The massive eruptions of the world's most active and unpredictable volcano have changed the face of the Big Island in spectacular ways. On the Discover Hilo tour, you'll embark on a breathtaking adventure, seeking out the island's newly formed volcanic landscapes, black-sand beaches,...

Witness the stunning Kohala coast of Big Island's North Shore, where the towering sea cliffs of Waipi'o Valley open into the dramatically deep and meandering valleys of the Kohala Mountains. On this helicopter ride, youvll experience beautiful waterfalls cascade thousands of feet into the...

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Are you looking to book more than a year out? No Problem, simply call (800) 745 2583 and our freindly customer service team can assist you.

• Helicopter Tours

Best helicopter tours on the Big Island

Allow me to make life easy for you by reducing the thirty-nine or so Big Island helicopter tours to just the eight options, of which I believe are the best tours.

Eight helicopter tour options await you that depart across the island. The best helicopter tours on the Big Island all have one thing in common, Volcanoes. So expect the active volcanoes with lava fields to be a priority. Upgrade to a doors off experience but a half-day landing tour should be considered .

Best tour per operator price list

My 8 best tours on the big island, big island helicopter tour companies, departures over the big island, doors off is best.

Helicopter tours on the Big Island are those that bring guests within the islands major attractions, as seen in the air but often inaccessible on the ground.

So that is what makes Big Island helicopter tours a must as major landmarks will be missed if not seen 1,500 feet or so in the air.

Only the eight tours are included which are operated by four helicopter tour companies on the Island of Hawaii.

Of whom its mostly catered towards large groups or instead are family friendly; so will accommodate a generous weight limit with no minimum age.

Costs involved with the tours I have personally selected have no say on the best tour options, but the Big Island helicopter tour prices are cheap to more on the high-cost range.

In that you'll get a flight duration to match, so low costs involve reduced flight times while extended flights tend to cost more.

More so half-day adventure tours can include a landing so that is included on the stated duration - so its not all in the air time.

I absolutely love Hawaii open door helicopter tours so I've made them a priority; but in doing so I've been fair to make sure there are options for the whole family.

I don't want you missing out on the best helicopter tours on the Big Island that are NOT listed on my options below .

So with that in mind, I have gone through the process of listing one tour per operator, with six Big Island helicopter tour companies in total.

I may have only selected one tour per operator, but know that its often too close to call, so there are more tours I would pick if I could, but have excluded them to keep the list short as I can.

Instead, its just the six tours from six tour operators servicing the Island of Hawaii; of whom are listed as my all time best Big Island helicopter tours.

Flight duration to pricing varies hugely, so remember that you need a mid range price with an extended flight time to make it worth your money.

Eight of the thirty-nine or so helicopter tours on the Big Island are listed as my favorite; that is not to say unlisted tours are not up there as the best.

This is my personal best only so should not be looked at in an official capacity.

You'll notice the Hawaii doors off helicopter tour experience is among my favorites, closely followed by tours that include a landing.

Shut doors are not my favorite but when they are, the tour must be a landing one; as is via Blue Hawaiian Helicopters.

Where else it matters is clear visibility through the windows; so it relies on Paradise Helicopters Bell 407 or the ceiling to floor window configuration of Safari Helicopters.

In order, are my eight best helicopter tours on the Big Island, Hawaii .

1. Paradise Helicopters: Kohala Waterfalls & Remote Hike

Check Availability | Duration: 1 Hour, 45 Minutes | Price: $425 | Departure: Kona | Helicopter: Bell 407 | Doors: ON

Premise of this very best Big Island helicopter tour is a brief journey to the Kohala Valley, with a focus on the north of the island.

Departing Kona Airport on the west, guests will spend time viewing the natural landscape including lava fields from the 1801 Hualalai eruption.

In the meantime, beaches, waterfalls and rainforests will be seen between Kona and your destination at the Kohala Valley will be observed in the air.

The pilot will then land at a remote spot on the Kohala Mountains to explore up to half a mile of forest, guided by the pilot himself on foot.

Guests will board a 6-seater Bell 407 helicopter with the doors firmly shut.

2. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters: Big Island Spectacular with Landing

No Longer Available | Duration: 2 Hours, 30 Minutes | Price: $799 | Departure: Waikoloa | Helicopter: Airbus EC130 | Doors: ON

Its Big Island helicopter tour conducted in Japanese but don't let this discourage you as it can be enjoyed if you don't speak the language.

One of the biggest helicopter tour flight routes is why this is my second best tour, even though I am not a big doors-on fan.

Focus of the tour will depart Waikoloa Heliport for an all-in-one, complete tour of the Island of Hawaii, with the far west/south missed out only.

Air tour will see black sand beaches, volcanic badlands to the lush rainforests of the Hamakua Coast and the meandering valleys of the Kohala Mountains.

Upon your landing, guests will embark on an exclusive landing at Laupahoehoe Nui on the Kohala Coast, featuring a 1,200 feet waterfall.

Passengers will be boarding a luxury 6-seater Airbus EC130 with air conditioning.

3. Mauna Loa Helicopters: Magical Waterfalls Tour

Check Availability | Duration: 2 Hours | Price: $310 | Departure: Kona | Helicopter: Robinson R44 | Doors: ON/OFF

Well the Big Island is home to amazing waterfalls in Hawaii; focus will be visiting as many as possible in a two hour flight time - but no landing tour this time.

Departing Kona Airport, guests will be whisked away to view the seven windward valleys of Kohala.

Route will take in Kohala Mountains, coastline of Waipio Valley then to Waimanu Valley.

Over to Honopue, Honokea, Honokane Iki, Honokane Nui or Big Valley, and Pololu Valley - then climb over the summit of Kohala.

Mauna Loa operate a three-seater passenger capacity Robinson R44 with doors on/off options - though its a private tour where all seats must be paid for.

4. Paradise Helicopters: Doors-off Lava & Rainforests Adventure

Check Availability | Duration: 40 Minutes | Price: $324 | Departure: Hilo | Helicopter: MD500 | Doors: OFF

Must be one the most epic air adventures on the Big Island yet as guests are treated to a doors off helicopter tour.

Flight route will focus on the active Kīlauea Volcano with 8-mile river of solid lava leading to the Pacific Ocean.

In this time guest will also see Mauna Loa’s vistas, the lush Puna rainforests and cascading Hilo waterfalls.

Its a doors off helicopter tour in Paradise Helicopters Hughes 500; it sits up to three passengers, all of whom will get an open side seat.

Depart Hilo Airport for a 40 minute air tour only that is sure to please thrill seekers.

5. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters: Big Island Spectacular

Check Availability | Duration: 1 Hour, 45 Minutes | Price: $599 | Departure: Waikoloa | Helicopter: Airbus EC130 | Doors: ON

You might be familiar with this Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Big Island Spectacular tour, only this one is without the landing adventure.

Otherwise, the 'air tour only' is worth it alone as you get to experience a flight that tours most of the islands iconic landmarks.

So here is the Big Island Spectacular tour - with no landing - that will take you to an active volcano, lava fields, beaches, rainforests, sea cliffs, waterfalls, valleys and mountains.

Its not conducted in Japanese this time so you can communicate with others.

Exclusive doors on helicopter tour in an Airbus EC130 that is suitable for the whole family - along with no minimum age or weight limit.

6. Paradise Helicopters: Doors-Off Kohala Valleys & Waterfalls

No Longer Available | Duration: 30 Minutes | Price: $324 | Departure: Waimea | Helicopter: MD500 | Doors: OFF

In departing Kohala Airport in Waimea, guests will experience the best helicopter tour on the Big Island as you go doors-off deep into the Kohala Valley.

Not to forget the Big Island landscape en-route or when you return, but the majority of the 30 minutes will be spent soaring at a low attitude deep in the valleys.

In that time passengers will see - with no limitations with doors off - cascading waterfalls that drop from up to 1,500 feet up, plus the running streams below them.

Hover near to the waterfalls for amazing photography opportunities all while viewing the vast rainforest surrounding these landmarks.

Paradise Helicopters will take you up in a 4-seater passenger capacity Hughes 500 with two guests in the back row, plus two co-pilot seats occupied by upgraded guests.

7. Mauna Loa Helicopters: Kona Coast Helicopter Tour

Check Availability | Duration: 30 Minutes | Price: $190 | Departure: Kona | Helicopter: Robinson R44 | Doors: ON/OFF

Experience Kona Coast via Mauna Loa Helicopters in their 3-seater Robinson R44, guests will be taken on a 30 minute tour at one of the cheapest prices.

After lift off passengers will head south to come within Honokohau Bay, Kona Town and Keauhou - to the famous Captain Cook.

If heading northbound then you'll be sure to visit the famous Kua Bay, Kiholo Bay, Hapuna Beach and Kawaihae.

If time allows it during the whale season, guests will get a chance to see a pod of them.

All guests will get a side seat with an option for a doors on or doors off experience.

8. Safari Helicopters: Volcanoes National Park & Waterfalls Safari

Check Availability | Duration: 55 Minutes | Price: $199 | Departure: Hilo | Helicopter: Airbus H125

Safari Helicopters only appear once on my best helicopter tours on the Big Island, but their Volcanoes National Park plus Waterfall tour is not to be missed.

And that is it, most of the tour will involve a tour of the Big Island Volcano National Park; visiting Kīlauea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes.

Different to Big Island helicopter tours thus far is this one partakes in an Airbus H125, a 6-seater capacity passenger helicopter.

On top of that is has a ceiling to floor window configuration to make sure all sights are seen through large windows.

In between volcano visits passengers are sure to see more of the islands landmarks.

My list of the best Big Island helicopter tours is limited to only the four helicopter services; of whom, one is missing from the list.

Nothing against Sunshine Helicopters own tours but I needed to create a list of even numbers; for my own sake and to keep the list low to make it easier on you.

However, the remaining helicopter tour operators who will take care of you are still well established companies on the island.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters would be the operator to book with if its a family or a party of six people you're bringing along.

So too will Paradise Helicopters offerings a series of Big Island tours in a family size chopper, or a Magnum P.I. type helicopter.

Similarly, Safari Helicopters can accommodate large groups or families in their fleet but offer unique floor to ceiling windows.

Mauna Loa are different to the others as they've operate a doors off/on experience.

Making sure the departure locations are accessible to you on the Big Island is vital as you need to make sure you can get there in time.

Thankfully the Island of Hawaii is not far to commute between helicopter tour departures so all locations will be within reach.

What with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters being listed twice if booking with this operator you'll need to make your way to their isolated heliport near Waikoloa Village.

Location is on the north/west of the island, several miles off the coast. Not far along from this location is Paradise Helicopters at Waimea-Kohala Airport.

Departing Kailua-Kona Airport is home to Mauna Loa Helicopters in their doors off/on Robinson R44 experience.

Depending on which Paradise Helicopters tour you book; if its at their Hilo International Airport site - know that Safari Helicopters are located here too.

I am a huge fan of the Hawaii helicopter doors off tours so will endorse this experience every chance I get.

In order to be fair I have excluded several doors off helicopter tours on the Big Island but the ones I have listed I believe are the best of the best.

Look to Paradise Helicopters as they operate a Magnum P.I. helicopter known as a Hughes 500, but officially called a MD500.

Options to guests can include a doors off experience at cost. Its 4-seater, passenger capacity chopper that is a tough, reliable machine.

After Paradise go to Mauna Loa in their own little 3-seater passenger Robinson R44 where all passengers are guaranteed a side seat.

Doors off tours are not for the whole family as weight and age limits apply; so turn to Blue Hawaiian or Safari Helicopters for the whole family.

To be fair its been hard narrowing down a list of some thirty-nine Big Island helicopter tours, but here they are.

Bare in mind this is my favorites when taking into consideration if its a doors off tour or one that includes a landing adventure.

I have not taken costs into consideration as prices do not have an effect on if one tour is better than the next.

Only the eight helicopter tours on the Big Island I have selected but its not a random number, I have made sure to create a small list to make it easy on you.

Premise, or theme of the tours matter too with the Big Island volcanoes a major place to see from the air.

Other than that, guests can expect to fly a route that will fly pass, hover or sometimes circle: valleys, rainforests, sea cliffs, beaches and cascading waterfalls.

Up to four helicopter tour companies can be book on my best of list; but each one is a long established, highly respectable company who will offer a unique experience.

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The Best Snorkel Tour on Big Island

Choosing the best snorkel tour on the Big Island can elevate your Hawaiian vacation from memorable to extraordinary. The Big Island’s diverse marine environments and rich underwater ecosystems provide exceptional Hawaiian snorkeling experiences that cater to all levels of snorkelers. To ensure you select the top tour, it’s important to consider several factors, including customer reviews of the local Kona tour boat , the unique qualities of Big Island snorkeling , and the variety of destinations that tours may explore.

Look to Reviews for the Best Snorkel Tour Recommendations

One of the most reliable ways to find the best snorkel tour on the Big Island is by looking at reviews from other travelers. Platforms like TripAdvisor , Yelp , and Google My Business offer detailed accounts from previous guests, providing insights into the quality and overall experience of different tours. Positive reviews often highlight the professionalism of the crew, the safety measures in place, and the richness of the marine life encountered. By comparing reviews, you can identify which Kona snorkel tours consistently receive high marks for their service, equipment quality, and overall snorkeling experience. Taking the time to read through reviews can help you make an informed decision and ensure that you book a Big Island tour that meets your expectations.

Big Island Snorkeling is Some of the Best in the World!

The Big Island of Hawaii boasts some of the best snorkeling in the world , thanks to its clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning coral reefs. The island’s unique volcanic topography creates an underwater landscape that is both beautiful and teeming with life. Snorkelers can expect to see a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles known locally as Honu, Kona manta rays , and even spinner dolphins. The visibility in the waters around the Big Island is typically excellent, allowing for spectacular views of the underwater scenery. The abundance of marine life and the pristine condition of the reefs make snorkeling here a truly unparalleled experience.

Where The Best Snorkel Tour on Big Island May Venture

The best snorkel tours on the Big Island often venture to several key locations known for their exceptional snorkeling conditions. Kealakekua Bay, home to the Captain Cook Monument, is a top destination due to its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Honaunau Bay, also known as Two Step, is another popular spot known for its easy entry and rich underwater biodiversity. Some tours may also explore the expanse of the South Kona Coast venturing to more secluded areas like the hidden black sand beaches or the waters around the Pu‘uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park– also known as the Place of Refuge. These locations offer diverse marine environments and the chance to encounter a wide array of sea creatures, ensuring a comprehensive and exciting snorkeling experience.

In conclusion, the Big Island offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities in the world, making it a prime destination for snorkel enthusiasts. By consulting reviews, you can identify the top Kona snorkel tours that consistently deliver exceptional experiences. The island’s clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes make snorkeling here truly special. The best tours on the Big Island often visit renowned locations such as Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument) and The Place of Refuge, as well as more secluded spots, providing a rich and varied snorkeling adventure. Choosing the right snorkel tour on the Big Island can ensure you have an unforgettable encounter with Hawaii’s vibrant marine life

• Sea Quest Hawaii