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All helicopter tours from Kona are done in a comfortable and luxurious 6 passenger Bell Jet Ranger that departs from the Kona Airport. Five out of 6 seats on this helicopter are window seats, and the one that is not has an excellent view out of both sides of the aircraft. On these fully narrated tours, there is two-way communication between you, your pilot, and your group.
Hawaii ExperienceFive volcanoes, beautiful mountain scapes, amazing white and black sand beaches, dozens of waterfalls, 2,000 foot cliffs, breathtaking coastlines and 11 different climate zones … this is what we call the true Hawaii Experience. It is impossible to see many of these sites from the ground; in about two hours you can feel the awesome granduer of the Big Island from the comfort of your “flying limousine.” This flight includes the volcanic activity at Kilauea and the waterfalls and rainforests of the Hamakua Coast.
Schedule: Morning and afternoon departures
Duration: 2 hours
Sights: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, five major volcanoes, white and black sand beaches, waterfalls and deep valleys, lush rainforests, and 11 different climate zones. Route and viewing may vary due to weather, volcanic activity and other uncontrollable events.
Hawaii Circle IslandInstead of spending your whole vacation in the car, you can see all of the Big Island by air in just 2 hours! Paradise Helicopters travels south to encompass the entire island. You will start at Kona Airport, the island’s western-most tip, and then you pass the Kona coffee district and slopes of Mauna Loa to the southern-most town in the United States, Punalu‘u. Enjoy exclusive views of Papakōlea…one of only four green sand beaches in the world! Next you will explore Kilauea crater, and hopefully catch red hot lava flowing. After the lava viewing, you will fly east to the island’s lush windward side and Hilo town. Water flows where lava once did, and gushes out of sheer cliffs through lava tubes creating hundreds of waterfalls. The vegetation on this side is nourished and rich. On the north side of the island, witness the grandeur of the Kohala valleys and waterfalls. And as you return to Kona, gaze upon the white sand beaches.
Schedule: Morning and afternoon departures
Duration: Approximately 2.25 hours total air flight time
Sights: Circumnavigate the entire island, five volcanoes, dramatic waterfalls, 2,000-foot deep valleys, white, black and green sand beaches, rugged coastlines, lava flow activity at Kīlauea crater, rain forests, Kohala’s lush valleys, and see 11 of the planet’s 13 climate zones.
Big Island ExpeditionOn the Big Island Expedition you will see Hawai‘i Island’s most breathtaking scenery, and immerse yourself into the rich history and culture of the historic Hilo town. Depart from the Kona Airport, and experience the island by air with the same route as the Hawai‘i Experience tour. Fly over the Kona coffee district and the slopes of Hualālai and Mauna Loa on your way to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Look out for hot lava at Kīlauea, the world’s most active volcano, and Pu‘u ʻŌʻō Vent. Next head north along the island’s rugged coastline. You will see jagged cliffs and old lava fields that have turned into hundreds of waterfalls and rich vegetation.
Then you will land on the windward side in the Hilo area. You can take complimentary ground transportation to the downtown area for a self-guided walking Pacific Tsunami Museum, quirky shops, Lyman Museum, farmers market, or other interesting spots. Or you can rent a car (airport code for pick up is ITO), and venture out on your own. Within driving distance are ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, ‘Akaka Falls, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, and the World Botanical Gardens.
At the end of your exploration, your helicopter takes you on the second half of your air tour, which includes lush rainforests, the Kohala valleys, and the iconic beaches of Hāpuna Beach and Kua Bay.
Schedule: Morning departure
Duration: Approximately 2 hours total air tour flight time (typically varies from 1.7 – 2.1 hours) and approximately 8 hours in Hilo. You will be picked up and dropped off by helicopter.
Sights: Current activity at Kilauea Volcano, amazing white and black sand beaches, hundreds of waterfalls, 2,000′ valley walls, breathtaking coast lines, and 11 different climate zones.
Volcano by Air & LandOn the Volcano by Air & Land tour you will get to explore the Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park area by air and by foot! You can sink your toes into a beautiful black sand beach and sip on award-winning coffee. From Kona Airport you will soar over the world-famous Kona coffee district and skirt three of Hawai‘i’s towering volcanoes: Hualālai, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. As you arrive to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, your pilot will search out the day’s lava activity. Sometimes it’s a stream or lake of glowing lava, a burning forest fire, or a sizzling entry into the ocean. Usually these activities are only accessible from the air.
After your “air” experience, you will touch down in Hilo. Then, you will meet your expert Hawaii Forest & Trail interpretive guide who will take you through the remote and rugged landscape of Kaʻū. This is home to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, the famous black sand beach of Punaluʻu, and the historic farming plantations. Learn how the powerful forces of nature have shaped the people and landscape of this dynamic region. This tour is a perfect blend of nature and culture and reveals what it’s like to live on two active volcanoes.
Within the Park, discover all the “must see” spots including Jaggar Museum, Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) and Halema‘uma‘u Crater. As you explore lava tubes, discover the mysteries of how these tunnels are formed. At Kaʻū Coffee Mill, you can ample and shop for award-winning farm fresh coffee along with other Hawai‘i Island grown treats like honey, macadamia nuts, and chocolate. Search for basking sea turtles at Punaluʻu beach and stroll along its crystal-fine black sand. Delve into the stories of Hawaiian legends and mythology, and learn about Pele, Hawaiian goddess of fire, lightning, wind and volcanoes.
Enjoy a picnic lunch before you return to Hilo Airport. As you fly back, your route will take you along Kona’s eastern and northern coasts. Venture deep into uninhabited valleys that boast Hawai‘i’s wild, untamed beauty. Waterfalls cascade down sheer valley walls, and the surf pounds rocky cliffs and unreachable beaches. The landscape shifts again, as you fly over Pololū Valley, south to Kawaihae and over beautiful white and black sand beaches. You will to make your way down the coastline and return to the Kona Airport just in time to enjoy a golden sunset.
Schedule: Morning departure
Duration: Approximately 11 hours total, including check-in, and the total flight time typically varies from 1.7 – 2.1 hours.
Sights: Approximately 7 hour guided tour of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Kaʻū Coffee Mill, and Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. Short hikes under 2 miles (rated easy to moderate).
Included in this tour: Ground transportation to and from Hilo airport and within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Park entry fees, deli style lunch with assorted beverages.
Gear Provided: Walking staffs, rain gear, warm wear, and daypacks.
Restrictions: Must be able to walk over uneven terrain and short climbs.
Volcano with Waterfall Heli-TrekOn Volcano with Waterfall Heli-Trek adventure soak in the island’s incredible views and get your boots muddy! After departing Kona Airport, fly over the world-famous Kona coffee district and glide past two of Hawai‘i’s towering volcanoes: Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Your pilot will search out the lava activity for the day as you arrive at Kīlauea in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Next you will witness uninhabited valleys of wild and untamed beauty. Look upon sheer valleys as waterfalls cascade down. Then along the coast, surf pounds on the cliffs and remote beaches.
After soaring over the island, you will land in historic North Kohala. Your Hawaii Forest & Trail interpretive guide will meet you here, and take you behind locked gates, over charming foot bridges, and past historic taro terraces. Discover the rich history of the Kohala District, where Kamehameha I was born, as you enjoy a relaxed trail walk. You’ll also have the opportunity to swim in a waterfall. Next, stroll through Hāwī, a quaint plantation village now home to galleries and artists. This tour is perfect for anyone looking for the best of Old Hawai‘i! After you experience North Kohala, a van will pick you up and take you back to Kona.
Schedule: Morning departures
Duration: Total tour time is 6.5 hours, exact tour length subject to change. Approximately 1.5 hours total air tour flight time (typically varies from 1.2 – 1.6 hours). You will be dropped off by helicopter, and picked up with a van at the end of the day.
Sights: Active volcanoes, Kona coffee district, and deep valleys & waterfalls.
Included in Tour: Deli style lunch with assorted beverages, and ground transportation from North Kohala to Kona Airport.
Gear Provided: Walking staffs, rain gear, warm wear, towel, and daypacks.
Restrictions: Must be able to walk over uneven terrain and short climbs. Children under 3 years old must be carried in a backpack carrier for ground portion.
Volcano with Kohala LandingOn this tour, witness the inspiring beauty of Hawai‘i Island plus touch down at a remote overlook for a total immersion into the Kohala area. En route to you Kīlauea crater, you will soar over the Kona coffee district. Hopefully Pele will give you a peek of her molten lava flows! Next, you will fly north to Hilo town and the lush rainforests of East Hawai‘i. Unlike any other air adventure on the island, Paradise Helicopters takes you deep into Kohala for an exclusive landing. This area is normally only accessible by hours of grueling hiking. Walk the same fertile valleys that King Kamehameha I did as a child. You are welcome to explore the area during your time on the ground or relax at the scenic overlook. When you take to the air again, view the drastic landscape change from windward to leeward. On your way back to Kona, glide past the world-famous white sand beaches and resorts of Waikoloa.
Schedule: Morning and afternoon departures
Duration: Approximately 3 hours total, including check-in with 2 hours total air tour flight time (typically varies from 1.7 – 2.1 hours), and approx. 1 hour on the ground with easy walks. You will be picked up and dropped off by helicopter.
Sights: Current activity at Kilauea Volcano, white and black sand beaches, hundreds of waterfalls, 2,000′ valley walls, breathtaking coastlines, and 10 different climate zones!
Check In: 45 min before flight time at Paradise Helicopters office at Kona Airport
GPS: 73-341 Uu St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 Click to view map
Reservations: Preferred seats are $25 or $50. Preferred seat selections will guarantee you a window seat and but are subject to weight and balance restrictions. Please call to inquire at 1.877.678.7333.
Equipment: Bell 407 Jet Ranger
Capacity: 6
Restrictions: Due to spatial limitations, additional fuel charges, and aircraft maintenance demands, the following capacity surcharge policy applies to these flights. Guest weight is determined by a mandatory scale reading at check-in. All guests weighing between 265 and 315 lbs will be assessed a Capacity Surcharge (CS) of $50. The guest will be guaranteed a window seat. All guests weighing over 315 lbs will be assessed a Capacity Surcharge of an extra seat, for weight and balance purposes. The rate of the extra seat will be determined by the specific tour that they are booked on. This cost is calculated by adding an additional seat to the one that has already been purchased. The guest will be guaranteed a window seat.
What to Bring & Wear: Passengers should wear comfortable clothing and dark colored shirts to reduce glare on the windows.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours before the start of the event.
Yes, helicopter tours are expensive. Honestly though, people don’t come to Hawaii to save money. They come in search of the complete Hawaiian experience. The reality is that there is so much beauty in Hawaii that can only be seen from the air – that it is well worth it for those seeking the ultimate vacation experience. When you consider the thousands of dollars spent on airfare, meals, and accommodations on a Hawaii vacation, it only makes sense to spend a few hundred dollars more and REALLY see the island while you are here.
For those who don’t have the time or the desire to spend the better part of a day driving to and from Hilo, the helicopter tours that leave from Kona are the way to experience the active volcano. Flights are two hours in length … remember this is the BIG Island after all … it takes time to fly to the other side of the island although not nearly as long as it takes to drive there. Of course with a longer flight comes a higher price. For a little more money you can also add the Valley Landing option. There is nothing cooler than having your helicopter land in the middle of nowhere, in the tropical jungle and getting out for a relaxing break. Feel free to bring along whatever you’d like to eat or drink during this wilderness rest stop. And for those who really want the ultimate – the helicopter tour combined with a remote landing and a Waipio Rim waterfall hike is about the most awesome and exclusive vacation activity available anywhere in the state!
Helicopter tours from Kona use the Bell Jet Ranger which seats 6 passengers. This model helicopter is very spacious and comfortable and the interior feels a little like the inside of a limousine. One passenger sits up front with the pilot (sort of like riding shotgun), a second row of two seats faces the third row of three seats. With this arrangement five out of the six seats in the helicopter are window seats, and that one seat in the middle in the third row is NOT a bad seat as it has good views out of BOTH sides of the helicopter. Typically when the pilot hits a particularly scenic spot he or she will make a first pass on one side of the helicopter and turn so that the other side of the helicopter gets the same view. This middle back seat gets the view both times and I talked to one staff member with the tour company who says this is his favorite place to sit! All flights in Kona are done with this model helicopter.
Seating is assigned in the helicopters based upon body weights and for the best balance of the aircraft. While it is possible to pay a little extra to guarantee particular seats, we find that the cost is not worth it. If you request a particular seat and you don’t fit the weight and balance profile for that seat on that particular flight, you’ll get moved to another seat anyway and the upgrade fee will be refunded. If you do fit the weight and balance profile for that seat, the chances are good that’s where you’d end up sitting anyway without paying extra. Because the Bell Jet Ranger has 5 window seats and the one seat that isn’t a window has very good views out of both sides of the aircraft, we recommend that you avoid paying extra to secure any particular seat. If money isn’t an object for you and you do want to spend extra to reserve a particular seat, give us a call after you fill out the form on the right side of this page. We’ll add your specific seat requests to your reservation and let you know if you fit the profile for the seat you’ve requested. The preferred seating request is $50 extra per person.
A word about children flying on these tours. There are no age restrictions at all on the Bell Jet Ranger. Child policy is the same on this helicopter as it is on a commercial airliner. Children 2 and older will require their own seat and will pay the same fare as an adult. Infants under the age of 2 are seated in the lap of a parent and fly for free. Be aware that if you push your child to do the tour and then they back out at the last minute, you will not get refunded because your child is afraid to do the tour.
One other little feature that’s nice … all of these helicopters have two-way communication between the pilot and the passengers. You can talk to the pilot … and to each other … during the tour.
If you are interested in flying from Hilo, check out our Helicopters from Hilo page.
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