Top Helicopter Tours in Hawaii: Soar Above Paradise

Aloha, fellow adventurers! If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably dreamed of experiencing Hawaii’s breathtaking landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. Well, I’m here to tell you that those dreams can become a reality – and trust me, it’s even better than you can imagine!

As someone who’s been lucky enough to call these islands home for years (and yes, I still pinch myself every day), I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing many of Hawaii’s helicopter tours firsthand. Today, I’m excited to share with you my top picks for the most unforgettable aerial adventures across our beautiful island chain.

So buckle up, keep your camera ready, and let’s take off on a virtual tour of Hawaii’s best helicopter experiences!

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters: The Gold Standard

When it comes to helicopter tours in Hawaii, Blue Hawaiian is practically royalty. They’ve been in the business for over 30 years, and boy, does it show!

What sets them apart? For starters, their fleet of state-of-the-art Eco-Star helicopters. These babies are not only super quiet (your ears will thank you), but they also have panoramic windows that’ll make you feel like you’re floating on air. And let’s not forget about their pilots – they’re not just skilled aviators, but also wonderful storytellers who’ll regale you with fascinating facts and local legends.

Blue Hawaiian offers tours on all four major islands, but if I had to pick a favorite, it’d be their “Complete Island” tour of Maui. Picture this: you’re soaring over the lush Iao Valley, then suddenly you’re face-to-face with a cascading waterfall in the heart of the rainforest. Before you know it, you’re cruising along the dramatic coastline of Hana, and then – bam! – you’re peering into the vast Haleakala Crater. It’s like a greatest hits album of Maui’s landscapes, all in about an hour.

Pro tip: If you’re visiting during whale season (December to May), keep your eyes peeled for humpbacks breaching in the ocean below. It’s a sight that never gets old, no matter how many times you see it.

Jack Harter Helicopters: The Original Kauai Helicopter Tour

If Kauai is on your itinerary (and it absolutely should be), then Jack Harter Helicopters needs to be on your radar. These folks have been showcasing the Garden Isle’s beauty since 1962, making them the OG of Kauai helicopter tours.

What I love about Jack Harter is their variety of options. Are you a photography enthusiast? Their doors-off Hughes 500 tour will give you unobstructed views that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy. Prefer a bit more comfort? Their Airbus AStar tours offer a smooth, air-conditioned ride without compromising on the views.

Their signature tour takes you on a grand tour of Kauai’s most iconic sights. You’ll swoop through the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” (aka Waimea Canyon), marvel at the jagged Na Pali Coast (trust me, it’s even more impressive from the air), and get up close and personal with the “Weeping Wall” of Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest spots on Earth.

But here’s the real kicker – Jack Harter’s pilots are known for their ability to adapt tours based on weather conditions. So even if Mother Nature throws a curveball, you’re still guaranteed an amazing experience.

Paradise Helicopters: For the Adventurous Soul

Okay, thrill-seekers, this one’s for you! Paradise Helicopters offers some of the most unique and adventurous tours in Hawaii, particularly on the Big Island.

Their claim to fame? Volcano tours. And I’m not talking about flying over dormant craters – I mean active, lava-spewing volcanoes! Their “Volcanoes and Waterfalls Extreme” tour is not for the faint of heart, but it’s an experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Picture this: you’re hovering over Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, watching as molten lava bubbles and flows. The heat is so intense you can feel it through the helicopter’s floor. Then, as if that wasn’t enough excitement for one day, you’re off to the Kohala Coast, diving into valleys and pulling up alongside towering waterfalls.

But wait, there’s more! Paradise Helicopters also offers doors-off tours and even private charters if you’re feeling fancy. And for aviation geeks, they have a restored WWII-era Hughes MD 500D helicopter. How cool is that?

Air Maui Helicopter Tours: The Boutique Experience

Sometimes, bigger isn’t always better. If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, Air Maui might just be your perfect match.

As a smaller operation, Air Maui prides itself on its attention to detail and customer service. From the moment you arrive at their heliport, you’ll feel like a VIP. Their pilots aren’t just skilled aviators; they’re also local experts who can give you insider tips on the best beaches, restaurants, and hidden gems to check out after your flight.

Their “Complete Island” tour is a must-do. You’ll soar over the West Maui Mountains, peer into the mist-shrouded Iao Valley, and trace the rugged coastline of Hana. But the highlight for many (myself included) is the flight over Haleakala National Park. Seeing the massive crater from above gives you a whole new appreciation for the power of nature.

What I particularly love about Air Maui is their commitment to safety and their eco-friendly approach. They use the quietest helicopters available, which not only makes for a more comfortable ride but also minimizes disturbance to wildlife and local communities.

Sunshine Helicopters: Family-Friendly Fun

Traveling with the whole family? Sunshine Helicopters has got you covered. With tours available on Maui, Big Island, and Kauai, they’re a great option for multi-island hoppers.

What sets Sunshine apart is their focus on creating a fun, educational experience for all ages. Their pilots are great at engaging younger passengers, pointing out sights that kids will love (like spotting sea turtles from the air) and sharing island trivia that’ll have the whole family playing “Did you know?” games for the rest of your vacation.

Their “Hana/Haleakala” tour on Maui is a personal favorite. It’s a perfect introduction to the island’s diverse landscapes, from the lush rainforests of the Hana coast to the otherworldly terrain of Haleakala’s crater. And if you’re lucky enough to catch a rainbow stretching across the valley? Well, that’s the kind of magic that makes Hawaii so special.

Sunshine also offers a unique “Sunset Odyssey” tour on the Big Island. Watching the sun dip below the horizon from thousands of feet in the air, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks, is an experience that’ll stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Safari Helicopters: Off the Beaten Path

Last but certainly not least, we have Safari Helicopters. Operating on Kauai, these folks specialize in getting you to places that are virtually inaccessible by any other means.

Their signature “Deluxe Waterfall Safari” is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to experience the true, untamed beauty of Kauai. You’ll venture deep into the heart of the island, discovering hidden waterfalls that few people ever get to see. The highlight? A remote waterfall landing (weather permitting, of course).

Imagine stepping out of the helicopter onto a pristine plateau, surrounded by lush foliage and the sound of rushing water. You’ll have time to stretch your legs, take photos, and simply soak in the beauty of this secret paradise. It’s moments like these that remind you why they call Kauai the Garden Isle.

Safari’s pilots are also known for their knowledge of Hawaiian culture and history. They’ll regale you with tales of ancient Hawaiian legends associated with the landscapes you’re flying over, adding an extra layer of depth to your experience.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Helicopter Tour

Before we wrap up, here are a few insider tips to help you make the most of your Hawaiian helicopter adventure:

1. Book early: The best tours often fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking in advance not only secures your spot but sometimes comes with early bird discounts.
2. Dress appropriately: Wear dark clothing to reduce glare on the windows for better photos. If you’re doing a doors-off tour, dress warmly – it can get chilly up there!
3. Choose your seat wisely: If you’re a photography enthusiast, ask about the best seats for taking pictures. Some companies allow you to reserve specific seats for an additional fee.
4. Don’t skimp on the motion sickness meds: Even if you don’t usually get motion sick, the unique movement of a helicopter can catch you off guard. Better safe than sorry!
5. Bring a good camera: While your phone can take great pics, a camera with a good zoom lens will help you capture those breathtaking details.
6. But don’t forget to put the camera down: Make sure to spend some time just taking in the views with your own eyes. Trust me, it’s an experience you’ll want to remember fully.
7. Consider the time of day: Early morning tours often offer the clearest views, while sunset tours provide spectacular lighting. Think about what kind of experience you’re after.

Wrapping Up

There you have it, folks – a whirlwind tour of Hawaii’s top helicopter experiences. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls on Kauai, marveling at active volcanoes on the Big Island, or soaring over Maui’s diverse landscapes, a helicopter tour is sure to be a highlight of your Hawaiian adventure.

Remember, these islands are more than just beautiful beaches and luaus (though those are pretty great too). Seeing Hawaii from above gives you a whole new appreciation for the raw, untamed beauty of these islands – and might just leave you, like me, never wanting to leave.

So go ahead, treat yourself to a bird’s-eye view of paradise. I promise you won’t regret it. Aloha and happy flying!