Big Island helicopter tour with a volcano overflight in Hawaii

Big Island helicopter tour departing from Kona – Kohala Coast, volcanoes and waterfalls (90 min)

This 90-minute helicopter tour departing from Kailua-Kona in Hawaii follows a loop that alternates coastline, volcanic terrain, and wetter valleys on Big Island. The pilot first presents the instructions, then the flight is organized into segments that vary depending on the weather and visibility, with landmarks announced on the headset along the route so you don’t miss any of the scenery flown over during this helicopter tour.

Departure from Kona and transition toward the Kohala Coast

The start of the flight takes place on the west coast, with a view of Kailua-Kona and the bay before heading up toward the Kohala Coast; the coastline then becomes more rugged, with water colors that change clearly depending on the areas. The pilot announces waterfront landmarks as you go along, depending on the trajectory and the day’s route; Magic Sands Beach may be one of the places mentioned on the Kona coast at the start of the loop. Shortly after takeoff, the helicopter flies over Kailua Bay and then follows Alii Drive, which makes it possible to recognize these typical waterfront places from altitude.

Overflight of volcanoes and terrain: Hualālai and Ka’upulehu Crater

The tour then includes a more mineral segment with an overflight of Hualālai Volcano, and the pilot brings the aircraft above the Ka’upulehu Crater area, where you can make out the crater’s structure and the dark lava terrain. This part mainly highlights the contrast between lava textures and landforms, very different from the coastal atmosphere at departure.

Kohala valleys and waterfalls

Returning to the Kohala area, the helicopter passes over cliffs and greener valleys, with an overflight oriented toward the waterfalls and wet areas of the region. The pilot may slow down certain segments or slightly adjust the route to give time to admire the scenery, depending on conditions. The experience ends with a return to Kailua-Kona, with a landing at the departure base. Arrival at the Kailua-Kona base (Kona Airport area)