Are you ready to witness the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii’s landscapes from a whole new perspective? Look no further than the Scenic Helicopter Tours that offer an unforgettable experience soaring through the skies above this tropical paradise. From the lush green valleys to the cascading waterfalls, you’ll be immersed in the stunning vistas that make Hawaii truly unique. Buckle up and get ready to be amazed as you embark on an aerial adventure like no other.
1. Factors to Consider Before Booking a Helicopter Tour
1.1 Weather Conditions
Before booking a helicopter tour in Hawaii, it is crucial to consider the weather conditions. Hawaii’s weather can be unpredictable, but generally, it is known for its pleasant tropical climate. However, occasional rain showers and strong winds are common. It is essential to ensure that the weather is suitable for flying to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Check the weather forecast for the specific date and time of your planned helicopter tour to avoid any potential weather-related issues.
1.2 Safety Measures
Safety should always be a top priority when booking a helicopter tour. Look for tour operators that have a proven track record of prioritizing safety. It is essential to choose a company that employs experienced pilots and regularly maintains their helicopters. Additionally, check if the tour operator adheres to all necessary safety regulations and guidelines. This includes providing safety briefings before the flight and ensuring all passengers are properly secured with safety belts.
1.3 Duration of the Tour
Consider the duration of the helicopter tour when making your booking. Helicopter tours in Hawaii can vary in length, ranging from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. The duration of the tour will depend on the specific route and sights you wish to see. Take into account your personal preferences and energy levels when deciding on the tour duration. It is also worth noting that longer tours often allow for more exploration and provide a more comprehensive experience.
1.4 Cost and Packages
The cost of a helicopter tour in Hawaii can vary significantly depending on the tour operator, duration, and the sights included in the package. Take the time to research different tour operators and compare their prices and offerings. Consider what is included in the package, such as in-flight commentary, transportation to and from the helicopter base, and any additional perks. While it is tempting to opt for the cheapest option, remember that safety and quality should be the primary factors when making your decision.
2. The Best Time to Take a Helicopter Tour in Hawaii
2.1 Seasonal Variations
Hawaii experiences relatively consistent weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for helicopter tours throughout the year. However, certain seasons offer unique experiences and opportunities. During the winter months (December to February), Hawaii witnesses the arrival of majestic humpback whales, providing an incredible spectacle to behold from the air. Spring (March to May) brings the blooming of vibrant flowers and lush vegetation, adding bursts of color to the landscapes. Summer (June to August) offers warm and dry weather, perfect for clear aerial views. Autumn (September to November) showcases mesmerizing sunsets and the chance to spot sea turtles nesting on the beaches.
2.2 Time of Day Considerations
The time of day can significantly impact the quality of your helicopter tour experience. Morning flights generally offer clearer skies and lower winds, allowing for better visibility and smoother flying conditions. If you are particularly interested in capturing photographs, morning tours provide the best lighting conditions for stunning aerial shots. Late afternoon or early evening flights can bless you with breathtaking sunset views and the magical transformation of the Hawaiian landscapes as the golden hour approaches.
2.3 Sunrise and Sunset Tours
One of the most enchanting ways to experience a helicopter tour in Hawaii is by choosing a sunrise or sunset tour. Witnessing the first rays of sunlight illuminating the lush green valleys and sparkling waters is an unforgettable sight. The vibrant colors of the sunset reflecting off the coastline and volcanic landscapes create a truly awe-inspiring moment. Both sunrise and sunset tours offer a different perspective of Hawaii’s beauty and are highly recommended for those seeking a more romantic and magical experience.
3. Popular Helicopter Tour Operators in Hawaii
3.1 Paradise Helicopters
Paradise Helicopters is a renowned and trusted tour operator offering a wide range of helicopter tours in Hawaii. With their focus on safety, comfort, and environmental sustainability, Paradise Helicopters provides an exceptional experience for their passengers. Their knowledgeable pilots provide insightful commentary during the flight, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the sights you encounter. Paradise Helicopters offer various packages, including tours that showcase the volcanic landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and the beautiful coastlines of Hawaii’s islands.
3.2 Blue Hawaiian Helicopters
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters is another popular choice for helicopter tours in Hawaii. They have been operating since 1985 and pride themselves on offering top-quality tours with a strong commitment to safety. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters boasts a team of extensively trained pilots who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of Hawaii’s landscapes. Their tours cover a wide range of attractions, including volcano flights, waterfall explorations, and coastal adventures. Whether you are a first-time flyer or a seasoned adventurer, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters ensures a memorable experience.
3.3 Maverick Helicopters
Maverick Helicopters is a premier tour operator specializing in providing unforgettable helicopter tours in Hawaii. With a focus on personalized service and luxurious experiences, Maverick Helicopters offers both comfort and excitement. Their expert pilots navigate the skies, showcasing the stunning scenery and hidden gems of Hawaii. Maverick Helicopters offers a variety of tours, from exploring the enchanting valleys to witnessing the dramatic coastline and capturing aerial views of the tropical rainforests.
3.4 Safari Helicopters
Safari Helicopters is a respected and family-owned helicopter tour company known for its exceptional customer service and exciting tours. With a dedicated team of pilots, Safari Helicopters takes you on thrilling adventures above Hawaii’s landscapes. Enjoy aerial views of iconic attractions such as volcanoes, waterfalls, valleys, and beaches. Safari Helicopters also offers custom private tours for those special occasions, ensuring an unforgettable experience tailored to your preferences.
4. Exploring the Volcanic Landscapes
4.1 Flight over Kīlauea Volcano
No trip to Hawaii is complete without witnessing the power and beauty of its active volcanoes. Taking a helicopter tour to fly over Kīlauea Volcano provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the fiery spectacle from the sky. Marvel at the sight of lava flowing into the ocean, creating steam plumes and new land formations. The vivid colors and incredible forces of nature at work make this experience truly mesmerizing.
4.2 Views of Mauna Loa
Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth, offers spectacular views from the air. Soar above its massive crater and witness the remnants of ancient lava flows that have shaped the landscape over time. The sheer scale of Mauna Loa can only truly be appreciated from a helicopter, allowing you to understand its immense size and power. The flight over Mauna Loa provides a unique perspective on this geological wonder, giving you a lasting memory of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes.
4.3 Fascinating Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Helicopter tours often include a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the rich volcanic heritage of the islands. From the air, you can witness the stark contrast between the vibrant lush green forests and the blackened lava fields. The helicopter tour provides access to remote areas of the park that are not easily accessible by foot, allowing you to explore hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of the volcanic activity that has shaped the Hawaiian Islands.
5. Soaring Above the Beautiful Waterfalls
5.1 Majestic Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls is one of the most iconic and picturesque waterfalls in Hawaii. Taking a helicopter tour over this magnificent natural wonder offers a unique perspective on its beauty and grandeur. Witness the cascading water as it plummets down into the pool below, creating a mesmerizing sight. The aerial view allows you to truly appreciate the scale and power of Wailua Falls, making for a breathtaking experience.
5.2 Picturesque Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Park Falls)
Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as the Jurassic Park Falls, gained fame as the backdrop for the movie “Jurassic Park.” This hidden gem is situated in the lush Hanapepe Valley and can only be seen from the air or via a specialized tour. Soar above the dense greenery and catch a glimpse of this stunning waterfall, surrounded by the untouched beauty of the valley. The helicopter tour provides the perfect vantage point to capture this iconic waterfall, making it a must-see for movie enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
5.3 Scenic Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls is another breathtaking waterfall in Hawaii that offers a true feast for the eyes. With a height of approximately 442 feet, this impressive waterfall is a captivating sight from the air. As you hover above Akaka Falls, you can appreciate the intricate details of the cascading water and the lush vegetation that surrounds it. The helicopter tour allows for a unique and dynamic viewing experience, highlighting the natural beauty of Hawaii’s waterfalls.
6. Spectacular Coastal Views
6.1 Flying over the Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai is renowned for its stunning beauty, with towering cliffs, lush valleys, and crystal-clear waters. A helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast offers an unparalleled perspective on this natural wonder. Hovering above the coastline, you can witness the rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and secluded sea caves. The vivid colors and dramatic landscapes make this helicopter tour an unforgettable experience.
6.2 Views of the Molokai Sea Cliffs
The Molokai Sea Cliffs are an awe-inspiring sight to behold, and a helicopter tour provides an unrivaled opportunity to witness their magnificence. Soar above these towering cliffs, which reach heights of up to 3,600 feet, and witness the dramatic drop-offs into the ocean below. The helicopter tour showcases the raw power of nature and the incredible beauty of Hawaii’s coastline, creating a breathtaking experience that will stay with you forever.
6.3 Watching the Maui Road to Hana
The world-famous Road to Hana on the island of Maui is a scenic drive known for its lush landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas. Taking a helicopter tour over the Road to Hana offers a unique perspective on this popular attraction. Fly above the winding road and witness the hidden gems that are often missed by those driving on the ground. From cascading waterfalls to rugged cliffs, the aerial views of the Road to Hana provide an unforgettable adventure.
7. Discovering the Lush Green Valleys
7.1 Flying above Waimea Valley
Waimea Valley on the island of Oahu is a verdant treasure, home to lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant flora. A helicopter tour over Waimea Valley offers a bird’s-eye view of this enchanting location. Soar above the treetops and witness the emerald green valleys opening up beneath you. Marvel at the waterfalls as they flow into hidden pools, creating a serene and picturesque sight. The helicopter tour provides a unique perspective that allows you to fully appreciate the magic and beauty of Waimea Valley.
7.2 Exploring Hanapepe Valley
The Hanapepe Valley on the island of Kauai is a lush and fertile valley surrounded by imposing cliffs and dense vegetation. A helicopter tour over Hanapepe Valley provides an opportunity to explore this hidden gem from above. Witness the vibrant shades of green as you hover above the valley’s expansive fields and dense forests. The helicopter tour allows you to take in the grandeur of the cliffs and the tranquility of the valley, creating a truly mesmerizing experience.
7.3 Aerial Views of Honokohau Valley
Honokohau Valley on the island of Maui is a remote and secluded valley that is teeming with natural beauty. Taking a helicopter tour over Honokohau Valley allows you to discover its wonders from a unique perspective. Soar above the valley to witness the cascading waterfalls, lush vegetation, and meandering streams below. The aerial views provide a sense of tranquility and showcase the untouched splendor of Hawaii’s landscapes.
8. Bird’s-Eye View of the Tropical Rainforests
8.1 Overflight of Hāmākua Coast
The Hāmākua Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii is known for its breathtaking tropical rainforests and dramatic sea cliffs. Taking a helicopter tour over the Hāmākua Coast offers an unparalleled view of its beauty. Soar above the dense green canopy of the rainforest as you witness the interplay of light and shadow. Marvel at the rugged cliffs that plunge into the turquoise waters below. The helicopter tour provides a unique perspective on the captivating landscapes of the Hāmākua Coast.
8.2 Stunning Views of Hilo Forest Reserve
The Hilo Forest Reserve on the eastern side of the Big Island is a pristine rainforest that is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal species. Taking a helicopter tour over the Hilo Forest Reserve allows you to appreciate the magnitude and vastness of this protected area. Fly above the towering trees and witness the lush vegetation that extends as far as the eye can see. The helicopter tour provides a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of Hawaii’s tropical rainforests.
8.3 Canopy Tour of Olaa Rainforest
The Olaa Rainforest on the Big Island of Hawaii is a hidden gem that offers a diverse array of plant life and wildlife. A helicopter tour over the Olaa Rainforest provides a unique opportunity to explore its wonders from above. Hover above the dense canopy and witness the myriad shades of green that make up this vibrant ecosystem. The helicopter tour allows you to discover the hidden waterfalls, panoramic views, and hidden valleys that are concealed within the Olaa Rainforest, creating an unforgettable experience.
9. Unique Geological Formations
9.1 Aerial Exploration of Waipio Valley
Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii is a stunning geological formation characterized by its steep cliffs, lush vegetation, and black sand beach. Taking a helicopter tour over Waipio Valley allows you to fully appreciate its unique beauty and grandeur. Soar above the valley and witness the cascading waterfalls, vibrant landscapes, and panoramic vistas. The helicopter tour provides a perspective that showcases the power of nature and the remarkable geological formations found in Waipio Valley.
9.2 Unveiling the Beauty of Diamond Head Crater
Diamond Head Crater is an iconic landmark on the island of Oahu, famous for its dramatic volcanic cone and panoramic views of Honolulu. A helicopter tour over Diamond Head Crater offers a chance to witness this natural wonder from a bird’s-eye perspective. Soar above the crater and marvel at the circular formation and the contrasting colors of the lush greenery against the deep blue ocean. The helicopter tour provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the beauty and historical significance of Diamond Head Crater.
9.3 Marveling at Kauai’s Waimea Canyon
Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon on the island of Kauai offers breathtaking views of its red and green-hued cliffs, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Taking a helicopter tour over Waimea Canyon allows you to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder. Soar above the vast expanse of the canyon, taking in the vibrant colors and intricate details of the geological formations. The helicopter tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to capture the magnitude and splendor of Waimea Canyon.
10. Capturing Unforgettable Memories
10.1 Photography Tips
When embarking on a helicopter tour in Hawaii, capturing stunning photographs is a must. Here are a few photography tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors, especially when photographing waterfalls or coastal scenes.
- Shoot in RAW format to capture more details and have more flexibility during post-processing.
- Opt for a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness and grandeur of the landscapes.
- Experiment with different compositions, including leading lines and framing techniques, to create visually appealing photographs.
- Ensure your camera settings are appropriate for aerial photography, such as fast shutter speeds to freeze motion and a higher ISO to compensate for any vibrations.
10.2 Choosing the Right Seat in a Helicopter
Choosing the right seat in a helicopter can significantly impact your viewing experience. Here are a few tips to consider:
- Sit in a window seat for unobstructed views and the ability to capture photographs without interference.
- If possible, request a seat in the front row for an unparalleled panoramic view.
- Consider the weight distribution of the helicopter to ensure a balanced flight. The tour operator will typically assign seats based on weight distribution for safety purposes.
- Be mindful of your fellow passengers and avoid obstructing their view when taking photographs or leaning to capture different angles.
10.3 Exploring Helicopter Videography
If photography is not your preferred method of capturing memories, consider exploring helicopter videography. Here are a few tips to enhance your videography experience:
- Use a gimbal or image stabilization system to create smooth and steady footage.
- Experiment with different camera angles and perspectives to add variety to your video.
- Incorporate aerial transitions, such as ascending or descending shots, to create visually engaging sequences.
- Pay attention to the audio quality and consider using a microphone to capture clear and high-quality sound.
- Edit your footage to tell a story and create a memorable video that encapsulates the beauty and excitement of your helicopter tour.
In conclusion, booking a helicopter tour in Hawaii provides a unique and exhilarating way to explore the diverse landscapes and natural wonders of the islands. Consider the factors discussed, such as weather conditions, safety measures, tour duration, and cost, before making your booking. Whether you choose to witness the volcanic landscapes, soar above beautiful waterfalls, explore the coastal views, discover lush green valleys, or capture unforgettable memories through photography or videography, a helicopter tour in Hawaii promises an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience.