Kohala Coast Helicopter Tour: 90-Min Volcano & Waterfall Heli Flight (Doors Off or On)
Difficulty
easy
Duration
90 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required—suitable for most travelers able to board a helicopter and follow safety instructions.
Overview
A 90-minute helicopter flight along Hawai‘i Island’s Kohala Coast unspools volcano summits, hidden valleys, and tiered waterfalls. Choose doors-off for unobstructed photos and prepare for a practical pre-flight checklist—this is sightseeing with rules and rewards.
Kohala Coast Helicopter Tour: 90-Min Volcano & Waterfall Heli Flight (Doors Off or On)
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You lift off from the brown-walled Big Island Jet Center and Kona falls away beneath the skids: a grid of coral reefs, spinner dolphins flicking like commas in blue ink, and the shallow ribbon of Kailua Bay that seems to glow from within. The helicopter climbs, and the island rearranges itself—black river of rock becomes ridged shoulders of volcanoes, then a curtain of waterfalls spilling down the Kohala cliffs. For 90 minutes you travel along the spine of Hawai‘i Island, where fire and water argue openly across the landscape.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Weigh-In
You must arrive 60 minutes before departure for a mandatory weight and manifest check; late arrivals risk cancellation.
Dress for Doors-Off
For an open-door experience bring a windproof jacket, closed-toe shoes and tie back long hair to stay safe and warm.
Secure Your Camera
If you choose doors-off, use a camera strap or tether and protect electronics from salt spray and wind.
Hydration & Motion Sickness
Avoid heavy meals before flying, stay hydrated, and take motion-sickness medication if you’re sensitive to aerial movement.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- Spinner dolphins near Kailua Bay
History
The Kohala coast and Waipi‘o Valley are tied to the lineage of King Kamehameha; many place names recall chiefs and ancient agricultural practices like taro cultivation.
Conservation
Operators work to minimize disturbance to wildlife and sensitive shorelines; travelers should avoid feeding animals, flying low over nesting areas when instructed, and supporting local stewardship groups.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windproof Jacket
Required for doors-off flights to block wind and spray at altitude.
all specific
Closed-Toe Shoes
Needed for safe entry/exit and to meet operator requirements for doors-off rides.
all specific
Camera with Tether
Secures gear during doors-off photography and captures unobstructed aerial shots.
all specific
Light Daypack
Carries your camera, ID, medication, and water while keeping hands free for boarding.
all specific