Private Helicopter Tour: Luxury Picnic, Volcanoes & Waterfalls on Hawaii’s Big Island
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required beyond the ability to board and sit for the duration; brief, easy walking at the landing site.
Overview
A private helicopter loop over the Big Island that pairs aerial panoramas of Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea and Kohala with a 60‑minute gourmet picnic landing on the Kohala Coast. Expect waterfalls, black sand valleys and ocean views in 2–3 hours.
Private Helicopter Tour: Luxury Picnic, Volcanoes & Waterfalls on Hawaii’s Big Island
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You lift off from Kona and the ocean immediately asserts itself — a bright, hard blue stitched with reef lines while the shore shrinks into fishing boats and roadside banyans. In the helicopter’s calm, the island rearranges itself beneath you: a rookery of craters, a quilt of lava flows, and a green spine of valleys that still pour water down to the sea. The pilot banks gently and the Hualālai ridgeline and the flat shoulders of Mauna Loa come into view, each telling a different chapter of Hawai‘i’s volcanic story.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for weight-in and briefing
You must arrive 60 minutes before departure to complete check-in and provide passenger weights; late arrivals risk cancellation.
Dress for wind and sun
Even on warm days the helicopter can be chilly; bring a light windbreaker and sunscreen for the landing.
Doors-off option requires prep
If you choose doors-off photos, wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and secure hair — loose items are not allowed.
Mind the weather policy
Flights may be delayed or canceled for safety; book flexible ground plans and keep an eye on the forecast.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles (honu)
- Spinner dolphins nearshore
History
The Big Island records successive volcanic episodes; Kohala is the oldest volcano and Waipi‘o Valley was a major Polynesian population center with taro cultivation and ali‘i (chief) sites.
Conservation
Stick to landing areas and follow crew instructions to protect fragile pasture and coastal ecosystems; opt to leave no trace and support operators who work with local landowners.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Camera with polarizing filter
Captures volcanic contrast and reduces glare over ocean and waterfalls.
Light windbreaker
Blocks gusts at altitude and keeps you comfortable during the landing hour.
all-year specific
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Strong UV, especially on reflective black sand and ocean surfaces.
summer specific
Closed-toe shoes
Required for doors-off option and useful for moving on uneven ranch ground.