Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour

The Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour offers visitors a chance to soar over the Big Island’s breathtaking landscapes. Travelers can choose between doors-on or doors-off options, each providing a unique aerial perspective of iconic landmarks like Captain Cook Monument and Magic Sands Beach. With live commentary, the tour promises to immerse guests in the region’s rich history and diverse ecological wonders. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure, this helicopter excursion might just be the experience that sets your Hawaiian vacation apart.

This experience made our article of 6 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Kailua Kona.

Contents show

Key Points

The helicopter tour offers aerial views of Kailua Bay, Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, and Hualalai Volcano, a dormant shield volcano.
Passengers can choose between doors-on or doors-off options to experience different perspectives of the scenic landscape.
The tour provides live commentary on Hawaii’s history, culture, and natural ecosystems, enhancing the educational aspect of the experience.
The tour includes stops at Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park and coffee plantations, offering a comprehensive exploration of the region.
Specific guidelines are in place, such as arrival time, weight restrictions, and recommendations for appropriate attire and post-diving wait time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour offers visitors a unique aerial experience over Hawaii’s Big Island.

This 1-hour tour provides breathtaking views of Kailua Bay, Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, Ka’upulehu Crater, and more. Guests can choose between doors-on or doors-off options for an exhilarating perspective.

The tour includes live commentary, allowing guests to learn about Hawaii’s rich history and diverse ecosystems. Prices start at $540 per person, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation is free up to 2 days in advance. A private group option is available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Kailua Kona

Scenic Highlights and Itinerary

Soaring above Kailua Bay, Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, and the dramatic Ka’upulehu Crater, this helicopter tour offers a captivating aerial perspective of Hawaii’s natural wonders.

Guests will experience iconic landmarks like the Captain Cook Monument and Magic Sands Beach, as well as the lush forests and coastlines showcasing the area’s ecological diversity.

The tour includes stops at Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, Ali’i Drive, coffee plantations, and the Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve, providing a comprehensive exploration of the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

With live commentary, this guided tour promises an unforgettable aerial adventure.

Key Landmarks Explored

As guests embark on this captivating helicopter tour, they’ll have the opportunity to witness several key landmarks that showcase Hawaii’s rich history and natural beauty.

The tour includes a flyover of the Captain Cook Monument, where the famous explorer met his demise. Guests will also catch a glimpse of Magic Sands Beach, a popular spot known for its glistening white sand.

Plus, the tour offers an aerial view of the Hualalai Volcano, a dormant shield volcano that dominates the landscape.

These iconic landmarks provide a unique perspective on Hawaii’s diverse and awe-inspiring geography.

Ecological Diversity Showcased

Gliding above the lush forests and pristine coastlines, the tour showcases the ecological diversity of the region.

From the vibrant shades of green in the coffee plantations to the azure waters of the Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, passengers witness the contrast between Hawaii’s cultivated and natural environments.

The tour soars over the Ka’upulehu Crater, providing a bird’s-eye view of the volcanic landscape and its unique flora and fauna.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tour Stops and Experiences

During the tour, passengers will visit several key landmarks and locations around the Big Island.

The flight includes a stop at Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, where guests can see ancient Hawaiian fishponds and archaeological sites.

The tour also showcases Ali’i Drive, the historic heart of Kailua-Kona, as well as nearby coffee plantations.

Passengers will get an aerial view of the Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve, known for its diverse flora and fauna.

Throughout the journey, the live commentary provides historical insights, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the region’s rich cultural heritage.

There's plenty more to explore in Kailua Kona

The Flight Experience

Passengers can choose between two unique flight experiences – doors-on or doors-off.

The doors-on option provides a comfortable, enclosed cabin, ideal for those seeking a more traditional aerial tour.

Alternatively, the doors-off experience offers an exhilarating, open-air perspective, allowing passengers to:

Feel the wind in their hair
Capture unobstructed, panoramic photos
Immerse themselves in the stunning Hawaiian landscapes
Enjoy a heightened sense of connection with the environment
Savor the thrill of soaring above the volcanic terrain

Whichever option passengers select, the Hualalai Volcano Helicopter Tour promises an unforgettable aerial adventure.

Historical Insights and Atmospherics

As the helicopter soars above the diverse Hawaiian landscapes, passengers gain a deeper appreciation for the islands’ rich history and cultural significance.

Soaring over Hawaii’s landscapes, passengers gain deeper appreciation for the islands’ rich history and cultural significance.

The tour provides valuable insights into Hawaii’s past, showcasing historic sites like the Captain Cook Monument and Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. Guests learn about the region’s ecological diversity, from the lush coffee plantations to the pristine coastlines.

The contrast between these vibrant environments creates an atmospheric beauty, offering a unique perspective on the island’s natural and human heritage.

This aerial adventure promises to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.

Important Information and Recommendations

Travelers should arrive at the Big Island Jet Center an hour early for check-in and a safety briefing.

The tour has several important considerations:

Passengers over 260 lbs may incur additional fees, and all passengers 24 months and older must purchase a full-fare seat.
To ensure safety, intoxicated individuals will be refused service.
Guests are advised to wear warm clothing, sunglasses, and closed-toe shoes, and to tie back long hair.
It’s recommended to wait 24 hours after diving before flying.
The tour offers a choice between doors-on or doors-off options for a unique aerial perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups. According to the overview, a "Private Group Option" is available, allowing for a more personalized experience tailored to the group’s needs and preferences.

Is There a Minimum Number of Passengers Required?

The private group option is available, but there’s no stated minimum number of passengers required. Customers can book the tour for their group size, whether it’s just a couple or a larger party.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

There are no discounts mentioned for children or seniors on this tour. The pricing is a flat rate of $540 per person, with all passengers 24 months and older required to purchase a full-fare seat.

Can the Tour Be Recorded or Photographed During the Flight?

Passengers are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the helicopter tour, but recording the flight may be subject to restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to understand any policies or limitations.

What Is the Maximum Luggage Allowance for the Helicopter?

The helicopter tour doesn’t have a specific luggage allowance. Passengers should only bring essentials like sunglasses and a light jacket, as there’s limited space onboard. Anything larger may need to be left behind or stored separately.

The Sum Up

The Kailua-Kona: Hualalai Volcano Doors On/Off Helicopter Tour offers an unparalleled aerial adventure over Hawaii’s Big Island. Soaring above iconic landmarks, lush forests, and shimmering coastlines, this tour provides breathtaking views and insightful commentary on the region’s rich history and natural wonders. Whether choosing the doors-on or doors-off option, visitors are guaranteed an unforgettable and immersive experience that showcases the island’s diverse ecological beauty.