Day Trip From Oahu to Hilo: Active Volcanoes & Helicopter Tour

Exploring the diverse natural wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island is a captivating experience. A day trip from Oahu to Hilo offers the opportunity to witness the active Kilauea volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, soar over lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls in a helicopter, and marvel at the striking black sands of Richardson Beach. With round-trip airfare and a local Hawaiian lunch included, this tour provides a hassle-free adventure filled with awe-inspiring sights. The stage is set for an unforgettable journey that promises to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our article of The 15 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Oahu.

Key Points

• A day trip from Oahu to Hilo showcases Hawaii’s natural wonders, including the active Kilauea volcano and the stunning Rainbow Falls.
• The tour includes a round-trip interisland flight with aerial views of the diverse landscapes between Oahu and Hilo.
• Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park provides opportunities to witness volcanic features, such as the black sand beach formed by lava flows.
• A 45-minute helicopter ride offers a bird’s-eye view of the active volcano, lush rainforests, and remote coastlines.
• The tour includes a provided lunch featuring local Hawaiian dishes, ensuring a hassle-free and immersive experience in the islands.

Tour Highlights

The day trip from Oahu to Hilo showcases three of the Big Island’s most captivating natural wonders.

Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to Kilauea, one of Hawaii’s only active volcanoes.

Marvel at the striking black sand of Richardson Beach and the thundering Rainbow Falls.

The tour also includes a 45-minute helicopter ride, providing aerial views of these remarkable natural features.

Visitors will be immersed in the island’s volcanic origins, tropical foliage, and breathtaking waterfalls, offering a comprehensive exploration of Hilo’s diverse landscapes.

Interisland Flight Experience

Typically, the interisland flight experience is a quick, efficient mode of transportation for this day trip.

The round-trip airfare from Oahu to Hilo is included in the tour package, though passengers may be subject to overage charges if their weight exceeds the specified limit.

The flight duration is approximately 30-40 minutes each way, providing a seamless connection between the two islands.

While lava sightings are not guaranteed, the aerial views of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes during the flight can be breathtaking.

Passengers with special needs or concerns should communicate them to the tour operator in advance for proper accommodations.

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

After the interisland flight, the tour explores the diverse terrain and volcanic features of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Visitors witness the powerful Kilauea volcano, one of the most active in the world. The tour stops at the iconic Richardson black sand beach, formed by lava flows meeting the ocean.

Nearby, the group marvels at the thundering Rainbow Falls as they learn about the park’s unique ecology and geology.

Throughout the exploration, the knowledgeable guide shares insights on the region’s fascinating volcanic history and the impacts of recent eruptions.

This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of Hawaii’s dynamic volcanic landscape.

Aerial Helicopter Adventure

Soaring high above the rugged landscapes, the 45-minute helicopter tour offers a captivating aerial perspective of the region’s volcanic formations and dense tropical foliage.

From above, visitors can gaze upon the active Kilauea volcano, taking in its dramatic caldera and flowing lava fields.

The tour also provides stunning views of the lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and remote coastlines that dot the Big Island.

This aerial adventure complements the ground-based exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, giving travelers a well-rounded understanding of the area’s natural wonders and geological features.

Lunch and Refreshments

During the day trip, a provided lunch is included to sustain travelers. The lunch features a selection of local Hawaiian dishes, allowing participants to sample the flavors of the islands.

Refreshments, such as bottled water, are also available throughout the tour to keep guests hydrated.

The lunch break provides a chance to rest, refuel, and reflect on the morning’s adventures before continuing the exploration of Hilo and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The tour’s all-inclusive nature ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for participants.

Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour offers several convenient meeting points across Oahu for participants to choose from.

Pickup locations include:

• Waikiki hotels
• Cruise ship terminals
• Honolulu International Airport
• Downtown Honolulu
• Ala Moana Center

Once gathered, guests will board an air-conditioned vehicle driven by a professional guide.

The tour includes round-trip interisland airfare, with the option to upgrade for additional comfort.

Throughout the day-long excursion, transportation is seamlessly provided, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the volcanic landscapes and lush tropical environments of the Big Island.

Accessibility and Special Needs

This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are permitted.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Most travelers can participate in this experience, but those with special needs should communicate their requirements at least one week prior to the tour. The tour operator will make reasonable accommodations when possible.

It is important for passengers to disclose their accurate body weight at checkout, as there are safety limitations. Those with asthma or respiratory issues may want to consider alternative tours that do not involve volcanic activity.

Important Health and Safety Considerations

Although the tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes, there are important health and safety considerations to be aware of:

• Total weight per passenger is capped at 240 lbs., and accurate body weight is required at checkout for safety.

• Passengers with asthma or respiratory issues are advised to consider other tours, as the volcanic environment may pose risks.

• Lava sightings are not guaranteed, and interisland flight times and routes are subject to change.

• Comfort seat surcharges may apply for passengers over 240 lbs., and airline flight overage charges may also be incurred.

• Special needs requests should be communicated at least one week prior to the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages on the Tour?

The tour allows passengers to bring their own snacks and beverages. However, it’s advised to check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines or restrictions regarding outside food and drinks prior to the tour.

Is There a Minimum Number of Passengers Required for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum number of passengers required. The tour will proceed as scheduled regardless of how many people have booked the experience, as long as the tour meets the overall minimum requirements set by the operator.

Can I Extend My Stay on the Big Island After the Tour?

The tour details do not specify if guests can extend their stay on the Big Island after the tour. Travelers interested in staying longer would need to make their own arrangements for accommodations and transportation beyond the scheduled tour.

Is There an Option to Book the Tour With a Private Group?

The tour operator does not offer a private group option. The tour is designed for individual bookings. Travelers looking for a private experience may need to explore other tour companies or charter options separately from this particular tour.

How Flexible Are the Tour Itinerary and Pick-Up/Drop-Off Locations?

The tour’s itinerary and pick-up/drop-off locations appear moderately flexible. While the main sites are fixed, the provider may accommodate special requests with advance notice. Travelers should communicate any customization needs during booking to assess feasibility and potential additional costs.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Oahu to Hilo offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes. Soar over lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls by helicopter, explore the active Kilauea volcano, and marvel at the breathtaking natural wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. With round-trip airfare, local lunch, and hassle-free logistics, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts.