The Waikiki Sunset – 50 Min Helicopter Tour offers an unparalleled aerial experience over Oahu’s iconic landmarks. Soaring high above the island, adventurers can choose between doors-on or doors-off options, each providing a unique perspective of Hawaii’s natural beauty. With knowledgeable pilots offering informative commentary, this tour promises a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness the breathtaking Waikiki sunset from the sky. Whether it’s capturing the changing hues or admiring the historic Pearl Harbor, this unforgettable experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This experience made our article of Honolulu’s 9 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours.
Key Points
- 50-minute helicopter tour over Oahu offering stunning views of Honolulu skyline, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head.
- Option for doors on or doors off flights to enhance the aerial adventure experience.
- Tour departs from Rainbow Helicopters in Honolulu, with strict adherence to schedule.
- Passengers must follow safety guidelines, including weight restrictions and appropriate attire for doors-off flights.
- Tour has received positive customer reviews highlighting breathtaking views and knowledgeable pilots.
Overview of the Tour
The Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour offers a 50-minute aerial adventure over the island of Oahu.
Guests witness stunning views of the Honolulu skyline, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head as the sun sets. Flyers can choose between doors on or doors off flights for a unique experience.
The tour showcases iconic Hawaiian landmarks like Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, and the North Shore. Passengers enjoy the changing colors of the sky during the flight.
The tour departs from Rainbow Helicopters in Honolulu, returning to the same location after the exhilarating journey.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Honolulu
Highlights and Landmarks Explored
During the Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour, flyers soar over iconic Hawaiian locations.
They’ll witness the USS Arizona Memorial, where the lives lost in Pearl Harbor are honored. Waikiki Beach’s picturesque crescent coastline comes into view, along with the towering Diamond Head State Monument.
The lush Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and the striking Makapuu Lighthouse are also highlights. Lanikai Beach’s white sands and turquoise waters, as well as the unique Mokoli’i Island, are showcased.
The lush Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and striking Makapuu Lighthouse are highlights. Lanikai Beach’s white sands and turquoise waters, as well as unique Mokoli’i Island, are showcased.
The North Shore and Dole Plantation provide a scenic contrast. Throughout the flight, the changing colors of the Hawaiian sky add to the captivating experience.
Meeting Point and Logistics
Passengers meet at the Rainbow Helicopters facility located at 155 Kapalulu Pl #197, Honolulu, HI 96819, USA.
The tour starts at 5:00 PM and returns to the same meeting point after the flight. Parking fees apply. Guests must arrive on time as the flight has a strict schedule to maintain.
After the tour, passengers can explore the Rainbow Helicopters gift shop or grab a bite to eat nearby.
The tour concludes at the original meeting location, allowing for a seamless start and end to the Waikiki sunset helicopter experience.
Safety Guidelines and Requirements
For safety reasons, total passenger weight is limited to 280 lbs. Intoxicated passengers will be refused service and charged in full.
On doors-off flights, jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are required; long pants are recommended. Weight and balance fees apply for guests over 260 lbs.
Infants must sit on laps, and all passengers 24 months and older must purchase a full fare seat.
These guidelines are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Guests are expected to comply with these requirements before boarding the helicopter.
Customer Feedback and Reviews
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour, awarding it an impressive 5.0 rating based on 7 reviews.
Positive feedback highlights the tour’s breathtaking views, knowledgeable pilots, and exceptional service. Reviewers appreciate the smooth flight and informative commentary about local attractions like the Honolulu skyline, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head.
Many describe the experience as "once-in-a-lifetime" and "unforgettable." Customers are thrilled with the option to choose between doors on or doors off flights, offering a truly unique perspective of the Hawaiian landscape at sunset.
Love the evening vibe? Here are more after-sunset activities we've covered in Honolulu
Choosing Between Doors On or Doors Off
What sets the Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour apart is the option to choose between doors on or doors off flights. Doors off flights offer unobstructed, panoramic views and an exhilarating experience, but require additional safety precautions. Doors on flights provide the same stunning vistas with a more secure, enclosed environment. Factors to consider when choosing include:
| Criteria | Doors Off | Doors On |
| — | — | — |
| View Experience | Unparalleled panoramic vistas | Excellent views through windows |
| Safety Requirements | Closed-toe shoes, jackets, hair ties | Standard safety gear |
| Suitability | Thrill-seekers, photographers | Families, those with concerns |
| Weight Restrictions | Weight and balance fees for over 260 lbs | No additional fees |
| Overall Experience | Unforgettable, adrenaline-fueled flight | Secure, comfortable journey |
The choice between doors on or doors off is a personal one, allowing guests to tailor the Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour to their preferences.
Capturing the Changing Sunset Hues
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour takes passengers on a captivating aerial journey through the changing hues of the Hawaiian sky.
Brilliant oranges and reds illuminate the landscape, casting a warm glow over the city below. Gradually, the sky transitions to vibrant pinks and purples, reflecting off the glistening waters of the Pacific.
Passengers have a front-row seat to this natural spectacle, marveling at the dynamic dance of light and color. The tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the beauty of a Hawaiian sunset from an elevated perspective.
Preparing for the Unforgettable Experience
Guests preparing for the Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour can start by arriving at the Rainbow Helicopters meeting point about 15 minutes prior to the 5:00 PM departure time.
They’ll need to review the safety requirements and ensure they meet the weight limits. For doors-off flights, jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are a must. Long pants are recommended too.
Infants must sit on laps, while passengers 24 months and older require a full fare seat. Intoxicated guests won’t be allowed to board.
Infants must sit on laps, while passengers 24 months and older require a full fare seat. Intoxicated guests won’t be allowed to board.
Once ready, guests can look forward to an unforgettable 50-minute helicopter ride over Oahu’s stunning landmarks during the golden hour.
The Sum Up
The Waikiki Sunset – 50 Min Helicopter Tour offers a breathtaking aerial adventure over Oahu’s iconic landmarks. Soar above Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head, with knowledgeable pilots providing informative commentary. Passengers can choose between doors on or doors off for an unforgettable experience, capturing the changing sunset hues. This tour promises a unique perspective of Hawaii’s natural wonders, making it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
📍 This experience made our list of the 9 best Helicopter Flights & Tours in Honolulu
More Private Tours in Honolulu
- Pearl Harbor’s #1 Private VIP Tour -“The Arizona Memorial”
- Waikiki Private transfer Airport to Hotel *1-12 Passengers
- Honolulu Airport, Cruise Port and Waikiki hotels Private Transfer
- Private Tour USS Missouri and USS Arizona Pearl Harbor
- Private Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour
- Oahu Unveiled: Tailored Luxury Private Island Tour
More Tours in Honolulu
- Pearl Harbor’s #1 Private VIP Tour -“The Arizona Memorial”
- Oahu: Hidden Hawaii Waterfall Hike and Beach Tour
- Honolulu: Culinary Tour at Diamond Head
- Honolulu: Ghosts of Old Honolulu Walking Tour
- Oahu to Big Island Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour
- Oahu’s Ultimate Grand Circle Island Tour with Snorkeling and More
More Tour Reviews in Honolulu
Still browsing? Here are more Honolulu experiences we've covered recently
- Group Transportation betwen Airport & Waikiki(up to 40 PPL)
- Pearl Harbor’s #1 Private VIP Tour -“The Arizona Memorial”
- Oahu: Hidden Hawaii Waterfall Hike and Beach Tour
- One-Way VIP Transfer: Honolulu Airport, Waikiki, Cruise Port
- Honolulu Sunset Sail
- Honolulu: Culinary Tour at Diamond Head
- Oahu: Diamond Head Crater Trailhead Transfer & Entry Fee
- Honolulu: 1-Hour Friday Night Fireworks Cruise with Drinks
- Honolulu: Ghosts of Old Honolulu Walking Tour
- Waikiki Private transfer Airport to Hotel *1-12 Passengers
- Honolulu: South Shore Open Sail
- Honolulu: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Experience