Doors-Off Flights on the Big Island
Big Island Doors-Off Helicopter Tour Experience
Take flight on a doors-off helicopter tour over the Big Island, where you’ll soar above towering waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and volcanic landscapes—all with nothing between you and the breathtaking views.
Choose from Rainbow Helicopters’ distinct Big Island tours, ranging from quick scenic flights to extended adventures that cover Hawaii Island’s most stunning and remote locations.
Learn more about Rainbow Helicopters private Big Island charters departing from Kona.
↳ Image: Experience the magic of a Big Island doors-off helicopter tour!
A doors-off flight is the ultimate way to explore Hawaii Island. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, photographer, or nature lover, our door-off helicopter adventures offer:
— Unobstructed Views: No windows, no glare—just wide-open panoramas of Hawaii’s remote coastline.
— Close-Up Encounters: Feel the ocean breeze and witness towering waterfalls and deep valleys up close.
— Exclusive Access: Many of the sights along this route are only accessible by air, making this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
↳ Image: Doors off helicopter tour above Hawaii
Big Island Tours You Can Fly Doors-Off
Kohala Coast Volcanoes Waterfalls – 90 minute Big Island helicopter tour
Coastal Sights Unseen – 45 minute Big Island helicopter tour
Kona Coast Scenic – 30 minute Big Island helicopter tour
Top Sights to See from the Air
1. Kohala Coast – Where Lava Meets the Ocean
Fly along the stunning Kohala Coast, where rugged lava fields meet the deep blue Pacific. These dramatic shorelines are a testament to Hawaii’s volcanic past, with pristine beaches and hidden coves dotting the landscape.
2. Pololū Valley – Majestic Cliffs & Lush Greenery
Explore Pololū Valley, the first of the famous seven windward valleys of Kohala. Here, you’ll witness steep emerald cliffs plunging into the ocean, an untouched paradise rarely seen from the ground.
3. Waipiʻo Valley – Hawaii’s “Valley of Kings”
One of the most breathtaking locations on Hawaii Island, Waipiʻo Valley is known for its massive waterfalls, dramatic ridges, and rich history. Flying doors-off allows you to see its towering cliffs and the stunning Hi‘ilawe Falls, one of Hawaii’s tallest waterfalls.
4. Hidden Waterfalls of the Kohala Mountains
As you head inland, prepare to be amazed by the Kohala Mountains’ secluded waterfalls, some plunging thousands of feet down volcanic ridges. These waterfalls are only visible from the air, making your helicopter tour a truly exclusive experience.
5. (Seasonal) Kīlauea Volcano – Hawaii’s Most Active Volcano
When Kīlauea is active, we adjust our flight path for an incredible aerial view of glowing lava flows, steaming vents, and volcanic craters. This rare spectacle offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the power and beauty of an erupting Hawaiian volcano from the sky.
↳ Image: Aerial view of Kohala Coast from Kona helicopter tour
Big Island Doors-Off Tour Details
— Tour Durations: 30-105 minutes
— Departure Location: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Island
— Availability: Daily flights, morning and afternoon options
— Helicopter Types: Robinson R44 or Airbus AStar
— Seating: 3 to 6 guests depending on helicopter type —book early for the best seats!
Explore all Big Island helicopter tours
What Makes Doors-Off Different?
— Better for photography – No reflections or glare from windows.
— Feel the elements – Experience Hawaii’s natural beauty up close.
— Unmatched thrill – Nothing but open air between you and the island’s landscapes.
Things You Can See on Big Island Flights
— Kohala Coast: Explore rugged cliffs and pristine beaches that define this breathtaking region.
— Laupahoehoe Nui and Wai’ilikahi Waterfalls: Marvel at these towering cascades surrounded by lush greenery.
— Hualalai Volcano and Ka’upulehu Crater: Witness these majestic volcanic formations from a bird’s-eye view.
— Kīlauea Volcano: Observe this iconic volcano in its current state of eruption, offering a glimpse into Hawaii’s powerful geothermal activity. While lava sightings are not guaranteed, the experience remains awe-inspiring.
— Magic Sands Beach: Fly over this striking white-sand beach that offers a stunning aerial perspective.
— Ancient Kaloko Fish Ponds: Discover historic sites showcasing Hawaiian ingenuity.
— Kona Coffee Farms: Glide over the famous coffee-growing regions, a unique treat for any visitor during a Big Island helicopter tour or helicopter tours Kona.
Book Direct with Rainbow Helicopters
Support Local Business
When you book at rainbowhelicopters.com, you support a locally owned business directly rather than through a third-party aggregate retailer.
Seamless Communication
Booking directly means you’ll have clear, direct communication with the operator, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.
↳ Image: Another beautiful day on a Rainbow Helicopters Hawaii helicopter tour. Book operator direct and support local Hawaiian Business.
Ready to embark on a journey over the Big Island’s most iconic sites? Book your Hawaii Helicopter Tour with Rainbow Helicopters today. Whether you’re interested in the Big Island’s Kohala Coast Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour, or another of our spectacular offerings, we guarantee an experience you’ll cherish forever.
Rainbow Helicopters
Discover Hawaii by helicopter.
Explore Hawaii from above with Rainbow Helicopters.
Oahu helicopter tours,
Big Island helicopter tours,
private helicopter charters, and
custom helicopter flight services across Hawaii.
From volcanic landscapes and waterfalls to proposal flights and aerial photography, our experienced pilots deliver unforgettable island experiences.
GIFT CARDS
Give the gift of a lifetime with a Rainbow Helicopters gift card, allowing the recipient to choose their dream Hawaii helicopter tour adventure with Rainbow Helicopters.
Popular Big Island sights
A Bay (Anaehoomalu Bay)
Alii Drive
Captain Cook Monument
Hualalai volcano
Kailua Bay
Kaloko Fish Ponds
Kaupulehu Crater
Kawaihae Coast
Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve
Kiholo Bay
Kohala Coast / Waterfalls
Kohala volcano
Kona Coffee farms
Kona Coast
Laupahoehoe Nui Falls
Magic Sands beach
Makalawena Beach
Mauna Kea volcano
Mauna Loa volcano
Place of Refuge
Pololu Valley
Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve
Waimanu Valley
Wai’ilikahi Falls
Waipio Valley
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Island Doors-Off Helicopter Tours
Planning a Big Island doors-off helicopter tour? Whether you’re curious about safety, what to wear, or how to book the best aerial experience in Kona, our FAQs have you covered. Get the answers you need before taking flight with Rainbow Helicopters.
A doors-off helicopter tour removes the doors from the aircraft, giving you unobstructed, panoramic views of the Big Island’s landscapes—perfect for thrill-seekers and photographers.
Yes. Rainbow Helicopters follows strict FAA safety regulations. Passengers are securely strapped in, and all flights are operated by experienced pilots trained for doors-off conditions.
Wear warm, snug-fitting clothes and closed-toe shoes. Avoid loose items like hats or scarves, as wind is stronger without doors. A light jacket is recommended due to cooler air at altitude.
Absolutely! Doors-off tours are ideal for photography. Cameras must have a secure neck or wrist strap, and phones should be tethered or used with a grip case.
You may see Pololū and Waipiʻo Valleys, hidden Kohala waterfalls, the Kona Coast, and—if active—the erupting Kīlauea Volcano. Each flight path varies slightly depending on tour route, weather and activity.
Flights typically range from 30 to 105 minutes, depending on the route you choose. Options include scenic coastal flights, waterfall adventures, and extended volcano tours.
Yes. Rainbow Helicopters offers customizable private helicopter charters (choose your helicopter type and add-ons) from Kona, including doors-off configurations for up to 6 guests.
Morning flights often offer the calmest weather and clearest skies, though afternoon light is excellent for photography. Our team can recommend the ideal time based on current conditions.
All of our Big Island tours from Kona include free doors-off options – at no extra charge. Be sure to request it when booking to guarantee the experience.
