Kohala Coast Volcanoes Waterfalls
90 minute Big Island helicopter tour. Experience an epic Kohala coast helicopter tour showcasing four volcanoes and see the cascading Laupahoehoe Nui and Wai’ilikahi waterfalls from above. Get great photos, fly doors-off free.
Departure: Hawaii Island, Kona
*required Weight and Balance (WB) fee when
guest is over 260 lb./118 kg
*required Weight and Balance (WB) fee for each
guest over 260 lb./118 kg
Kohala Coast Volcanoes Waterfalls
$795
per person | 90 minutes
★★★★★–15+ reviews | Free cancellation* | Free doors off
Goddess Pele and King Kamehameha unite in this stunning Hawaii Island helicopter tour showcasing four volcanoes and the pristine waterfalls of the extraordinary Kohala Coast.
Soar above the crystal-clear waters of Kailua Bay and its vibrant coral reefs on an unforgettable Kohala Coast helicopter tour. Witness the raw power of Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano, and fly past the dramatic landscape of Ka’upulehu Crater and the famous Hualalai volcano. This Hawaii Island helicopter tour reveals lush tropical valleys, secluded ridgelines, and the spectacular waterfalls that make the Big Island’s Kohala Coast so iconic. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for more, this Big Island volcano helicopter tour offers sweeping views and cinematic beauty—it’s no wonder Hawaii helicopter tours are often the highlight of any Big Island vacation.
- Take an exciting helicopter tour of Hawaii Island and see 4 volcanos and stunning waterfalls
- See Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, Hualalai and Kaupulehu Crater along with spectacular coastlines
- Discover some of the Big Island’s most picturesque landscapes from above and take great photos
- Choose a convenient departure time
Kailua Bay
Mauna Loa volcano
Kaupulehu Crater
Hualalai volcano
Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve
Mauna Kea volcano
Kohala volcano
Kawaihae Coast
Kohala Coast / Waterfalls
Pololu Valley
Waimanu Valley
Laupahoehoe Nui Falls
Wai’ilikahi Falls
Waipio Valley
Kiholo Bay
Kona Coast
Makalawena Beach
The Kohala Coast helicopter tour begins over the sparkling expanse of Kailua Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. This first glimpse of paradise sets the tone for one of the best helicopter tours of the Kohala Coast, combining dramatic volcanic terrain with lush tropical beauty.
As your journey continues, you’ll rise above the bay to witness the majesty of Pele’s domain—Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano. From this aerial perspective, the vastness of the “Long Mountain” is awe-inspiring. The tour glides past the otherworldly formations of the Ka’upulehu Crater and the volcanic slopes of Hualālai, revealing the Big Island’s fiery geological past. To the east, the snow-capped summit of Mauna Kea, the “White Mountain,” towers 13,796 feet above sea level.
Heading north, your Kohala Coast adventure helicopter tour transitions into the emerald landscapes of the Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot home to rare flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. This segment of your flight captures what makes helicopter tours over the Kohala Coast so unforgettable—contrasts between ancient lava fields and vibrant, living forests.
From here, your pilot guides you along the breathtaking Kawaihae and Kohala Coasts, tracing the coastline where King Kamehameha I once roamed as a child. As part of this Kohala Coast helicopter sightseeing tour, you’ll hover above secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, and aquamarine waters, absorbing views that few ever get to see.
The experience intensifies as you soar above the lush Pololū and Waimanu Valleys, where misty green walls cradle the cascading Laupāhoehoe Nui and Wai‘ilikahi Waterfalls. This flight segment rivals even the most scenic Kohala Hamakua Coast helicopter tour, delivering a vivid portrait of the island’s untamed north.
After circling the legendary Waipiʻo Valley and its black sand beach, the helicopter hugs the coast, tracing a path of hidden waterfalls. Your return journey takes you past the tranquil Anaehoʻomalu Bay, the striking turquoise of Kīholo Bay, and the remote, untouched beauty of Makalawena Beach.
This Kohala Coast helicopter tour is more than sightseeing—it’s a sweeping visual epic through volcanic majesty, tropical wilderness, and royal Hawaiian history. A true adventure helicopter tour for those seeking the extraordinary.
- Helicopter tour above Hawaii Island
- Live guided tour with commentary
- Straps and cases for cell phones
- Parking Fees
Your tour begins at Rainbow’s Kailua-Kona base on the Big Island where you’ll board your helicopter.
After a concise briefing from your pilot, fasten your seat belt and lift off, gliding over the bustling activity of Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island.
Capture breathtaking aerial perspectives and photo opportunities above Hawaii Island, experience the Big Island like never before.
Following the thrill of soaring above the island, the helicopter completes a circle back to Kailua-Kona.
For answers to commonly asked questions visit our FAQ
Q: What should I wear for a Hawaii helicopter ride?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor conditions in Hawaii. If you’re booking a doors-off helicopter tour, be prepared for strong winds and cooler temperatures — we recommend wearing a light jacket or sweatshirt, long pants, and closed-toe shoes (required). If you have long hair, be sure to bring a tie or clip to keep it secure during the flight.
Q: What makes the Kohala Coast helicopter tour unique?
The Kohala Coast helicopter tour offers views of ancient volcanoes, lush valleys, and some of the tallest waterfalls on the Big Island—all only visible by air. It’s a one-of-a-kind aerial experience.
Q: How long is the Kohala Coast helicopter tour?
Our Kohala Coast helicopter tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, giving you ample time to take in volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastal views along the Big Island’s rugged northern region.
Q: Is the Kohala Coast helicopter tour suitable for families or couples?
Yes, the Kohala Coast helicopter tour is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to explore the Big Island’s remote beauty from the sky.
Q: Do you offer island of Hawaii helicopter tours?
Yes, our helicopter tours explore the Big Island of Hawaii, including spectacular views of the Kohala Coast, volcanic landscapes, and remote valleys.
Q: What will I see on the Big Island volcano helicopter tour?
You’ll fly over ancient lava flows, the dramatic Kohala coastline, lush rainforest, and multiple waterfalls cascading through untouched terrain. While volcanic activity varies, the raw landscapes always impress.
Q: Are your tours the same as helicopter tours from Hilo, Hawaii?
No, our tours depart from the west side of the Big Island, offering a unique vantage point over the Kohala Coast. While many tours start in Hilo, we showcase lesser-seen areas and hidden valleys.
Q: What’s the best way to see rainbows in Kohala?
Helicopter tours offer the best chance to see rainbows over Kohala, especially in the morning light when ocean mist and sunlight combine for spectacular displays.
Q: Do you offer Kohala tours by air?
Yes, our Kohala Coast helicopter tours fly over the most scenic parts of northern Hawaii Island, including sea cliffs, green valleys, and exclusive views of the coast.
Q: Is this a Hawaii helicopter volcano tour?
Our route includes expansive views of the Big Island’s volcanic terrain, including ancient flows and lava-formed landscapes. While we do not always fly over actively erupting areas, you’ll get a comprehensive volcano perspective.
Q: How is this different from other Hawaii Big Island helicopter tours?
Our Kohala Coast route is curated to show the most scenic and untouched areas of the island. Unlike some tours that focus mostly on volcanic activity, we offer a richer visual journey through both volcanic and coastal environments.
“Exceptional. Well organized and anticipated everything. Fantastic pilot. He didn’t do any high speed maneuvers. Lol. Thanks for a great experience.”
LARRY • 2024
Reviews ( 15+ )
Add epic upgrades to your tour at checkout.
+ Private tour
Book the entire aircraft as a personal helicopter for your group. Perfect for special occasions and celebrations.
+ Doors on / off
FREE Doors on or off on your helicopter. Take great pictures! Experience unobstructed views and sights with an open cabin.
+ Flight video & photo packages
Get a shareable digital video of your in-flight experience, available in multiple formats, add fun photos of your experience on the ground and in the air. Customize at checkout.
+ In-flight photographer
Bring aboard a world class photographer to capture every magical detail of your adventure from start to finish.
+ Booking protection
Cancel or reschedule your flight for ANY REASON up to 24 hours prior to scheduled flight for a full refund or no reschedule fees.
Contact our reservations center at (808) 492-8706 to request the change. Coverage excludes Booking Protection Plan Fee. Reschedule and / or canceling one time only. Standard Policies apply to additional rescheduling / cancelations.
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Kohala Coast Volcanoes Waterfalls
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Departure: Hawaii Island, Kona
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Luxury Picnic Volcanoes & Waterfalls
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B –
Got some awesome photographs of the volcano’s and the waterfalls were everything I thought they would be and more! Truly a gem of a helicopter ride – our pilot was great!
Chrissy T. –
Soaring over Kailua Bay and witnessing Mauna Loa’s power was incredible! The lush valleys and Kohala Coast waterfalls were stunning.
Tina D. –
What an incredible helicopter tour! We flew over the sparkling waters of Kailua Bay and saw the Mauna Loa volcano up close. The waterfalls on the Kohala Coast were stunning. Staff at Rainbow Helicopters was top notch!
Arturo D. –
As an amateur volcanologist, flying over Mauna Loa was exceptionally thrilling. We also saw the Ka’upulehu Crater and Hualalai volcano and got some great shots. The lush valleys and waterfalls of the Kohala Coast were a sight to remember.
Marc L –
We had a schedule change last second and your team was able to reschedule for use. Thank you for an amazing memory, you guys are a step above the rest.
Justin –
Great place, everyone here was so much fun to interact with. Glad I found them! Definitely take advantage!
Ebanezer –
I had a fantastic helicopter ride for the first time. The instructors provided us with a detailed safety video, and then we were quickly whisked away to board the helicopter. Our experienced pilot patiently explained the various sights we were seeing, although the audio quality was not ideal. We were able to communicate with the pilot using microphones, and the scenery was simply breathtaking. I give it five stars!
Jeff –
Well earned premium price point with great customer service. The team identified at the last minute that we could change our plan to see the erupting volcano, which was what my family had originally hoped for but thought might not be possible. Our pilot Jeff was knowledgeable and professional, and just great to chat with. His passion for his work and the island was apparent. I also appreciated the flexibility to choose our departure time.
Ben –
Well worth the money our pilot was awesome and very knowledgeable about the island would highly recommend
Craig –
Very accommodating for a large group. Everyone had a great experience!
Miles –
We did the waterfall route and it was fantastic! It was totally different than what we’ve been seeing around Hawaii. Our pilot Josh was fantastic as he was incredible knowledgeable and funny! I would recommend it highly for helicopter tours around the island!
Cheryl O’Donnell –
What can I say? Amazing, stupendous, beautiful, etc. Best helicopter tour I have ever taken. All 3 of us were mesmerized by the views. Rainbow makes sure you enjoy your ride. Donavan, our pilot, had been a medi-vac pilot for years. He was knowledgeable and extremely interesting.
We opted not to take the helicopter ride offered by our cruise ship. Rainbow’s pricing was less for 90 minutes than the cruise ship’s offer for 1 hour. 15-minute taxi ride from pier.
Mark L –
Fantastic flight! Rainbow helicopters were fantastic. Welcoming, professional and our flight took us around the coast and into extraordinary valleys. Turner, our pilot, was knowledgeable and very friendly. The aircraft was very stable and enabled great views from every seat. We loved it! Highly recommended
Sarah Airola –
The tour was unbelievable. Super smooth and easy for all of us, including 3 kids. It truly gives you an appreciation for the vastness of the island you would never be able to get on the ground. The whole entire staff, including our pilot were top notch. 100% recommend.
Ingrid Johnson Rachesky –
This private helicopter ride around Kona’s volcanoes, waterfalls, valleys and coast line was epic! Words can not describe the spectacular view. Our pilot Joe was skilled, friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend this excursion.