Which Helicopter Tours Depart From Kona?

When vacationing on the Big Island of Hawaii you will either fly into the Hilo or Kona International Airport. The Big Island is the youngest island in Hawaii and is still growing every day fueled by the most active volcano in the world Kilauea. The most popular resort areas are Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa located on the west side of the island. This side of the island is popular for crystal clear water and an abundance of sea life. Many beaches in Kona are volcanic rock and have only enough sand for a couple of towels and turtles. For the true beachgoer, travel twenty minutes north of Waikoloa Village or 45 minutes north of Kona Town and discover Hapuna State Beach Recreation Center. Hapuna Recreation Area is a large gorgeous beach with white soft sand ideal for families of all types.

The Hilo side of the island is known for waterfalls and rainforests. Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls are the most accessible and guarantee Instagram worthy waterfall photos. In between the two destinations sits the tallest mountain in the world named Mauna Kea. This dormant volcano translates to White Mountain due to its snow-capped peak in the winter months. When traveling in between Hilo and Kona this sight is not to be missed.

The best way to see all the sights on the Big Island is by helicopter tour. There are only two heliports available for helicopter tour departures on the Big Island. They are located at Hilo International Airport and Waikoloa. There are no helicopter tours that depart from Kona, Hawaii or Kona International Airport.

Drive time from Kona to Waikoloa Heliport is approximately 40 minutes. 

Drive time from Kona to Hilo Heliport is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. 

Tours departing from Waikoloa Heliport include the Big Island Spectacular Tour which highlights current volcanic activity and lava flows along with the Kohala and Hamakua coast. The Kohala Waterfalls Tour also departs from Waikoloa where you can experience lush valleys and waterfalls.

Tours departing Hilo offer the Circle of Fire Tour which focuses on the volcanic activity and history on the island.

Ensure to plan your tour around drive time and location to get the most time out of your Hawaiian Vacation!