Doors-Off Helicopter Tour: Kohala Coast Volcanoes & Waterfalls (90-Min)
Lift off from Kona and watch Pele’s landscapes unfurl: four volcanoes, cliffed valleys, and waterfalls seen from a 90-minute doors-off helicopter. This high-reward flight pairs dramatic geology with cultural landmarks—plan for weight checks, windproof layers, and prime camera angles.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for weight check
You must arrive 60 minutes before departure and provide full names and weights; flights are balanced to safety standards and late arrivals risk missing the tour.
Dress for wind and spray
Doors-off flights require windproof jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair tied back—layers help with chilly high-altitude air.
Secure your camera
Use a wrist or neck strap and a lens hood—the open door exposes gear to wind and sea spray.
Prepare for weather changes
Pilots may reroute or cancel for visibility or storms; book with a flexible schedule and check cancellation policies.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kiholo Bay tide pools—check shallow coves for green sea turtles and volcanic rock pools.
- •Anaehoʻomalu Bay fishponds (A Bay) visible from the air; a quiet cultural landscape best appreciated from the helicopter’s corridor.
Wildlife
- •Spinner dolphins often ride nearshore swells
- •Green sea turtles frequent Kiholo Bay and shallow reef flats
Conservation Note
Helicopter noise and sightseeing pressure can affect wildlife and fragile coastal ecosystems; choose operators that follow flight-path guidelines and avoid low, intrusive passes over sensitive sites.
This coastline threads old chiefly lands—Kamehamehaʻs boyhood valleys and ancient fishponds appear along the route, connecting volcanic terrain to Hawaiian cultural sites.
Photographer's Notes
- • Circling Mauna Kea summit for broad caldera shots
- • Low pass over Pololū Valley and Waipiʻo Valley for dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches
- • Kiholo Bay approach for tide-pool and turtle photos
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks cold, gusty air for doors-off comfort and reduces windburn.
Secure camera with strapEssential
Allows hands-free shooting and prevents loss through the open door.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Makes boarding safer and keeps feet protected during ground movement.
Sunglasses with retention strap
Reduces glare and prevents sunglasses from blowing away during doors-off segments.
Common Questions
Is there a minimum age?
Infants are allowed but those 24 months and older must purchase a full-fare seat; infants must sit on an adult's lap.
Can I do the doors-off option?
Yes—doors-off is offered but seating next to an open door is not guaranteed; jackets, closed-toe shoes, and hair ties are required.
What about weight and extra fees?
Guests 260 pounds or more may incur additional weight-and-balance fees (50% of seat price for 260–279 lbs; a second seat required at 280+ lbs).
What happens in bad weather?
Flights may be delayed, rerouted, or canceled for safety—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before; operators will also reschedule when possible.
Are flights wheelchair accessible?
The operator lists wheelchair accessibility for ground facilities, but aircraft boarding may still require assistance—confirm needs with the operator ahead of time.
Can I bring a tripod or large gear?
Space and weight are limited—large equipment is typically not allowed; check with the operator before bringing bulky items.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
90 minutes
Location
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; suitable for most travelers though boarding can require stepping up into the aircraft
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