Kona Air Tour to Hualalai Volcano & Kealakekua Bay - Rainbow Helicopters

Take to the skies on an unforgettable Kona helicopter tour, and choose between two exciting packages. Embark on a 45-minute flight that showcases the majestic Hualalai Volcano, Magic Sands Beach, Kailua Bay, Alii Drive, and scenic Kona Coffee farms, or expand your aerial adventure with a 60-minute tour that continues the flight with even more views of the stunning Kona coastline. You'll also see the ancient Kaloko Fish Ponds and the pristine shores of Magic Sands Beach. Both tours feature spacious, climate-controlled cabins, perfect for capturing breathtaking photos of Hawaii’s scenic and historic sites. Book your adventure now and fly high over the Big Island of Hawaii!

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Why do travelers choose this tour?

Best Aerial Views: This tour offers a great opportunity to see the Big Island’s dramatic landscapes from the sky. From the Hualalai Volcano to the rugged Kona coastline, all guests will experience Hawaii’s natural wonders in a way that ground tours simply can't match.

Comfort & Convenience: Travelers will fly in style with a spacious, climate-controlled cabin designed for maximum comfort and incredible views. Unlike some helicopter tours, guest wil enjoy a smooth ride with ample room to relax and take in the scenery. The temperature-controlled cabin ensures passengers stay comfortable throughout their flight over the Kona coast of the Big Island.

Two Flexible Packages: Choose between a 45 or 60-minute flight. The 45-minute tour offers a stunning overview of key landmarks for those short on time while the 60-minute tour adds sights like the Ka'upulehu Crater and more of the Kona coastline, providing a more in-depth look at Hawaii's natural beauty from the air.

Epic Photo Opportunities: Passengers will be able to capture breathtaking photos of the Big Island from a unique aerial perspective, showcasing Hawaii’s diverse landscapes. The tour offers unobstructed views of the Hualalai Volcano, Kona coastline, pristine beaches, and lush forests.

What is the difference between the packages?

Kona Coastal Sights Unseen (45 minutes): This shorter flight showcases the beauty of the Kona coastline, taking you over Kailua Bay, Magic Sands Beach, Kona Coffee farms, and the geological formations of Ka'upulehu Crater and Hualalai Volcano. You will also soar above the Pu'u Wa'awa'a Forest Reserve and the clear blue waters of Kiholo Bay, with a glimpse of the hidden Makalawena Beach. This tour focuses on the natural and volcanic landscapes of the region.

Kona Coast Hualalai Volcano (60 minutes): This extended tour includes all the highlights of the 45-minute flight plus additional stops. After flying over Kailua Bay, Magic Sands Beach, Kona Coffee farms, Hualalai Volcano, and Ka'upulehu Crater, passengers will also explore Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, the historic Captain Cook Monument, and the sacred Place of Refuge. Additional sights include the golden sands of Anaeho'omalu Bay, the scenic Kiholo Bay, and the secluded Makalawena Beach. This tour offers a more comprehensive look at both volcanic wonders and historic sites along the Kona coastline.

Local expert tips

• Mornings and late afternoons are ideal for flying, as the sun will not be directly overhead, minimizing interference with your photos. Additionally, visibility is often better in the morning than in the afternoon.
• If you have long hair, be sure to secure it in a ponytail or bun and avoid wearing earrings since you will be wearing a headset during the flight.
• Children aged 24 months and under can sit on the lap of a responsible adult at no additional charge.
• Recommend attire: Wear dark clothing to minimize reflections or glare when taking photos through the windows.
• Be sure to arrive on time since check-in is 60 minutes before your scheduled departure. This time is necessary for flight preparation, including a safety briefing, and late arrivals may result in reduced flight time or full cancellation without a refund.

How to get there?

Rainbow Helicopters is easily accessible by heading to the Big Island Jet Center building located at Kona International Airport. Upon arriving at the airport, follow the signs for the Big Island Jet Center and you can find free parking available nearby. Once you arrive at the building, you will find the Rainbow Helicopters check-in area inside.

Aircraft information

Rainbow Helicopters operates a fleet of Robinson R-44 and Airbus A-Star helicopters. The Robinson R-44 helicopters have a seating arrangement for three passengers, ensuring that each guest enjoys a window seat. In contrast, the Airbus A-Star helicopters can accommodate up to six passengers, offering spacious cabins with panoramic views from all seats. When booking, guests will be placed on the most suitable aircraft based on weight and balance considerations.