With much of Maui’s stark volcanic terrain and lush subtropical rainforest inaccessible by land, a helicopter ride is the perfect way to see the island’s unreachable corners.
(Photo: GetYourGuide.com)
Part of the idyllic Hawaiian archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, the island of Maui is a sight to behold whatever your vantage point. With the sprawling Haleakala National Park encompassing the island’s highest peak, the volcanic Haleakala, plus the pools and waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch, this is truly a place of wonder. We’ve picked out six of the best Maui helicopter rides currently available.
Hana Rainforest Helicopter Tour with Landing
Marvel at Maui’s jaw-droppingly beautiful landscape on this magical 40-minute guided helicopter tour. Starting at the airport in Kahului, you’ll fly high along the island’s north coast, admiring views of sea cliffs, forest, and cascading waterfalls as you listen to your guide’s fascinating commentary. The experience also includes a 30-minute landing to explore the rainforest on foot, walking through a lush Hana ranch with the chance to pick bananas, coconut and wildflowers as you go, before returning to your helicopter for your return flight back to Kahului. From $348 per person.
Two-Island Scenic Helicopter Flight to Molokai
(Photo: GetYourGuide.com)
Uncover two of Hawaii’s most stunning islands on this 55-minute helicopter flight over Maui and Molokai. Boarding your transport at Kahului Heliport, you’ll ascend high over the world’s biggest sea cliffs, affording you a mesmerising bird’s-eye view of the waterfalls of Molokai. Continue towards the remote north shore to peer down at the Halawa Valley and the vast fish ponds before flying over the Pailolo channel to admire the idyllic waters between the islands. Next, fly over Maui for intimate views of the western portion of the island and privileged vistas of the cascades of Honokohau Falls. Look to the horizon to see the dormant volcano of Haleakala and the rugged peaks of the West Maui Mountains before your ride of a lifetime comes to a close. From $407 per person.
Road to Hana Luxury Limo-Van Tour and Helicopter Flight
(Photo: Viator.com)
Traverse the renowned Road to Hana in ultimate style on this 6-hour, fully guided small-group adventure that finishes with a decadent return journey by helicopter. First though, aboard a plush limo-van, you’ll make your way to Hana, with stop-offs in the scenic environs of Hana Tropical Gardens, the charming hamlet of Ke-anae, and a breath-taking waterfall, with the chance for a refreshing dip if you wish. Next up, you’ll get to tuck into a beachside lunch before boarding a helicopter for a 45-minute flight above Haleakala Crater and the island’s rugged coast, complete with stereo music and live narration. You’ll eventually return back to Kahului Airport to end your day. From $574 per person.
Complete Island Helicopter Tour
Climb above inaccessible valleys and waterfalls that can only be seen from the air on this Maui helicopter tour. Available as either a morning or afternoon tour, you’ll fly deep inside the West Maui Mountains and gaze upon the colourful cinder cones of Haleakala Crater. Off the coast of Hana, you’ll watch as waterfalls tumble their way directly into the sea, and see hidden coves and white sand beaches. As you fly over neighbouring Molokai and its famous sea cliffs, in winter it’s sometimes even possible to spot Humpback whales from the sky. All the while you’ll be treated to attention-grabbing narration about Maui’s sights and history from a professional pilot-guide. Back on land at Kahului Heliport, you can buy a souvenir a USB containing footage of your flight, with accompanying pilot’s narration and Hawaiian background music. From $435 per person.
Doors Off West Maui and Molokai
(Photo: Adrenaline.com)
Marvel at unobstructed views on this thrilling doors-off helicopter ride over West Maui and Molokai. During your 45 minutes in the air aboard a Eurocopter AS350 passenger helicopter, you’ll be taken deep into the jaw-dropping valleys and ridges of the West Maui Mountains. After soaking up the views, aided by the unique door-free experience, you’ll head to the remote reaches of Molokai’s north shore, where you’ll be treated to vistas of the area’s stunning waterfalls and cliffsides, before returning back to firm land to bring your tour to a close. From $390 per person.
Maui to Big Island: Big Island Volcano Helicopter & Bus Tour
If you have the time and budget, this extended 11-hour tour combines a helicopter tour with a ground tour of the Big Island, the largest island in the entire Hawaiian chain. The tour starts with the helicopter leg, which will see you fly from Maui to the Big Island. On arrival, you’ll take a 45-50 minute guided helicopter tour to witness lava flows, tropical rainforests, cascading waterfalls and notable areas of volcanic activity. Once back on firm ground, you’ll embark on a tour of Volcanoes National Park where you’ll learn about the history and culture of Hawaii as you take in the views. The tour concludes with a return helicopter ride back to Maui. From $1,295 per person.