Hawaii

The Best Maui Helicopter Tours

by Paul Joseph  |  Update September 17, 2021

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 Hawaiian archipelago, 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, the island is truly a place of wonder. We’ve picked out three of the best Maui helicopter tours currently available.

75-Minute 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 Kahalui, 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 of picking bananas, coconut and wild flowers as you go, before returning to your helicopter for your return flight back to Kahalui. From $348 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide.com

Maui and Molokai Scenic Helicopter Flight

(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 $358 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide.com

Hana and Haleakala Maui Helicopter Tour with Cliffside Landing

(Photo: Viator.com)

See Maui from up high on this morning or afternoon flight of a lifetime that culminates with a dramatic landing on the edge of a cliff before your return journey. Taking off from Kahului Heliport, you’ll soar high above beaches, jungle terrain, waterfalls, a rain forest, and even a dormant volcano, enjoying unobstructed views and live commentary as you go. Finally, you’ll touch down at a private, exclusive clfifside spot – offering the perfect chance to celebrate a special occasion. You’ll then make the return flight to Kahului, passing over the Hana rain forest along the way. From $290 per person.

Book at Viator.com

Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury 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 $509 per person.

Book at Viator.com

Maui Helicopter Tour: Complete Island Flight

(Photo: Viator.com)

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 $347 per person.

Book at Viator.com