Helicopter tours pack more Oahu sightseeing into a short time than any other excursion. From quick 20-minute Honolulu overflights to full-day movie location adventures around Kauai, these aerial experiences deliver unforgettable views. I’m particularly fond of the Royal Crown of Oahu tour for its comprehensive island coverage and the Path to Pali Passage for stunning mountain-to-sea perspectives. For thrill-seekers, the doors-off options provide an exhilarating open-air experience, while history buffs will appreciate the Pearl Harbor Battleship Tour‘s unique vantage point. All tours feature expert pilot narration and strict safety measures. Let’s explore the top helicopter tours in Honolulu.
Key Points
- A wide range of helicopter tours in Honolulu, from 20-minute sightseeing flights to 13.5-hour movie location tours, with doors-on or doors-off options.
- Top-rated tours include the Royal Crown of Oahu, Magnum P.I. Tour, and City By The Sea, offering stunning views and unique experiences.
- Specialized tours like the Kauai Movie Tour, Pearl Harbor Battleship Tour, and Marry Me Proposal Flight provide one-of-a-kind helicopter adventures.
- Strict safety protocols, expert pilots, and accessibility for wheelchair and stroller users ensure a safe and enjoyable helicopter experience.
- Consistently high customer ratings and recommendations, with travelers praising the pilots’ expertise and the unforgettable nature of the tours.
Royal Crown of Oahu – 60 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On
Offering breathtaking aerial views of Oahu’s iconic landmarks, the Royal Crown of Oahu Helicopter Tour whisks passengers on a 60-minute journey over the island’s lush landscapes.
With a 95% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour showcases Diamond Head, Sacred Falls, Pearl Harbor, and more.
Guests can choose between doors-on or doors-off options, each providing a unique aerial experience. The tour departs from Honolulu, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Passengers must adhere to weight restrictions and dress code requirements.
Reviews praise the tour’s pilots for their expertise, safety, and informative commentary, making this a must-do for visitors seeking an unforgettable helicopter adventure.
Read our full review: Royal Crown of Oahu – 60 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On Review
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Oahu: Magnum P.I. Doors-Off Helicopter Tour
Soar above Oahu’s iconic landmarks on the Magnum P.I. doors-off helicopter tour. Lasting 50-55 minutes, this thrilling experience departs from Honolulu Harbor, providing aerial views of Waikiki, Hanauma Bay, and Pearl Harbor.
Travelers are treated to behind-the-scenes access at the Magnum P.I. hangar and the chance to ride in the legendary Hughes 500D helicopter. With a maximum of 8 participants, this tour offers an intimate, customized experience.
Adventurous souls aged 12+ can enjoy the open-door seating, while families can opt for the middle front seat. Regardless of seating choice, guests are sure to leave with unforgettable memories of Oahu’s stunning landscapes and a new appreciation for the classic TV series.
Read our full review: Oahu: Magnum P.I. Doors-Off Helicopter Tour Review
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Path to Pali Passage – 30 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On
Rainbow Helicopters’ Path to Pali Passage tour whisks adventurous travelers on a breathtaking 30-minute helicopter ride above Oahu’s iconic landscapes.
Rated 4.9 out of 93 reviews, the tour offers doors-on or doors-off options to provide unobstructed views of Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and the USS Arizona Memorial.
With a 98% traveler recommendation, the experience showcases Oahu’s natural beauty from the sky. Priced from $315 per person, the tour adheres to strict safety protocols, including weight restrictions and accessibility accommodations.
Pilots share expert insights, ensuring a smooth, informative journey for all passengers.
Read our full review: Path to Pali Passage – 30 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On Review
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From Oahu: Kauai Movie Tour & Helicopter Adventure
Priced from $806.28 per person, this 13.5-hour tour from Oahu whisks travelers on an immersive adventure across the island of Kauai.
Exploring the island’s scenic wonders with a local guide, guests learn legends and history of Hawaii while capturing Instagram-worthy photos.
The highlight is a 45-minute helicopter tour showcasing Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay, and more.
The tour also visits over 15 movie locations, allowing guests to reenact famous scenes.
Between sights, guests enjoy a lunch break in Hanalei Town.
Despite the robust itinerary, some customers report issues with organization, communication, and last-minute cancellations due to weather, suggesting booking flights and helicopter tours independently for better control.
Read our full review: From Oahu: Kauai Movie Tour & Helicopter Adventure Review
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City By The Sea – 20 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On
Travelers can embark on a breathtaking 20-minute helicopter tour that showcases the dynamic cityscape and natural wonders of Honolulu.
The tour departs from Rainbow Helicopters in downtown Honolulu, with the option to fly with the doors off or on. Highlights include aerial views of the harbor, Waikiki, Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor.
Passengers can expect excellent pilot skills, stunning scenery, and a unique experience, as confirmed by the tour’s 4.9/5 rating and 100% traveler recommendation.
Booking in advance is recommended, and weight and age restrictions apply. The tour is accessible for wheelchair and stroller users, and a cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: City By The Sea – 20 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On Review
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Oahu: Pearl Harbor Battleship & Helicopter Tour
This comprehensive Pearl Harbor and helicopter tour package offers visitors a captivating blend of historical exploration and aerial sightseeing.
Priced at $489.99 per person, the 10-hour tour takes small groups of up to 6 participants to the iconic Pearl Harbor site, where they’ll visit the Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri.
Complementing the ground tour, a 45-minute helicopter ride showcases the stunning aerial views of Pearl Harbor, Punchbowl Crater, Downtown Honolulu, and Diamond Head.
With a live English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a hassle-free and immersive experience for those seeking to uncover Oahu’s rich history and natural beauty.
Read our full review: Oahu: Pearl Harbor Battleship & Helicopter Tour Review
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Private 45 Minute Helicopter Tour With Romantic Landing
Rainbow Oahu Helicopter Tours invites guests on an unforgettable 45-minute private helicopter journey over Oahu’s captivating landscapes.
Soar above lush valleys, the iconic Diamond Head crater, and the stunning South Shore. Upon landing at a private oasis, guests will be treated to leis, Waialua chocolates, and a champagne toast, creating a romantic experience away from crowds.
The tour departs and returns to the Rainbow Oahu Helicopter Tours location, with parking available and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Passengers must weigh under 300 lbs, and those 8 and older may fly with doors off. Accessibility, safety, and flexibility are prioritized for an exceptional helicopter experience.
Read our full review: Private 45 Minute Helicopter Tour With Romantic Landing Review
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Waikiki Sunset – 50 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On
The Waikiki Sunset – 50 Min Helicopter Tour offers visitors a captivating aerial journey over Oahu’s stunning landscapes. Priced from $390 per person, this 50-minute tour provides breathtaking views of Honolulu’s skyline, Pearl Harbor, and the iconic Diamond Head.
Guests can choose between doors-on or doors-off flights, with the latter offering an exhilarating, unobstructed experience. Throughout the tour, passengers will soar over numerous landmarks, including the USS Arizona Memorial, Waikiki Beach, and the Makapuu Lighthouse.
With a maximum capacity of 15 travelers and a perfect 5.0 rating from 7 reviews, this helicopter excursion promises a memorable and awe-inspiring adventure.
Read our full review: Waikiki Sunset – 50 Min Helicopter Tour – Doors Off or On Review
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Marry Me Banner on the Beach – Helicopter Proposal Flight
For those planning a romantic marriage proposal, Rainbow Oahu Helicopter Tours offers an unforgettable “Marry Me” banner on the beach experience.
Priced at $1,295 for up to 3 passengers, this private helicopter tour features a “Marry Me” banner flown over the beach. The experience begins and ends at the Rainbow Oahu Helicopter Tours meeting point, with parking available across the street.
Passengers must weigh no more than 300 lbs and can choose between doors on or off. Infants, wheelchairs, and passengers 8 years and older are accommodated.
Reservations are subject to availability, with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Marry Me Banner on the Beach – Helicopter Proposal Flight Review
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The Sum Up
Honolulu offers an array of helicopter flights and tours, catering to varied preferences. From the iconic 60-minute “Royal Crown of Oahu” to the thrilling “Magnum P.I. Doors-Off” experience, there’s something for every adventure-seeker. For those seeking a more intimate setting, the private 45-minute romantic landing tour or the Waikiki sunset flight could be the perfect choice. With so many options, visitors can find the aerial excursion that best suits their interests and budget.