Day Trip From Oahu to Hilo: Active Volcanoes & Helicopter Tour

Exploring the breathtaking beauty of the Big Island has never been easier than with this full-day trip from Oahu to Hilo. Packed with excitement and natural wonders, this immersive adventure promises to take visitors on a journey they’ll never forget. From soaring over active volcanoes and lush landscapes in a thrilling helicopter tour to wandering through the iconic Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the raw power and stunning landscapes that make the Hawaiian islands so unique. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this day trip is sure to leave you captivated and eager to discover more.

This experience made our list of the 23 Best Helicopter Flights And Tours In Oahu.

Key Points

• A full-day guided tour from Oahu to the Big Island’s Hilo that includes visits to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Richardson black sand beach, and Rainbow Falls.
• Highlights a 45-minute helicopter ride over volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and waterfalls operated by the award-winning Blue Hawaiian Helicopters.
• Offers an immersive and educational experience showcasing the Big Island’s natural wonders, with an expert guide providing insights into the geological and cultural significance.
• Accessibility and health considerations, including potential impacts from volcanic fumes, should be communicated to the tour provider in advance.
• Mixed customer reviews regarding the organization, service, and transportation issues, with some concerns about the helicopter tour experience and cancellation/refund policies.

Overview of the Tour

This full-day air and land tour from Oahu to Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii allows visitors to explore the region’s renowned volcanoes and natural wonders.

The tour includes visits to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Richardson black sand beach, and Rainbow Falls. Travelers will also enjoy a 45-minute helicopter ride over the volcanoes, waterfalls, and lush tropical landscapes.

With an overall 4.0 rating from 36 reviews, this comprehensive tour provides an in-depth look at the volcanic activity and breathtaking scenery of the Big Island.

The tour package includes round-trip airfare, ground transportation, lunch, and gratuities, offering a seamless and convenient way to discover Hilo’s natural treasures.

Destinations and Activities

The tour explores some of the Big Island’s most celebrated natural attractions, beginning with a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Travelers will have the opportunity to witness the power and dynamism of the island’s volcanic landscapes, including the chance to see active lava flows and steaming craters up close.

After the national park, the tour continues to Richardson black sand beach, where visitors can marvel at the striking contrast between the dark sand and the turquoise waters.

The final stop is the iconic Rainbow Falls, where a cascading waterfall tumbles over a lush, verdant cliff.

Throughout the day, an expert guide provides insights into the island’s geological history and cultural significance, ensuring an immersive and educational experience.

Helicopter Tour Details

Complementing the comprehensive ground tour, the 45-minute helicopter excursion provides sweeping aerial perspectives of the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes and lush tropical scenery.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, an award-winning operator, conducts the helicopter tour, offering passengers unobstructed views from the air-conditioned cabin.

The helicopter experience showcases the dramatic contrast between the volcanic terrain and the island’s verdant rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers.

Soaring over the rugged coastline, passengers are treated to breathtaking sights of the Big Island’s natural wonders, including the iconic Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes.

This aerial component adds a thrilling dimension to the overall day trip, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the island’s dynamic geological features.

Accessibility and Special Needs

While the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Hawaii’s volcanic wonders, certain accessibility and special needs considerations are important for prospective participants to keep in mind.

Individuals with asthma or respiratory issues may want to consult with their healthcare providers before booking, as potential exposure to volcanic fumes could exacerbate their conditions.

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers and service animals are permitted, and infants must be carried on laps.

Travelers with special needs are advised to communicate their requirements to the local supplier at least one week prior to the tour, to ensure the provider can make appropriate arrangements.

Health and Safety Considerations

Passengers with asthma or respiratory issues should carefully consider their participation in this tour, as potential exposure to volcanic fumes could exacerbate their conditions.

Lava sightings are also not guaranteed on this excursion, and interisland flight times may be subject to change.

Travelers with special needs must communicate their requirements to the local supplier at least one week prior to the tour, to ensure the provider can make appropriate arrangements.

While the tour offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the power of Hawaii’s volcanoes, it’s essential for participants to be aware of the potential health risks involved.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Weather conditions can play a significant role in the success of this day trip, as interisland flights and helicopter tours may be subject to cancellation or delays due to inclement weather. The tour operator provides refunds for any canceled helicopter tours, though sightseeing alternatives may be offered in such cases. Travelers should remain flexible and prepared for potential changes to the itinerary, as the dynamic nature of Hawaii’s weather can impact the tour’s execution.

Potential Weather Impacts
Interisland Flights	Flights may be delayed or canceled due to high winds, rain, or cloud cover.
Helicopter Tours	Flights may be grounded due to unsafe flying conditions, such as low visibility or turbulence.
Ground Excursions	Hiking trails or viewpoints may be temporarily closed due to heavy rain or volcanic activity.
Transportation	Tour vehicles may experience delays or route changes due to flooded roads or other weather-related issues.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Customers have provided mixed reviews on their experiences with this day trip from Oahu to Hilo. Some expressed dissatisfaction with the tour’s organization and service, while others highlighted the knowledgeable guides and extensive coverage of the Big Island.

Some common complaints include:

1. Issues with the comfort and execution of the helicopter tour, with passengers noting discomfort and concerns about the overall experience.

2. Frustration with the cancellation and refund processes, as some travelers encountered difficulties when the helicopter tour was canceled.

3. Problems with transportation back to hotels, leaving some customers stranded or unsatisfied with the arrangements made.

Despite these drawbacks, many customers praised the tour’s ability to showcase the diverse landscapes and active volcanoes of the Big Island.

Booking and Logistics

According to the information provided, to book this day trip from Oahu to Hilo, travelers must confirm the meeting points up to 24 hours prior to the activity, and provide their accurate weight at the time of booking, as a comfort seat surcharge applies for passengers over 240 lbs.

The tour includes round-trip interisland airfare, an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, a 45-minute helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, lunch, and gratuities.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers and service animals are allowed, and infants must sit on laps.

Travelers must also present a valid government-issued ID for boarding, with the name matching the ID exactly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take this tour is during the drier summer months, typically from June to September, when weather conditions are more favorable for helicopter flights and sightseeing at the volcanoes. Visitors can expect fewer delays and more reliable air travel during this period.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

While an extended tour option isn’t explicitly mentioned, travelers can inquire with the tour operator about customizing the itinerary or adding extra activities to their day trip for a longer experience exploring the Big Island’s volcanic landscapes.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks or Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers are typically allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to confirm the policy with the tour operator in advance, as some may have restrictions on outside food and beverages.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Helicopter Ride?

There are no age restrictions for the helicopter ride. All passengers, including infants, must be securely seated on the helicopter. However, infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the flight.

Can I Request a Specific Helicopter Pilot or Company?

Passengers can’t request a specific helicopter pilot or company. The tour includes a 45-minute helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, but the pilot assignment is determined by the operator based on availability and scheduling. Passengers don’t have control over the helicopter assignment.

Recap

This full-day excursion from Oahu to Hilo on the Big Island offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes and lush natural beauty.

The helicopter tour provides a bird’s-eye view of active volcanoes, while the ground-based itinerary allows visitors to explore the renowned Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, relax at a black sand beach, and admire the iconic Rainbow Falls.

With round-trip airfare, transportation, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide, this immersive experience showcases the remarkable wonders of the Big Island.