Top Things to do in Oahu
10 Helicopter Tours in Oahu That You Shouldn't Miss
The Hawaiian island of Oahu is a surfer’s paradise, with swelling waves that can reach epic heights. No wonder, then, that it’s the site of one of the world’s premier competitions, the Triple Crown of Surfing. If hanging ten isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches – particularly famous Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. Art connoisseurs will appreciate the annual Hale'iwa Arts Festival, a celebration of local crafts, painting, jewelry, sculpture, dance, and music.
Restaurants in Oahu
1. Waikiki Sunset - 20 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
The sunset over Waikiki is Oahu's most awe inspiring show. This exclusive Sunset Helicopter tour gives you a front row seat to this brilliant spectacle.
Inclusions: Parking Fees, Phone Strap
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By michaelhX3164IZ
We live in Florida, booked online several weeks prior. Had a number of trips planned in addition to this one. Our time was 9 am, on the way there, someone called asking where we were, stating we were on our way, she explained that they had text us the night before, supposed to be there 45 minutes prior. NOPE!! never got a text, only our printed document saying flight time was 9 am. In short, pilot, Andy, was excellent, staff was nice... but why don’t you put the critical, required info in the ORIGINAL document. It’s so simple... or here is a thought, why not put “ heh, gonna call you day prior”!! Lady on the phone was quite rude.
2. Doors-Off Diamond Head Scenic Helicopter Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Paradise Helicopters' Diamond Head Scenic tour is the best way to see some of the most famous spots in Hawaii, by air. On this small group tour departing from the Kalaeloa Airport, just minutes from the resorts at Ko Olina, you will see Pearl Harbor from the same vantage point as the US Airmen who responded to the fateful attack on the Day of Infamy. You will also drink in the incredible views of Ala Moana Beach Park, the busy Ala Wai Boat Harbor , and the iconic white sand beach of Waikiki. Come to a new appreciation of Le‘ahi (Diamond Head Crater) from a dramatic perspective before turning toward the lush Nu‘uanu Valley. Glance over at Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific before returning to the luxurious Ko Olina Resort area on the sunny westside of O‘ahu.
Inclusions: Headsets to hear the guide clearly, Live commentary on board, All taxes, fees and handling charges, Fuel surcharge, Round-trip shared transfer from Ko Olina Resort
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By Hoosiers37114
As someone with a major fear of heights, I was the last person in the world who would willingly get on a helicopter. However, I wanted to experience the beauty of Oahu in a way most couldn’t...in the air, hovering in a helicopter. So, before I flew, I shared my fear of heights with Paradise Helicopters, and indicated that I wanted to be away from the window. So they snuggly placed me in the middle of the back seat between two other passengers. This was a nice sized 7-seater helicopter, and it was quite cozy. Our incredible US veteran pilot, Jay Moorman, gave us reassurance that he had everything absolutely under control, and we had excellent flight conditions, as it was 7:45am, clear and sunny conditions, with a light breeze. Our pilot Jay over exceeded my expectations, as he took us to some incredible places normally not seen by most visitors, including green mountain vistas of the Central Valley, as well as a flyover at the USS Arizona Memorial. I put full trust in my pilot Jay, and the flight helped me overcome a fear, while enhancing my entire Hawaiian experience.
3. Doors-Off O'ahu Sunset Helicopter Experience
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Covering the island of O‘ahu from above, our Oahu Sunset Experience is the only Sunset helicopter tour on the island. See incredible aerial views starting with a taste of history over Pearl Harbor. Next soar above the bustling Honolulu harbor, beautiful Waikiki and iconic Diamond Head Crater. Heading further east, you'll overfly Hanauma Bay before sandy Beach and Makapu‘u Lighthouse. Heading north, you will come across the fantastic coral formations of Kane‘ohe Bay, Mokoli‘i (Chinaman's Hat) and take a peek into "Jurassic Park" or, as it has been known locally for hundreds of years, Ka‘a‘awa Valley. Then see the world famous surfing spots of Sunset, Pipeline & Waimea Bay of North Shore. As you round Ka‘ena Point, you'll get a glimpse of the serene Wai‘anae Coast, a hidden gem of the island. Uncrowded and glorious beackes of Makaha and Poka‘i lace the coast. Historic Makaha Valley comes into view as you are a few minutes away from arriving back to Ko‘olina.
Inclusions: Headsets to hear the guide clearly, Live commentary on board, All taxes, fees and handling charges, Fuel surcharge, Round-trip shared transfer from Ko Olina Resort, Airport/Departure Tax
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By Hoosiers37114
As someone with a major fear of heights, I was the last person in the world who would willingly get on a helicopter. However, I wanted to experience the beauty of Oahu in a way most couldn’t...in the air, hovering in a helicopter. So, before I flew, I shared my fear of heights with Paradise Helicopters, and indicated that I wanted to be away from the window. So they snuggly placed me in the middle of the back seat between two other passengers. This was a nice sized 7-seater helicopter, and it was quite cozy. Our incredible US veteran pilot, Jay Moorman, gave us reassurance that he had everything absolutely under control, and we had excellent flight conditions, as it was 7:45am, clear and sunny conditions, with a light breeze. Our pilot Jay over exceeded my expectations, as he took us to some incredible places normally not seen by most visitors, including green mountain vistas of the Central Valley, as well as a flyover at the USS Arizona Memorial. I put full trust in my pilot Jay, and the flight helped me overcome a fear, while enhancing my entire Hawaiian experience.
4. Private Helicopter Charter - Oahu "VIP Experience" (60 Minute)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 56 reviews
This is a guaranteed PRIVATE Helicopter Tour: Experience Oahu's breathtaking tropical landscape from above on this 1 hour guaranteed private helicopter tour. Minimum of 2 members of the same family / group can have your own private pilot and aircraft to see Oahu the way YOU want to. Spend more time at sites you like or return to some locations for more photos ..... Let us take you to our secret places in Oahu ...or you tell us what you want to go and we'll get you there ! Groups larger than 3 - we will fly 2+ helicopters in formation - flying side by side so you can capture air to air photos of each other whilst taking ion the amazing treasures of Oahu's hidden waterfalls and valleys. Maximum group size is 6 This is offered as both a doors on and DOORS OFF Tour at no extra cost. Strictly Private and Same Family / Group
Inclusions: All taxes, fees, and handling charges, Fuel surcharge, Landing and facility fees, Airport/Departure Tax, Live commentary
Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks
Reviewed By Lori J
This was our first helicopter experience. From check in to our pilot and the flight it was an experience of a life time. I would do it again in a heartbeat. The service was impressive.
5. Island Tour & Helicopter Flight - Luxury Small Group Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Small Group Tour - 7 guests max on the ground and 6 guests max on the helicopter. Only Circle Island Tour combining a ground tour with a 30 minute helicopter flight. Start your 6 hour Circle Island Tour at 9am. DanielsHawaii will show you the best spots on the ground, before dropping you at the Helipad for a 45 minute Helicopter Flight over the beautiful island of Oahu. These are some of the spots you are going to see on the tour: • Waikiki • Pearl Harbor • Honolulu Skyline • WWI Memorial • Diamond Head • Most Dangerous Beach in the USA • Macadamia Nut Farm • Chinamans Hat • Punchbowl Cemetery • North Shore • Aloha Stadium • Breathtaking Hawaii Mountains • Aloha Tower and many more spots on the island of Oahu. Max 6 Passenger Luxury Helicopter with Air Condition, Leather Seats and giant windows for great pictures.
Inclusions: Airport/Departure Tax, Water in the van, Driver/guide, Headsets to hear the guide clearly, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Professional guide, Professional photographer guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Souvenir Video (available to purchase), Lunch, The listed price does not include a $25 per person fuel surcharge, payable at the time of tour check-in. The fuel surcharge is required by our local supplier and is not within our control.
Reviewed By Hermosa97
10/10 recommended. Cameron was beyond amazing. He shared lots of great information about the island took us to great spots and even took great group pictures for my friends and I. He people friendly, patient, enthusiastic definitely would do another tour with him.
6. Private 60 Minute Helicopter Tour with Romantic Landing
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Let us whisk you away to an exclusive landing spot at a stunning and private valley on the Windward coast of O'ahu. This beautiful, 4000-acre paradise boasts lush, green landscapes, mountains that reach to the clouds and gentle trade winds that reach from the nearby coast. Your private helicopter tour begins over the island’s South Shore for a chance to see a birds-eye view of the famous Waikiki skyline and Diamond Head crater. After cruising over Hanauma Bay, the Windward coast and the famed Kualoa Ranch, you'll begin your graceful decent to land. Your 15 minute stay inside a private and lush oasis, away from the crowds and tourist attractions, includes Wailua chocolates, a champagne toast, leis and memories that will last a lifetime. Rising back into the blue sky, your helicopter takes you to explore the lush forests and emerald cliffs of the Ka’a’awa Valley and fly in close for a view of Oahu’s highest waterfall, Sacred Falls.
Inclusions: Leis , Waialua Chocolates, Champagne toast, Parking Fees
Exclusions: Gratuity
Reviewed By michaelhX3164IZ
We live in Florida, booked online several weeks prior. Had a number of trips planned in addition to this one. Our time was 9 am, on the way there, someone called asking where we were, stating we were on our way, she explained that they had text us the night before, supposed to be there 45 minutes prior. NOPE!! never got a text, only our printed document saying flight time was 9 am. In short, pilot, Andy, was excellent, staff was nice... but why don’t you put the critical, required info in the ORIGINAL document. It’s so simple... or here is a thought, why not put “ heh, gonna call you day prior”!! Lady on the phone was quite rude.
7. Marry Me banner on the Beach - Helicopter Proposal Flight
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Imagine a private helicopter flight soaring over a beautiful Hawaiian beach with the love of your life. As you take in the beauty of the sugar white coastline and turquoise waters, your sweetheart spots a beautiful banner on the beach … “Marry Me?” Imagine the unforgettable moment they realize it was arranged there by YOU. Your new fiancé won’t be able to stop telling friends and family about this unique and special proposal, one that you both will definitely remember forever. Depending on the duration of the tour you choose, you'll see many breathtaking sights on Oahu from the white sands of Waikiki to the epic big waves of the North Shore on this incredibly romantic circle island tour. Enjoy spectacular views of Waikiki, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Waimanalo Beach, the Ko'olau Mountains and Pearl Harbor. The 45 minute tour option extends to Sacred Falls and Ka'a'awa Valley and the 60 minute tour extends to the gorgeous North Shore. Choose doors on or doors off at no extra charge.
Inclusions: Parking Fees, Phone Strap
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By michaelhX3164IZ
We live in Florida, booked online several weeks prior. Had a number of trips planned in addition to this one. Our time was 9 am, on the way there, someone called asking where we were, stating we were on our way, she explained that they had text us the night before, supposed to be there 45 minutes prior. NOPE!! never got a text, only our printed document saying flight time was 9 am. In short, pilot, Andy, was excellent, staff was nice... but why don’t you put the critical, required info in the ORIGINAL document. It’s so simple... or here is a thought, why not put “ heh, gonna call you day prior”!! Lady on the phone was quite rude.
8. Blue Skies of Oahu ECO Helicopter Tour
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 19 reviews
This spectacular Blue Hawaiian Eco-Star aerial tour reveals all the highlights of the island "where Aloha began": picture-postcard Diamond Head, awe-inspiring Pearl Harbor, the sights of Honolulu, plus the "other" Oahu- a tropical bounty of hidden rainforests, valleys, waterfalls and beaches that many visitors never get to experience.
Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Complimentary transportation available from select locations.
Exclusions: The listed price does not include any parking fees., USB recording of in-flight video (available to purchase)
Reviewed By G6011YTsamk
It was a disaster. We were booked on a certain day but before our time, it was told the winds were too strong and it was unsafe to go up again. That was a good thing, safety first. We made another day and was there a half an hour before reservation time. My wife and I were in 2nd row and it started off great until the pilot tried to speak to us. The people in the front seemed to heard okay but we couldn't hear anything. The pilot tried various channels and it kept going in and out. We were only catching about 5% of the tour. I am from Hawaii so it didn't matter that much to me but I was on my honeymoon and it was my wife;s first ever trip to Hawaii and the tickets were purchased as a wedding gift from my brother. The expense that he paid was certainly not worth it. They tried to make things better by offering us a picture and the video which was medium quality at best. We watched the video and it was just not the same effect as being there. I called several times and the office gal said she would have the flight manager call me but it's been a month and nothing yet. My suggestion is use another helicopter tour that will make sure the equipment is top notch or take care of you if something goes wrong. We are going back with 5 people this time and my wife said she will not use Blue Helicopter tours again.
9. Open-Door Helicopter Tour over Oahu
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 384 reviews
Enjoy a thrilling flight by open-door helicopter to see the very best of Oahu! With nothing to obstruct your view, you’ll soar over Oahu on a spectacular 50-minute narrated helicopter tour for an adventure of a lifetime. Feel the wind in your hair as you admire unbeatable aerial views of must-see Oahu sights including Honolulu Harbor, Hanauma Bay, the Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach, Dole Plantation, Pearl Harbor and the USS 'Arizona' Memorial. Fly in the same helicopter as seen on television's Magnum PI.
Inclusions: Transport by open-door helicopter, Live commentary on board, Waikiki hotel pickup and drop-off. (Currently Suspended due to Covid-19), Local taxes
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By kateeptak
This experience was literally the most fun I’ve ever had in my entire life! The staff was friendly and helped calm my nerves! Jeff was our pilot and made me feel safe, had a great sense of humor and was so knowledgeable about the island! Best experience ever. DO IT!!!
10. City-by-the-Sea - 20 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 18 reviews
Soar over the Honolulu skyline and Waikiki's white-sand beaches as you discover the seaside city of Oahu. Enjoy views of Diamond Head, Punchbowl Crater, and the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. Choose our exciting doors-off option and get crystal clear photographs of this beautiful city.
Inclusions: Parking Fees, Phone Strap
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By michaelhX3164IZ
We live in Florida, booked online several weeks prior. Had a number of trips planned in addition to this one. Our time was 9 am, on the way there, someone called asking where we were, stating we were on our way, she explained that they had text us the night before, supposed to be there 45 minutes prior. NOPE!! never got a text, only our printed document saying flight time was 9 am. In short, pilot, Andy, was excellent, staff was nice... but why don’t you put the critical, required info in the ORIGINAL document. It’s so simple... or here is a thought, why not put “ heh, gonna call you day prior”!! Lady on the phone was quite rude.
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