Maui – Best Helicopter Experience

Why a Helicopter Tour in Maui is a Must-Do Experience

Visiting Maui offers a seemingly endless list of breathtaking activities, but few rival the thrill and beauty of exploring the island by air. A helicopter tour of Maui provides stunning views of cascading waterfalls, dramatic volcanic craters, lush rainforests, and hidden coastlines that are inaccessible by foot or road. Especially for families seeking a truly unforgettable adventure, this is an experience worth every minute (and every dollar).

Top Helicopter Tour Companies in Maui

There are several reputable helicopter tour providers in Maui, each offering unique flight options and safety standards. Here are the top-rated ones as of 2024:

1. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

Blue Hawaiian is among the most trusted names in Hawaii’s helicopter tourism industry. With state-of-the-art Eco-Star helicopters and an excellent safety record, they offer a variety of tours that include the Haleakalā Crater, Hana Rainforest, and West Maui Mountains. Their professional and knowledgeable guides also provide rich narration throughout your journey, deepening your understanding of the island’s history and geology.

2. Maverick Helicopters

Operating newer helicopters and known for personalized service, Maverick Helicopters offers luxury tours like the “Molokai Voyage,” which explores sea cliffs and waterfalls on nearby Molokai as well as West Maui. Their aircraft feature plush seating, noise-canceling headsets, and wrap-around windows for panoramic views — a huge plus for photographers.

3. Air Maui

Founded and locally owned on Maui, Air Maui is beloved for its warm aloha spirit and friendly pilots. Their routes include the “West Maui & Molokai Special” and “Hana & Haleakalā” tours. Optional private charters make this an excellent choice for families who want a more intimate adventure. Their helicopters also offer open-door options for thrill-seekers.

Best Tours for Families

When traveling with children or multiple generations, comfort and duration matter. Most companies recommend children be at least 2 years old to fly. Tours that are 45–60 minutes in length tend to be the sweet spot—long enough to see the highlights, but not too long for little ones to get restless.

We recommend the Blue Hawaiian “Circle of Fire” tour or the Air Maui “Hana & Haleakalā” flight. Both offer diverse scenery, smooth rides, and engaging narration suitable for all ages.

What You’ll See from the Sky

  • Haleakalā Crater: This dormant volcano looks like another planet from above. Its surreal, moon-like surface and vibrant colors are unforgettable.
  • Hana Coastline: See hundreds of waterfalls, lush valleys, and bamboo forests tucked within Maui’s remote East side.
  • Molokai Sea Cliffs: Soar along the world’s tallest sea cliffs and peer into deep rain-soaked valleys only accessible by air.
  • West Maui Mountains: Time-worn spires and emerald peaks define this region, along with secret canyons and seasonal waterfalls.

Best Time of Day to Fly

Early morning flights are generally best. They offer more stable weather conditions, less wind, and better lighting for photos. Visibility also tends to be clearer before afternoon cloud cover sets in. If you’re an early riser, consider booking the first tour of the day for a smooth and scenic ride.

What to Bring and Wear

  • Light clothing: Temperatures can vary, especially with air circulation in open-door flights. A light jacket is a good idea.
  • Close-toed shoes: These are usually required, especially for open-door flights.
  • No hats or loose items: They can fly away and pose safety risks.
  • Camera or smartphone: Ensure it’s secured with a wrist strap.
  • Mineral-based sunscreen: Even behind helicopter windows, UV rays are strong. A reef-safe mineral sunscreen like Coco Botanicals protects your skin and keeps Hawaii’s delicate ecosystems thriving. Slather it on before the flight — your skin will thank you later, especially if you book an open-door adventure.

Booking Tips and Insider Advice

  • Reserve early: Flights sell out fast during peak travel months (March–August and December) so book as soon as your travel dates are set.
  • Weight distributions matter: For safety, passengers are seated based on weight. You may not get your pick of seats, but most helicopters have unobstructed views from all angles.
  • Photos are available: Many tours offer professional photo packages. If you’re planning a special occasion or flying with grandparents, it’s a great way to preserve the memory.
  • Weather flexibility: Flights can be canceled or rescheduled due to inclement weather. Always leave a buffer day or two in your itinerary just in case.

An Unmatched Perspective of Paradise

Whether you’re catching a glimpse of humpback whales off the coast in winter or marveling at the untouched interiors of remote Maui valleys, a helicopter tour adds a whole new layer of wonder to your Hawaiian vacation. For families, it’s not just about the sightseeing—it’s about creating a shared memory that turns into a lifelong story.

Just don’t forget to bring your sense of adventure — and Coco Botanicals mineral sunscreen — for the ride.