Best Locations in Hawaii for Helicopter Tours
When thinking of things to do in the Hawaii islands, many overlook the options available with the assorted helicopter tours throughout the island chain. More thrilling than any amusement park ride, these tours offer views beyond description as they whisk passengers to within a stone's throw of tropical forests, beaches, craters, volcanoes, cliffs, mountains, and many otherwise unreachable and breathtaking sights.
According to consumer reports, the best islands to take a tour on are Hawaii, Oahu, and Kauai:
Hawaii
Known as the "Big Island", it is larger than, (and probably more famous than) the chain of other Hawaiian islands combined. There are several different places on the island that are often included on helicopter tours offered by different agencies. Helicopter tours often include visits to several of the following areas of Hawaii.
The Kohala coast, waterfalls and valleys are considered to be among some of the most spectacular scenes in Hawaii. Cliffs tower over the sea, leading to the rainforest valley that covers the feet of the Kohala Mountains that, in turn, are ornamented with cascading waterfalls.
Since the Kilauea volcano, located in the Kona district, began erupting 1983, it has been a dominant feature of the Hawaiian landscape. Helicopter tours follow along the awe inspiring lava stream that flows down to the fascinating black beaches below. The nearby Madame Pele's badlands and rainforest that skirt it lead to the splendid Hamaku Coast.
Oahu
As the most populated of the Hawaiian Islands, (four out of five Hawaiians call it home), Oahu is nicknamed "the Gathering Place". It is the commercial, governmental, center of the state. The fact that its North Shore is home of the largest waves in the world, coupled with the following additional beauties of nature, make it a popular volcano helicopter tour destination.
Waikiki Beach, with its coral reefs bathed in turquoise waters, is the famous beginning of the phenomenal scenery that this island has to offer. The extinct Diamond Head volcano, white-sanded Waimanalo Beach, unique coral formations of Kaneohe Bay, Nuuanu Valley rainforests, and Sacred Falls waterfall all only add to the splendor of a full and rewarding tour.
If surfing hot spots are more your speed, the world renowned Sunset Beach, Pipeline, and Waimea Bay should be just enough to do the trick.
Kauai
This verdant paradise owes its beauty to the fact that it is a region with one of the highest rainfall ratios in the world. Known as "the Garden Isle", it is home to several lush natural wonders that make it many people's favorite Hawaiian Islands to visit on Kauai helicopter flights.
One Hawaii helicopter tour agency has gained exclusive permission to do remote landings on Kauai, which is a feat since landing anywhere on the island has been banned for more than 25 years. For those interested in botany, the Kauai Wildlife Refuge is a fascinating destination. Co-owned by environmentalist Keith Robinson, this refuge is dedicated to the preservation of plant species that are endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. The Refuge also overlooks the Waimea Canyon that extends all the way to the west side of the Mt. Waialeale Crater. This entire area that has no public roads, or viewing platforms on land, from where this spectacular view can be admired - making this an amazing opportunity to see a unique aspect of environmental conservation.
Mana Waiapuna, the waterfall that has been dubbed "Jurassic Park Falls" after it appeared in the background of the Speilberg movie, is breathtaking from the air. Olokele Canyon and Waimea Canyon are often next on the itinerary, followed by the sculpted Na Pali Coast and rugged beauty of the Bali Hai Cliffs. Hanalei Bay adds a touch of pristine blue water, and the ancient volcano, Mt. Waialeale, stops hearts since many tours fly directly into the center of the 5000 ft high crater. The only thing to say after a flight like that is, wow!
Well Reputed Helicopter Tour Companies
There are several helicopter charters that have received a good report from their clients and reputable travel books. Among these are Blue Hawaiian Helicopters tours (a "first class" operation according to Frommer's), Safari Helicopters, Jack Harter Helicopters (the father of the concept of Hawaiian helicopter tours), and Sunshine Helicopters. A Google search for the company name is the best way to contact the companies and find which one offers the tour, or tour package, that best suit your travel preferences. Then get ready for one of the most memorable and amazing travel experiences you will ever have!
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