Blue Skies of Oahu Helicopter Tour: 50-Min Aerial Flight Over Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor & Hidden Valleys
Soar over Honolulu, Pearl Harbor and the hidden rainforests of Oʻahu in a 50-minute Airbus EC 130 helicopter tour. Pilot-guides point out geological features, wartime sites, and coastline only visible from the air—ideal for travelers who want a complete island overview in one flight.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Check-in
Plan to be at the heliport 45 minutes before departure for weight checks and a safety briefing; late arrivals may be denied boarding.
Pack a Small Camera or Smartphone
Large cameras and selfie sticks are not permitted—bring a compact device or mirrorless camera to capture views through the glass.
Expect Weather Delays
Flights can be rerouted or canceled for wind and rain—keep a flexible itinerary and check weather forecasts the morning of your tour.
Weight Policy for Safety
Guests over 240 lb (108 kg) must reserve a second adjacent seat to balance the aircraft; arrange it with the operator after booking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Aerial-only view of Sacred Falls and its cliff amphitheater, inaccessible by land
- •Kāneʻohe Bay sandbar and the Moku ʻāina (small islets) off Lanikai seen from above
Wildlife
- •Spinner dolphins inshore
- •Nodding shearwaters and native seabirds along the windward cliffs
Conservation Note
Pilots follow flight-path rules designed to minimize noise over residential areas and protected shorelines; visitors are encouraged to respect no-landing zones like Sacred Falls to preserve fragile ecosystems.
Many coastal landmarks you fly over—like Pearl Harbor and Lēʻahi (Diamond Head)—carry deep Native Hawaiian and 20th-century wartime histories that shaped Oʻahu's modern identity.
Photographer's Notes
- • Over Waikiki and Diamond Head for classic skyline shots
- • Along the windward coast for Sacred Falls and lush valleys
- • North Shore approach for reef patterns and surf lines
What to Bring
Dark, Non-Reflective ClothingEssential
Wearing darker clothing reduces glare and reflections in helicopter windows for clearer photos.
Small Mirrorless Camera or SmartphoneEssential
Compact devices comply with restrictions and still deliver high-quality aerial shots through the glass.
Light Wind Jacket
A thin jacket blocks the chill felt when doors open and during higher-altitude flights.
Credit Card
Needed for optional onboard photo/video packages and heliport souvenirs.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The scheduled flight time is about 50 minutes, with total check-in and briefing time requiring an additional 45 minutes before departure.
Can I bring a large camera or selfie stick?
No—large professional cameras, bags, and extending selfie sticks are not permitted; compact cameras and smartphones are allowed.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be rerouted, rescheduled or canceled for wind and poor visibility; refunds follow the operator's 24-hour cancellation policy for full refunds.
Are there weight limits or seating rules?
Passengers over 240 lb (108 kg) must purchase an adjacent empty seat at half price for aircraft balance—please notify the operator if this applies.
Is the helicopter wheelchair accessible?
Yes—the heliport and aircraft are wheelchair accessible and a lift is available to assist boarding; notify the operator ahead of time to arrange assistance.
Can I see Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial?
Yes—you’ll fly over Pearl Harbor and see the Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri from the air, though you will not land or disembark at those sites.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
45–60 minutes
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal mobility required for boarding and disembarking
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