Honolulu Helicopter Tour: Oahu Landmarks & Hidden Sights Flight

Summary

Oahu Aerial Adventure: Iconic Views & Local Secrets by Helicopter

You’ll get to see Oahu like locals rarely do—soaring above Waikiki, tracing Diamond Head’s rim, and catching secret corners only visible by air. If you want to pack all of Oahu’s highlights into one unforgettable hour—with stories and sights you won’t find on any bus tour—this flight is for you.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget the first rush as our helicopter lifted off from Honolulu Airport. The city shrank fast—one minute you’re watching cars crawl along H1, the next you’re gliding over Sand Island with the salty breeze sneaking in through the open doors (if you dare). Our pilot, Kimo, pointed out Magic Island and Ala Moana Beach Park below—tiny sunbathers like sprinkles on a cake. You could spot surfers waiting for waves at Waikiki; their boards looked like little toothpicks from up here.

We looped around Diamond Head’s rugged rim, its crater catching the morning light just right. Down below, Hanauma Bay’s turquoise water almost glowed—Kimo joked that locals always know to visit early before the crowds and heat roll in. Makapuu Point flashed by with its lighthouse perched stubbornly against the wind. I caught a whiff of plumeria drifting up from someone’s backyard as we swung past Rabbit Island and Pele’s Chair—a rock formation that really does look like a throne if you squint.

The North Shore was next: Turtle Bay’s gentle curve, then Sunset Beach where you could actually see the white lines of surf breaking far out. We traced the coast past Waimea Bay and Bonsai Pipeline—no huge waves today, but you could still spot a few hopeful surfers paddling out. Inland, Dole Plantation’s pineapple fields stretched in neat green rows; Kimo said they run tours but nothing beats seeing that maze from above (it looks way easier than it is). As we circled back toward Pearl Harbor, he slowed so we could take in the Arizona Memorial—a hush settled in our headsets for a moment. It hits different when you see it from this angle.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Oahu Helicopter Tour Highlights

• Helicopter flight around Oahu
• View Waikiki
• See Diamond Head
• Visit Hanauma Bay
• Fly over Makapuu Point
• See Dole Pineapple Plantation
• View USS Arizona Memorial

Top questions

Is this helicopter tour suitable for first-time flyers?

Absolutely! Most guests are first-timers. The pilot gives a safety briefing and checks everyone feels comfortable before takeoff.

Can I bring my camera or phone?

Yes! We provide cell phone lanyards so your device stays secure while snapping photos or videos during the flight.

Are doors-on and doors-off options available?

You can choose either option when booking—just let us know your preference ahead of time.

What happens if my group is over the weight limit?

If your party exceeds 380 pounds (for two people), please contact us directly so we can discuss options or arrange a private flight.

How do I book last-minute flights?

If you're looking to book within 12 hours of departure, give us a call or send an email for up-to-date availability.

What’s included

Your seat on a shared helicopter flight around Oahu; cell phone lanyard for safe photos; friendly local pilot sharing stories along the way; easy online booking or concierge-style help by phone or email.