Maui & Molokai: 45-Minute Helicopter Tour Over Cliffs & Waterfalls

Summary

Helicopter ride over Maui’s wild valleys and Molokai cliffs with local pilot stories

You’ll fly above Maui’s wild West Mountains and Molokai’s towering sea cliffs on this 45-minute helicopter ride. Listen to your local pilot share stories as you spot hidden waterfalls and rainforests from above. With expert narration and window seats for every passenger, expect moments you’ll replay long after landing.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the wind tugged at my shirt as we walked out onto the tarmac at Kahului. I’d never been so close to a helicopter before — it looked smaller than I expected, honestly, but our pilot (I think his name was Dave?) just grinned and waved us over like this was all totally normal. He asked if we’d worn dark clothes for better photos — I had, but my partner forgot and joked about being the “window glare culprit.” Anyway, after a quick safety chat and some laughs about weight checks (they’re strict about that), we squeezed in with four other folks. The rotors kicked up this strange mix of excitement and nerves in my stomach.

Once we lifted off, Maui just dropped away beneath us. It’s weird how quiet it felt up there — not silent, because you’ve got the headset on and Dave is pointing out waterfalls tucked into folds of green rainforest, but still kind of peaceful. The keyword “Maui helicopter tour” doesn’t do it justice; you see these deep valleys that look impossible to reach by foot. At one point Dave banked left so we could all catch the sun glinting off a hidden beach — I swear I smelled salt even through the glass. My partner tried to snap a photo but fumbled with the phone (classic). We drifted north toward Molokai, crossing water that looked almost fake from above.

Molokai’s sea cliffs are… well, they’re tall enough that I caught myself holding my breath as we hovered near them. Someone behind me whispered “are those really the tallest?” and Dave just nodded without missing a beat. You get these moments where waterfalls appear out of nowhere, white ribbons against black rock, and then they vanish again as you turn. There’s something humbling about seeing land most people never set foot on. The flight only lasted 45 minutes but it felt longer in a good way — like time stretched out while we floated between islands. Still thinking about that view now, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helicopter tour over Maui and Molokai

• Fly over West Maui mountains north shore
• View rainforest, coastline, and beaches
• Fly over Molokai north shore
• See tallest sea cliffs, rainforest, waterfalls

Top questions

How long is the Maui & Molokai helicopter tour?

The flight lasts approximately 45 minutes from takeoff to landing.

Does the helicopter tour include narration by a guide?

Yes, your pilot provides expert narration throughout the flight.

Are infants allowed on the Maui helicopter ride?

Infants under 24 months can sit on an adult's lap; contact Air Maui if bringing an infant.

What should I wear for the helicopter tour?

Wear dark clothing to reduce window reflections for better photos during your tour.

Is there a weight limit for passengers?

If a single passenger weighs 240lbs+ or combined group weights exceed limits, an extra seat must be purchased for safety.

Are bags allowed on board during the flight?

No bags are allowed on board, including purses or backpacks.

Where does the Maui & Molokai helicopter tour depart from?

The tour departs from Kahului Heliport in Maui.

Is parking available at the heliport?

Yes, parking is available and payment is by credit card using a QR code at entry or inside the office.

What’s included

Your day includes a shared-cabin 45-minute scenic helicopter flight over West Maui’s rainforests and beaches plus Molokai’s world-famous sea cliffs and waterfalls, with live expert narration from your local pilot—just show up in dark clothes (for those window shots), no bags needed, and be ready for check-in before departure.