Maui & Molokai: Helicopter tour over waterfalls & sea cliffs

Summary

Soaring over Maui’s wild valleys and Molokai’s sheer cliffs

You’ll fly above Maui’s lush rainforest valleys and cross to Molokai for views of towering sea cliffs and hidden waterfalls. With a local guide sharing stories through your headset and live commentary throughout the flight, you’ll experience both islands’ wild beauty from above — moments you’ll remember long after touching down.

What’s the experience like?

We buckled in at the heliport just outside Kahului — I was half-nervous, half-excited, trying not to fidget with my headset too much. Our pilot, Keoni, greeted us with a grin and a few words in Hawaiian that I absolutely butchered when I tried to repeat them (he laughed, which helped). As soon as we lifted off, Maui’s patchwork of green valleys opened up below. The glass felt cool against my forehead when I leaned in for a better look at the ‘Iao Valley — mist curling around those knife-edged ridges like something out of an old legend.

Keoni pointed out places his grandparents used to fish near Waihe’e and Kahakuloa Bay. The way he talked about the land made it feel personal — not just a list of facts. At one point, we hovered so close to a waterfall I could see the spray catching sunlight, tiny rainbows flickering for half a second before vanishing. The air smelled faintly of rain even inside the helicopter (or maybe that was just my imagination). Crossing over the Pailolo Channel toward Molokai, the water turned this impossible shade of blue-green — I kept thinking how small our little helicopter looked against those massive sea cliffs.

I didn’t expect Molokai to hit me so hard. The cliffs there are… well, they just rise straight out of the ocean like they’re daring you to look away. Keoni told us about Kalaupapa Peninsula and its history — his voice got quieter for that part. We circled Pelekunu Bay where you can still spot ancient streams winding through untouched valleys. It’s wild country; you don’t see roads or houses, just green on green and the sound of our rotors echoing back from stone walls.

The whole flight was maybe an hour but it felt longer — time sort of stretched out up there. When we landed back at the heliport everyone was quiet for a minute, like we’d all been holding our breath together. There’s a video preview after (I looked ridiculous in my headset), but honestly it’s that feeling of floating above Maui and Molokai that sticks with me most.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — West Maui and Molokai Highlights

• The shoreline and vistas of Haleakala and West Maui Mountains
• History of ancient population center near 'Iao Valley
• Scenic ridgelines of Waihe'e
• View Kahakuloa Bay along West Maui Mountain Road
• Fly by highest peak of Mauna Kahālāwai
• Fly by notable landmarks
• Fly by additional sights
• Molokai island with highest sea cliffs and Kalaupapa community
• Views of beaches, waters, and golf courses at Kapalua
• Fly by Pelekunu Bay and valley with ancient Hawaiian fauna

Top questions

How long is the Maui & Molokai helicopter tour?

The flight lasts about one hour from takeoff to landing.

Is there live commentary during the helicopter tour?

Yes, your pilot is also a certified State of Hawaii tour guide who provides live commentary via headset.

Are headsets provided on the helicopter tour?

Yes, Bose aviation-grade noise-cancelling headsets are included for all passengers.

Does the tour include pickup from my hotel?

No, pickup is not included; guests check in at the heliport near Kahului.

Can infants join the helicopter tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult's lap during the flight.

Is this helicopter tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; transportation options are also available nearby.

What should I wear for the helicopter ride?

Wear dark-colored clothing to reduce reflections in photos taken through the windows.

What’s included

Your day includes use of Bose noise-cancelling headsets with two-way communication so you can chat with your local guide pilot during the flight, all fees and taxes covered, plus a video preview after landing at the heliport before heading back into town.