Ocean
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Float above lit ocean water after dark as Kona's resident manta rays somersault inches beneath you, the Big Island's single most unforgettable hour.
Land
Helicopter Tour of Volcanoes & Waterfalls
Lift off from Waikoloa and cross the island to Kīlauea's craters and the roaring waterfalls of the Hamakua Coast, terrain you can reach no other way.
Some of the Big Island cannot be reached on foot or by road, the active vents at Kīlauea, the sea-cliff waterfalls of the Hamakua Coast, the green hearts of the valleys. A helicopter is how you see it, and the flights lift off from Waikoloa, about ten minutes from your suite.
Morning air is smoothest and the light is best. Choose a circle-island route or a focused volcano flight; we can help you aim for a window seat and time it around the day’s conditions.
Good to know
Is it worth the splurge?
For many guests it is the trip they talk about most. Active lava, sea-cliff waterfalls, and the hidden valleys simply cannot be seen any other way. Ask us for a window seat.
I get motion sick, will I be okay?
Morning flights are the smoothest, before the trade winds build, so we steer sensitive flyers to an early departure. Eat a light meal beforehand and take any motion remedy about an hour ahead, and a front window seat with a wide horizon tends to help.
How long are the flights?
A focused volcano flight typically runs about 45 minutes to an hour, while a circle-island route runs roughly two hours. Our concierge helps you choose based on what you most want to see.
What should we wear and bring?
Dark, non-reflective clothing cuts window glare and gives you far better photos, so leave the bright whites behind. Bring sunglasses and a camera, and leave loose items like hats behind, since they cannot be worn near the aircraft.
Do they weigh passengers?
Yes, operators typically ask each guest's weight when booking so they can balance the aircraft and assign seats safely. It is standard practice, handled discreetly, and helps ensure everyone gets a comfortable spot.
More ways to spend the day
Culture
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (Place of Refuge)
A sacred place of forgiveness on a lava point of carved ki'i, royal fishponds, and swaying palms. One of Hawaii's most powerful cultural sites, and its best preserved.
Ocean
Kealakekua Bay Kayak & Snorkel
Paddle a glassy marine sanctuary to the Captain Cook Monument, where spinner dolphins pass and the reef drops into some of Hawaii's clearest water.