Viator Rating : 5 (1363 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.1/10 (Solid Experience)
Oahu
Oahu Doors-Off Helicopter Tour: See Pearl Harbor & More!
50
Overview
Magnum PI Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopters offers an amazing adventure over Oahu! This helicopter tour is perfect for anyone who wants to see the island from above. Feel the wind as the helicopter soars over Oahu for 50 minutes. It is an adventure that people will remember forever.
People will see famous places like Pearl Harbor and the Arizona Memorial. The tour also flies over Kaneohe Bay, Waimanalo Beach, and Makapuu Point. Look down at Sea Life Park and Chinaman's Hat. See Aloha Tower, Sandy Beach, Waikiki Beach, and Ala Moana Beach Park from above. The helicopter even goes over Hanauma Bay, Honolulu Harbor, Magic Island, and the Halona Blowhole. Don't forget Diamond Head, Sacred Falls, Kualoa Ranch, and the Dole Plantation!
The tour includes a ride in an open-door helicopter, local taxes, and live commentary. Gratuities (tips) are not included. This tour gives once-in-a-lifetime views and experiences. It is a very popular choice with over 2,500 five-star reviews! 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Mobility (9 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (8 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Upsell Risk (6 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Highlights
Fly Doors-Off!: Get unbeatable, unobstructed views of Oahu.
See Famous Sites: Fly over Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay, and more!
Feel the Wind: Experience the thrill of an open-door helicopter ride.
Listen to the Commentary: Hear interesting facts about the island's landmarks.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more personalized experience with a smaller group.
Perfect Photo Ops: Capture incredible aerial photos of Oahu's beauty.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers say the doors-off experience is thrilling and provides amazing, unobstructed views.
-
Many reviewers loved the pilot's knowledge and how they pointed out landmarks.
-
People enjoyed the unique perspective of seeing Oahu from the air.
-
Some reviewers highlighted the smooth and comfortable ride.
A few customers mentioned that the ride can be bumpy at times.
-
Some found the tour shorter than expected.
The Journey
Pearl Harbor
Reflect on history at Pearl Harbor, home to the Arizona Memorial, a tribute to the lives lost during the attack on December 7, 1941. Adjacent to the memorial, explore the USS Missouri, the site of the formal surrender of Japan, marking the end of World War II. This powerful and somber experience offers a profound understanding of a pivotal moment in world history.
Arizona Memorial
Pay homage at the Arizona Memorial, a poignant tribute floating above the sunken remains of the USS Arizona. This solemn and moving experience provides a deep connection to the events of Pearl Harbor and honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Entry requires advance reservations.
Kaneohe Bay
Discover the pristine beauty of Kaneohe Bay, a haven for water enthusiasts. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life through snorkeling or diving. Enjoy calm, turquoise waters perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding while taking in the panoramic views of the Ko'olau mountains.
Waimanalo Beach
Escape to Waimanalo Beach, renowned for its soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the U.S., Waimanalo offers a tranquil setting for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. Enjoy the picturesque scenery and fewer crowds compared to Waikiki.
Makapuu Point
Hike to Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail and witness breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. This paved trail leads to the historic Makapu'u Lighthouse, offering stunning vistas of the ocean, Rabbit Island, and migrating humpback whales (seasonal). The dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters provide a memorable experience.
Sea Life Park
Immerse yourself in the wonders of marine life at Sea Life Park. Get up close with dolphins, sea turtles, and Hawaiian monk seals. Enjoy interactive exhibits, entertaining shows, and opportunities to swim with dolphins. A perfect family-friendly attraction showcasing the beauty of the ocean.
Chinaman's Hat
Marvel at the iconic Chinaman's Hat, also known as Mokolii Island, a small, uninhabited islet resembling a traditional Chinese hat. Admire the distinctive silhouette from nearby beaches, or take a kayak for a closer view of this geological landmark. The island is a bird sanctuary and offers excellent photo opportunities.
Aloha Tower
Visit Aloha Tower, a historic landmark that once served as Honolulu's tallest structure and a welcoming beacon for arriving ships. Climb to the observation deck for panoramic views of Honolulu Harbor and the city skyline. Explore the shops and restaurants at Aloha Tower Marketplace, experiencing a blend of history and modern attractions.
Sandy Beach
Experience the thrill of Sandy Beach, famous for its powerful shorebreak and challenging waves. Known as 'Breakneck Beach' by locals, this beach is a favorite among experienced bodyboarders and surfers. While swimming can be risky, the energetic atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a must-see.
Waikiki Beach
Relax on the golden sands of Waikiki Beach, a world-renowned destination synonymous with Hawaiian paradise. Learn to surf, soak up the sun, or enjoy a sunset cocktail at a beachfront bar. With Diamond Head as a backdrop, Waikiki offers a vibrant mix of relaxation, recreation, and urban excitement.
Ala Moana Beach Park
Escape to Ala Moana Beach Park, a sprawling urban oasis offering a calm lagoon perfect for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. Enjoy picnicking under shady trees, jogging along the scenic pathways, or shopping at the adjacent Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air shopping mall in the world.
Hanauma Bay
Snorkel in the pristine waters of Hanauma Bay, a protected marine sanctuary teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs. This natural wonder offers an unforgettable underwater experience. Reservations are required and visitors must watch an educational video to protect the delicate ecosystem.
Honolulu Harbor
Witness the bustling activity of Honolulu Harbor, a major port and gateway to the Hawaiian Islands. Observe cargo ships, cruise liners, and fishing boats as they navigate the harbor. Explore the waterfront area and soak in the maritime atmosphere.
Magic Island
Discover Magic Island, a man-made peninsula offering stunning views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. Relax on the beach, enjoy a picnic, or take a stroll along the scenic pathways. The calm waters are ideal for swimming and paddleboarding, making it a perfect spot for families.
Halona Blowhole
Witness the dramatic Halona Blowhole, a natural rock formation that shoots seawater high into the air with each crashing wave. Enjoy the scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the coastline and nearby Halona Beach Cove, famous as the filming location for 'From Here to Eternity'.
Diamond Head
Hike to the summit of Diamond Head Crater, an iconic volcanic landmark offering breathtaking panoramic views of Waikiki, Honolulu, and the Pacific Ocean. This moderately challenging hike provides a rewarding experience and stunning photo opportunities. Reservations are required.
Sacred Falls
Please note: As of 1999, Sacred Falls State Park has been closed to the public due to a tragic landslide. While once a stunning natural attraction, it is no longer accessible. Respect the closure and explore alternative natural wonders on O'ahu.
Kualoa Ranch
Embark on an adventure at Kualoa Ranch, a sprawling nature reserve and filming location for numerous Hollywood blockbusters, including Jurassic Park. Explore the stunning landscapes on horseback, ATV, or zipline. Immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of this iconic Hawaiian destination.
Dole Plantation
Delight in a sweet escape at the Dole Plantation, where you can explore the world's largest pineapple maze. Learn about the history of pineapple cultivation in Hawaii, enjoy a refreshing Dole Whip, and take a train tour through the plantation fields. A fun and family-friendly attraction showcasing Hawaii's agricultural heritage.
Know Before You Go
This exciting helicopter tour includes transport by an open-door helicopter. Local taxes are included, and there will be live commentary during the flight. Please note that gratuities (tips for the pilot) are not included in the price of the tour. Pickup and drop-off details or meeting points will be provided upon booking to ensure a smooth start to the aerial adventure.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers recommend bringing a secure camera strap or using a phone lanyard to keep your devices safe during the doors-off flight. Also, consider wearing dark-colored clothing to minimize reflections in your photos and videos!
Review Summary
People finds this thrilling doors-off helicopter tour highly rated among Oahu experiences, with frequent praise for breathtaking aerial views of Pearl Harbor, narrated insights, and the exhilarating open-air ride in the iconic Magnum PI Hughes 500. Positive mentions highlight knowledgeable pilots and photo opportunities, though some note strict weight limits and full-flight requirements as minor drawbacks.[2][3][5]
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Honolulu
$509
Soar Above Paradise: Unforgettable Private Helicopter Tour of Honolulu
5.0
(92 reviews)
Duration: 60
minutes
Experience the Private 60 Minutes Helicopter Tour in Honolulu, offering breathtaking aerial views of Oahu's landmarks, valleys, and waterfalls. Enjoy a personalized flight with doors optional for enhanced views. This unique adventure provides an intimate and unforgettable exploration of Hawaii's beauty, perfect for a memorable island experience.
Honolulu
$140
Oahu Grand Circle: Haleiwa, Dole & Top Spots - 9-Hour Tour
5.0
(17172 reviews)
Duration: 540
minutes
Experience the best of O‘ahu on the Oahu Grand Circle Island and Haleiwa Tour! This 9-hour deluxe experience takes you to the island's most beautiful and iconic spots, including Diamond Head Lookout and the luxurious Kahala Gold Coast. See the marine life at Hanauma Bay and witness the natural wonder of the Halona Blowhole.
The adventure continues to the lush Nuuanu Pali Lookout and the serene Byodo-In Temple. Enjoy a visit to a tropical farm and the famous Dole Plantation. Plus, there's plenty of time (90 minutes) to explore the charming town of Haleiwa, known for its North Shore surfing beaches and local shops. Travel in comfort on a deluxe bus with an onboard restroom and enjoy special services like a refreshing hand towelette. You'll also get a walking map to guide your exploration.
This tour includes all taxes and fees, visits to historical sites and hard-to-reach places, and a taste of Hawaii with a poi malasada and bottled water. An exceptional driver guide will share their Aloha spirit throughout the day. Please note that the tour route is subject to change.
Honolulu
$181.15
Oahu's Majestic Circle Island Tour: Lunch & Top Sights
4.9
(6885 reviews)
Duration: 540
minutes
The Majestic Circle Island Tour offers a fantastic way to see the beautiful island of O'ahu. Since 1974, this tour has shown visitors the island's amazing nature and interesting history. Friendly guides help make sure everyone in the family has a great time.
This tour is special because it gives more time to explore each place. Instead of just looking from the bus, people get to walk around and really see the magic of the island. The tour includes lunch, so there's no need to worry about finding a place to eat.
Visitors will see important places like the Kamehameha Battle Site, where a big fight happened long ago. They'll also visit the Byodo-In Temple, a pretty and peaceful place. Other stops include The Little Country Store, Pounders at the Polynesian Cultural Center, the tall Waimea Valley Waterfall, and the famous Dole Plantation. This tour makes it easy to see the best of O'ahu!
Oahu
$146
Oahu Circle Island Tour: Hidden Gems + Byodo-In Temple
4.9
(3335 reviews)
Duration: 540
minutes
The Hidden Gems of Oahu Circle Island Tour with Byodo-In Temple takes guests on a journey through Oahu's most beautiful spots. This bus tour explores the island's best sights with Waikiki hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Guests will see places like Diamond Head, Kapiʻolani Park, and the Waikīkī Aquarium. The tour continues to the Amelia Earhart Lookout and Koko Head Crater, offering stunning views. Travelers will stop at Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, and Eternity Beach (Halona Cove) before heading to Sandy Beach and Waimānalo Beach. A visit to the Byodo-In Temple provides a peaceful break, followed by a stop at a Macadamia Nut Farm. Other highlights include Chinaman’s Hat (Mokoliʻi), Kualoa Private Nature Reserve (Jurassic Valley), Kahana Bay & Valley, and the Lāʻie Hawaiʻi Temple. The tour also includes lunch on the North Shore, a visit to a North Shore Fruit Stand, and stops at Sunset Beach, Pipeline Beach (Banzai Pipeline), Sharks Cove, and Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach) for green sea turtle spotting. The day ends with visits to the Dole Plantation, a glimpse of Pearl Harbor (in the distance), and Downtown Honolulu.
This full-day tour includes Waikiki pick-up and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, and admission to Byodo-In Temple. Guests should bring money for food and drinks. This tour shows off Oahu’s beauty, culture, and history.
Honolulu
$154
Unveiling North Shore's Paradise: A Guided Waterfall Adventure
4.9
(3682 reviews)
Duration: 480
minutes
Explore Oahu's North Shore and Waimea Waterfall on a narrated bus tour. Perfect for all travelers, the tour features Waikiki hotel pick-up, botanical garden admission, and cultural insights. Discover Hawaii's beauty and natural wonders in comfort. Ideal for families, friends, and solo adventurers.
Honolulu
$149
Oahu's Best: Full-Day Bus Tour of Island Highlights
5.0
(395 reviews)
Duration: 480
minutes
The Full-Day Oahu Tour by Bus shows off the best of Oahu. It's a fun trip to see the island without spending all day on the bus. This tour is for people who want to see a lot and have fun doing it!
Get ready to see amazing places like the famous Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay, where big waves crash in winter. Visit Turtle Beach to spot sea turtles relaxing in the sun. The tour stops at a Local Coffee Plantation and the Dole Pineapple Plantation, where you can learn how these local favorites are grown. You'll also see Tsue's Farm and the Anahulu River, plus the beautiful Waimea Falls.
This full-day adventure includes friendly guides, comfy air-conditioned bus, tasty lunch, and use of snorkeling equipment. Gratuity is not included. It's a great way to see Oahu's best spots in one fun-filled day.
Nearby Events
Blue Note Hawaii
July 07
5:00 PMTommy Davidson Live at Blue Note Hawaii
Tommy Davidson brings his signature stand-up comedy to Blue Note Hawaii in Honolulu. Known for his breakout role on In Living Color alongside Jim Carrey and Damon Wayans, this comedy legend delivers wicked impersonations of icons like Michael Jackson, Sammy Davis Jr., and Stevie Wonder that have fans roaring with laughter.[1][2][4]
Tommy Davidson's career spans decades, from winning the Apollo Theater amateur night multiple times to headlining major clubs and starring in Showtime specials like Chocolate Sundaes. His versatile talent shines in films like Bamboozled and voice roles in The Proud Family, making him a comedy powerhouse. Blue Note Hawaii offers an intimate setting for live performances in the heart of Waikiki.[1][2][4]
Tom Moffatt Waikiki Shell
Mar 16
6:00 PMASOBIEXPO Hawaii 2026: Kyary Pamyu Pamyu Live
ASOBIEXPO HAWAII 2026 brings Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and Atarashii Gakko! to Tom Moffatt Waikiki Shell for a one-night celebration of Japanese pop culture. This first-ever Hawaii edition features the iconic 'kawaii' pioneer Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, known for her vibrant hits and whimsical fashion, alongside Atarashii Gakko!'s dynamic choreography and global buzz from Coachella and world tours.
Atarashii Gakko!, self-proclaimed representatives of Japanese youth, captivate with powerful performances created by the group themselves, drawing over 110,000 fans worldwide. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu continues to lead Japan's pop scene with her enduring influence on music and style. Tom Moffatt Waikiki Shell offers an open-air stage under Hawaii's stars, perfect for this cultural fusion.[1][2][4]
Blue Note Hawaii
Feb 17
7:00 PMJulian Marley Live at Blue Note Hawaii
Julian Marley brings his roots-reggae mastery to Blue Note Hawaii in Honolulu, delivering an authentic reggae experience rooted in spiritual consciousness and musical heritage. Born in London on June 4, 1975, Julian Marley is the Grammy Award-nominated son of reggae legend Bob Marley and has carved his own path as a skilled multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and producer. His 1996 debut album, Lion in the Morning, launched him into the public eye, and his 2009 Grammy-nominated release Awake won 'Best Album of the Year' at the International Reggae and World Music Awards, establishing him as a leading voice in conscious reggae music.
Following in his father's footsteps as a devout Rastafarian, Julian Marley creates music inspired by life, spirituality, and social consciousness. His latest album, Colors Of Royal, released in 2023, continues his artistic evolution. Blue Note Hawaii stands as one of Honolulu's premier live music venues, providing an intimate setting for this reggae virtuoso to connect with audiences through the transformative power of roots-reggae.
Blue Note Hawaii
May 22
6:30 PMMarlon Wayans Live at Blue Note Hawaii
Marlon Wayans brings his explosive stand-up comedy to Blue Note Hawaii in Honolulu. Known for selling out shows nationwide on his Wild Child Tour, this multi-talented performer delivers non-stop laughter with his signature high-energy style.
Best recognized for co-creating the blockbuster Scary Movie franchise and roles in films like Requiem for a Dream and The Ladykillers, Marlon Wayans combines sharp wit and storytelling that keeps audiences in stitches. Blue Note Hawaii, the island's premier live music venue, offers an intimate setting perfect for comedy nights.
The Republik
Feb 14
9:00 PMEmo Nite at The Republik Honolulu 2025
Emo Nite transforms The Republik in Honolulu into a vibrant celebration of emo music, bringing together fans for a night of nostalgic anthems and energetic singalongs. Known for its immersive, fan-driven atmosphere, Emo Nite is not just a concert but a full-fledged party experience that unites emo lovers from across the island.
The Republik, Honolulu’s premier concert and events venue, is celebrated for its dynamic lineup and intimate setting, making it the perfect backdrop for Emo Nite’s high-energy celebration. With a reputation for hosting unforgettable nights, The Republik ensures fans get a memorable experience every time.
Blue Note Hawaii
Feb 13
9:00 PMAll-4-One Live at Blue Note Hawaii
All-4-One brings their timeless R&B harmonies to Blue Note Hawaii in Honolulu. The Grammy-winning quartet, famed for chart-topping hits like 'I Swear'—the #1 single of 1994 that held the top spot for 11 weeks—delivers smooth ballads and doo-wop infused performances that have sold over 20 million albums worldwide[3][1].
With seven studio albums including the recent Twenty+ (Deluxe Version) and a maintained original lineup since 1994, All-4-One continues captivating audiences with classics from their quadruple-platinum debut and soundtracks like Space Jam[2][3][4]. Blue Note Hawaii offers an intimate jazz club setting perfect for their soulful vibes[web:assumed from context].
Best Things to Do in Honolulu – Waikiki, North Shore & Oahu
Looking for things to do in Honolulu? This is your secret guide to the best tours, adventures, and events across Oahu. Connect with the most exciting adventures like ATV tours and Honolulu helicopter tours, or get on a Hawaii snorkeling tour to explore the ocean depths. Take a day trip to Maui or Circle Island Tour of Oahu. For those staying close to the city, discover all the things to do in Waikiki and explore events in Honolulu tonight, from concerts to stand-up comedy.
View Honolulu Activities