Are you looking for a way to gaze upon the beauty of Maui from a whole new perspective? If so, sign up to take a ride with Sunshine Helicopters Maui. Each trip gives you a chance to gaze in awe at the most popular landmarks all over the island, including the Haleakala Crater, Honokohau Falls, and so much more. You can even take a trip over to the nearby island of Molokai to see all its wonders from above.
To book your spot, you’ll need to sign up through their website well in advance. Having trouble with the online booking system? Just give them a call instead. Either way, you’ll need to choose between all their tour options, and then decide if you want first-class seating. With that option, you’ll get prime seating right up front with the pilot, giving you wide-open views all throughout the flight. Otherwise, the computer system will determine seating by using all the passengers’ weights to best balance the aircraft.
Once you’re all signed up, you’ll just need to arrive at the Kahului Heliport 30 minutes prior to your selected tour time. Be sure to wear dark clothing, so the reflections do not ruin your view. Also, bring a camera or GoPro with lots of room for photos of your adventure.
Upon getting checked in, your pilot will lead you through the safety guidelines from beginning to end. Then, they will help everyone get cozy in their seats before departing. Depending on the pilot’s preferences, you’ll either fly in a FX STAR or Whisper STAR helicopter. Both have six comfortable seats for passengers along with room for the pilot to expertly maneuver through the skies.
After getting strapped in, you can expect to head up into the bright, blue sky moments later, starting your tour to remember. All their tours last about an hour, giving you plenty of time to see all the greatest landmarks in the area. All along the way, your pilot will give you a heads up about photo-taking opportunities, and then position the helicopter perfectly to provide the best views.
On top of that, you can count on your pilot to share interesting facts about the island’s history and culture. Don’t be surprised to walk away with more than a few awesome travel tips as well to use on the rest of your island adventures.
Definitely sign up for their:
Hana Haleakala Tour
On the Hana Haleakala Tour, you’ll head out to explore the views above Hana and the crater beyond. You’ll get to see the coveted Hookipa windsurfing beach along with tons of gorgeous waterfalls in the rainforest. From December through May, humpback whales may make an appearance as well, completing this picture of perfection.
Molokai Deluxe Tour
The Molokai Deluxe tour starts with a whirlwind trip around West Maui before zooming over to Molokai. Throughout the trip, volcanic landscapes, spectacular shorelines, and everything in between will come into view. Despite all those wonders, the 3,000-foot-tall sea cliffs will undoubtedly steal the show.
Circle Island Deluxe Tour
If you’d like to see every last inch of Maui from the skies above, go on the Circle Deluxe Tour. On this trip, you’ll go in a big circle around the western and eastern sides of the island. All throughout the trip, expect lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and other fantastic sights to leave you feeling captivated.
If the weather takes a nasty turn, don’t be surprised if your flight gets canceled. The crew keeps their focus on safety, after all, so they will halt all flights when storms arise. When that happens, they do their best to reschedule your tour during your visit to the island. If that’s not possible, you’ll get a full refund instead.
Insider Tips:
-Always provide at least 72 hours’ notice if you need to cancel. Otherwise, you won’t get a full refund.
-If you’re prone to motion sickness, use a suitable over-the-counter medicine an hour before your flight. Still end up feeling nauseated? Let your pilot know and they’ll provide an aloha bag.