Hi, hope you can give advice. We are in Hawaii for our first time in September this year. We would like to see the Big Island volcano but are able and enjoy hiking. Should we save our desire to do at least one helicopter trip for Kaui (or even another island) or get the better view of the volcano by a helicopter trip on Big Island?

Ive done several, and the Kauai one is the best, followed by Maui then Big Island

Unless there is a significant lava event, I'd splurge on Kauai.

Thank you so much both. Confirms what I have read but wanted a second opinion. Best wishes.

Each island holds a special place in our heart. When visiting the BI I find this website helpful in keeping up with Lava Events. The footage provided by Paradise Helicopters gives you a good idea of what you could see. I prefer the ever changing microclimates by car. But if Pele kicks it up I would pounce on a chance to witness it from above.

http://www.bigislandvideonews.com/20...a-flow-update/

Kauai is breathtaking. Lush, tropical with the canyon adding a new dimension and a glimpse of the crater. I have done a full circle tour in heli and trike. I've only flown trike in Hana Maui but the east and west coast tours - especially going over Molokai could be comparable in wow factor.

But Kaui from air owns me.

I have done the helicopter tour twice on Kauai and it was wonderful. Flying into the crater, weather permitting, was the most gorgeous part of the trip with tons of waterfalls.

Recommend Jack Harter tours in Kauai

We saw active volcanoes, waterfalls and a mama whale who had just given birth to her babe. What a treat. Smooth ride, great day, pilot helped us all get good pictures of all three special things.

Again thank you all so much for making it easier (and harder) to choose - I guess if the volcano on Big Island is very active we may also do it by air. Sounds like Jack Hayter on Kaui is the one to go for.
Best wishes