which company? which tour? We would like to fly over volcano but are open to others. This is our 4th trip to BI but never taken a helicopter ride on this Island. We will be staying in the Kohala area so figure about 2 hours to get to Hilo for the helicopter ride...is that about right?. Morning or Afternoon ride? Any help would be appreciated. Going in September....

We used Blue Hawaiian and loved the experience. They leave from
Waikoloa . We did the longest tour - Big Island Spectacular. It was pricey but for a 1time experience, it was well worth it.

http://www.bluehawaiian.com/bigisland/tours/

Blue Hawaiian. Loved it!

If lava is flowing when you're there, imo definitely opt for an evening tour if available. During the day molten lava doesn't look like much of anything, but at night it's a real show.

If lava isn't flowing I'd probably opt for either a morning or afternoon tour. Current weather conditions on the island are more important to good viewing then whether the flight is morning or afternoon. Take your pick based on convenience. Blue Hawaiian's heliport is only 10 minutes from the Hapuna Beach Prince.

Meant to include that we went on Eco Star helicopters, which we found to be quite comfortable. We were able to ride up front, next to pilot, so we had excellent views.
You get seated by weight/size, we are both the on the small size so needing to balance the weight load is how we got upfront. And you can't lie,they weigh you

Third the rec for Blue Hawaiian! We did the Circle of Fire tour with waterfalls. It wasn't as long as the Big Island spectacular though, but it's cheaper. We went a few years ago so didn't really get to see much lava but we caught a glimpse!

We have been considering a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian for our October trip. Anyone have any problems with motion sickness? I hear their flights are quite smooth.

I have intermittent vertigo; I can get sea sick at times. I was fine. There is so much to see and be in awe of, no problem. If in doubt, get trans derm patch. I wouldn't have missed it for the world.

thanks all. Might look into Blue Hawaiian since we are staying at the Hapuna Beach Hotel. I have taken 3 helicopter rides and have never gotten air sick.