Aerial Tours in Honolulu and O'ahu

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Aerial Tours

An aerial tour of the Islands opens up a world of perspective. Looking down from the sky at the outline of the USS Arizona where it lays in its final resting place below the waters of Pearl Harbor or getting a glimpse of how Mother Nature carved a vast expanse of volcanic crater are the kind of views only seen by an "eye in the sky." If you go, don't forget your camera.

Island Seaplane Service. Harking back to the days of the earliest air visitors to Hawai'i, the seaplane has always had a special spot in island lore. The only seaplane service still operating in Hawai'i takes off from Ke'ehi Lagoon. Flight options are either a half-hour south and eastern O'ahu shoreline tour or an hour island circle tour. The Pan Am Clipper may be gone, but you can revisit the experience for $99 to $179. 85 Lagoon Dr., Honolulu. 808/836-6273

Makani Kai Helicopters. This may be the best way to now see the infamous and now closed Sacred Falls park, where a rock slide killed 20 people and injured dozens more; Makani Kai dips their helicopter down to show you one of Hawai'i's former favorite hikes. There's also a Waikiki by Night excursion that soars by the breathtaking Honolulu city lights. Half-hour tour rates begin at $109 per person, and customized charters are available starting at $550 per hour. 110 Kapalulu Pl., Honolulu. 808/834-5813. www.makanikai.com

The Original Glider Rides. "Mr. Bill" has been offering piloted glider (sailplane) rides over the northwest end of O'ahu's North Shore since 1970. These are piloted scenic rides for one or two passengers in sleek, bubble-top, motorless aircraft. You'll get aerial views of mountains, shoreline, coral pools, windsurfing sails, and, in winter, humpback whales. Reservations are recommended; 10-, 15-, 20-, and 30-minute flights leave every 20 minutes daily 10-5. The charge for one passenger is $59-$139, depending on the length of the flight; two people fly for $138-$238. Dillingham Airfield, Mokule'ia. 808/677-3404