The Kona Coast looks beautiful from the beach. From the air, it’s something else entirely. Black lava fields meet bright turquoise water, the mountains rise behind you, and in winter you may even spot humpback whales below.
Here’s what you’ll see on a gyroplane flight with Fly Gyros Hawaii, when to fly, and how to pick the right flight for your trip.
What You’ll See From Above
- Lava fields: flows from Hualālai and Mauna Loa stretch to the ocean in dramatic black and copper tones.
- Turquoise water: bright reefs and clear blue water along the shoreline.
- Sea cliffs and coastline: rugged coast you can only really appreciate from above.
- Resorts and golf courses: green fairways and white-sand beaches tucked between the lava.
- The mountains: on a clear day, the slopes of Hualālai rise right behind the coast.
The coastline from above on a Big Island gyro flight.
Whale Season on the Kona Coast
Humpback whales visit Hawai‘i roughly November through April, with the most sightings January through March. Whales are wild, so sightings are never guaranteed, but seeing a spout or a breach from the air is a moment guests never forget.
When to Fly
Morning & evening flights often have the calmest air and clearest views. That said, the Kona Coast is beautiful any time, and we’ll always check conditions before you fly.
Choose Your Flight
- Discovery Flight: 30 minutes, $249. A perfect first flight and our most popular.
- Exploration Flight: 60 minutes, $425. More time to take in the coast.
- Share the Sky: two guests fly back to back, $225 per flight.
- 360° video upgrade: add an Insta360 video of your flight for $65. Phones and cameras stay on the ground, so this is how you take it home.
“Hands down one of the coolest experiences I’ve had in the sky! This was my first time in a gyroplane & it did not disappoint!”
— Evalena S., Google review ★★★★★
Getting Here
Flights depart from the Fly Gyros Hawaii hangar at Kona International Airport, 73-2717 Naenae Street, Kailua-Kona. It’s a short drive from Kailua-Kona town and an easy trip from the Kohala Coast resorts. We’ll send directions when you book.
Kona Gyro Flight FAQs
Do I need any experience?
None at all. Your FAA-certified instructor flies and explains everything before takeoff.
Will I definitely see whales?
Whale sightings depend on the season and the whales themselves. Your best chance is January through March.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes and a light layer, since it’s cooler up there.
How do I book?
Book online in a few minutes, or call us at 808-260-5650.
See the Kona Coast from above
Discovery Flights start at $249. No experience needed.