Things to Do After Your Maui Helicopter Tour

🗺️ Where Your Maui Helicopter Tour Departs & What to Do Nearby

So you’ve booked your Maui helicopter tour—great choice! Most flights depart from the Kahului Heliport, located just 5 minutes from Maui’s main airport (OGG). While Kahului itself is more of a commercial hub than a vacation hotspot, its central location means you're only a short drive away from some of the island's best restaurants, attractions, and scenic spots.

Whether you're looking for a memorable meal, a cultural experience, or a chance to stretch your legs before or after your flight, here are the top places to eat and things to do near the Maui heliport:

🌴 Top Restaurants Near the Maui Heliport

1. Mama’s Fish House – Iconic Oceanfront Dining
Located just 15 minutes away in Paia, this legendary fine-dining restaurant offers Pacific Rim cuisine featuring the freshest locally caught fish. With stunning ocean views and exceptional service, Mama’s Fish House is a must-visit for foodies.
📍Pro tip: Reservations are essential and should be booked well in advance.

2. Flatbread Company – Best Pizza on Maui
Also located in Paia, Flatbread Company serves up all-natural, wood-fired pizzas in a clay oven. Their commitment to using locally sourced, organic ingredients has made them a favorite for visitors and locals alike.

3. Paia Fish Market – Casual & Delicious
For fresh fish tacos, grilled mahi sandwiches, and casual island vibes, head to the Paia Fish Market. It’s one of Maui’s most beloved local spots and offers a quick, tasty stop before or after your tour.

🌺 Best Things to Do Near Kahului Heliport

4. Paia Town – A Laid-Back Surf Village
Only a 15-minute drive from the heliport, Paia is full of charm. Stroll through local art galleries, browse boutique shops, and soak up the beachy atmosphere. It's a great stop to pair with a helicopter tour, especially if you're heading toward the Road to Hana afterward.

5. Haleakalā National Park – Maui’s Highest Peak
Located about 1.5 hours from Kahului, the Haleakalā Crater is one of the most breathtaking sights on Maui. You don’t have to visit at sunrise to enjoy the views—midday and sunset visits avoid the early wake-up call and still offer incredible scenery.
📷 Perfect for photography lovers and adventure seekers.

6. ʻĪao Valley State Monument – Cultural & Natural Wonder
Only 30 minutes from the heliport, ʻĪao Valley is rich with Hawaiian history and home to the iconic ʻĪao Needle—a towering green ridge surrounded by rainforest. A short hike brings you to panoramic views and interpretive signs explaining the site’s cultural significance.

7. Maui Tropical Plantation – Family-Friendly & Scenic
Just 20 minutes away, the Maui Tropical Plantation offers a relaxing 40-minute tram tour through tropical fruit orchards, plus a fun coconut husking demo. If you’re visiting in the evening, don’t miss Cafe O’lei, a top-rated restaurant with beautiful plantation views.

✈️ Final Tip: Plan Around Your Helicopter Flight

Most Maui helicopter tours run between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, so plan meals and sightseeing accordingly. If you’re flying in the morning, grab lunch in Paia or head to ʻĪao Valley afterward. For afternoon flights, explore the Maui Tropical Plantation or plan an early dinner at Mama’s Fish House.