Best Kauai Helicopter Tours
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If you’re planning a visit to Kauai, one experience stands out as truly unforgettable: a helicopter tour over Kauai. Known as the Garden Isle, this Hawaiian paradise is filled with dramatic scenery, including towering waterfalls, lush valleys, sea cliffs, and remote beaches that are often only accessible by air.
In this guide, we’ve selected the Top 14 Best Kauai helicopter tours that offer the most stunning views and memorable experiences. Whether you’re soaring along the iconic Napali Coast, dipping into the vibrant colors of Waimea Canyon, or hovering over Manawaiopuna Falls from Jurassic Park, each tour showcases the best of Kauai from above.
Kauai, Hawaii Helicopter Tour Preview
Just a few (not all!) of the landmarks you may see on your helicopter tour.
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Before diving into our list of the Top 14 Kauai Helicopter Tours, take a moment to preview the awe-inspiring experience that awaits you in the skies above the Garden Isle. A helicopter tour over Kauai offers a rare chance to witness the island’s raw beauty from above, from the dramatic cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast to the vibrant colors of Waimea Canyon, cascading waterfalls hidden deep in the rainforest, and remote beaches untouched by roads. This Kauai helicopter tour preview gives you a taste of what it feels like to soar above paradise, helping you visualize the kind of unforgettable views each of these top-rated helicopter tours in Kauai will bring to life. If you’re still deciding whether a helicopter tour in Hawaii is worth it, this sneak peek may just be all the convincing you need.
1. Private Doors-Off Kauai Helicopter: Ultimate Waterfalls & Canyons
If you’re looking for the most thrilling and scenic experience possible, this private doors-off Kauai helicopter tour is hard to beat. Flying with no doors gives you unobstructed views and the ultimate photo opportunities as you soar over the island’s most iconic landmarks.
This 1-hour helicopter flight covers a stunning range of landscapes. You’ll pass over Waimea Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, and follow the majestic Napali Coast with its rugged cliffs plunging into the sea. Highlights also include Hanalei Bay, Jurassic Falls (Manawaiopuna Falls), Mt. Waialeale’s “Wall of Tears”, and countless hidden waterfalls and valleys only visible from the air.
The tour includes a 10-minute safety briefing, and guests are provided with lanyards for their phones to capture epic aerial shots securely. Flights depart from Lihue, and with over 1,200 five-star reviews, it’s one of the highest-rated helicopter experiences on the island.
- Price: From $429 per person
- Flight Time: 1 hour (Tour duration approx. 1 hour 15 minutes)
- Departure Location: 3745 Ahukini Rd, Lihue, HI
- Rating: ⭐ 5.0 (based on 1,231 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the flight
- Pro Tip: This tour is often booked nearly two months in advance, so reserve early to secure your spot.
2. Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopter Tour
For travelers who want a thrilling, intimate flight, the Hughes 500 doors-off helicopter tour in Kauai offers unbeatable access to the island’s most stunning landscapes. This tour is limited to just four passengers, and every seat is a window seat, giving you incredible views throughout the entire 50-minute flight.
The adventure begins with a safety briefing at Airborne Aviation in Lihue, where you’ll board your open-door helicopter and take off over the island’s wild terrain. You’ll fly past famous sites including Manawaiopuna Falls from Jurassic Park, the deep red canyons of Waimea Canyon, the towering sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, and the lush green Hanalei Valley. You’ll also get views of Mt. Waialeale, one of the wettest spots on Earth.
This tour includes two-way communication headsets so you can interact with your pilot during the flight, making it educational as well as visually unforgettable. It’s ideal for photographers and adventure seekers alike.
- Price: From $369 per person
- Flight Time: 50 minutes (Tour duration approx. 1 hour)
- Departure Location: 3651 Ahukini Rd, Lihue, HI
- Rating: ⭐ 4.9 (based on 1,608 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the flight
- Pro Tip: This tour has strict weight and seating guidelines. Be sure to review them when booking, and arrive 30 minutes early for check-in.
3. Kauai Deluxe Waterfall Safari: Helicopter Tour
This Deluxe Kauai Helicopter Tour with Safari Helicopters offers an amazing opportunity to see the island’s top sights in just under an hour. With over 800 glowing reviews and a reputation for comfort and safety, it’s a great choice for first-time flyers or anyone looking to cover a lot of ground without sacrificing quality.
Departing from Lihue, this flight takes you over the towering cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, the deep and colorful Waimea Canyon, and lush valleys filled with hidden waterfalls. Many of the landscapes you’ll see were made famous by Hollywood films, but there’s nothing quite like seeing them in person from the air. Your pilot will narrate the flight, offering insight into Kauai’s geography and history as you cruise above the island.
This Kauai helicopter tour includes snacks, all fees and taxes, and offers a flexible cancellation policy. With a strong likelihood of selling out, it’s recommended to book this tour well in advance.
- Price: From $309 per person
- Flight Time: 55 minutes to 1 hour
- Departure Location: 3225 Akahi St, Lihue, HI
- Rating: ⭐ 4.9 (based on 830 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the experience
- Pro Tip: Guests must check in 40 minutes before departure and should review weight policies when booking.
What’s the Best Helicopter Tour for First-Time Visitors to Kauai?
If it’s your first time visiting Kauai, choosing the right helicopter tour can feel overwhelming. For scenic views and a smooth ride, the Kauai Deluxe Waterfall Safari or the Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour are great options for beginners. These tours offer doors-on comfort, narrated flights, and fly over iconic landmarks like the Nā Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon.
4. Kauai Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour
The Kauai Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour by Blue Hawaiian offers a smooth, comfortable, and eco-conscious way to explore the island from above. Flying in a state-of-the-art Eurocopter Eco-Star, this 50-minute tour provides exceptional views while reducing flight noise by 50 percent. It’s ideal for those looking for both an environmentally friendly and luxurious experience.
Departing from Lihue Airport, you’ll fly over some of the island’s most stunning features, including Waimea Canyon, Manawaiopuna Falls (famously known as Jurassic Park Falls), the Na Pali Coast, and the mist-covered summit of Mt. Waialeale, one of the wettest places on Earth. The large viewing windows and business class-style seating make it easy to enjoy every second of the journey.
This Kauai helicopter tour includes two-way radio communication with your certified tour guide pilot, as well as Bose aviation-grade noise-canceling headsets. With over 2,000 reviews and a strong safety record (including annual FAA Diamond Awards), this flight is one of the most trusted and respected tours on the island.
- Price: From $449.90 per person
- Flight Time: 50 minutes
- Departure Location: 3730 Ahukini Rd #8, Lihue, HI
- Rating: ⭐ 4.8 (based on 2,003 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the flight
- Pro Tip: Seating and tour visibility may vary with weather, so book early and check in for updates before your tour.
5. Air Kauai: Doors-Off Helicopter Adventure
For travelers looking for a high-adrenaline flight with unbeatable photo angles, the Air Kauai Doors-Off Helicopter Adventure is an exciting choice. With the doors off, you’ll feel the rush of open-air flight while capturing unobstructed views of Kauai’s most iconic natural wonders.
This 45 to 50-minute helicopter tour departs from Lihue and includes aerial views of Mt. Waialeale, the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Hanapepe Valley, and the legendary Manawaiopuna Falls, made famous in Jurassic Park. It’s an immersive way to experience the dramatic elevation changes, lush rainforests, and rugged sea cliffs of the island.
GoPros and cameras are welcome on this flight, and Air Kauai provides lanyards to secure your gear. The tour is limited to six guests, with edge seats reserved for passengers 16 years and older. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are required for safety.
- Price: From $352.67 per person
- Flight Time: 45 to 50 minutes
- Departure Location: 3651 Ahukini Rd, Lihue, HI
- Rating: N/A listed (but well-reviewed experience) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the tour
- Pro Tip: Edge seats go fast, if you want the ultimate thrill, book early and request the outside seats if you’re eligible.
6. Air Kauai: Ohana Doors-On Helicopter Tour
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and family-friendly way to explore the island from the air, the Ohana Doors-On Helicopter Tour by Air Kauai is a great option. With the comfort of enclosed seating, this flight is perfect for those who want stunning views without the intensity of an open-door experience.
This 45 to 50-minute Kauai helicopter tour showcases breathtaking sights including the vast red cliffs of Waimea Canyon, the sacred valleys and turquoise waters of the Na Pali Coast, and the iconic Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as Jurassic Park Falls. These natural wonders are only fully visible from the sky, making this tour a fantastic way to take in the full beauty of the island.
Flights depart from Lihue, and each tour is limited to six guests, keeping the experience intimate and personal. This tour is accessible for families with infants and those looking for a smoother, enclosed ride over Kauai’s dramatic landscape.
- Price: From $301.34 per person
- Flight Time: 45 to 50 minutes
- Departure Location: 3651 Ahukini Rd, Lihue, HI
- Rating: ⭐ 4.8 (based on 183 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before departure
- Pro Tip: This is one of the best doors-on helicopter tours in Kauai for those who prefer a quieter and more comfortable ride while still taking in the island’s top landmarks.
7. Kauai Exclusive Helicopter Tour: Land & Explore Olokele Canyon
For a truly unique aerial experience, the Kauai Exclusive Helicopter Tour offers something no other company does, the opportunity to land inside Olokele Canyon, a privately owned area inaccessible to most travelers. This makes it one of the most exclusive and immersive Kauai helicopter tours available.
This 90-minute tour covers a full circle of the island, including dramatic views of the Na Pali Coast, the colorful depths of Waimea Canyon, and the lush, waterfall-covered slopes of Mt. Waialeale, one of the wettest places on Earth. The highlight, however, is a 35-minute landing at Olokele Canyon, where you can step out of the helicopter and take in the rugged beauty of this secluded natural gem on foot.
The tour departs from Lihue, and group sizes are limited to six passengers, ensuring a personalized and unhurried experience. This flight is a perfect fit for those who want a mix of aerial sightseeing and on-the-ground exploration.
- Price: From $369.00 per person
- Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Departure Location: 3225 Akahi St, Lihue, HI
- Rating: Likely to Sell Out (Based on high demand and reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the experience
- Pro Tip: This is the only helicopter tour in Kauai that lands at Olokele Canyon a must for adventurers who want more than just a flight.
8. R44 Private Tour of Kauai – Doors Off
For a personalized and adventurous flight, the R44 Private Doors-Off Helicopter Tour is perfect for couples or small groups who want a private view of Kauai’s top landmarks. With doors removed and seats of your choice, this 1-hour helicopter tour in Kauai offers an adrenaline-pumping ride with uninterrupted views.
Your flight path includes incredible natural wonders such as the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Hanapepe Valley, Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Park Falls), and the lush, rain-drenched slopes of Mt. Waialeale. Because this is a private helicopter tour, only your group will participate, making it ideal for a honeymoon, special occasion, or exclusive photography session.
The experience includes a complimentary photo, and you’ll board from Lihue. With high weight limits and flexible seating choices, it’s designed for both comfort and excitement.
- Price: From $375.07 per person
- Flight Time: 1 hour
- Departure Location: 3711 Ahukini Rd, Lihue, HI
- Rating: N/A listed (Private experience) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before flight
- Pro Tip: If you want to avoid crowds and get maximum photo angles, this private doors-off Kauai helicopter tour is one of the best premium options on the island.
Can I Take Photos on a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Absolutely – Kauai helicopter tours are perfect for photography, especially the doors-off flights. Tours like the Hughes 500 Doors-Off or the R44 Private Doors-Off Tour give you unobstructed views for stunning photos. Make sure your camera or phone is secured with a wrist or neck strap.
9. Discover Kauai Helicopter Tour from Princeville
If you’re staying on the North Shore, the Discover Kauai Helicopter Tour from Princeville is one of the most convenient and scenic ways to take flight. Departing from Princeville Airport, this 45-minute helicopter tour of Kauai offers a luxurious and informative experience aboard a quiet, comfortable aircraft.
You’ll fly over some of the island’s most iconic sights, including Hanalei Bay, Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Coast, Manawaiopuna Falls, Olokele Canyon, and weather permitting the misty, waterfall-laced summit of Mt. Waialeale. The tour is led by a State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guide, and you’ll be equipped with Bose aviation-grade noise-canceling headsets and two-way communication to interact with your pilot.
This tour includes all fees and taxes, and it’s fully wheelchair accessible, making it one of the most inclusive helicopter experiences on Kauai. With a 5.0-star rating and limited availability, it’s a top choice for travelers staying near Hanalei or Princeville.
- Price: From $504.90 per person
- Flight Time: 45 minutes
- Departure Location: Princeville Airport (HPV), Kuhio Hwy, Kilauea, HI
- Rating: ⭐ 5.0 (based on 26 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the experience
- Pro Tip: Arrive one hour early for check-in and safety briefing. This North Shore helicopter tour of Kauai books quickly due to limited departures.
10. R44 Private Tour of Kauai – Doors On
Looking for an upscale, personalized sightseeing experience? The R44 Private Doors-On Helicopter Tour of Kauai delivers just that. Designed for 2 to 3 passengers, this private helicopter tour provides a luxurious way to explore the island’s most iconic landscapes in a comfortable, enclosed aircraft with no shared seating and included photos and videos to remember your flight.
Taking off from Lihue Airport, this 1-hour aerial tour covers the best of Kauai: fly over the vibrant red walls of Waimea Canyon, the cascading Manawaiopuna Falls (also known as Jurassic Park Falls), the lush Hanapepe Valley, the towering cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, and the rain-soaked summit of Mt. Waialeale. You’ll have the flexibility to choose your seats and enjoy uninterrupted views from every angle.
With a perfect 5-star rating, this tour is ideal for couples, small groups, and travelers seeking a more relaxed yet equally thrilling experience compared to doors-off flights.
- Price: From $375.07 per person
- Flight Time: 1 hour (Tour duration approx. 1 hour 45 minutes with check-in)
- Departure Location: Lihue, HI
- Rating: ⭐ 5.0 (based on 5 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the tour
- Pro Tip: Great for photography and comfort, this private doors-on helicopter tour in Kauai offers the perfect mix of exclusivity and unforgettable sightseeing.
11. 60-Minute Guided Doors-Off Helicopter Tour in Kauai
If you’re after full immersion and wide-open views, this 60-minute doors-off helicopter tour in Kauai delivers one of the most comprehensive aerial experiences on the island. With a full hour in the air, you’ll get more time over dramatic landscapes like the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Mt. Waialeale than many shorter tours.
The tour departs from Lihue, beginning with scenic views of Nawiliwili Harbor and the Menehune Fishpond before heading deep into Hanapepe Valley toward Manawaiopuna Falls from Jurassic Park. You’ll fly over the vibrant colors of Waimea Canyon, the cascading Waipo’o Falls, the pristine beaches of Hanalei Bay, and even up-close to lesser-known spots like Nualolo Kai Beach and Tunnels Reef. As you circle around Mt. Waialeale, the island’s legendary “Weeping Wall,” expect to see dozens of waterfalls pouring from the crater.
Passengers are equipped with wrist straps for phones and two-way headsets for live narration from the pilot, enhancing both safety and the sightseeing experience.
- Price: From $399.00 per person
- Flight Time: 1 hour
- Departure Location: Lihue, HI
- Rating: ⭐ 4.8 (based on 223 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before departure
- Pro Tip: This doors-off Kauai helicopter tour is ideal for serious photographers and anyone wanting to maximize their time in the sky without sacrificing views or comfort.
Are There Any Kauai Helicopter Tours That Land?
Yes! The Kauai Exclusive Helicopter Tour offers a rare landing experience inside Olokele Canyon. This gives you a chance to explore Kauai’s rugged interior on foot – something no other tour offers. It’s one of the most unique helicopter tours with landing in Kauai.
12. Private Kauaʻi Experience: Doors-Off All Window Seats
This private doors-off helicopter tour in Kauai offers the ultimate in exclusivity, with guaranteed all window seats and a personalized experience for your group only. With 55 minutes in the air, this tour gives you an extended opportunity to take in Kauai’s legendary scenery without the distractions of a larger group.
Your adventure begins in Lihue and takes you soaring over Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Park Falls), the expansive beauty of Waimea Canyon, the towering cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, and the cascading waterfalls of Mt. Waialeale, known as one of the wettest places on Earth. Each passenger has unobstructed views, and live narration through headsets adds valuable insight into the natural and cultural significance of every site.
Strict weight and age guidelines ensure the flight remains safe and balanced, and guests should arrive at the check-in point 40 minutes prior to the scheduled flight. This tour is perfect for families, couples, or photographers who want a tailored aerial experience.
- Price: From $384.00 per person
- Flight Time: 55 minutes
- Departure Location: 3501 Rice St, Lihue, HI (then transported to the helipad)
- Rating: ⭐ 4.9 (based on 213 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the tour
- Pro Tip: With every seat being a window seat, this private helicopter tour of Kauai offers unmatched visibility, ideal for photographers and those wanting a more personal, crowd-free adventure.
13. Day Trip from Oahu to Kauai: Highlights & Movie Sites with Helicopter Tour
For travelers staying on Oahu who want to experience the beauty of Kauai in just one day, this full-day Kauai helicopter tour from Oahu is an all-in-one adventure. With round-trip airfare from Waikiki and a guided land tour followed by a 45-minute helicopter flight, this tour delivers a complete Garden Isle experience without the need for an overnight stay.
Your day begins with an early pickup from your Waikiki hotel, followed by a short flight to Lihue, Kauai. Upon arrival, a guided tour takes you to top island highlights like Opaekaa Falls, Hanalei Valley Lookout, Kapaa, and famous movie sites from Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and The Descendants. You’ll also stop at Lydgate Farms for a chocolate tasting experience before heading to Blue Hawaiian Helicopters for a 45-minute flight.
The helicopter portion of the tour includes views of the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Hanapepe Valley, with expert narration and panoramic sights only accessible from the air.
- Price: From $878.06 per person
- Flight Time: 45 minutes (Helicopter portion; full tour lasts approx. 10 hours)
- Departure Location: Pickup in Waikiki, Oahu
- Rating: ⭐ 4.0 (based on 10 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours in advance
- Pro Tip: This is one of the best options for Oahu visitors who want a day trip helicopter tour to Kauai without having to plan logistics separately.
Best Alternative to Helicopter Tours in Kauai?
If you’re prone to motion sickness or want a more budget-friendly flight, consider the Kauai Airplane Tour. It still flies over top attractions like the Nā Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon, and every seat has a window view. This is a great alternative to helicopter tours in Kauai.
14. Kauai Airplane Tour: Na Pali Coast, Waterfalls & Window Seats
If you’re looking for an incredible aerial tour of Kauai at a more affordable price point, this Kauai airplane tour is a fantastic option. Unlike helicopters, the fixed-wing aircraft offers a smoother ride for some passengers and still delivers sweeping views of the island’s legendary scenery and yes, every seat is a guaranteed window seat.
Departing from Lihue Airport, this 60-minute air tour of Kauai takes you above highlights such as the emerald spires of the Na Pali Coast, the colorful depths of Waimea Canyon, the lush slopes of Mt. Waialeale, and the iconic Manawaiopuna Falls (from Jurassic Park). You’ll also spot other stunning landmarks including Wailua Falls, Hanalei Bay, and the Menehune Fishpond.
Guests wear noise-reduction headsets and enjoy live narration from professional pilots with over 20 years of airline experience. The aircraft used the GA8 Airvan is slow-flying and designed specifically for sightseeing, featuring large bubble windows for optimal photo opportunities.
I know that this is not a Helicopter tour but I know several people that have taken this tour and loved it!. This may be a more affordable option for a lot of people.
- Price: From $159.00 per person
- Flight Time: 1 hour
- Departure Location: 3745 Ahukini Rd, Lihue, HI
- Rating: ⭐ 4.8 (based on 1,761 reviews) (View Helicopter Tour Reviews Here)
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before your tour
- Pro Tip: This is the best airplane tour in Kauai for travelers who want to see it all from above with a slightly lower price tag than traditional helicopter tours especially great for families and larger groups.
Compare the Top 14 Kauai Helicopter Tours: Prices, Flight Times & Departure Info – Tour Recap
| Tour Title | Departure Location | Price (USD) | Flight Time | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Doors-Off Kauai Helicopter: Ultimate Waterfalls & Canyons | Lihue, HI | $429 | 1 hour | ⭐ 5.0 (1,231 reviews) |
| Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopter Tour | Lihue, HI | $369 | 50 minutes | ⭐ 4.9 (1,608 reviews) |
| Kauai Deluxe Waterfall Safari: Helicopter Tour | Lihue, HI | $309 | 55–60 minutes | ⭐ 4.9 (830 reviews) |
| Kauai Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour | Lihue, HI | $449.90 | 50 minutes | ⭐ 4.8 (2,003 reviews) |
| Air Kauai: Doors-Off Helicopter Adventure | Lihue, HI | $352.67 | 45–50 minutes | N/A |
| Air Kauai: Ohana Doors-On Helicopter Tour | Lihue, HI | $301.34 | 45–50 minutes | ⭐ 4.8 (183 reviews) |
| Kauai Exclusive Helicopter Tour: Land & Explore Olokele Canyon | Lihue, HI | $369 | 1.5 hours | Likely to Sell Out |
| R44 Private Tour of Kauai – Doors Off | Lihue, HI | $375.07 | 1 hour | N/A |
| Discover Kauai Helicopter Tour from Princeville | Princeville, HI | $504.90 | 45 minutes | ⭐ 5.0 (26 reviews) |
| R44 Private Tour of Kauai – Doors On | Lihue, HI | $375.07 | 1 hour | ⭐ 5.0 (5 reviews) |
| 60-Minute Guided Doors-Off Helicopter Tour in Kauai | Lihue, HI | $399.00 | 1 hour | ⭐ 4.8 (223 reviews) |
| Private Kauaʻi Experience: Doors-Off All Window Seats | Lihue, HI | $384.00 | 55 minutes | ⭐ 4.9 (213 reviews) |
| Day Trip from Oahu to Kauai: Highlights & Movie Sites with Helicopter Tour | Waikiki, Oahu | $878.06 | 45 minutes (helicopter) | ⭐ 4.0 (10 reviews) |
| Kauai Airplane Tour: Na Pali Coast, Waterfalls & Window Seats | Lihue, HI | $159.00 | 1 hour | ⭐ 4.8 (1,761 reviews) |
Ready to Take Flight Over Kauai?
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a doors-off helicopter tour, the comfort of a private flight, or the scenic value of a window-seat airplane ride, Kauai offers unforgettable ways to experience its legendary beauty. Each of these carefully selected tours gives you a unique perspective of the island’s most iconic landmarks, from the towering cliffs of the Na Pali Coast to the deep colors of Waimea Canyon and the waterfalls of Mt. Waialeale.
These aerial experiences aren’t just tours; they’re once-in-a-lifetime moments that will stay with you forever. Book early, choose the flight that matches your adventure style, and get ready to see the Garden Isle from above.
Want more travel tips or local insights? check below! Browse the latest guides and recommendations here on helicopterstour.com and start planning your perfect island escape.
Justin’s Guide: What to Do Before or After Your Flight
Your Kauai helicopter tour will be the highlight of your trip, but the adventure doesn’t have to start or end at the helipad! As you’ve seen, most tours fly out of Lihue, with a few departing from Princeville on the North Shore. To help you make the most of every minute, I’ve put together a few of my favorite spots near these airports. They’re perfect for grabbing a bite before your flight or relaxing on a beach afterward while you’re still buzzing with excitement.
If Your Tour is Near Lihue Airport (Most Tours):
Lihue is the central hub of Kauai, so you’ve got plenty of great options just a stone’s throw from the airport.
- Relax at Kalapaki Beach: Just five minutes from the airport, this beautiful, calm bay is the perfect spot to unwind. The gentle waves are great for swimming or just dipping your toes in the sand. You can also grab a fantastic meal with your feet in the sand at one of the restaurants located right on the beach.
- Explore Kilohana Plantation: This historic sugar plantation estate offers a glimpse into Kauai’s past. You can take a ride on the plantation railway, do a rum tasting at the local distillery, or enjoy a beautiful lunch at the estate’s restaurant. It’s a great way to spend an hour or two.
- Visit Wailua Falls: You might see this stunning 84-foot waterfall from the air, but it’s also one of the most easily accessible major falls on the island by car. A quick 12-minute drive from Lihue, the viewpoint is right off the road, making it a perfect quick stop for an incredible photo.
- Grab a Local Bite: If you’re short on time, stop by a popular local spot for some of the best poke and a local-style plate lunch—many are takeout spots beloved by locals. For a classic sit-down experience, you’ll find diners and cafes close to the airport offering everything from hearty breakfasts to local favorites.
- Step into History at the Kauai Museum: Interested in the Garden Isle’s culture and history? The Kauai Museum in downtown Lihue is an excellent stop to learn about the island’s heritage through fascinating artifacts and exhibits.
If Your Tour is Near Princeville Airport (North Shore):
Departing from the North Shore offers a different vibe, surrounded by lush landscapes and iconic beaches.
- Soak in the Views at Hanalei Valley Lookout: Located right off the highway on your way to or from Princeville, this lookout offers one of the most breathtaking and easily accessible views on the island. It’s a must-do for a quick, postcard-perfect photo of the taro fields and mountains.
- Explore Hanalei Town: Just a short drive from Princeville, the charming town of Hanalei is full of unique shops, art galleries, and fantastic places to eat. You can grab a casual bite or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the town’s many great eateries. Afterward, take a stroll along the iconic Hanalei Bay pier.
- Unwind at a North Shore Beach: Anini Beach is famous for its calm, shallow waters protected by a large reef, making it ideal for a relaxing swim or snorkel. For spectacular views of Hanalei Bay and the famous Bali Hai (Makana Mountain), head to Pu’u Poa Beach, accessible via a public path next to one of the nearby resorts.
- Visit the Kilauea Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse stands on a peninsula that is now a National Wildlife Refuge. The views of the coastline are dramatic, and it’s a fantastic spot for birdwatching.
Kauai from Above: Ancient Legends, Hollywood Sets & Hidden History
Flying over Kauai reveals more than towering cliffs and emerald valleys – it uncovers centuries of Polynesian culture, geological wonder, and iconic Hollywood scenes that have made this island world-famous.
Timeless Landscapes with Deep Roots
- Waimea Canyon: Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this dramatic 10-mile-long gorge was carved by erosion and the collapse of a volcano. It’s believed to have been a sacred place for Native Hawaiians and is steeped in myth.
- Nā Pali Coast: This rugged, uninhabited stretch of coastline is more than just a natural wonder – it was once home to ancient Hawaiian communities. Today, the steep valleys and sea cliffs still echo the past, visible only by air or boat.
- Mount Waialeale Crater: One of the wettest places on Earth, this extinct volcano helped shape Kauai’s unique landscape. The crater’s walls are shrouded in mist and waterfalls, often visible only by helicopter due to the remote terrain.
- Hanalei Valley: This fertile area was one of the earliest regions settled by Polynesians. As you fly over its taro fields and lush greenery, you’re seeing land that has sustained Hawaiians for over a thousand years.
Kauai: The Ultimate Movie Star Island
Kauai’s raw beauty has starred in some of Hollywood’s most legendary scenes. If a movie needed paradise, danger, or prehistoric drama – it probably came here:
- Jurassic Park (1993): The unforgettable opening helicopter scene flying into “Isla Nublar” was filmed at Manawaiopuna Falls (aka Jurassic Falls). Most Kauai tours offer a view or even a landing here.
- Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark: The famous opening jungle scene where Indy runs from the temple was shot along Kauai’s Huleia River near the dense forests of the south shore.
- South Pacific & Blue Hawaii: Classic musical and Elvis fans will recognize Kauai’s beaches and coastal cliffs as stand-ins for Bali Hai and Hawaii’s dreamy mid-century allure.
- King Kong, The Descendants, Pirates of the Caribbean, and many others have used Kauai’s untamed backdrop for their most dramatic scenes – especially along the Nā Pali Coast and remote waterfalls.
Kauai Helicopter Tour FAQ
Question: Where do Kauai helicopter tours depart from?
Answer: Most Kauai helicopter tours depart from either Lihue Airport (LIH) or private helipads in Lihue, Princeville, or occasionally Port Allen. Be sure to check the exact departure location when booking.
Question: How long are Kauai helicopter tours?
Answer: Tour durations range from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on the route and whether you’re flying doors-on or doors-off. Full island tours typically last around 50–60 minutes.
Question: What can I expect to see on a Kauai helicopter tour?
Answer: Expect jaw-dropping views of Waimea Canyon, the Na Pali Coast, Mount Waialeale, and countless waterfalls—many of which are inaccessible by road. Some tours even fly over filming locations from movies like Jurassic Park.
Question: Are doors-off helicopter tours safe?
Answer: Yes. Doors-off tours are just as safe as doors-on options. You’ll be securely harnessed in, and safety briefings are thorough. They’re popular for photographers who want clear, unobstructed views.
Question: What’s the best time of day to fly in Kauai?
Answer: Mid-morning to early afternoon often offers the best weather and visibility. Some companies prefer morning flights to avoid trade wind buildups later in the day.
Question: Will I get motion sickness on the flight?
Answer: It’s possible, especially for those prone to motion sickness. Consider taking non-drowsy Dramamine beforehand and avoid heavy meals before your flight. Pilots fly smoothly, but the terrain can mean changes in elevation.
Question: Can I take photos and videos during the tour?
Answer: Absolutely. Kauai is one of the most photogenic places on Earth. Doors-off flights are perfect for photographers, but even doors-on flights offer stunning views through wide windows.
Question: Is transportation to the helipad included?
Answer: Some tours offer shuttle service from major resort areas, but many do not. It’s common to drive yourself to the departure site, so check your booking details for transportation info.
Question: What should I wear on a Kauai helicopter tour?
Answer: Wear comfortable, dark clothing to minimize window reflections. If you’re on a doors-off tour, bring a light jacket and secure all loose items—no hats or flip-flops.
Question: Are Kauai helicopter tours suitable for kids?
Answer: Most companies allow children ages 2 and up, but some may have age or weight restrictions. Families often enjoy doors-on tours for comfort and safety.
