Hey everyone, Justin here from Helicopterstour.com. Ever since my first flight, I’ve been completely hooked on that incredible feeling of seeing the world from above. It’s a perspective that changes you. And if there’s one place on Earth that you have to see from a helicopter, it’s Kauai. I’ve spent years exploring and reviewing tours, and I can tell you, the Garden Isle is something special. I’m here to share some of that passion and inside knowledge with you, so you can make your trip truly unforgettable.
Soaring Over Paradise: The Unforgettable Kauai Helicopter Tour
There’s a reason why people say a Kauai helicopter tour is a must-do. Over 70% of this incredible island is completely inaccessible by car. Think about that! Without taking to the skies, you’re missing the vast majority of its raw, untouched beauty. This isn’t just a tour; it’s the only way to truly grasp the soul of the island.
From the moment you lift off, the world changes. You’ll sweep over the legendary Napali Coast, and I promise you, no picture does it justice. Seeing those emerald-green, razor-sharp cliffs plunge thousands of feet into the brilliant blue Pacific is a sight that will be etched in your memory forever. Then, you’ll journey inland to the Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The sheer scale and the deep, rich colors of the canyon walls are absolutely breathtaking.
For me, the most magical part is flying into the heart of Mount Waialeale. It’s one of the wettest spots on the planet, and the inside of its crater is a sight to behold. Waterfalls cascade down every surface, creating what’s known as the “Weeping Wall.” It feels ancient and sacred. And of course, you’ll get that iconic view of Manawaiopuna Falls, instantly recognizable from ‘Jurassic Park.’ It’s a surreal and powerful moment.
Making a Day of It: What to Do Before and After Your Flight
Your adventure doesn’t have to start and end at the heliport. Whether you’re flying out of Lihue or Port Allen, you can build an amazing day around your tour.
Lihue Adventures
Lihue is the main hub, and it’s packed with things to do. If you have time before your flight, I suggest visiting the Kauai Museum to get a real sense of the island’s history. Or, for something quick and beautiful, check out the nearby Wailua Falls. After you land, the best way to unwind is at Kalapaki Beach. It’s a gorgeous, calm bay perfect for a swim. For a great meal, you can’t go wrong with Gaylord’s at Kilohana Plantation – the ambiance is classic Kauai.
West Side Fun from Port Allen
If your tour leaves from Port Allen, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the sunny west side. Port Allen is the launching point for most Na Pali boat tours, so you could see the coast from the sea and the air on the same day! I love heading over to the nearby town of Hanapepe. It’s full of cool art galleries and has a great, laid-back vibe. Don’t forget to check out Glass Beach while you’re there.
A Quick Tip for Pride of America Guests
If you’re arriving on the Pride of America cruise ship, a helicopter tour is one of the best ways to spend your day in port. The logistics are super easy. Most tour operators know the cruise schedule and can even arrange for transportation from the Nawiliwili Harbor. My advice? Book it well in advance. It’s the most popular shore excursion for a reason and spots fill up fast!
Kauai Helicopter Tour FAQ’s
1. Question: What will I see on a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: A Kauai Helicopter Tour provides breathtaking aerial views of the island’s most iconic and inaccessible landmarks. Key sights include the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast, the vast Waimea Canyon (known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’), the central crater of Mount Waialeale with its weeping walls of waterfalls, and Manawaiopuna Falls, famously featured in the movie ‘Jurassic Park’.
2. Question: Is a Kauai Helicopter Tour worth the cost?
Answer: Absolutely. Since over 70% of Kauai is inaccessible by land, a Kauai Helicopter Tour is the only way to witness the full, dramatic beauty of the island. It offers a unique perspective on stunning landscapes you cannot see otherwise, making it a memorable and highly recommended experience for most visitors.
3. Question: Should I choose a doors-off or doors-on Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: This depends on your preference for comfort versus thrill. A doors-off Kauai Helicopter Tour offers an exhilarating, open-air experience with unobstructed views perfect for photography. A doors-on tour provides a more comfortable, climate-controlled environment, which can be better if you’re sensitive to wind and cold or prefer feeling more enclosed.
4. Question: Where do Kauai Helicopter Tours depart from?
Answer: Most Kauai Helicopter Tour operators fly out of Lihue Airport (LIH), which is centrally located. Some companies also offer departures from the Princeville Airport on the North Shore or from Port Allen Airport near Hanapepe on the southwest coast.
5. Question: How long is a typical Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: The standard and most popular Kauai Helicopter Tour lasts between 50 to 65 minutes, which is enough time to circle the entire island. Some companies offer longer tours of up to 90 minutes, which may include a landing at a scenic, remote location.
6. Question: What is the best time of day for a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Mornings are often recommended for a Kauai Helicopter Tour as the weather is typically clearer with less cloud cover, especially over the island’s interior mountains. However, afternoon flights can also offer dramatic lighting for photography. It’s best to book your tour at the beginning of your trip to allow for rescheduling in case of bad weather.
7. Question: What famous movie locations can I see on a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: The most famous location is Manawaiopuna Falls in the Hanapepe Valley, which was featured in the opening scene of ‘Jurassic Park’. The dramatic landscapes of the Napali Coast and other parts of the island have also been featured in numerous films, including ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and ‘Avatar’.
8. Question: Which companies offer a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Kauai is home to several highly-rated helicopter tour companies. Some of the most well-known operators include Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Jack Harter Helicopters (famous for doors-off tours), Island Helicopters (offering a Jurassic Falls landing), Safari Helicopters, and Mauna Loa Helicopters.
9. Question: Will my Kauai Helicopter Tour be canceled due to bad weather?
Answer: Safety is the top priority, so flights may be canceled due to heavy rain, strong winds, or low cloud cover. Kauai’s weather can be unpredictable. Reputable companies will offer to reschedule your tour or provide a full refund if the flight is canceled by the pilot.
10. Question: How far in advance should I book my Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: It is highly recommended to book your Kauai Helicopter Tour several weeks or even months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (winter and summer). Tours frequently sell out, and booking early ensures you get your preferred date and time.
11. Question: What should I wear for a doors-off Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: For a doors-off Kauai Helicopter Tour, it’s essential to dress in layers. It will be significantly colder and windier at altitude. A jacket or sweatshirt is recommended. Wear dark-colored clothing to minimize reflections for better photos. All loose items like hats and scarves are prohibited for safety reasons.
12. Question: Are there weight restrictions for a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Yes, all helicopter tours have weight restrictions for safety and proper weight distribution. Limits vary by company and helicopter type, but individual passenger weights are often capped around 240-250 lbs. Passengers are weighed at check-in, and comfort seats may need to be purchased for passengers exceeding the limit.
13. Question: Which side of the helicopter has the best views on a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Pilots are skilled at maneuvering the aircraft so that passengers on both sides get excellent views of the key sights. They will often circle landmarks to ensure everyone has a great photo opportunity. Seating is typically assigned based on weight distribution, so you cannot always choose your seat.
14. Question: Can I see the Napali Coast without a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Yes, while a Kauai Helicopter Tour provides the most comprehensive view, you can also see the Napali Coast by boat or by hiking the challenging Kalalau Trail. However, the aerial perspective allows you to appreciate the immense scale and intricate details of the cliffs and valleys in a way that is not possible from sea level or on foot.
15. Question: What is there to do in Lihue before or after my Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Lihue, being the main commercial center and home to the airport, offers several attractions. You can relax at Kalapaki Beach, visit the Kauai Museum to learn about local history, see the nearby Wailua Falls, or tour the Kilohana Plantation estate.
16. Question: Are there activities near Port Allen for after my Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Yes, Port Allen is the departure point for many Na Pali Coast boat and snorkeling tours. Nearby, you can visit the famous Glass Beach in Hanapepe, explore the charming ‘Biggest Little Town’ of Hanapepe with its art galleries, or dine at a local brewery.
17. Question: Can I get a private Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Yes, most companies offer private charters. A private Kauai Helicopter Tour is perfect for couples, families, or photographers who want a more personalized experience, and it allows for more flexibility in the flight path.
18. Question: Will I see whales during my Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: If you take a Kauai Helicopter Tour during the winter months (typically December through April), you have a very good chance of spotting humpback whales from the air as they migrate to Hawaiian waters to breed and calve.
19. Question: Is it cold during a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: In a doors-on helicopter, the cabin is climate-controlled. However, on a doors-off Kauai Helicopter Tour, it will feel significantly colder due to wind and altitude, with temperatures potentially 20-30 degrees cooler than on the ground. A jacket is highly recommended.
20. Question: Can I bring a camera on my Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Yes, cameras and smartphones are highly encouraged. For doors-off tours, all cameras and phones must have a secure wrist or neck strap. Loose items are not permitted, so camera bags and other accessories will need to be stored before the flight.
21. Question: How early do I need to arrive for my Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: You should plan to arrive at the heliport at least 45 minutes prior to your scheduled flight time. This allows for check-in, a weight check, and a mandatory safety briefing before you board the aircraft.
22. Question: Can my children go on a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Most companies welcome children. Children under two can often fly for free on a parent’s lap. However, doors-off tours have stricter age restrictions, often requiring passengers to be at least 7 or 10 years old for safety reasons. Always confirm the policy with the specific tour operator.
23. Question: What is Mount Waialeale and will I see it on the tour?
Answer: Mount Waialeale is the shield volcano at the center of the island and is known as one of the wettest spots on Earth. A Kauai Helicopter Tour will typically fly into the heart of its crater, revealing the ‘Weeping Wall,’ where dozens of waterfalls cascade down the lush, green cliffs.
24. Question: Are there any landing tours offered as part of a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Yes, some companies offer tours that include a landing. The most famous is the tour offered by Island Helicopters, which has exclusive permission to land at the base of Manawaiopuna (‘Jurassic Park’) Falls. Other companies may offer landings at scenic spots in Waimea Canyon or other remote locations.
25. Question: Do pilots provide commentary during the Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Yes, all passengers are provided with two-way headsets. The pilot provides a continuous narration during the Kauai Helicopter Tour, pointing out landmarks and sharing information about the island’s history, geology, and culture. You can also use the headset to ask the pilot questions.
26. Question: What kind of helicopters are used for a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Several types of helicopters are used. The Airbus A-Star and Eco-Star are common for doors-on tours, known for their large windows and comfortable seating. The Hughes 500 and Robinson R44 are often used for doors-off and private tours, prized for their agility and visibility.
27. Question: Will I get motion sickness during the flight?
Answer: Helicopter flights over Kauai are generally smooth, but turbulence can occur. If you are prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to take preventative medication before your tour. Focusing on the horizon can also help mitigate any discomfort.
28. Question: What is the check-in process like for a Kauai Helicopter Tour?
Answer: Upon arrival, you will check in with the ground crew. You will need to provide your booking information and each passenger will be discreetly weighed. You will then receive a safety briefing before being escorted to the helicopter for boarding.
29. Question: Is there a restroom at the heliport?
Answer: Yes, there are restroom facilities available at all heliport locations. It is highly recommended to use them before your flight, as there are no restrooms on the helicopter.
30. Question: What is the best restaurant near the Lihue Airport for a post-tour meal?
Answer: Lihue has many dining options. For a classic meal with a historical ambiance, Gaylord’s at Kilohana is a popular choice. For something more casual, you can find a variety of local restaurants and cafes in Lihue or near Kalapaki Beach, just a short drive from the airport.
31. Question: Can I take a Kauai Helicopter Tour if I’m pregnant?
Answer: Most women in their first or second trimester can safely fly, but it’s always essential to consult with your doctor before booking a Kauai Helicopter Tour. You should also inform the tour operator when making your reservation.
Ready to plan the best part of your trip?
Look, I know a helicopter tour is a big-ticket item when you’re planning a vacation. But I can honestly say, it’s an experience that delivers a return on investment you’ll be feeling for years to come. It’s not just about the incredible photos you’ll get; it’s about the feeling of awe, the sense of adventure, and the new appreciation you’ll have for the power and beauty of nature.
You’re about to visit one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Don’t just see a fraction of it. See it all.
When you’re ready to take the leap, I’ve put together everything you need to know. Head over to our site to check out our handpicked list of the Best Kauai Helicopter tours and reviews. We’ve done the homework to help you find the perfect flight for your adventure.
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