Overview of This Na Pali Coast Helicopter Tour in Kauai
This video documents a scenic helicopter tour with Safari Helicopter Tours, based in Kauai, Hawaii. The 50-minute "Waterfall" flight departs from Lihue and traces a carefully planned route across the island's most dramatic landscapes—from the rugged Na Pali coastline to the lush interior valleys and volcanic peaks. The video captures the journey from multiple vantage points, giving viewers a genuine sense of what passengers see during the flight.
This experience suits travelers who want to see Kauai's largest natural wonders in a single outing without spending days hiking or driving between distant locations. Whether you're a first-time visitor, a scenic photography enthusiast, or someone with limited time on the island, a helicopter tour condenses iconic viewpoints into one immersive hour. Spots on these tours fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons, so early booking is essential if this appeals to you.
Highlights of the Route and Scenery
- Manawaipuna Waterfall, a signature landmark visible only from above or by boat
- Waimea Canyon, known for its dramatic red and orange geological layers
- Na Pali Coast cliffs, towering directly above the ocean with no road access
- Lumahai Beach, recognizable from the film Fantasy Island
- Mt. Waialeale summit crater at the island's center
- Wailua Falls, also featured in the Fantasy Island television series
What to Know Before Your Kauai Helicopter Flight
- Duration is approximately 50 minutes of flight time for the Waterfall tour
- The aircraft features windows that extend all the way to the floor, providing unobstructed views from every seat
- Passengers sit in various positions—front seats and middle-back rows—which affect your visual perspective during the flight
- No selfie sticks are permitted; a handheld camera or GoPro is the only way to record personal video
- The route covers both coastal and interior terrain, so expect varied lighting and weather conditions depending on time of day and season
- Book directly with Safari Helicopter Tours; availability decreases as your travel dates approach
Frequently Asked Questions About This Helicopter Tour
How long is the flight, and does it include all these landmarks?
The Waterfall flight lasts approximately 50 minutes and covers Lihue Harbor, Hanapepe Valley, Manawaipuna Waterfall, Olokele Canyon, Waimea Canyon, Waialae Falls, the Na Pali coastline, Lumahai Beach, and Mt. Waialeale's summit crater before returning to the departure point at Lihue.
Can I film or photograph during the flight?
Yes. You may use a handheld camera or GoPro to record video, but selfie sticks are not permitted by law. The video shows footage captured both from the front seat and from the middle-back row, demonstrating the quality of views available from different positions in the aircraft.
What are the window views like in the helicopter?
The aircraft windows extend all the way to the floor, eliminating the typical obstruction you might experience in other aerial tours. This design allows passengers in every seat to capture clear, uninterrupted views of the landscape below.
When should I book this tour?
Book as early as possible. Helicopter tours in Kauai fill up quickly, particularly during high-season travel months. Waiting until your trip is near means risking unavailable dates.
Is this tour suitable for people afraid of flying?
The video does not address safety or comfort measures for nervous flyers. Contact Safari Helicopter Tours directly to discuss any concerns and learn about their safety record and what support they offer anxious passengers.
