Private Helicopter Tour of Na'Pali Coast in Kauai (Doors Off!)
At a glance
- Length
- 4 min
- Channel
- AKFasso
- Video from
- Feb 2019
- Rating
- ⭐⭐ Great video · 2/2
- Best for
- Kauai visitors seeking premium aerial photography and unobstructed scenic views.
Summary of This Doors-Off Na'Pali Coast Helicopter Tour
This video documents a private Kauai helicopter tour featuring doors-off flight over some of the island's most dramatic landscapes. The tour takes viewers soaring along the Na'Pali Coast, over Waimea Canyon, and past Mount Waialeale. The experience was conducted by Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours, with pilot Chris at the controls, and the video creator emphasizes the professionalism and passion of the team throughout the flight.
The video showcases the aerial perspective of Kauai's most iconic natural features, giving viewers a sense of what a private doors-off experience delivers. The creator describes this as the best helicopter tour they have ever experienced and strongly recommends the operator and the adventure itself to potential visitors.
Key Highlights of the Na'Pali Doors-Off Experience
- Private charter flight with doors removed for unobstructed photography and viewing
- Scenic route covers the Na'Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Mount Waialeale landmarks
- Operator (Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours) praised for professionalism and expertise
- Pilot Chris specifically commended for his skill and service quality
- Described as a high-value alternative to group helicopter tours

Why a Doors-Off Helicopter Tour Matters for Kauai Visitors
For travelers seeking an immersive and memorable way to see Kauai's landscape, a doors-off experience removes the physical barrier between viewer and scenery—critical for photography enthusiasts and those wanting unfiltered views of the island's most dramatic formations. The Na'Pali Coast, in particular, is one of Hawaii's most photographed regions and is difficult to fully appreciate from ground level. A private charter also allows for more flexibility in route timing and personalized attention compared to group tours. The video demonstrates that investing in a premium experience with a reputable operator can deliver significantly higher satisfaction than standard alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Na'Pali Helicopter Tours
What exactly is a doors-off helicopter tour?
A doors-off helicopter tour removes the aircraft's doors during flight, allowing passengers unobstructed views and direct access for photography. Safety harnesses and equipment keep passengers secure while enabling a fully open-air experience.
Is a private helicopter tour worth the cost?
According to the video creator, a private tour with Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours delivered exceptional value and quality compared to other helicopter experiences they have had. The personalized service, professional pilot, and exclusive access justify the investment for many travelers.
What landmarks are included in the Na'Pali route?
The tour covers three major scenic areas: the Na'Pali Coast (a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic cliffs), Waimea Canyon (known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"), and Mount Waialeale (one of the wettest spots on Earth).
How long is a typical doors-off helicopter tour?
The video does not specify the exact duration, but private helicopter tours of this type typically run between 45 minutes and 2 hours depending on the operator and route chosen.
What should I bring or wear for a doors-off flight?
The video does not detail specific gear requirements, but doors-off tours generally require secure clothing, a good camera or phone for photography, and comfort with heights and wind. Operators typically provide safety briefings and equipment before departure.

Key Terms
- Doors-off helicopter
- An aircraft with removable doors that allows passengers unobstructed views and direct air exposure during flight.
- Na'Pali Coast
- A dramatic 17-mile stretch of Kauai's north shore featuring steep cliffs, waterfalls, and isolated valleys visible only by sea or air.
- Waimea Canyon
- A large canyon on Kauai known for its colorful rock formations and scenic vistas, sometimes called Hawaii's version of the Grand Canyon.
- Mount Waialeale
- A mountain peak on Kauai recognized as one of the wettest locations on Earth, often shrouded in clouds.
- Private charter
- An aircraft rental where the entire flight is reserved exclusively for one group rather than shared with other passengers.
📚 Go deeper: Doors-off helicopter explained · Waimea Canyon explained
Sources: Doors-off helicopter · Na'Pali Coast · Waimea Canyon · Mount Waialeale · Private charter — definitions cross-referenced with Wikipedia
Video by AKFasso on YouTube. If you enjoyed it, please subscribe to their channel and show your support for the great video.
Description
Soar over Kauai -- along the Na'Pali coast, above Waimea Canyon and past Mount Waialeale -- on your very own private, doors off helicopter tour. DO IT! This was by far the best helicopter tour I've ever been on and I really can not recommend it enough.
We used Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours. They were extremely professional and passionate. Shout out to our pilot, Chris, who was just the best.
Want to see more videos from my trip to Hawaii? Check out the links below:
- Hiking the Awa'awapuhi trail: https://youtu.be/c9liAIphM9Q?si=MFOZgCm7WHXHjQ5t
- ATV tour at Kualoa Ranch: https://youtu.be/9JrF85q1cxE?si=AJ_qTIC-c0mGazeG
- Finding the Jurassic Park gate: https://youtu.be/L2wKoHTk1UM?si=jd_LLLnc9lia8U7Z
BOOKING LINKS
Interested in supporting my channel? I receive a small commission from any of the affiliate links you use below. Thanks so much!
- Private Doors Off Helicopter of Na'Pali Coast: https://viator.tp.st/JQIFlNdY
- Shaka Guide GPS Driving tour: https://tripadvisor.tp.st/5u4pk8UF
- Deluxe Na 'Pali Morning Snorkel Tour: https://viator.tp.st/IzKKKFWL
- Secret Falls Kayak Hike in Kauai: https://viator.tp.st/3m3kHydD
- Kauai ATV Backroads Adventure Tour: https://viator.tp.st/ncP2hS7Z
- Kauai Waimea Canyon and Koke'e Tour with Lunch: https://viator.tp.st/hQ2D5H6u
- Princeville Botanical Gardens Tour and Chocolate Tasting: https://viator.tp.st/HGWYKfZl
- Pay with points using Chase rewards card: https://www.referyourchasecard.com/19q/OB1Z6OBS5M
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