kauai helicopter tour best time of day

Morning or Afternoon? The Best Time of Day for Kauai Helicopter Tours & Other FAQs

Kauai was pretty much made to be seen from the air. Only 20% of the island is developed (including roads!) which means that most visitors only see a tiny fraction of its splendors. And boy does it have splendors.

While every Hawaiian Island has absolutely stunning scenery, Kauai is overwhelming in the “jagged, majestic green mountains that look like the backdrop to every single Jurassic Park movie” department.

Sadly, many of its most beautiful sites are so remote and difficult to reach that they remain unseen by all but the most intrepid hikers. And that’s why helicopter tours are more popular on Kauai than any other Hawaiian Islands.

This post may contain some affiliate links, which means I’ll make a little money on anything you choose to purchase. But of course, I only recommend my absolute favorites to you. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Mousin’ Around possible.

FAQs about Kauai Helicopter Tours

For most people, a helicopter ride is a once in a lifetime bucket list experience. Because it seems like such a “big deal” (and maybe because it’s also so expensive), I get asked a lot of questions about tours. Here’s a round up of frequently asked questions…

Is a Kauai helicopter tour “worth it”?

I had never been on a helicopter before (and haven’t since), but it seemed like a real shame to miss out on a helicopter tour on Kauai. And I really just can’t say enough good things about my helicopter flight on Kauai. And there aren’t words to adequately describe the things I saw. All I can say is, if you’re on the fence about doing a helicopter tour on your trip to Kauai, do it!!! I’ve done a lot of tours, excursions, and activities on Kauai, but this is one of the few that I would repeat (others were amazing, but once was enough).

What’s the best time of day for Kauai helicopter tours? Morning or afternoon?

If you’re paying all of that money, you want to get it right. Generally, mornings are going to consistently provide the best flying conditions. Wind and weather pick up in the afternoon and while you can never quite predict the weather, mornings are usually the best bet.

However…the lighting during the afternoon is best along the Napali Coast. It’s kind of a technicality because the Napali Coast is impressive any time of day, but here’s how it works: the mountains along the Napali run north to south. The sun rises in the east so the sun is mostly behind the mountains during the morning hours leaving them somewhat shady. By late afternoon, the sun shines directly on the coast making all those crags and spires sparkle a bit more.

So is there really that big of a difference? Yes and no. I would say for the casual tourist, morning is totally fine. All of the boat tours of the Napali run during the morning as well and it’s spectacular. If you’re a super serious photographer tasked with getting the perfect shot (I’m a professional travel blogger and I wouldn’t even call myself that) then late afternoon is probably best.

But just know you run a bigger risk of your flight getting canceled later in the day if weather develops (which could also happen in the morning).

***Want to save major $$$ on your trip to Hawaii? I get asked ALL the time how I’m able to travel so often to Hawaii and stay at really nice resorts. Well, my favorite travel hack is cashing in points to score free airfare and free nights at some of Hawaii’s most high end resorts. Read my full guide on the exact system I use to max out credit card rewards here . Seriously, it’s going to save you soooo much money.

What to wear / bring on a helicopter tour?

It’s a quick flight so you’re not going to need much! There are lockers at most of the tour facilities to leave your belongings. You’ll definitely want to wear dark clothing if you’re doing a helicopter tour with doors on. This cuts down on the glare in your photos if photographing through windows. If it’s a doors off tour it’s not as important. But if you’re on a doors off tour, you’ll need a strap for your phone.

When is the best time to book your tour?

Helicopter tours are VERY popular on Kauai (more so than the other Hawaiian Islands) so book in advance. I also recommend booking it early on in your trip so if you have bad weather there’s time to reschedule.

Are helicopter tours safe?

I’m not going to give you a yes or no on this one. I’ve done a tour with no problems and soooooo many tours are flown every day on Kauai, but there are records of accidents (usually because of ill maintained equipment or pilot inexperience regarding weather). You can review records from the National Transportation Safety Board here before you make your final decision regarding specific companies.

Side Note: If you’re looking for a rental car for your trip, I LOVE Discount Hawaii Car Rentals . They’re seriously the only company I ever use. They’ll give you the very best prices, you don’t have to reserve with a credit card or pay until you show up, you can cancel and re-book anytime if you find a better rate, and they usually have a special that adds additional drivers for no fee. It’s a no brainer. Click here to check rates for your trip.

Which company has the cheapest helicopter tours?

I don’t know, but seriously…don’t pick a tour provider based on price. Seriously. There are a TON of companies that offer helicopter tours of Kauai, but I don’t believe this is something you shop around to find the best deal. Helicopter and small airplane crashes aren’t unheard of in Hawaii and it’s usually a result of inexperienced pilots or ill maintained equipment. This is a time when paying more to go with a reputable company is a necessity.

What are the most popular/recommended tour companies?

While I’m not going to do a rundown on every helicopter company here and there may be some good ones I’m missing, here are my top three that I would feel comfortable with:

Blue Hawaiian : This is the company that I personally used. Blue Hawaiian is the granddaddy of all the tour operators. They fly on every major island, and their fleet is modern and impressive. I think they offer the most comfortable flight conditions available. They only fly doors ON flights. Their flights start at $339/person.

Jack Harter Helicopters : Jack Harter is the original Kauai helicopter company and they offer some pretty amazing options. Their star tour is a 60 minute flight in a Hughes 500 (which seats three in the front including the pilot and only two in the back) with the doors OFF. This flight starts at $359. In addition to feeling more adventurous, booking this flight also ensures that you will have a window seat. I would consider the front middle to still be a window seat since the window stretches out to your feet right in front of you. There’s something about feeling the wind in your face as you’re hovering over a waterfall, but if you’re a nervous flier, I would probably stick to doors on.

Island Helicopters : Island Helicopters is the only company to offer a landing during their flight. If you’re a fan of Jurassic Park, you’ll love this tour. In addition to the traditional circle island tour, it includes a stop at Manawaiopuna Falls (well known from the opening scene in Jurassic Park). This tour is $373 and lasts 80 minutes (including the landing).

What will I See on a Kauai Helicopter Tour?

Here’s a rundown of what I saw on my flight with Blue Hawaiian:

Once we were airborne, we flew over Nawiliwili Harbor and along the south side of the island. Our pilot (Bryan from Tennessee!) was great about pointing out places of interest and filling us in on the island’s geography and other interesting facts. We got some good views of Poipu before flying over Hanapepe Valley and on to the first major site of the flight: Waimea Canyon.

Waimea Canyon is a stunner from the roadside overlooks but from the air it was just spectacular. We flew down into the canyon, and up close to a waterfall but it was the rainbow(s) that stole the show here. It was a pretty special sight.

We flew over the edge of the canyon and came down over the Napali Coast (one of the big selling points of a helicopter ride over Kauai) and it was…raining! A lot. But it was still so amazing. Even in the rain, I was still blown away. We flew up the coast, oohing and awing, until we got to Ke’e beach and then followed the north shore into Hanalei Bay (we got a great view of Tunnels).

From here we flew into Hanalei Valley and then into Wai’ale’ale Crater (the birthplace of Kauai). This part of the flight was the real highlight for me. Hanalei Valley is so lush and green and getting to go into the crater (Bryan said only about 40% of flights get the right conditions to go in) was an otherworldly experience. The pictures just don’t do this place justice. The clouds were hanging low, it was raining lightly, and it was still gorgeous. Our pilot told us that many people have an emotional reaction to seeing the crater and it’s easy to see why. Our otherwise chatty flight grew silent as we flew through.

The crater was our last major site on the trip and from there we flew back across the island to Lihue. We had an uneventful landing (always a good thing!) and disembarked. On our way in, each group got to have their picture snapped in front of the helicopter.

Is it scary?

As someone who has mild to moderate anxiety and a decent fear of heights…I was a little nervous beforehand, I got a little psyched out once I was buckled in, but as soon as we were in the air I was completely fine.

I have no issues with motion sickness, but I was told that if you’re prone to it then you should take meds before your flight.

On Another Note: If you’re looking for a condo or vacation rental for your trip, I always book with Vrbo . They’ve got the largest selection of rentals you’ll find anywhere and you can easily filter to find exactly what you’re looking for. Need a specific number of bedrooms and bathrooms? Narrowed it down to a certain location? Want flexible cancellation terms? Need to stay under a fixed budget? Click here to search for Kauai vacation rentals for your trip.

How do they decide where everybody sits in the helicopter & what is the boarding process like?

Most companies leave out of the Lihue Heliport, which is right next to the airport. Blue Hawaiian’s headquarters are in a nice building with a check-in desk, gift shop, restrooms, and safety briefing area. When you check in, they take your weight really discreetly (I didn’t even know that’s what they were doing!) and this is how they determine seating assignments.

About a half hour before our flight, we watched a safety video and got our personal flotation devices (a small pouch you wear strapped around your waist). This is also where we got our pilot’s name and seat assignments (there were three helicopters leaving at our departure time).

Everything is assigned based on weight distribution. The helicopters that Blue Hawaiian uses seat three in the front (Including the pilot) and four in the back. I did the flight solo and was told that I wouldn’t be put in a back middle seat but that if you’re a couple one of you will for sure be in a middle seat.

Next we went outside and waited on the lanai and watched the helicopters land from the previous tour, unload, and get refueled before we were loaded on. This flight was on an ecostar, which is known for being one of the more “comfortable” aircrafts you can fly on.

I was seat #1 which is front middle right next to the pilot (I would consider it a window seat) so I was the first one loaded. The flight crew led us out to the helipad one by one, buckled us in, and handed us our headsets. Once we were loaded, we could talk to the pilot through the headsets.

Want to read more posts about Kauai? I’ve got plenty!

Things You Can ONLY Do on Kauai // Things to Do in Poipu (South Side) // 5 Day Kauai Itinerary // 4 Day Kauai Itinerary (North Shore) // 3 Day Kauai Itinerary //

Where to Stay on Kauai: Princeville vs Poipu // Grand Hyatt Kauai Review // My Favorite Restaurants in Poipu

Kauai Travel Tips (Things to Know Before You Go) // Napali Coast: Boat Tour vs Helicopter // Kauai Helicopter Tour FAQs

Maui vs Kauai

How to choose a helicopter tour in Kaua‘i

Mar 25, 2022 • 5 min read

Waipo‘o and other Kaua‘i’s waterfalls astound when seen from the air © Edmund Lowe Photography / Getty Images

Seeing Kauaʻi from the air is a thrilling and singular experience that may just define your trip to the Garden Island.

While expensive, it’s the only way to see much of the island, the majority of which is privately owned. Helicopter tours are by far the most popular option: while planes can fly no lower than 1000–1500ft, helicopters are allowed to fly as low as 500ft and can hover, too. The tours are popular with honeymooners – and with everyone who loves the romance of nature.

Here’s our guide to the best plane tours and helicopter tours in Kauaʻi.

How much is a helicopter tour? 

The most popular way to see Kauaʻi from the air is to take a helicopter ride. Most helicopter tour companies depart from the airport in Lihuʻe ; trips generally last 60 to 90 minutes, and start at around $229. Tip: make reservations online ahead of time to save a bit of money. 

How to choose a helicopter tour

It’s worth doing some careful research before choosing an operator. You’ll have to decide what kind of aircraft and tour you want (some land in neat places), and whether you want the doors on or off (some passengers like the visibility, others don’t like the exposure to wind and possibly rain). 

Doors-off helicopters are the way to go if you are an avid photographer (and don't suffer from vertigo). But expect conditions that are noisy and windy – and maybe just a little bit scary. Keep in mind that on a six-seater helicopter, two people may be stuck in the middle. While you can request a window seat, it’s the captain has discretion to move people around for weight balance. 

You also get to choose from big-window, little-window and bubble helicopters (the last like the ones seen on M*A*S*H ). The big differences will always be visibility and noise. More-modern helicopters are quieter and generally have big windows. You always wear headphones so you can talk with fellow passengers with a lower din, but even a slight reduction in sound can make your trip more pleasant. Then again, some of the older, louder helicopters have a sweet, retro,  Magnum P.I. –esque vibe that makes for a thrilling ride. 

Make sure to check your operator’s weather policy before booking. Rain delays do happen, and tour routes will vary depending on rain and winds. Cancellations or postponements by operators may happen on short notice. Consider booking early during your stay, so you can reschedule for later if need be. 

To check any tour company’s comprehensive safety record, consult the National Transportation Safety Board accident database .

Safety and apparel recommendations

Ideally, strap everything down (hats, phones, cameras, etc.). It can get a little cold, so bring a jacket and long pants, plus decent shoes in case your tour includes a landing. 

Always approach a helicopter from the front (never the back). The captain will generally indicate which side you should board. Put your head down, and hold onto your hat, just like they do in the movies – then relax and look outward as you listen to ongoing narration from the knowledgeable pilots. You can feel free to tip them afterward, but it’s not required.

Where do helicopter tours go?

From Lihuʻe, expect to see the Nawiliwili Harbor and the Menehune Fishpond, Kipu Kai and the Tunnel of Trees, Manawaiopuna Falls in Hanapepe Valley, Olokele Canyon, Waimea Canyon, the Na Pali Coast , North Shore beaches like Keʻe and Hanalei , and Mt Waiʻaleʻale. While the rips up impossibly steep canyons are an adrenaline junkie’s dream, it’s really the close proximity to waterfalls – many of which can only be seen from the air – that makes these trips amazing. 

The tours generally follow pretty standardized routes, but you can talk with your pilot to customize your tour experience, especially if it’s just you and your family or sweetheart taking the flight. This means getting closer to (or further away from) the ground, making more acrobatic banking turns or going with a more easy-breezy approach – however way you wish to fly. 

For a really unique trip, consider a tour with Niʻihau Helicopters ($465 per person), which flies over much of Niʻihau island (avoiding the population center of Puʻuwai), then ends with snorkeling off one of the island’s beaches. Lunch, snacks and drinks are included (with a five-person minimum required).

Best helicopter operators in Kaua‘i

• Island Helicopters offers a landing on top of Manawaiopuna Falls, more commonly known as Jurassic Falls.
• Mauna Loa Helicopters is noteworthy for the chance to fly with no doors...freaky but fun.
• Jack Harter Helicopters lets you take a flight with one of the pioneers of flight tourism on the island.
• Blue Hawaiian Helicopters flies high-end choppers that are said to be less noisy.
• Safari Helicopters offers an ecotour with a 40-minute stop at a wildlife refuge.

Fixed-wing scenic flights

When you can take a helicopter right to the cone of Mt Waiʻaleʻale and hover there to your heart’s content, there seems to be little point in choosing a fixed-wing aircraft to tour Kauaʻi. There is one exception, however: a tour in an open-cockpit biplane, which flies so slowly it may as well be hovering.

The combination of the romance of early aviation, the sensation of the wind and roaring engine, and the emerald tropical island sliding below – not to mention sitting so close to your cabin-mate you may as well be in an embrace – makes this many a honeymooner’s first choice. 

In fact, if it were up to passengers, biplanes would probably be as popular as helicopters on Kauaʻi, but there’s currently only one company that offers these scenic flights: AirVentures Hawaii , based in Lihuʻe. The tour leaves from Lihuʻe Airport and takes you north past the Wailua River and Kilauea Lighthouse . From there, you travel up the lush Hanalei Valley, continuing over the ridge to see cascading waterfalls and 4000ft cliffs. The flight then continues north past Hanalei to the Na Pali Coast, soaring past waterfalls and canyon drops through Waimea Canyon, and back to the South Shore, where you might just spot your hotel. The company even lets you keep the cool throwback hat and goggles as a souvenir of your only-in-Kauaʻi adventure.

You might also like: 10 essential hiking trails on Kauaʻi for exploring the Garden Island How to visit Hawaii without totally destroying it How to choose the best Hawaiian island for your trip

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Doors Off Helicopter Tour Of Kauai: Complete Review

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: June 23, 2023

Categories AMERICA , HAWAII , TOURS

It had been my dream for over four years to visit Kauai. I lived on Oahu for two years and never had the chance to hop over to Kauai. This time I was not only heading over from Oahu but I was so stoked to have booked a doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai. I don’t think I’ve ever been as excited as I was before getting into that helicopter.

BOOKING A HELICOPTER TOUR ON KAUAI

There are a few things to consider when you book a helicopter tour on Kauai. 

• Duration : By the time you take off and land you need 60 minutes to see the whole island. The shorter tour often doesn’t get all the way up to the Na Pali coast, which is the highlight of the tour in my opinion.
• Doors on or off:  Doors-off means you have a clearer view and less glass in the way for your camera but no other huge advantages. The disadvantage is that the wind can be freezing even on a warm day, the wind can be very strong and you are exposed to the elements such as light rain etc.
• A plane!?: One final option to throw in the mix is a tour by a light plane. They are actually pretty popular because they are half the price of the helicopter tour and you get to see the Na Pali coastline and more from the air. It’s something to consider.

Helicopter Flight:  The most popular helicopter tour on Kauai is the Kauai Island Highlight Helicopter Tour

Sightseeing Plane: The Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon Scenic Plane Flight are well under $200, which is more than half the cost of the same trip via helicopter.

Kauai Helicopter Tour

• Doors on or off
• 1 Hour Flight
• Full Island Highlights Tour

My Kauai doors-off helicopter experience

I’d seen so many photos of the Na Pali coastline and it had captured my imagination. It had enthralled me to the point that I had based an entire month of my life around Kauai and this flight was intended to be the highlight of that month. It didn’t disappoint in the slightest.

I organized the photography-specific open-door helicopter tour of Kauai so that I could capture the photos of the Kauai Coastline I had been dreaming about. On a photography-specific flight, your pilot will happily double back or fly to the exact position you need for your composition. On a general flight, you will cruise past locations once and if you don’t get the shot it’s tough luck and the tour moves on.

I was a little nervous as we stepped up into the helicopter at Lihue Airport on the island of Kauai. I hate building things up too much in my head. It’s so easy for it to be a letdown. I was hoping this flight was going to live up to my dreams throughout the last four years.

The flight began quite slowly. We were looking out over nice scenery but nothing amazing, mostly farmland. There were lots of fields and a surprising amount of forested mountains. The sheer volume of trees on Kauai is really only observable from the air.

We were just warming up! Our first real action was in Waimea Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It was here that our pilot gave us our first opportunity to throw our legs out the side of the doors off the helicopter as we looked down over massive waterfalls. The red rocks of the canyon contrasted magnificently against the immense flow from the falls as they cascaded into the pools below.

The doors off helicopter tour on Kauai warms you up. The doors off helicopter tour on Oahu shoots you straight out into Waikiki followed by Diamond Head crater and from there the trip just rolls on. Whereas on Kauai, you begin across farmland, then cruise through Waimea Canyon, all the time knowing you are heading towards one of the most epic sections of coastline in the world.

Our pilot shot us out at Awaawapuhi valley , one of the many awesome hikes on Kaua i I’d already done. Our chopper felt like a toy compared to the immense, towering ridges. We were surrounded on all sides and it seemed the only way out was up. These narrow ridges seem to swallow the helicopter whole and then all of a sudden the pilot finds the gap.

What Photography Gear do I use?

Do you want to know about the cameras, lenses, and different gear I use to capture my adventures? I’ve listed my four different cameras below but you can check out all my lenses, accessories, and favorite camera backpack in my article: MY PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR: WHAT’S IN MY BACKPACK

• My Main Camera: Sony A7riii
• My Drone : DJI Mavic Air2S
• My 360 Camera: Insta360 X3
• Action Camera : GoPro Hero 12

The gap he came out of gave us our first look at the Na Pali coast. What a damn sight. My dreams were immediately right there before me. The scene I had imagined a million times, right there before me. Sharply cut ridges beaming golden under the sun while the Pacific Ocean stung me with its trademark, deep vibrant blue.

Our pilot spent almost 20 minutes making passes up and down the coast making sure both sides of our doors off the helicopter had good looks at the coast. He even set us up for some classic ‘feet shots’ over ‘Cathedrals’. I was happy just to take it all in but I had one shot in mind. It’s the type of shot you click and then check your camera to make sure it’s real life. The lighting wasn’t perfect but for me, this shot is a perfect moment in my life.

After the Napali Coast, we cruised back past Ke’e Beach and got lost in the land of a million waterfalls. Honestly, when I described the flight to people the next day, I told them we saw 200 waterfalls and that was probably an under-exaggeration.

When our doors off helicopter tour of Kauai, Hawaii steered back into Lihue Airport, I was lost for words. I felt overwhelmed. There was far too much epicness in an hour for one mind to handle. I don’t think there are many better places to do a doors-off helicopter tour. It’s just so diverse. Hundreds of waterfalls, one of if not the best coastline in the world, canyons, and ridges that seemingly engulf you… all within an hour.

Kauai open-door helicopter Tour Prices

Doors off helicopter tours aren’t offered by all companies and make the trip so much better. The prices range from $250-$400 per person.

Helicopter Flight:  The most popular helicopter tour on Kauai is the Kauai Island Highlight Helicopter Tour .

Best time for a doors-off helicopter tour on Kauai

The best time of year for the tour is in the summer. You are more likely to avoid the storms, which can often delay or cancel flights. In the winter the weather wreaks havoc on Kauai and storms pass through very quickly. I did my flight in winter so it is definitely possible to have a great sunny flight.

The best time of day for a doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai is either sunset, sunrise, or the early afternoon. The lighting on the Na Pali coast is really tricky. The light can be very harsh and there are so many shadows and ridges to think about. I found that obviously the soft lighting of sunrise and sunset are great but 1 pm was beautiful! I did my tour just before sunset and am pretty stoked with the lighting we had as we cruised along the Na Pali coastline! If you are deciding whether to do your doors off helicopter tour of Kauai in the morning or afternoon you will be solid either way for lighting just check the weather!

I hope you get the opportunity to get yourself inside a chopper, preferably with the doors off for that full experience of Kauai.

MY TOP HOTEL PICKS FOR KAUAI

• Kauai Shores Hotel – Luxury (but value also):  A luxury feels with the resort-style property, palm trees, and a beautiful pool area.
• Koloa Landing Resort – Luxury (high-end): LARGEST pool on all of Kauai with beautiful, natural-style landscaping.
• The Grand Hyatt Resort – Best Family Resort : Best kids’ club on the island, a 5-acre pool complex with a lazy river pool, a waterslide, and a saltwater lagoon big enough for kayaking.
• Read my full guide: You can check my favorites in my Kauai: Where to Stay Guide

BEST RENTAL CAR COMPANY IN HAWAII

When you book your Hawaii Rental Car online, I personally recommend and always use  Discover Cars . They search for both local and international companies, so you get the best deal!

Friday 24th of February 2023

Hello What a great read! Your pics are amazing. What company did you book your tour with?

Saturday 20th of August 2022

How did you get those feet shots out of the helicopter? Did you have to unbuckle to do that? Also your pilot was cool with you doing these types of photos?

Wednesday 26th of January 2022

Hi - what was the name of the company you used for doors off?

Helicopter tours in Kauai - prices, discounts, timings, routes

Saturday 26th of June 2021

[…] out Jackson’s experience on a door’s off helicopter in […]

15 BEST HIKES ON KAUAI, HAWAII – Circhub

Thursday 20th of May 2021

[…] Open Door Helicopter Flight Kauai: EPIC DOORS OFF HELICOPTER TOUR OF KAUAI […]

• Passenger Advice

Kauai helicopter tour: Morning or Afternoon

Partake in a Kauai helicopter tour in the morning or afternoon knowing that the island is often blessed with clear skies as to see as much of the landscape as possible.

Guests who participate in a Kauai helicopter tour would be expected to book a morning or afternoon tour only, hence the question morning or afternoon. Little difference between them but a early morning tour is more beneficial in that in case of a delay, a tour for later in the day can be arranged .

Morning or afternoon difference

The morning is my best time, between 10am to 2pm, any delays can be caught up, soon upon your arrival in kauai, what do tour operators say, unpredictable conditions.

Never book a Kauai helicopter tour, or on any Hawaii island on the final days of your stay as it limits your re-scheduling in case of a delay.

Believe me when I say a possibility of a delayed helicopter ride in Kauai is high no thanks to the islands subtropical weather conditions.

Kauai helicopter tours in the morning or afternoon won't make much of a difference in terms of visibility or clear skies photographic opportunities.

But if you must I for sure recommend an early as possible helicopter tour as to allow a reschedule later in the day in case of a delay.

On top of that book a Kauai helicopter tour as soon as you arrive on the island because where a later in the day reschedule is not possible, an extra day or two may be needed to make sure your tour proceeds.

Like any country in the world, a 10am to 2pm schedule would be ideal as it tends to be the brightest time of day - so perfect for taking pictures.

No guarantee the weather will be clear and sunny; so expect helicopter tour conditions that allow for rain or conditions that don't see far over the horizon.

Talk to anyone those who partake in a Kauai helicopter tour regularly as they will say the same thing, it really makes no difference if you tour is in the morning or afternoon.

Kauai is blessed with beautiful conditions from early in the morning throughout the afternoon, all the way up to late in the evening.

Conditions that are ideal for guests who participate in a Kauai helicopter tour.

In fact it would be ideal to bring along sunglasses for a very early tour up to the evening, to keep the bright sunshine out of your eyes.

Its not a matter of morning or afternoon but more so what time of the day is best for your schedule.

Personally, and this is my opinion only, I would say morning is the best time for a Kauai helicopter tour for many reasons.

Early morning helicopter tours allow the passenger often rare, yet unique photographic opportunities with an almost surreal morning shade.

Afternoon lighting can be quite consistent with no change, so the lighting can be almost the same for photographs.

Perfect for clear visibility through a doors shut to Kauai doors off helicopter tour , but not for photographers hoping to capture a multitude of amazing pro photographs.

More so, once you've captured these photographs or finished the helicopter tour, guests can spend the rest of the day touring the island on the ground.

Much like the rest of the world, its recommend that between 10am to 2pm will be the best time to take a helicopter tour.

Therefore, its a two hour window in the late morning plus two hours early in afternoon that will be the best time to fly over Kauai.

Not possible for all but those that can book a helicopter tour at this time should do so for the best lighting conditions.

Its not guaranteed due to Kauai's ever changing weather conditions; but when its a good day you'll experience a bright, clear Kauai landscape.

Give or take 20 to 30 minutes will not make a difference with the stated time; in fact several hours one way or the other won't matter either.

Travelers will understand that for reasons out of your control, a delay or cancellation can occur to those participating in a helicopter tour.

Delays are more likely in Hawaii, so therefore in Kauai then anywhere else in the world, as subtropical conditions can often have its say on your tour.

If you imagine taking a morning helicopter tour but was then delayed for reasons stated.

Perfect, because now you have more time in the day for the operator to make changes to your original Kauai helicopter tour schedule, at no additional cost.

Arrangements can be an hour or two delay, or if not it could be later in the afternoon as you'll still have plenty of time.

Common suggestion by helicopter tour companies in Hawaii is agreed that guests should really partake in a helicopter tour soon after there arrival onto the island.

Once you're arrived in Kauai or you wish to book way in advanced; book it for the first day to two only, but no later to be safe.

What that means is, and going by my idea for delayed early morning helicopter tours can be rescheduled for the afternoon - same applies to later in the week.

Imagine you plan to be in Kauai for 5 days only, well on your first or second day the tour gets cancelled, due to bad weather for example.

Helicopter operator can reschedule your tour later in the day, but as you still have a few more days in Kauai, you're almost guaranteed it will go ahead on the same day or later in the week, if that is the only open slot.

Kauai helicopter tour operators have to deal with the wettest island in Hawaii, so by now have a plan in place to deal with unexpected cancellations in Kauai.

Number one plan is to ensure travelers book early in the there several day stay in Kauai so that all important helicopter tour can still be completed, only later in the day or week.

They're also in agreement about morning or afternoon helicopter rides; saying it does not matter, as early to late in the afternoon tends to be a consistent pattern.

However, what they will tell you is Kauai's climate is unpredictable, so where rides can go ahead; there's no guarantee for clear views for sightseeing or taking photographs will be optimum.

Knowing all this, its expected helicopter tours will still go ahead in rain but not so much in fierce, windy conditions.

Not so much unpredictable as those living in Kauai will tell you it can rain from one minute to the next.

What cannot be predicted is optimum flying conditions, so weather can cause aircrafts to be grounded for a brief time.

High winds, storms or torrential rain is part of those terms so a delay is likely to allow time for these weather conditions to pass over.

If they don't and the delay is indefinite, likely outcome would be a reschedule for the next day or two - so that's why its important you book a helicopter tour as soon as you've arrived in Kauai.

Where its not possible and for reasons out of your control, expect the operator to issue you a full refund.

Don't be too concerned about a morning or afternoon Kauai helicopter tour as operators will tell you, it won't make any difference.

Kauai enjoys a consistent pattern of bright sunny conditions throughout the day which makes it ideal for high visibility when participating in a helicopter tour.

However, I must admit a Kauai earliest in the morning helicopter ride is my preference.

And here's why, in my haste to make sure my tour goes ahead, any delay allows for a re-schedule later in the day.

On top of that you will want to make it a 10am to 2pm helicopter ride as its the brightest time of the day.

You cannot be to picky at the busiest times as the available slots won't allow you to pick and choose a time.

Book a Kauai helicopter tour for the morning but go one better, make it so its on the day you arrive on the island, or the next day if you must.

Reason behind this is to allow for any delays to be rescheduled to a later day during your stay if a time is not available later on the same day.

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Choosing a Fun and Safe Helicopter Tour on Kauai

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

A helicopter tour is the best way to see the island of Kauai . With over 70% of the island being inaccessible by land, you'll see areas that can only be seen from the air. You'll also have better views of many parts of the island.

Highlights of most helicopter tours on Kauai include Jurassic Park Falls , the Hanapepe Valley, Waimea Canyon , the Na Pali Coast , the Hanalei Valley, and Mt. Waialeale. Most tours last between 50 minutes and an hour, though some companies offer longer tours that are usually accompanied by a stop.

Safety Considerations

One common concern of most people considering helicopter tours is whether they are safe. The answer is yes. That being said, accidents do happen. The FAA is requiring even more stringent equipment checks and maintenance than ever before. Remember that on Kauai, there have been as many as ten helicopter companies operating at one time with well over 100 flights each day total, depending on the weather. Over the 15 years, that's over 50,000 flights.

When considering a tour company, know that each passenger, by federal regulation, should be given a detailed safety briefing before any flight and instructions on how to use the safety equipment provided. For doors-off flights, it is imperative that all loose objects are secured and that your hands and cameras remain inside the helicopter. You would be right to be suspicious of any tour operator that does not offer a full safety briefing.

Do Your Research

The smart traveler does his or her research and makes sure that they are comfortable with the company they choose. The tour operators recommended in this list are included because they have been tested by the authors of this article, but many other reputable, safe, and enjoyable tours available. It is important for anyone considering a helicopter tour to check out the websites and read reviews before choosing which company to book.

There are two benefits to booking ahead of schedule: One is due to the fact that Kauai has a tropical climate, and it rains a lot there: For your safety and enjoyment, flights often are canceled due to bad weather. It is recommended that you book your helicopter tour early in your visit to Kauai so that you have time to reschedule should it be canceled.

The other reason it is wise to book in advance is that most companies offer significant discounts if you book online.

Helicopter Companies

Here are the helicopter companies currently operating on Kauai. Check their websites for the most up-to-date information on tour schedules and fees.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

• Blue Hawaiian, Hawaii's largest and most acclaimed helicopter company, flies state of the art ECO-star helicopters, the first helicopter designed exclusively for touring, on 55-minute "Kauai ECO Adventure" tours from the Lihue Heliport. It is reported that often their flights run shorter, i.e., 48-50 minutes. They also offer private charters.

Island Helicopters

• With over 30 years of service, Island Helicopters flies the newest Eurocopter A-Star helicopters with custom ceiling to floor glass doors and windows on 50-60 minute "Deluxe Kauai Grand Tours" from the Lihue Heliport. They also are the only company that offers a 90-minute tour that includes a landing at the base of Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurrasic Park Falls). You can read my review of a Jurassic Falls Helicopter Landing Adventure with Island Helicopters.

Jack Harter Helicopters

• Jack Harter flies six-passenger A-Star helicopters with floor-to-ceiling windows for excellent visibility as well as four-passenger Hughes 500s that are flown with the doors off. They offer 60-65 minute tours in the A-Star & Hughes 50-and-90-minute tours in the A-Star only. All flights are from the Lihue Heliport. You can read my review of a 60-minute flight with Jack Harter Helicopters and view a gallery of 84 photos taken on the flight. This is my personal choice for favorite Kauai helicopter tour company.

Mauna Loa Helicopters

• Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours flies the four-seater R44 helicopters manufactured by the Robinson Helicopter Company. They fly exclusively private tours for parties of two, three, or four. They offer four tours, including a 50-60-minute "Ultimate Island Tour," a 60-70-minute "Extreme Island Tour," as well pilot training with their "Ultimate Instructional Tour Package," and a special "Photography Flight." They fly from the Lihue Heliport.

Safari Helicopter Tours

• Safari Helicopter Tours flies the A-Star 350 B2-7 helicopter with mega viewing windows, an onboard two-way communication system utilizing the Generation Bose X noise-canceling headsets, and air conditioning. They offer a 55-minute "Deluxe Waterfall Safari" tour and a 90-minute "Kauai Refuge Eco Tour" that includes a 30-minute stopover at the Kauai Botanical Refuge overlooking Olokele Canyon.

Sunshine Helicopters

• Sunshine Helicopters, Inc. and Will Squyres Helicopter Tours are now merged together as one company. They offer a 45-50 minute "Ultimate Kauai Experience" tour from the Lihue Heliport using both FX STAR and WhisperSTAR helicopters. They also offer 30-40 minute and 40-50 minute tours from the Princeville Airport on Kauai's North Shore, a convenient location for visitors staying in the Princeville or Hanalei areas.

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7 Kauai Helicopter Tour Tips

A helicopter tour over Kauai is a breathtaking experience that will leave you with memories for life. Although you can go on helicopter tours almost anywhere, in my opinion a helicopter over Kauai is an absolutely essential bucket list item. So much of this island is inaccessible, by car and even by foot, that one of the best ways to take in its beauty is from the air. From above you get a unique perspective and appreciation for the landscape, which you would not get from on the ground. In this post, I’ve put together all of my Kauai helicopter tour tips and advice for booking your trip. It includes how to choose a company, whether you should go doors-on or off, and my thoughts on whether the front-middle seat is so bad after all!

More Kauai Blog Posts

• For more inspiration for your Kauai itinerary read the full Kauai post here:  22 Exciting Things to Do on Kauai
• Check out my favourite shots I took during the helicopter tour in my gallery here:  Kauai Helicopter Gallery – Incredible Doors-Off Helicopter Tour Photos

Though a helicopter tour may seem daunting, all companies have to adhere to strict safety regulations and these types of tours are typically very safe. All passengers also receive a safety briefing before the flight begins. If the conditions on the day are not suitable for flying, the flight will be cancelled and rescheduled – not an uncommon occurrence thanks to Kauai’s tropical weather! Though accidents can happen, helicopter tours on Kauai are an incredible, and safe, way to explore this breathtaking island. That being said, feeling safe is paramount. Do plenty of research in advance and select a company that appeals the most to you.

Choosing a Company

There are so many companies offering helicopter tours on Kauai, it can be overwhelming to know where to start! A helicopter tour is such a big spend that it’s important to choose the right company for you. You’ll want to choose one you trust and that will make the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. As someone who’s seriously scared of flying, it was important for me to find a company with a great reputation for customer service, as well as safety of course! Having an amazing pilot who made us feel safe and reassured allowed me to enjoy the experience so much more.

Therefore, I’d highly advise doing plenty of research beforehand. Read the websites of numerous tour companies, as well as reviews of people’s experiences on independent sites such as forums. You’ll also want to consider the actual air time of the tour you pick. A ’60-minute tour’ doesn’t necessarily mean you will be in the air for the entire hour. Actual air time varies from company to company.

Book in Advance

After you’ve done your research and selected a company, it’s best to book the tour in advance. You’ll want to book your helicopter tour for early on during your trip. This will allow you time to reschedule, should your initial flight get cancelled. Kauai is a tropical island with a lot of rainfall, meaning flights often get cancelled and rescheduled for safety reasons.

You may also find companies offer significant discounts if you book online ahead of time. Helicopter tours are pretty expensive so it’s definitely worth shopping around. Do some price comparison between tours and look out for any discounts available.

Time of Day

The next step is deciding what time of day to book your Kauai helicopter tour. There are are a few factors to consider, the first of which is the weather. It rains a lot on Kauai, particularly in the centre of the island around the mountains. Many sources recommend the morning for helicopter tours as it tends to be less cloudy earlier in the day. However, if you want to take good photos, you’ll also want to consider the lighting. For good light in the canyons, valleys and on the Na Pali Coast, people tend to prefer the afternoon tours. Overall, I think a Kauai helicopter tour will be incredible no matter what time of day you fly. We personally chose our flight time based on the weather forecast, rather than anything else. Nonetheless, these are all factors to consider when booking your tour.

Doors On or Off?

When choosing a helicopter tour you’ll most likely find yourself deciding between a 4 or 6 person helicopter with doors on, or a 4 person doors-off tour. The doors-off helicopters are smaller than the other types, carrying only 4 passengers plus the pilot. Two passengers sit in the front with the pilot, and the other two passengers sit in the back. Obviously in a doors-off helicopter you are exposed to the elements (rain, wind etc.), so this is something to consider.

If a doors-off helicopter tour isn’t for you, you can decide between the two sizes of regular helicopters; 4 or 6-person. In a 6-person helicopter there are 4 people sitting in the back row. This means the views may not be as good for the people sitting in the two back middle seats. It depends on your personal preference, but these are all factors to consider when making your choice!

We chose the doors-off experience with Jack Harter Helicopters as we wanted to ensure we all had good views. Doors-off tours are certainly a bit more expensive than tours with doors on. However, in my opinion the higher price is thoroughly worth it for the unobstructed views.

The Front-Middle Seat Debate

One thing we found mentioned a lot whilst doing research was the ‘front-middle seat’ (seated next to the pilot). Even in doors-off helicopters which don’t have windows to obstruct the view, there’s still a lot of discussion surrounding the front-middle seat. Whether you like this seat is down to your personal preference – there’s a lot of mixed opinion about it online. However, since you can’t actually choose where you sit on the helicopter, you may well end up sitting there yourself. I was allocated the front-middle seat during out helicopter tour, so here is my experience and thoughts on the matter.

Though widely-criticised as the worst seat, I had the front-middle seat and honestly didn’t find it to be an issue. I was seated between the pilot and the friend I was travelling with. The pilot said I could take pictures out of his side of the helicopter, and of course my friend said the same thing. There were a few moments when my friend and I wanted to take pictures at the same time, and I had to wait for her and then have my turn. However, I didn’t find this to be a deal-breaker and I still took some amazing pictures during the flight.

Admittedly, it’s less awkward to lean over a friend to take pictures than if it were a complete stranger. But in that case I think a simple conversation before take-off, asking whether they’ll mind you taking pictures over them, would suffice. I don’t think any reasonable person would deny you that – it’s not every day you’re in a helicopter flying over Kauai after all! I personally had a great experience in the dreaded front-middle seat.

What to Expect

Whether you’ve been in a helicopter before or this is your first time, here are some things to expect before you go!

On any helicopter tour:

• Noise – The helicopter is extremely loud, and everyone wears a headset. There is a button to press to open the microphone and speak to the other passengers/pilot.
• Seating – Where passengers sit on the helicopter is decided by the company. Seats are allocated by weight, not by who is travelling together.
• Bumpiness/turbulence – It’s very common to experience bumpiness when there is wind.

On a doors-off helicopter tour:

• Weather – Without the doors you are exposed to the weather outside, such as wind and rain. Make sure to bring a coat or windbreaker to keep you warm enough during the flight. (This may sound off-putting, but I don’t remember anything about the weather throughout the flight. I was too distracted by the views, so don’t let this deter you!)
• Price – The Kauai doors-off helicopter tour was the most expensive activity of our month-long trip to Hawaii. However, it was an exhilarating experience that was without a doubt worth the extra cash!

I hope this post on my Kauai helicopter tour tips is helpful for planning your own exciting Kauai adventure! If you’re interested, check out my other Hawaii blog posts below:

• 22 Exciting Things to Do on Kauai
• Kauai Helicopter Gallery – Incredible Doors-Off Helicopter Tour Photos
• 20 Incredible Things to Do on Oahu
• 13 Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii
• 15 Things You Must Do on Maui
• 2 Day Road to Hana Itinerary – Best Road Trip on Maui
• How to Travel 4 Islands in 4 Weeks

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Hi, I'm Abbey! I'm 26 and I'm from Wales. From backpacking and au pairing, to study-abroad semesters and eventually settling in a little more longterm, I've spent the best part of the last 6 years either travelling or living abroad. On a mission to improve my Italian, I'm currently based in the historic centre of Venice, Italy.

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With over 70% of the island being inaccessible by land, Kauai is truly best seen from the sky. On this incredible helicopter tour of Kauai, you’ll experience views so beautiful they will take your breath away. Explore the stunning Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as “Jurassic Park” falls, wedged in between the emerald green mountaintop of the Hanapepe Valley. Fly over the amazing views of the Olokele Canyon and majestic Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” where you’ll catch sight of dozens of cascading waterfalls. Then, Kauai’s magical North Shore reveals the sculpted green valleys and 3,000-foot sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, the pristine turquoise-blue waters of Hanalei Bay and the Princeville Resort area.

Lastly, weather permitting, your pilot will fly you to Mt Wai’ale’ale, a dormant shield volcano with over 450 inches of rainfall each year, making it the second wettest places on earth. Here you’ll witness the most beautiful emerald green vegetation draped over the mist-covered mountain, with 3,000-foot cascading waterfalls filling each crevice—a truly awe-inspiring finish to your ECO Adventure over the Garden Isle.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters 3730 Ahukini Rd, Lihue Heliport #8, Lihue, HI 96766

World's Finest Helicopters

The helicopter you fly in has a huge impact on the quality of your air-tour experience, which is why Blue Hawaiian provides the best helicopters in the industry. Compare our state-of-the-art Eco-Star (EC-130) helicopters to others in the industry. Blue Hawaiian EC-130’s offer incomparable passenger comfort and an advanced technological experience.

Outstanding ! Highly recommend . Pilot great, all staff helpful . Great time ! Thanks everyone .

Isiah was amazing. It was a smooth ride and our first time! The views were incredible and we had a great time !

What an amazing experience! No other way to see the island! Isiah was a phenomenal pilot/guide! Highly recommend!

Great experiance with wonderful views.

One of my greatest experiences ever, awesome views on waterfalls, beaches and flora.

$389.00 per/person, starting from rate

Front-Row Seat Reservation

Combined front row seat weight must be under 470 lbs and individual passenger weights must be 240 lbs. Should actual weights during check-in exceed any of these limits guests will be accommodated in other seats and a refund will be made for the premium upgrade fee. Front row passengers must occupy their own seats and must be able to refrain from interfering with the pilot and instrumentation. At least one of the front seat occupants must be 15 years of age or older and capable of performing emergency aircraft egress procedures. Lap children cannot be accommodated in the front row. In the event of an emergency front row passengers must be able to receive instructions in English and be physically capable of operating exit doors. Our chair lifts are only able to access the rear row of seats therefore guests requiring a chair lift to board the helicopter cannot be accommodated in the front row.

Other Kauai Tours

On this awe-inspiring helicopter tour of Kauai, you’ll experience the legendary natural views that encompass the Garden Isle. Explore stunning Manawaiopuna Falls, often called “Jurassic Park” falls, surrounded by rich native flora in the gorgeous Hanapepe Valley. Fly over the spectacula...

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The 6 Best Kauai Helicopter Tours

Admire the Garden Island's waterfalls, canyons and peaks from the air.

Courtesy of Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

The Hawaiian island of Kauai features lush green mountains, dramatic coastal landscapes, crystal-clear ocean waters and unbelievable scenery everywhere you look. However, it's hard to take it all in from a car or even a boat – there's just too much to see, and much of the island isn't accessible on land. That's why Kauai helicopter tours are so popular, because they let visitors see all the island's attractions from the air, making it easy to scale the highest cliffs and enjoy a bird's-eye view of Kauai's many valleys. Using both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News tracked down the best Kauai helicopter tours. Don't leave the island without experiencing one of these unforgettable flights.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours – Kauai Eco Adventure

Price: From $389 Duration: 50 minutes

Blue Hawaiian's Kauai Eco Adventure affords travelers the chance to see the beauty of Kauai from an otherworldly perspective. Narrated by the pilot, who's also a certified guide, the flight takes you to Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as "Jurassic Park" falls, Olokele Canyon, through the beautiful Waimea Canyon, and along Kauai's north shore, which features the stunning sea cliffs of the Napali Coast. Depending on the weather, you may also be able to view Mount Waialeale, a dormant volcano known as one of the "wettest places on Earth," that receives around 450 inches of rain each year. Reviewers report that the tour is excellent, fun and a must-do in Kauai. They also praise the pilot's commentary.

Flights are available daily starting at 8 a.m. Blue Hawaiian also operates private charters on Kauai.

Check prices & availability on:

Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours – Kauai Helicopter Tour

Price: From $359 Duration: 1 hour

Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours offers private tours of the Garden Island with up to four passengers on each flight. The Kauai Experience tour takes you to see the beauty and wonder of the Napali Coast, the splendor of Waimea Canyon, and if the weather permits, Mount Waialeale. Travelers say the views are fantastic and appreciate the small size of the helicopter, which allows everyone to enjoy a window seat. Visitors who chose to fly with the doors off of the helicopter call the excursion a little nerve-racking at first, but exhilarating.

Children are welcome on the tour, but must be at least 7 years old to fly with the doors on and at least 12 to fly with the doors off. Flights are available daily beginning at 8 a.m. The company also offers a specialized photography tour during which travelers dictate the flight path so they can cater it to their interests.

Safari Helicopters – Deluxe Waterfall Safari

Price: From $309 Duration: 1 hour

Travelers call this tour the highlight of their Kauai vacation thanks to the friendly, skilled pilots and the awe-inspiring views. The flight covers more than 100 miles, featuring lush mountains, dramatic gorges and canyons, waterfalls, and more. Expect to see the unmatched beauty of the Napali Coast, Waimea Canyon and many of the most famous natural wonders on the island.

Flights are offered daily beginning at 8:25 a.m. The company also offers a Canyon Landing Safari, which includes a 30-minute stop at the Kauai Wildlife Refuge.

Ali'i Air Tours & Charters – Kauai Helicopter Tour

Price: From $350 Duration: 1 hour

Ali'i promises no middle seats on its Kauai tour, so each passenger will have exceptional views of Waipo'o falls, Hanapepe Valley, Hanalei Bay and more. Plus, each of its tours are private, so you won't need to share the small helicopter cabin with strangers. Travelers are wowed by the scenery and praise the experienced pilots; a few reviewers were repeat passengers. Some recommended opting for the doors-off option for an extra thrill.

Tours depart several times daily throughout the morning and afternoon. Ali'i also runs an airplane tour of Kauai, as well as a Pearl Harbor airplane tour, which departs from Kauai and spends the day at the Oahu memorial.

Air Ventures Hawaii – Big Kahuna Kauai Air Tour

Price: From $169 Duration: 1 hour

Eco-conscious tourists may want to consider this tour from Air Ventures Hawaii. According to the company, its GippsAero GA8 Airvan uses less fuel than a typical helicopter. Plus, there are no middle seats, so everyone enjoys a thrilling view from the extra-large bubble windows. What's more, the aircraft flies at a slower speed than a helicopter, allowing more time to take in the views. The flight soars past waterfalls, the Kilauea Lighthouse, Lumahai Beach and Waimea Canyon, among other sites. The sights earn rave reviews, and many travelers offer equivalent praise for the pilots.

Flights depart daily in both the morning and afternoon. Air Ventures Hawaii also operates private tours.

Airborne Aviation – Hughes 500 Doors-Off Helicopter

Price: From $319 Duration: 50 minutes

If you're up for an adventure, or just want to capture some spectacular photos, consider this doors-off tour from Airborne Aviation. Flights are limited to four passengers, meaning everyone enjoys a window seat. Without the barrier of windows or doors, you'll be able to snap incredible images of Kauai’s shoreline, waterfalls and canyons. Flyers rave about the views and the skilled, professional pilots. Reviewers do warn, however, that without doors or windows, the ride is quite windy.

Flights are offered daily starting as early as 8:15 a.m. Private tours are also an option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fees for Kauai helicopter tours start at $309 per person. However, prices will vary by company, tour length and inclusions.

Tipping is not required, but if you'd like to provide a monetary gesture of gratitude to your pilot/guide, plan to tip between $15 and $20 per person.

Weight limits may vary based on the aircraft, but Federal Aviation Administration regulations state that individual passengers cannot weigh more than 275 pounds and the total group cannot weigh than 650 pounds. In order for the pilot to determine weight distribution in the aircraft, you'll likely be asked to provide your weight at check-in or booking.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Things to Do in Kauai
• Take a Photo Tour of Kauai
• The Best Maui Helicopter Tours
• The Best Travel Medical Insurance

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What’s the Best Time to Go on a Kauai Helicopter Tour?

A helicopter tour is an ideal way to view unique landscapes and explore a new area during a trip. When planning this adventure, you often have the choice of booking it at nearly any time of day. Though this mainly comes down to your vacation schedule and personal preference, here are some tips to help you get the most out of this experience.

3 Tips for Scheduling a Helicopter Sightseeing Tour

1. consider the lighting.

The sun’s position in the sky can significantly impact visibility during your tour. For example, flying during sunrise could provide gorgeous views but lead to glares in photos. In contrast, lighting is more consistent during afternoon rides.

The best time for sightseeing from above varies by location, but 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. is typically the ideal moment to ride a helicopter. If unsure, check with a local tour company to ask which times are most popular.

2. Choose a Time You’re Typically Active

An early morning tour provides quality views, but you won’t fully enjoy it if you’re half asleep. To get the most out of the experience, pick a time that doesn’t interfere with your normal resting and eating schedule.

When planning, you should also ensure the adventure doesn’t bump up against other plans. Keeping these factors in mind will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without discomfort or stress about making it to the next activity on time

3. Schedule Near the Beginning of Your Trip

Helicopter tours can get rescheduled due to inclement weather or equipment issues, so don’t leave this experience for the last day of your trip. If you have at least a few days before the vacation is over, your tour company can reschedule you for the same time on the following day or shortly afterward. Additionally, going on a tour toward the beginning of your trip will help you see where popular sites are, making getting around easier.

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Kauai Island Helicopter Tour

$ 294.00 🕒55 Minutes

* Price includes all taxes, fees and fuel surcharge . This is the Ultimate Kauai Adventure . Discover the inaccessible areas of Kauai from a birds-eye view on this amazing 55 minute Kauai Helicopter Tour.

If activity is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a 100% refund .">up to 48 hours before the activity starts ⓘ

Secure your spot while staying flexible ⓘ

• Reviews (3)

Soar above the birds on this Kauai Ultimate Helicopter 55 Minute Tour of pure beauty as you discover Waimea Canyon, “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Mount Waialeale known as the wettest spot on earth, the nearby Alakai Swamp, home to several rare species of plants and birds. The Na Pali Coast , with its dramatic razor sharp cliffs and the emerald green hanging valleys is spellbinding no matter how many times you see it. As you make your way north you will see Hanalei Valley and Bay. The Wailua Falls also known as Fantasy Island Waterfalls will come into view as your tour comes to an end. Learn about the history of the island from local pilots that call Kauai home.

• Check-in: 45 minutes prior to flight
• Departure: Daily Departures Vary
• Duration: 55 minutes

Check-in Location:

• 3730 Ahukini Road 96766
• Get Directions

What To Bring:

• Kauai Activities E-Voucher#
• Light Jacket
• Ground briefing, personally narrated tour, A/C, complimentary coffee choreographed CD music

Restrictions: Helicopter weight and balance changes with every flight because of passenger weight, pilot weight and length of flight (fuel weight). It is important that we have accurate body weight from every passenger. Maximum weight for front row seating on FX star is 400 lbs.

If a standard airline seat belt is too small or you weigh over 240 pounds you may be required to purchase a comfort seat on our FX STAR. Cancellation Policy: 48-hour advance notification required for cancellation.

3730 Ahukini Road Lihue Hawaii 96766

3 reviews for Kauai Island Helicopter Tour

MareJYK – August 1, 2014

Do it! I was a little apprehensive since I’d never been in a helicopter before but knowing that this is the best way to see the Waimea canyon and the NaPali coast I had to do it. We had a great pilot, Bogart, who briefed us on island history the entire time pointing out landmarks. We were inside the volcano crater with a dozen waterfalls. It was fabulous!

My traveling companion and I were grinning ear to ear for hours afterwards!

Aggie Z. – July 28, 2014

Spectacular way to see the island. Worth it to fly out of Princeville if you are staying out of the North Shore instead of flying out of Lihue. 70% of the island is not accessible by humans so highly recommend this. We flew after a thunderstorm and the views were breathtaking. Our pilot was funny, humble, and informative.

A special thanks to these people squeezing us in at their 9am flight. We originally were with another company but had to cancel due to thunderstorms. We really wanted to do the helicopter tour so we switched to this tour and they made it happen at a time that worked for us. It was my bf and mine’s first helicopter ride. It was a truly special and extraordinary experience for us!

adnareel – July 9, 2014

We surprised our grown up kids with a helicopter tour of beautiful Kauai last week. It was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. We have been to this enchanted island six times, but to see it from the air was amazing, and offered a phenomenal perspective on “The Garden Isle”. We took the first flight of the day at 8:00 am, and the weather was beautiful, clear and calm. We saw Waimea Canyon, a zillion waterfalls, the beautiful Napali Coast, and best of all, we got to share that experience with each other!

Our pilot was excellent, and his narration and the music played was great and set a wonderful tone for our journey. I am not a huge fan of heights, but was not the least bit fearful, it was such a lovely serene flight, and was just perfectly perfect in every way! Spring for the treat of your life! It’s not cheap, but you’re worth it! :-)

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Kauai , Activities & Tours

Is a doors-off helicopter tour of kauai & the nā pali coast worth it.

There are just certain activities you must do in Kauai. A doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai is one of them!

This guide details what to expect before your Kauai helicopter tour , and how to book the best helicopter tours in Kauai , and what to bring with you to ensure you have the most memorable trip!

If you’re traveling to Kauai last minute, you want to ensure you have your helicopter tour booked ahead of time ! These are our top picks:

🚁  Best tours and experiences in Kauai:

• Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour (top pick – I recommend below!)
• Na Pali Coast sunset boat trip (likely to sell out – book ahead!)
• Morning snorkeling tour catamaran trip of Nā Pali Coast

🛌  Best places to stay in Kauai:

• The Kauai Inn (budget option near Lihue – I highly recommend it)
• Marriottʻs Kauai Beach Club (mid-range w/ pool and beach)
• Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort (luxury on water near Kapaa)

🚗  Curious about how to get around Kauai? Click here to check Kauai rental car rates!

This guide will also detail some of the places you will see (from a bird’s-eye view!) on your doors off helicopter tour of Kauai , including the alluring Nā Pali Coast, which is the reason many people doing this amazing Kauai helicopter experience!

Did we fail to answer any of your questions about taking a doors off helicopter Kauai tour? Let us know in the comments. Thanks!

Kauai Doors-Off Helicopter Tour Overview

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Seeing Kauai by air is the only way to see it in its entirety, and it is the perfect thing to do even if you have only 3 or 4 days in Kauai .

The landscape of Kauai’s scenic flight is so rugged and raw that most of the island is unable to be visited any other way.

And while there are small planes that take tourists on trips to see Kauai , they don’t have the opportunity to hover over places the way a helicopter does, even if they can be slightly cheaper.

Helicopter tours of Kauai sell out quickly, so it is best to book your ride as soon as you have your tickets to the Hawaiian island!

We recommend booking them online with Viator like I did as you will get a voucher sent to you right away and you will be reminded of the tour beforehand.

My tour was with Air Kauai Helicopters . There are plenty of reputable companies, and I loved the one I went on. This tour offers several time slots and operates Monday–Friday weekly.

One thing to note is that when you book this, it will say either ʻMorning Departureʻ (8 am-12 pm) or Afternoon Departure (12 pm-4 pm).

Depending on what you choose, there will be tours leaving hourly during that time of the day. You will need to get an exact time from the tour company beforehand by simply shooting them an email or calling them.

If your party books all on the same ticket, you will likely be on the same flight, but if you book on different reservations, you will need to request the same flight directly with the operator. I will detail this a bit further down in the post.

Once you get to Air Kauai’s office, you will check in and have a safety briefing before heading to the helicopter. They will then take a photo of each group individually (for purchase later) and sit you in the helicopter (each group is guaranteed one window seat).

And up you will go! This post will detail the main highlights and places you will fly over throughout the tour!

The flight was incredible. There are some things to know before going, hence this post. You cannot take cameras (only cell phones!), you may experience motion sickness, and you may end up in a middle seat. Continue reading for additional information!

Arriving at Lihue Airport (+ Check-in / Safety Briefing)

To get to your Kauai doors-off helicopter tour, you will need to first get to the Lihue Airport. Do double-check the meeting point if you booked a tour different than any suggested here, as some leave from other parts of the island!

Coming into the area around Lihue Airport, you will need to go left if you are facing the airport. There is an area with shipping containers and trailers as offices. You will also see the helipad area, which should be a good indicator.

Head into the office and check-in. Be sure to arrive early! I recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early, as it gives you time to check in and go to the toilet (porta-potty).

If you are planning to take photos with your phone, you can also ask for a case and lanyard for your phone. It is a rubber case that will stretch over the phone, and the lanyard must be around your neck for the flight.

Once your entire group is there (each flight can take up to 6 passengers), you will undergo a safety briefing detailing instructions on what to do to stay safe and enjoy your flight to the fullest.

They will also let you know the conditions for the day and that they will record a video throughout the journey that you can purchase after the flight! This costs around $60–$70.

Flight Route Highlights (What We Saw!)

The reason to take a doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai is to see the island from above (especially the Nā Pali Coast)! But, you will see plenty of other mind-blowing sites along the way!

Below are some of the top highlights from a Kauai helicopter tour:

Mount Waiʻaleʻale (Waialeale)

Mount Waiʻaleʻale is the second-tallest point on Kauai and is a shield volcano. But what it is known for is its precipitation and rainfall!

Many sources say that it rains here 365 days a year (while some claim only 360). Nevertheless, this is either the wettest place on Earth or one of them, and its many waterfalls justify this claim!

You will have a chance to see this up close on the helicopter tour as you fly inside the area, and you will immediately smell the water droplets as well as feel the cool air. It was easily one of my favorite parts of the trip!

BOOK HERE: Kauai doors off helicopter tour

This area is really only able to be visited or seen by air. While you can technically find trails that will lead you there, it is so wet that it makes the journey nearly impossible (or extremely difficult).

Nā Pali Coast State Park

Nā Pali Coast State Park is one of the main attractions (if not THE main attraction) on Kauai.

You will find the state park extending from Polihale State Park to Keʻe Beach, and it is not easily accessible unless you are an experienced hiker or take a helicopter tour (or boat tour).

This 6,175-acre state park is 16 miles long and is renowned for its high cliffs (nā pali actually means ʻhigh cliffsʻ), all of which you will get to see on a Nā Pali helicopter tour!

The rugged and sharp terrain is one-of-a-kind and can’t be found anywhere else in the world, which is the ultimate reason to take this Kauai helicopter tour.

Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Park Waterfall)

This famous Kauai waterfall is one of the highlights of the tour and one you will get to see from above on the trip. This is the one place you will see best if you are sitting on the left side of the helicopter.

The waterfall is located in the Hanapepe Valley and is 400 feet tall. Why is it usually referred to as Jurassic Park Falls? Well, it was featured in the 1993 Jurassic Park!

Today, you can only see it from above with a helicopter or by booking a specific tour with Island Helicopters , a company that has been given special permission to land there since 2009.

Waimea Canyon State Park

This well-known Kauai state park is often called ʻThe Grand Canyon of the Pacificʻ and is one of the must-visit sites on Kauai!

You will have a chance to view it from above on the helicopter ride, and the red and orange hues will be a stark contrast from the rest of the journey, where everything is deliciously green!

The park has several waterfalls, and you will have a chance to see Waipo’o Falls on the flight. I hope it has a more powerful stream for you than when I flew over it, however!

Below are some quick FAQs about taking a helicopter flight over Kauai:

Best Time of the Year for a Kauai Helicopter Tour

Winter in Kauai tends to be rainy and windier. So, I would recommend doing this tour outside of the winter. However, I went in the winter! And it was epic. I was expecting the waterfalls to be gushing, but it was a rather dry February, and that was not the case.

But if you are planning your entire trip around doing this helicopter ride, I would pick any month outside of the winter or early spring season to do it.

If you can’t change your trip and you are going in winter, plan the helicopter flight for the beginning of your trip instead of at the end in case of freak weather changes and a sudden cancellation!

Best Time of the Day for a Kauai Helicopter Flight

Oh, this one is a bit tricky! I went at 2 pm on my tour, and the lighting was fantastic on the Nā Pali Coast, but clouds were lingering around the area.

We, fortunately, flew in and out of the fog and clouds and got some really great scenes and images! But if it had been any worse around the Nā Pali Coast, I would not have been as content with that part of the trip.

Mornings are known for fewer clouds, but the lighting may be harsher on the Nā Pali Coast. Therefore, I would probably recommend booking a morning tour as opposed to an afternoon one if you have the choice.

How much is a Kauai helicopter tour?

Tours range from $250 to $400, depending on the company and whether or not you want the doors on or off. I paid about $304 for my doors-off Kauai helicopter tour, and I booked it through Viator here .

Where does a helicopter tour leave from?

There are a few spots with smaller companies, but generally speaking, Kauaiʻs helicopter tours leave from the Lihue Airport.

What safety gear is on board?

Air Kauai will get you completely sorted out so that you feel strapped in and safe for the journey! Some seatbelts go over you, goggles for your eyes, and a safety jacket around your waist.

They will also give you a headset to wear that will play some music, and you will be able to hear the pilot/guide talking you through what you see along the way.

I never once felt like I was going to fall out of the helicopter. And I am rather afraid of heights!

What to Wear on a Kauai Helicopter Tour

You need to dress appropriately on this tour! Do remember to not have anything loose on you for the tour, first and foremost.

Here are some thoughts about what to wear and what not to wear for your doors-off-helicopter Kauai tour:

• Pull your hair back! If you are a female or male with long hair, pull it back as tight as possible.
• Donʻt wear super loose jewelry.
• You are not allowed to wear flip-flops or Birkenstocks. Make sure you wear closed-toe shoes or sandals that have straps locking your feet in.
• Do not wear shorts. It can get quite cold on the journey and you want to ensure that you do not have anything compromising the experience!
• If you wear glasses , you can wear them underneath the goggles they give you. I did this. The goggles are adjustable (just pull the straps at the back), so your glasses will stay on securely. Otherwise, wear contacts!

What to Bring

You cannot bring anything on board this flight except a cell phone (which you will need to get a case and lanyard from the company before taking off).

Your purse, credit cards, ID, etc. all need to stay! You can leave it in Air Kauai’s office, or you can leave it in your car or hotel. It will be fully secure in the office, but there are no lockers (but the office is manned at all times).

Who cannot go on a helicopter tour in Kauai?

First and foremost, you must be 10 years of age or older to go on a helicopter ride (doors off). In addition, passengers exceeding 230 lbs (or 400 lbs per group of two) must purchase an additional comfort seat.

Passengers in wheelchairs can join for the ride. Just please let Air Kauai know beforehand, and they will sort out the details and logistics. 

How long is a helicopter tour in Kauai?

The Kauai North Shore Tour runs for about 50–60 minutes. Do arrive early for the safety briefings, however. The tour itself is just under an hour.

Do you tip the helicopter pilot?

You can! I had a great pilot and opted to tip $20. I would suggest anywhere from $10-20 minimum if you had a great journey! They will collect tips in the office at the end if you wish to leave one.

Can you purchase photos or videos after?

Air Kauai takes a photo of you beside the helicopter before the flight and also takes a video during the flight (of the landscapes). You can purchase both after! The picture is about $20, and the video is $60–$70.

This is a great souvenir to take home to remember your trip, especially if you are doing this on your honeymoon!

Are you scared of heights?

If you are scared of heights, this may not be the tour for you. However, I am scared of heights and had no issue with it. I tend to be scared of heights when I am on the edge of cliffs or driving, more so than planes, amusement park rides, helicopters, etc.

I felt extremely secure inside the helicopter and never once questioned being high above the island or the Pacific Ocean. Please carefully consider beforehand if this is the right tour for you.

If you think you can manage the heights part of it, perhaps reach out and ask for a middle seat if that will help!

Do you get motion sickness?

It has been quite some time since I was in a helicopter before this tour and one thing I never considered was motion sickness. I never used to get motion sickness as a kid, even in my 20s. Once I hit my 30s, things changed.

I never thought to take Dramamine or anything before this ride, but when I heard from my friend (who went on the ride an hour before mine) that she got motion sick on the ride, I was super scared I would have the same issue.

And two people on my flight said they are prone to motion sickness as well.

Thankfully, I never had an issue whatsoever. I think it was the cool air coming in and the excitement of the scenery. The people next to me actually later told me they took Dramamine, and that helped them.

So, if you are prone to motion sickness, take something before!

Are Hawaii helicopter tours safe?

The tours in Hawaii are just as safe as anywhere, and Kauai is no exception! I felt very secure and confident in my pilot as well as Air Kauai. They give a detailed safety briefing before and make sure they get you fastened in tightly.

Cancellation Policy with Air Kauai

To receive a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the flight (local time). 

If the weather is bad and it is too dangerous to fly, they will cancel it and refund you in full or reschedule your flight. Hence, it is good to schedule your Kauai helicopter ride for the beginning of your trip and not the end!

To be honest, both would be great. There are a few reasons I opted for doors off, and I recommend you do the same.

The first reason is for photos. If you are just looking to enjoy the view from above, by all means, a doors on tour will suit you just fine! I was planning to document my experience here and I wanted to have some decent-quality photos to go with it.

I knew it would be a challenge, and it was! but I am happy with how they turned out in the end, despite being taken with an iPhone 12!

There is one company I know of that allows cameras (with proper straps), but no way on this planet would I have been able to shoot easily with one!

The second reason I wanted to experience a doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai is that I wanted to feel the elements a bit. While this sounds a bit strange, I wanted to smell the air over the Nā Pali Coast as well as around Mount Waiʻaleʻale.

You could smell the eucalyptus from above, too. It heightened my experience, and the memories I have from this trip are far greater than just pictures and images in my head!

Yes, 100%. This was one of the best activities I have done in recent years.

While I think a doors-on ride would be great too, I recommend the doors-off helicopter Kauai flight if you have the opportunity to take one!

We recommend booking your tour with Viator, the company I booked my trip with. They issued the ticket voucher quickly after booking and kept me updated that my tour was still taking place and that everything was confirmed.

• Best places to visit in Kauai
• Waterfalls in Kauai
• Beautiful Kauai beaches
• Things to do in Lihue
• Kauai state parks
• Big Island helicopter tours

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