Kauai’s lush mountains, dramatic coastlines, crystal-clear ocean waves, and breathtaking beauty are everywhere. Many parts of the island are inaccessible by land or boat, making it difficult to view everything. Because they allow guests to explore the tallest cliffs and observe Kauai’s various valleys from above, Kauai helicopter tours are so popular. After consulting travelers and experts, Untuckworld found the finest Kauai helicopter tours. Take one of these amazing flights before leaving the island.
1. Air Ventures Hawaii – Big Kahuna Kauai Air Tour
Kauai has lush green mountains, dramatic coastlines, crystal-clear ocean seas, and magnificent views everywhere. There’s too much to see from a car or boat, and much of the island is inaccessible. Kauai helicopter flights are popular because they allow visitors to reach the highest cliffs and explore Kauai’s various valleys from above. U.S. News found the best Kauai helicopter tours using traveller and expert reviews. Don’t leave the island without these spectacular flights.
- Price: From $169
- Duration: 1 hour
2. Airborne Aviation – Hughes 500 Doors-Off Helicopter
Consider this Airborne Aviation doors-off trip for an adventure or great shots. Since flights are limited to four, everyone gets a window seat. Take stunning photos of Kauai’s shoreline, waterfalls, and valleys without windows or doors. Professional pilots and stunning vistas are praised. The journey is windy without doors or windows, according to reviews.
From 8:15 a.m., flights depart every day. You can also book private tours.
- Price: From $319
- Duration: 50 minutes
3. Ali’i Air Tours & Charters – Kauai Helicopter Tour
On its Kauai tour, Ali’i promises no middle seats so guests can see Waipo’o Falls, Hanapepe Valley, Hanalei Bay, and more. Additionally, its trips are private, so you won’t share the small helicopter cabin with strangers. Some return travelers praised the sights and professional pilots. Some suggested going doors off for more excitement.
Morning and afternoon tours leave often. Ali’i also organizes Kauai and Pearl Harbour airplane tours that spend the day at the Oahu memorial.
- Price: From $350
- Duration: 1 hour
4. Safari Helicopters – Deluxe Waterfall Safari
Tourists say the pleasant, skillful pilots and breathtaking vistas make this excursion the highlight of their Kauai visit. The flight traverses over 100 miles of beautiful mountains, stunning gorges and canyons, waterfalls, and more. Expect to experience the island’s most stunning natural treasures like the Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon.
Flights start at 8:25 a.m. every day. Canyon Landing Safaris features a 30-minute Kauai Wildlife Refuge visit.
- Price: From $309
- Duration: 1 hour
5. Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours – Kauai Helicopter Tour
Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours offers Four-Passenger Private Garden Island Tours. Your Kauai Experience tour takes you to the Napali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Mount Waialeale if the weather permits. Visitors love the helicopter’s modest size, which gives everyone a window seat and fantastic views. The helicopter ride with the doors off is nerve-wracking but exhilarating.
The trip welcomes children. Children must be 7 to fly with the doors on and 12 to fly without. Air flights start at 8 a.m. everyday. On a customized photography tour, travelers choose the flying path.
- Price: From $359
- Duration: 1 hour
6. Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours – Kauai Eco Adventure
On Blue Hawaiian’s Kauai Eco Adventure, visitors see Kauai’s beauty from another world. The pilot, a trained guide, takes you to Manawaiopuna Falls, commonly known as “Jurassic Park” falls, Olokele Canyon, Waimea Canyon, and Kauai’s north shore, where the Napali Coast sea cliffs are famous. Depending on the weather, you may be able to see Mount Waialeale, one of the “wettest places on Earth,” which receives 450 inches of rain annually. The tour is reviewed as great, fun, and a must-do in Kauai. Pilot commentary is also lauded.
Air flights begin at 8 a.m. everyday. On Kauai, Blue Hawaiian offers private charters.
- Price: From $389
- Duration: 50 minutes
FAQ’s
Q1. What makes Kauai a great destination for helicopter tours?
Kauai, known as the "Garden Isle," boasts breathtaking landscapes, including towering sea cliffs, lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and remote beaches. Helicopter tours offer a unique perspective to witness these natural wonders, providing unparalleled aerial views of the island's diverse terrain.
Q2. What features distinguish these helicopter tours for thrill seekers?
These tours typically feature open-door or doors-off helicopter experiences, allowing passengers to feel the rush of the wind and enjoy unobstructed views of Kauai's stunning landscapes. They often venture into remote areas and offer adrenaline-pumping maneuvers for an exhilarating flight.
Q3. What can I expect to see during these helicopter tours?
You'll soar over iconic landmarks such as the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon (the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"), Hanalei Bay, Mount Waialeale, and numerous waterfalls, valleys, and rugged coastlines. Each tour offers unique perspectives and opportunities for awe-inspiring aerial photography.
