how much is a helicopter tour in kauai hawaii

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The Garden Isle

Experience all of the natural wonders of Kauai on a guided aerial tour with Hawaii’s most honored helicopter tour company.

Lihue Heliport (808) 245-5800 3730 Ahukini Rd Lihue Heliport #8 Lihue, HI 96766 View Map

Princeville Heliport (808) 245-5800 5-3541 Kuhio Hwy Kilauea, HI 96754 View Map

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...

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...

Choose to charter a helicopter for yourself or your group and we will help you custom design your own itinerary.

An island sculpted by nature

Aerial tours of Kauai’s most astonishing natural wonders

Kauai is a natural masterpiece. For over six million years, the powers of nature have been sculpting and reshaping Kauai, creating some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Appropriately named the “Garden Isle,” the island of Kauai is draped in lush green valleys, towering sea cliffs, thick jungle vegetation, winding rivers and gorgeous cascading waterfalls.

Without a road encircling the island, many of Kauai’s most stunning sights are inaccessible by land. Among these remote scenic attractions is the famous Na Pali coast, spanning 17 miles along Kauai’s North Shore and boasting 3000 ft. sea cliffs and valleys. Then to the Southwest is the Waimea Canyon, coined the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” With so much to explore, a Kauai helicopter tour is truly the only way to experience all of Kauai’s most epic scenery.

Explore Kauai

Want a glimpse from the sky? Get an aerial look at all of the incredible sights you’ll see aboard the best Kauai helicopter tour.

A Pilot's Story

THE 10 BEST Kauai Helicopter Tours & Rides

Helicopter tours in kauai.

• Helicopter Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Hughes 500 4-passenger Doors-Off Helicopters

2. "PRIVATE" Kauai DOORS OFF Helicopter Tour & "NO MIDDLE SEATS"

3. Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour

4. Deluxe Waterfall Safari

5. 60-minute Guided Doors-Off Helicopter Tour in Kauai

6. Olokele Canyon Helicopter Tour including Canyon Landing Kauai

7. 60-minute Doors-On Luxury Helicopter Tour in Kauai

8. Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour

9. Ultimate Kauai Helicopter Adventure

10. Amazing Air Kauai Helicopter Tour

11. Discover Kauai Helicopter Tour from Princeville

12. Day Trip from Oahu to Kauai: Movie Adventure & Helicopter Tour

13. Discover Kauai Exclusive Helicopter Experience from Princeville

What travelers are saying.

• Joshua S 0 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Tour on the Island Incredible experience! The pilot was extremely knowledgeable and I’d recommend this experience to everybody visiting Kauai Read more Review of: Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour Written April 30, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Hughes 500 Doors-Off Helicopter - ALL WINDOW SEATS
• Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour
• "PRIVATE" Kauai DOORS OFF Helicopter Tour & "NO MIDDLE SEATS"
• Deluxe Waterfall Safari
• 60-minute Guided Doors-Off Helicopter Tour in Kauai
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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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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.

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Air Kauai Helicopter Tours

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45 Minute Experience

Explore the rainforest, Manawaiopuna Falls, Waimea Canyon and the famous Na Pali Coast rugged coastline and cliffs. This shorter flight still covers the requested sights of Kauai from above while still budget friendly.

Lacking a road that circles the entire island there is really only one way to see it all. From the Air! Our Amazing tour highlights the best sights on Kauai, all in under an hour. 

Adventure awaits! Enjoy the thrill of this DOORS OFF flight over the top requested sights of Kauai. The Waimea Canyon, Hanapepe Valley, Famous Na Pali Coast and Mount Waialeale. With nothing between you and the incredible views on our doors off flight, you will experience the beauty of Kauai in the best way possible.

If you are looking for a truly exciting experience, this flight is for you. For this flight we take the doors off our amazing ASTAR helicopter and let you experience flying over Kauai like no one else. On this 45 minute flight there is nothing between you and all the amazing sights of Kauai.

Make it your own

Custom Experiences

Private Charter

We can take you anywhere you want to go in Hawaii or provide a custom tour for that special occasion. A favorite for marriage proposals, weddings, honeymoons, birthdays and Adventures on Oahu. $2160 per hour.

Fly anywhere in Kauai or the rest of Hawaii. With a Custom Charter, we can provide a range of options including custom tours for couples or family groups, basic point-to-point transportation, remote landing sites, catering and ground transportation. $2492 per hour. 

Single Seat

Special pricing for single seats on any of our flights for just $100. Take this opportunity to go on a solo adventure and see the beautiful sights of Kauai for this unbelievable price! Call 808-246-4666 for availability!

By far the best part of this trip. I'm a wild guy into action sports and this ride thrilled the hell out of me. amazing views. amazing staff. Having the DOORS OFF is sooooo much more fun and intimate than a regular helicopter. Our Pilot ADAM was fun, friendly, and an excellent tour guide as well telling us about the island as we flew not only over it - but THROUGH it - hovering above waterfalls just inside giant volcanic towering wells. BUY THIS TRIP - DONT HESITATE !!!

One of the best experiences in my whole life! Thrilling, exciting, breathtaking views and the crew + Steve our pilot/guide was so amazing!!

This flight is a must if you are travelling Kauai, you get to see the entire island in all its raw beauty. Our Pilot Nick was full of information and had great insights into the island, as a bonus he had a fantastic playlist to match the scenes we were passing. We were lucky enough to even spot Whales on our flight which made this a perfect day!

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The Experience:

•  Kauai is home to some of the most amazing scenery in the world. Many locations can only be seen by air. An aerial flight reveals these hidden treasures. It’s an experience that is truly magical. 
• Although no two flights are exactly alike, there is a set flight pattern that takes you clockwise around the island. Waimea Canyon, Na Pali and countless waterfalls are seen on all tours. Please explore this website to learn about all the options

Top Helicopter Tour Options

Doors off helicopter tours.

• Doors off helicopter tours of Kauai are the most exciting aerial flight you can take. The open-air experience will leave you breathless and in possession of some absolutely epic photos if you are keen to get some good shots. We can usually guarantee you a window or front seat as most of our doors off flights take fewer people.

6- Passenger Charters

• These helicopters feature a setup of two passengers up front (next to the pilot) and four seats in the back. They are flown with the doors on and are far and away the most popular helicopter tour available in Kauai. You'll find pricing to be a little cheaper and in most cases, it is possible for us to get you those two spots up front.

We do airplanes too! Explore a fantastic low-cost way of seeing Kauai from the air. The route taken is similar to that of a helicopter tour. The difference is perspective. Airplanes provide a broader, more landscape viewing experience that is quiet breathtaking. A helicopter can get much closer but the view an airplane provides of Kauai is also stunning. Airplane flights are also a lot cheaper.

Doors Off Helicopter

Private helicopter tour.

We hope to decide to experience a helicopter and airplane tour in Kauai. Please use this website as a resource and  call us with any questions. We can also book the reservations for you.

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• Grand Skies
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Book a tour today and see kauai the way nature intended – soaring above, gliding on air.

Three Life- Changing Tours:

Grand Skies Island Tour

Circle the island, savor the ride.

• 50-55 mins. of time in the air!

Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure

The only way to land at the falls.

• 75-80 mins. of tour time includes landing!

Exclusive Personal Tour

Live it up, fly private.

• Up to 6 passengers
• Call for pricing

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Get to Know the Sky Guides at Island Helicopters

Circle the island, savor the ride

Do Kauai right – see it with island helicopters. experience thrilling views of the entire island, including waimea canyon, jurassic falls, and the inside of mt. Waialeale’s crater.

• 50-55 mins. of tour time.
• Includes the Na Pali Coast, Hanalei Bay, Jurassic Falls by air, and more.
• $250 per person. No tricks here! Find out how we landed on this price.

NO HIDDEN FEES OR COMPLICATED BREAKDOWNS

$170 Cost per person $80 Surcharges / Fees

ONLY $250 PER PERSON

Island helicopters has over 40 years of expertise, safety, and breathtaking adventure, kauai’s only, landing adventure.

Walk the grounds of the magnificent setting of Jurassic Park with exclusive access from Island Helicopters.

The only way to land at the falls

• 75-80 mins. tour (includes landing).
• Includes the Grand Skies Island Tour PLUS landing at the falls.
• $404 per person. No tricks here! Find out how we landed on this price.

$308 Cost per person $96  Surcharges / Fees

ONLY $404 PER PERSON

“We just love Island Helicopters! They made our trip to Kauai one to remember. Everyone made us feel like family. We had a great time! Highly recommend!”

Johnson family | Seattle, WA

“I was nervous to take a helicopter tour at first but was quickly having the time of my life! The staff & pilot made me feel so comfortable and safe. Thank you!”

Kinemaka Family | Las VEGAS, NV

“I’ve done helicopter rides all over the US (including in Kauai with a different company) and this was the best one ever. It was 10 times better. Not even a competition.”

Jeff T | Olean, New York

“Both my partner and I were lost for words by how beautiful the tour was – it has to be right up there with the greatest things we’ve done on vacation!”

Mark E. | London, UK

“This was one of the most spectacular things I have done in my lifetime (50 yrs). Without a doubt the best way to see the island in all its glory.”

Alster | Brisbane, Australia

If you only do one thing in Kauai, make it this! Our Kauai helicopter tour was, hands down, the best thing I’ve ever done on my travels.

The Flashpacker Family | blog

“Our pilot was the best!! We did the Grand Skies Tour and it was worth every penny! The ride was so smooth and the music was great! I’d highly recommend this being the number one activity on the island.”

Christine L

“We were not going to do the helicopter tour as we had done one on another island before. Then we read that visiting Kauai and not taking the heli was like visiting the Sistine Chapel and not looking up. They were right. Thanks to the Island gang for this awesome experience!!”

Nora | Baiting Hollow, NY

Live it up, Fly Private

Book an unforgettable experience with the ones you love (and no one else).

• Competitive pricing.
• Call us for specific quotes and availability.
• Seats up to 6 passengers (subject to weight limitations).

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The 5 Best Hawaii Helicopter Tours Reviewed (by Island) 

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Whether it’s your first trip to Hawaii or your tenth, you probably have a bucket list of must-see and do activities. Check off that bucket list item with one of these five best Hawaii helicopter tours.

One of the most popular activities in Hawaii is a helicopter tour. Not only do you get to see the gorgeous islands from a birds-eye view, but you also get to see places that are inaccessible by car or on foot. But it can be difficult to know which Hawaii helicopter tour is the best and the safest!

From choosing the best route, helicopter flight comfort, and safety, we’ve compiled our list of the five best helicopter tours in Hawaii. 

Best Hawaii Helicopter Tours: Summary – Kauai is our favorite island for a helicopter tour and this company has the best safety record: Ali’i Helicopter Tours . – Maui : This tour is doors-off and is the best adventure tour on Maui as it visits the tallest seacliffs in the world. – Oahu : Save 5% with code HVG on the safest helicopter tour company on Oahu. Plus, we love their tour offerings. Click Here to Learn More!

Hawaii Helicopter Tour FAQs:

Which hawaiian island is best for helicopter tours.

While all of the islands offer spectacular sights from the air, Kauai has the most dramatic helicopter views. Because so much of the island is inaccessible by car, you’ll get to see close up some beautiful spots you’d have difficulty seeing otherwise, like parts of Waimea Canyon, the Napali Coast, and Wai’ale’ale Crater. 

But if you can’t make it to Kauai, all of the islands offer something a little different in terms of tours, which we cover in our island-by-island review of the best helicopter tours. 

How Much Does a Helicopter Tour Cost in Hawaii?

A helicopter tour starts at $245 for a 45-minute tour. Most tours average $400. This is easily the most expensive tour option in Hawai’i. Unlike a luau, I’ve been hard-pressed to find someone who didn’t enjoy the experience for the price point.

On some tours, you can pay extra ($100+) for a front-row seat or be relegated to the back or middle where they typically pack in passengers four to a seat.

Is a Hawaii Helicopter Tour Worth It?

While this is an expensive activity, it’s one people enthusiastically recommend.

Our newsletter subscriber Anthony H. raved about his experience on a tour with Air Maui .

“Overall, I would highly recommend a helicopter tour at least once to see Maui from above and get to go into some of the valleys that can only be seen from a helicopter.  The valleys were so verdant and show no sign of human influence or touch, which was just awesome!” “My wife and I both felt it was well worth the cost and would love to do it again but even on a longer flight… so time to save our pennies.  Haha!” Anthony H.

Hawaii helicopter companies often offer unique experiences to make it even more memorable: fly with the doors off, land in remote locations, or hire a private charter for a wedding proposal. 

The allure of a helicopter tour (besides feeling like your Magnum PI ), is seeing Moloka’i sea cliffs (the largest in the world), Kauai’s Jurassic Park waterfall and Na Pali Coast, Kilauea erupting, Maui’s rugged West Coast, secluded valleys, and other beautiful and exclusive locales from above.

The Hawaii helicopter tours we recommend below will take you to the spots worth seeing from above. 

But that’s not to say it’s all positive from helicopter tour attendees. Hawaii doesn’t have a great track record with helicopter safety (don’t worry, the ones that made our list have excellent safety records). And there are some other common complaints that you should take into consideration before booking. 

Common drawbacks of helicopter tours are the following: 

• Poor visibility from their seat (usually back or middle seats)
• Canceled flights due to weather
• Canceled flights due to the minimum seating threshold not being met

So whether it’s a worthwhile experience for you comes down to whether you pick a great tour (our list can help with that) and your expectations around cancellations. 

Tips for Picking the Best Hawaii Helicopter Tour

Using the criteria below in our research, we selected what we believe are the best helicopter tours on each island. These were our criteria, which you may want to consider when picking the right tour for you. 

• Safety records include no crashes or injuries: we know past performance can’t predict future performance, but some tour operators that we don’t recommend have safety records we don’t feel comfortable with. Do your research to make sure you feel comfortable with the safety track record of the helicopter tour you are booking. 
• Good value for the price: A helicopter tour is expensive, so we looked for ones that had something to add value. Things like having excellent visibility from all seats,  private charter experience, or allowing you to go doors-off. 
• Best tour experience: the flights offered are beautiful parts of the island to explore and the seating is comfortable

The Best Hawaii Helicopter Tours

When we decided to recommend helicopter tours, our first criterion was safety. We researched helicopter company safety records , FAA fines and penalty records, and FAA certification. 

Best Kauai Helicopter Tour

Ali’i Kauai Air Tours & Charter

Doors off, private tours are on the agenda with Ali’i Kauai Air Tours. They offer two 60-minute tours — one for general sightseeing and one for professionals. Their helicopters can hold 3 passengers and since it’s a private tour, you won’t have to worry about being stuck in the back while people you don’t know get the view. With a majority of the island inaccessible by car, a helicopter ride can give you views that you wouldn’t otherwise get to experience. 

Learn more about this tour here: Ali’i Kauai Tours and Charter

Or, book directly with them below!

• Helicopter : Spend 60 minutes seeing the sights, including Mt Wai’ale’ale crater in a private, doors-off helicopter. 
• Airplane Tours : They also offer airplane tours of the Napali Coast!
• Helicopter Photo Flight : Designed for professional photographers, this flight offers the chance to customize your flight based on what part of the island you want to photograph. 

Why we like it

With over 32 years of flight experience in Hawaii, they’ve had no accidents or safety incidents. They’re also Hawaiian-owned and operated, so you’ll be educated on Hawaiian culture and beliefs as you get to take in the amazing sights. 

Departure location: Lihue Price: $355 – $730 Length: 60 minutes

Check out more of what makes Kauai special and other things to see in our full Kauai guide.  

Best Maui Helicopter Tours

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maverick Helicopters (@maverickhelicopters)

Maverick Helicopters 

Founded in 1995, Maverick Helicopters is a large, professionally run aviation-based tourism company. With tours in Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, and Maui, Maverick boasts the largest and youngest fleet of Eco-Star helicopters in the world. 

Maverick has three tours to choose from:

• Road to Hana and Waterfall Experience : The 75-minute tour includes a touchdown in East Maui (Hana). It features two 20-minute flights plus a 30-minute landing in Hana to walk around and see a bit of the tropical terrain by foot. 
• Molokai Voyage : Fly from Maui over to neighbor island Molokai to get a view of some of the world’s tallest sea cliffs and some of Hawaii’s tallest waterfalls on this 55-minute tour.
• Maui 3-Island Tour : See the sights over Maui, Lanai, and Molokai on a 65-minute flight

One of the most common complaints you’ll hear from a helicopter tour is bad visibility (middle and back seats can get stuck with a bad view). Maverick Helicopters flies an Eco-Star helicopter, which features theater-raised seats in the back. 

Departure location: Kahului, Maui Price: $309 – $439 Length: 55 min – 75 min, depending on the tour

If you’re looking for variety, you are covered with Air Maui. With a large number of options of tours, including doors-off, landings, and two island tours, you can find a tour that fits your interests. 

• Doors off West Maui and Molokai : Experience West Maui and Molokai with the doors off on this 45-minute tour. 
• Hana & Haleakala : Fly over two of the most beautiful locations on Maui with this 45-minute tour. 
• West Maui & Molokai Special : 45-minute condensed tour of these two islands
• Complete Island : This 60-minute tour is their most popular flight and takes you all over the island

We take rave reviews from our community very seriously. So when someone emails about a tour and lets us know it was well worth the money, we take notice. Plus, a stellar safety record, a large variety of tour options, and the option to purchase front-row seats make this one we are excited to share. 

Departure location: Kahului Price: start at $252 Length: 45 min – 75 min

Check out more of what makes Maui special and other things to see in our full Maui guide.  

Best Oahu Helicopter Tours

Honolulu Helicopter – 5% off with promo code HVG

Find a tour to fit your budget and style with Honolulu Helicopter Tours. They offer private tours ranging from 18 minutes to 60 minutes, making the flying experience accessible at different price points. And you have the option for doors on or doors off, so your experience is very customized. 

Save 5% off your helicopter tour with promo code HVG at checkout. Book directly with Honolulu Helicopter Tours here or see below for more information.

We provide a full review and more information on booking in our recommended Activities: Honolulu Helicopter Tours .

Tours available

• 18-minute tour: Get a view of Waikiki, Diamond Head, and downtown Honolulu on this quick flight. 
• 30-minute tour: Head a bit further on a 30-minute tour and experience the sights of the 18-minute tour as well as the south shore. 
• 60-minute tour: Get a nearly complete tour of Oahu with this trip, which includes flying over the beautiful Kaneohe Bay and the Ka’a’awa Valley. 

The unique flights (and flight times) make for a fun experience at different price points and having a private flight is a special experience. Note that if you don’t have a full helicopter, you’ll be charged 50% of the price of the open seats (seats up to 3 people). That price is reflected when you book. 

Departure location: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) Price: $165 – $309 Length: 18 – 60 minutes

Magnum Helicopter

Magnum P.I. fans will enjoy flying high above Oahu in the Hughes 500D helicopter. The friendly and professional pilots will give you a full guide with plenty of information while you enjoy seeing Oahu with the doors off. Note that if the helicopter isn’t full, they will reschedule your trip. 

• Doors-off helicopter adventure: Get the ultimate experience with a doors-off ride
• Exclusive mountain top landing: For a truly private and memorable experience, they offer a private helicopter experience, complete with a landing above Kualoa Ranch. 
• Navy Seal experience: This isn’t your typical helicopter tour. From your private helicopter, you’ll jump into the ocean and then scuba dive with a Navy Seal as your guide. 

You can view all of their tours on their website . 

They are clear and transparent with their seating policies. You can pay for front row seating, as long as you’re traveling in a pair and the combined weight is below 345 lbs. 

Departure location: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) Price: $325+ Length: 50 minutes

Check out more things to see in our full Oahu guide.  

Best Big Island Helicopter Tours

We haven’t found a Big Island helicopter tour that meets our safety and enjoyment criteria. We’re still searching and will update this article if we find one. But we have plenty of other Big Island tours and activities that we love and recommend!

Check out more things to see in our full Big Island guide.  

Find the Best Tours and Activities

While a helicopter tour might be on your bucket list, we have even more activities and tours to make your vacation as memorable as possible. From sailing to snorkeling to full island tours, you can check out all of our best recommendations in our Tours & Activities section . 

We break it down by island and give you a full review of the experience. Plus, for some of them, we even share videos of our experiences, so you can see firsthand what to expect and book with confidence. 

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Airborne Aviation Tours

A Doors-off Helicopter Tour of Kauai

Adventure on a Higher Level!

See kauai from the sky.

Airborne Aviation Tours offers a Doors-Off thrill seekers adventure tour with seating up to four with no middle rear seat for optimal viewing and photography. Get ready to see Kauai’s shoreline, waterfalls, and canyons from the thrilling view of our Hughes 500.

50 Minute Doors-Off Kauai Helicopter Tour

Tour details:.

• Tour Time: 50-55 minutes
• Fast and smooth Hughes 500 helicopters
• 4 guests max
• Great for shooting photos and video
• Departs from: Lihue Airport, Kauai

Special Online Rates:

• Open Seating $319 each
• Front Seats Upgrade $359 each
• Private Tour $1276 up to 4 guests

Hughes 500 Seating:

View Bali Hai, also known as the Makana Mountain, which starts at the beginning of the Na Pali Coast on the north shore of Kauai. Soar over Manawaiopuna Falls, one of the Garden Isle’s most famous waterfalls . Best known from the opening of the 1993 blockbuster film, Jurassic Park. Watch from above as the water rushes over a 380-foot tall cliff surrounded by walls of deep green lush flora. Located within Hanapēpē Valley on the west side of the island, it is a site few can say they have seen while on Kauai.

Continue on over to Hanalei Bay which covers nearly two miles of beach and is backed by 4000ft tall emerald mountains: Hihimanu is on the east, Namolokama is in the middle with its square top, and the triangular shaped Mamalahoa is to the west. Often cloaked with a mist of clouds the Mt. Waialeale ridge home to dozens of cascading waterfalls.

The name Waialeale, meaning “rippling water or overflowing” receives over 400 inches of rain per year and is known to be one of the wettest spots on earth. You’re surrounded by enchanting waterfalls and lush green walls of fauna. Waialeale Crater aka Blue Hole & The Weeping Wall. From above you will see it all and find yourself lost in the beauty and mystery of Kauai’s enchanting lure.

Other sites like the Wailua Falls and Waimea Canyon are also famous aerial sites on the Doors-Off Adventure Tour.

Short answer is “yes”. However, rest assured, prior to every flight our pilots and ground crew review the weather to make sure it is not only safe, but also conducive to a quality tour for you. We understand that this is a big expenditure, and we want to make sure you get your money’s worth. We will cancel your tour and make sure you get a full refund if there is poor visibility, or if the pilot determines the winds are unsafe.

We give a 100% refund for cancellations made 48 hours before the tour date. If there is inclement weather or unscheduled maintenance, we will either reschedule your tour or issue a 100% refund. Keep in mind that if the tour is booked with a third party, their cancellation and refund policy may differ from ours.

All guests must provide their own transportation. We recommend Taxi, Uber, or Lyft. We ask guests to allow an extra 15 minutes of travel time due to unforeseen traffic, to arrive early or on time for their check in.

The doors-off helicopter tour is extremely windy. We recommend comfortable athletic wear, no loose shirts, or dresses, or skirts. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with a heel strap. Hair should be secured in a bun or tightly braided, no loose ponytails or braids. Temperatures are 10-15 degrees cooler and we recommend a windbreaker or a jacket to protect against the wind chill.

All of the tour times we offer are great times to view the island. Time is personal preference whether you like to be an early bird and do activities first thing in the morning, or take your time and do a later tour midday or afternoon.

You may reschedule or cancel your tour for a full refund if done 48 hours prior to the tour date and time. It should be noted that it does rain almost every day in Hawaii. Most of the time it is in very small areas at a time, which does not affect our tours. So we do not recommend cancelling or rescheduling based on a forecast of rain.

Front Seat upgrades are the two seats in the front with the pilot. Selecting these seats guarantees the seating assignment if the two passengers’ body weights combined do not exceed the 345 pounds weight limit. The front seats are sold only as a pair together, whether it is for one or two people. The open seating is any seat in the helicopter. Open class seating is assigned by body weights. For solo passengers, we try our best to accommodate a seat next to the open door. For couples, we seat you two together in the same row. For a party of three, we either seat two passengers in the front and the third passenger in the rear seat, or vice versa depending on the weights. For a party of four passengers, we will seat accordingly by each body weight, typically the two body weights that are the lightest combined at, or under, 345 pounds will be seated in the front. For any seating, you may add a request upon booking. We do not guarantee seating nor assign seating until the day of the tour. Premium Plus seatings are for any guests that weigh 240lbs/109kg or more. An additional seat is blocked and reserved to ensure the combined passenger weight does not exceed the aircraft limitation of 745lbs/339kg.

Because this is a doors-off helicopter tour operation we must take extra steps — in accordance with FAA regulations — to make sure nothing flies out of the helicopter in flight. A phone flying out the door could hurt someone on the ground, or even damage the helicopter if it hits the spinning rotors. Requiring a tether for your phone allows you to enjoy the tour without having to worry about it slipping out of your hands and being lost forever. If you do not have a phone tether, one will be available for your use.

The minimum age requirement is 10 years old. A responsible adult must be seated next to any child. No lap children are allowed, and each person is required to wear a seat belt.

808-651-0619 or use our Contact Form

Weight Restrictions: Front Seats are sold as a pair only, with a maximum combined weight limit of 340lbs/154kg. Guests weighing more than 240lbs./109kg and parties of two (2) with a combined weight of more than 400lbs./182kg, must reserve (1) one additional seat at the regular price. Private Tour 4 guest maximum weight limit is 745lbs/338kg.

Age Restrictions: Minimum age 10 years.

Google Reviews

5 BEST (Highest Rated) Kauai Helicopter Tours in 2024!

If a helicopter tour is on your bucket list for Kauai , you’re in the right place, because in this article, we’re going to tell you about the very best Kauai helicopter tours.

Perhaps more than any other Hawaiian island, Kauai is the ideal island for an aerial tour.

Kauai’s beauty is breathtaking. Its Na Pali Coast, with scalloped cliffs towering over the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, is the stuff of picture postcards…and Jurassic Park movies.

But the legendary Na Pali Coast , and much of the interior of the island, can’t be accessed by automobile, making a helicopter flight the perfect way to soar over the beautiful landscapes, replete with waterfalls, lush green valleys, and dense rainforest.

So if you are an adventure-loving visitor that wants to experience Kauai from the air on a helicopter tour, read on!

🚁 BEST KAUAI HELICOPTER TOUR

Our pick is the Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour . You’ll fly in a state-of-the-art chopper with first-class seats. It’s the most popular 5-star tour on Viator! ( affiliate link )

When you choose one of these Kauai helicopter tours, you’ll usually fly over the most iconic landmarks on the island, from the yawning Waimea Canyon and the lush Hanalei Valley to the jaw-dropping Na Pali Coast and the towering Mount Waialeale, which rises up from the center of Kauai.

From your bird’s-eye view seat in the sky, you’ll gaze down upon some of Kauai’s most beautiful waterfalls, lush green valleys, pristine little coves and beaches, and the blue waters of the Pacific.

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For more details, refer to our disclosure .

The Absolute Best Helicopter Tours in Kauai, Hawaii

For adventurous nature lovers and landscape photographers, a Kauai helicopter tour is truly a memorable experience.

In this article, we’ll highlight the top Kauai helicopter tours, so if you are planning to go on a helicopter tour in Kauai, you can pick the one that’s right for you.

Ready? Let’s get to it, starting with the Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour , one of the most highly-rated and the most popular Kauai chopper tour.

1. Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour

>> book the kauai eco adventure helicopter tour.

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars, with more than 1,700 positive reviews! ⏳. FLIGHT TIME: 50 minutes (check-in one hour prior)

Why choose this tour? Great fleet of state-of-the-art helicopters, expert pilots that are also State of Hawaii certified tour guides, multi-year FAA Diamond Award

You’ll fly over Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Park Falls) , the Na Pali Coast , the Waimea Canyon , Mt. Waialeale, Olokele Canyon, Hanalei Bay, and more.

The Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour offers:

✔️ Superb aerial views over Kauai

✔️ Flight in a new Eurocopter Eco-Star helicopter for 50% less overflight noise

✔️ Departure from Lihue Airport

✔️ The use of Bose aviation-grade, electronic noise-canceling headsets

✔️ The use of microphones for 2-way communication with pilot

✔️ Wheelchair accessible helicopter

What past guests have said:

“Absolutely incredible! Our pilot was so friendly and knowledgeable- and the scenery was beyond beautiful. Loved the soundtrack to go with it too…Must do!!”

— Corinne (see more reviews )

>> Check availability and prices now!

2. hughes 500 helicopter tour (no middle rear seats).

>> BOOK the Hughes 500 Helicopter Tour!

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars, with more than 400 positive reviews! ⏳. FLIGHT TIME: 50 minutes (check-in 30 minutes prior)

Why choose this tour? There are no dreaded middle rear seats on these doors-off choppers! Max of 4 travelers, so you can even book a private ride if you are a party of 4.

You’ll fly over all the major sights on Kauai, from the spectacular Jurassic Park Falls to the the Na Pali Coast , Waimea Canyon , Kokee State Park , and Mt. Waialeale, the second wettest place on the planet.

The Hughes 500 Helicopter Tour offers:

✔️ Outstanding photo ops from your doors-off seats

✔️ Flight in a 4-passenger Hughes 500 helicopter

✔️ The use of two-way communication headsets

✔️ The use of a smartphone tether

✔️ Cameras are allowed as long as they are tethered

“An absolute must-do! An amazing tour of parts of the island only accessible by air. Pilots take you up and over mountains, through canyons and even into a volcano where you’re surrounded by clouds and waterfalls. We did this with our teens and they loved it. “

— Justin (see more reviews )

>> Check price and availability now!

3. “private” kauai helicopter tours with no middle seats.

>> BOOK the “Private” No-Middle-Seats Kauai Helicopter Tour!

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars, with more than 450 positive reviews! ⏳. FLIGHT TIME: one hour (check-in about 15 minutes prior)

Why choose this tour? Every seat is a window seat on this “private” tour where only your group will be on the ride. Hawaiian family owned and operated. 30+ years of flying experience on the Hawaiian island.

You’ll cover the must-see sights on Kauai, from Waimea Canyon and the Waipo’o Falls to the cliffs of Na Pali , Hanalei Bay , Jurassic Park Falls , the “walls of tears” at Mt. Waialeale and more.

Some of the best waterfalls in Kauai are best seen from a helicopter!

The “ Private” Kauai Helicopter Tour offers:

✔️ The chance to shoot spectacular photos and video from your seats

✔️ Flight in a 3-passenger Robinson R44 helicopter

✔️ Only window seats

✔️ The use of lanyards for cellphones

✔️ A little longer flying time

✔️ Smaller kids 7 and up (over 40 pounds) can ride in front with pilot (doors on) while adults ride in the back with doors off

“ INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE!! James was our pilot and he was awesome!! The flight was much smoother than I anticipated & he was very informative & interactive. I HIGHLY recommend no middle seat & doors off. It made the experience intimate & the views PRICELESS!! “

— Melissa (see more reviews )

4. Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour

>> BOOK the Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour!

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars, with more than 370 positive reviews! ⏳. FLIGHT TIME: 45 minutes (check-in about 10 minutes prior)

Why choose this tour? Door-off flight. Experienced pilot with thousands of hours of flight time, also trained to be an engaging and informative guide, 25-year track record of safety.

You’ll cover the most outstanding landmarks on Kauai: Mt. Waialeale, Waimea Canyon State Park , Hanapepe, the Na Pali Coast , and Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Park Falls) .

The Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour offers:

✔️ Superb aerial views over the island and the Pacific Ocean

✔️ Flight in an American Eurocopter A-Star helicopter

✔️ All forward-facing seating

✔️ Unobstructed 180-degree views from every seat

✔️ Noise-reducing headsets

“ From start to finish, an amazing experience. Highly recommend taking this tour. Seamless check in, amazing staff & our pilot top-notch! Views of Kauai from the air cannot be described. A MUST do while in Kauai!! “

— Tori (see more reviews )

5. Deluxe Waterfall Safari Helicopter Tour

>> BOOK the Deluxe Waterfall Safari Helicopter Tour!

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars, with more than 550 positive reviews! ⏳. FLIGHT TIME: 55-60 minutes (check-in 30 minutes prior)

Why choose this tour? Family-approach business. Pilots recruited for experience, exceed FAA requirements. Operating since 1987, Big Island and Kauai.

You’ll cover the major sights and must-sees on Kauai, from the incredible landscape of the Na Pali Coast to the many waterfalls on Mount Waialeale and much more.

The Deluxe Waterfall Safari Helicopter Tour offers:

✔️ Excellent aerial views over Kauai

✔️ Flight in an A-STAR 350 B2-7 helicopter, one of the most luxurious and expensive helicopters operating in Kauai

✔️ Onboard 2-way communication system with Bose X noise-canceling headsets

✔️ Air-conditioned cabin

✔️ Left side pilot seat to offer passengers unobstructed views flying counterclockwise

✔️ Exclusive Safari skylight window, and mega picture windows

“Pilot and ground crew were excellent. This was the BEST excursion. Highly recommend it to everybody that likes something different. It was worth the $$.”

— Lanny (see more reviews )

Kauai Helicopter Tour: Things to Know

What is the best time of day for a kauai helicopter tour.

Weather is unpredictable, so all you can do is go based on past experience, and keep your fingers crossed for optimal conditions when you fly.

Usually, mornings offer the best flying conditions in Kauai. There’s generally less turbulence and the skies tend to be clearer for better visibility. Clouds usually tend to roll in come afternoon.

However, if you are keen on the best lighting for the Na Pali Coast , you’ll generally find that in the afternoons, when the sun shines on the cliffs, making the colors stand out more. In the mornings, the sun is behind the cliffs, leaving them in shadows.

A few other places, like the Manawaiopuna Falls , also are in the shadows in the morning.

Afternoon flights are more likely to get canceled due to weather, although that could happen in the morning as well.

For all but the most exacting of photographers, morning flights are perfectly fine for capturing great photos and video.

We chose a morning flight for our Kauai helicopter tour, and have no regrets at all.

>> Book these 5-star rated, highly popular, Kauai tours now!

What is the best time of year for a Kauai helicopter tour?

Winter is rainy season in Kauai, and between the months of November and April, rain and storms are much more likely.

That means, in the winter, helicopter tours are much more likely to be canceled due to weather.

If possible, plan to do your Kauai helicopter tour in the summer: June through August, for the best weather and visibility. The shoulder months can go either way when it comes to weather.

No matter when you visit, book your helicopter tour for very early in your trip, so if your tour gets canceled for some reason, you still have the opportunity to reschedule for another day during your trip.

>> Book these 5 star rated, highly popular, Kauai Tours now!

Should I choose a doors-on tour or a doors-off tour?

That depends entirely on your personal preference.

If you want photos with no intervening glass, a door-off helicopter tour gives you the opportunity to look straight down at the scenery with no glass in between.

Note that there are age restrictions for a doors off flight: you have to be over 10 on most such flights.

However, some travelers prefer to feel safely enclosed when they fly, in which case a door-on tour is the way to go.

Can I choose my seat on the helicopter?

Unless you charter the entire flight, you can’t, because the seating inside a helicopter is based on weight distribution.

If you are traveling as a couple or group of two, one of you will get a middle seat unless you pick a tour with no middle seats.

The front middle seat is actually not bad and you have an unobstructed view for the most part. The back middle seat is usually the least preferred seating option.

What should I wear / bring for my Kauai helicopter flight?

Some tours do not permit flip flops, so be sure to wear proper shoes. A lightweight sweater or jacket will help you stay nice and warm.

To reduce glare from windows, dark-colored clothing is helpful on door-on tours.

Don’t bring any “stuff.” You’ll have to leave your belongings in a locker or at the tour company office before you board. And note that most helicopter tours do not permit any camera equipment.

If you use motion sickness medicine, remember to take it before you board.

How much does a Kauai helicopter tour cost?

Kauai helicopter tours are generally priced between $300 and $400 per person, so yes, it’s a splurge excursion for sure.

Given that you’re spending some serious cash on your tour, you will want to research your options carefully before you take the plunge.

The Best Kauai Tours

Have you booked these top Kauai guided adventures yet?

Sunset catamaran tour of the Na Pali Coast (relatively more stable ride, insane views on good weather days!)

Doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai (unobstructed views, chance to see more of the island than you can by land, no middle seats!)

Kayak on the Wailua River plus hike to a waterfall (a super fun activity for active travelers, albeit a little muddy sometimes!)

Raft trip to the Na Pali Coast plus snorkeling (prepare to get wet on this exhilarating adventure!)

Eurocopter ECO-Star helicopter tour over Kauai (the most booked Kauai helicopter tour on Viator with close to 2K reviews and a 5-star rating!)

Entire Kauai Island Air Tour (super popular, less expensive than a heli tour, large bubble windows for flightseeing!)

Renting a Car in Kauai

The best things to do in Kauai are scattered all over the island.

Public transport options on Kauai aren’t great, so if you want to explore the island beyond your base, you’ll want to book a rental car for your Kauai trip.

We always use Discover Cars to book Kauai car rentals . They search across a variety of rental car companies, both budget and brand, to offer you the best deals, AND they offer free cancellations. Plus, there are no hidden fees.

>> Check availability and prices on Kauai car rentals now!

Lihue Airport-Hotel Shuttle

Not planning to pick up a rental car at Lihue airport? Pre-arrange round trip transfer from the airport to your hotel and back!

This shared shuttle serves hotels or vacation rentals in Princeville, Kahala, Poipu, Kapaa, or Lihue, and then back again. It’s convenient and inexpensive, and saves time and hassle!

>> Check prices and availability for shared round-trip airport transfer in Kauai now!

Where to Stay in Kauai

Depending on whether you want a vacation rental with more room and the option to cook some of your meals, or you want a resort or hotel experience, and depending on which part of Kauai you want to choose as your base, you have a variety of options.

Since you’ll likely want to base in a couple places on your trip to Kauai, we suggest starting your search for Kauai accommodations by browsing vacation rentals on VRBO .

We have stayed in VRBO rentals in both Poipu and Princeville and find that the choice and quality are generally great.

>> Look for a Kauai vacation rental on VRBO now!

Want detailed recommendations for accommodations in Kauai? Check out our comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Kauai !

More Kauai Travel Inspiration

Considering a trip to the Garden Isle in Hawaii? You’ll definitely want to check out some of our other comprehensive Kauai travel and attraction guides!

If you are a first-time visitor to Kauai, start by discovering  the best things to do in Kauai ! From beaches and botanical gardens to cliffs, canyons, and waterfalls, Kauai has it all, and our round-up lists all of Kauai’s must-experience activities and attractions.

Planning to split a week between Kauai and another island? We have a 3 days in Kauai itinerary article you must read to help flesh out what you would like to see and do!

Learn about the best things to do in Hanalei and Kauai’s scenic north shore , the best things to do in Poipu and Kauai’s south shore , and the most exciting things to do on Kauai’s Coconut Side or east side .

Read our in-depth guide to visiting the Na Pali Coast of Kauai . We give you the full scoop on the best ways to visit this stunning coast in the remote northwest of the island.

Discover our round-up of the nine spectacular  state parks in Kauai , which house some of Kauai’s most treasured natural wonders.

We also have visitor’s guides to popular parks like Waimea Canyon State Park , which protects the namesake canyon, nearby Kokee State Park , and the remote but beautiful Polihale State Park .

Also check out  the ultimate guide to visiting Haena State Park  on Kauai’s north shore, and a full guide to hiking the epic  Kalalau Trail .

Check out our round-up of  the most beautiful waterfalls in Kauai , from waterfalls you can view from the road to falls that require hiking and falls that are best seen from a helicopter or sightseeing flight. We also have an article on everything you need to know to visit Secret Falls Kauai on an exciting kayaking and hiking tour.

Read our guide to Wailua River State Park to discover two easy-to-access Kauai waterfalls, and our trail guide for the easy hike to Ho’opi’i Falls . We also have an article on the best Kauai waterfall hikes .

And if a helicopter tour is part of your plans for Kauai, read our article on the  top-rated helicopter tours in Kauai !

Hiking enthusiasts will want to read our article on the best hikes in Koke’e State Park : the trails here are some of the best hikes in Kauai !

We have detailed trail guides for the most popular Koke’e hikes, from the scenic Canyon Trail to the top of Waipo’o Falls , to the epic Awa’awapuhi Trail , challenging but very rewarding!

Also discover the best hikes in Waimea Canyon State Park , and the best hikes on Kauai’s north shore .

We also have a trail guide for the  Mahaulepu Heritage Trail  on Kauai’s scenic south shore, an article on how to hike the Sleeping Giant Trail , and a guide to the Kuilau Ridge Trail , one of the easy hikes on Kauai .

Get the scoop on the  best botanical gardens in Kauai , from Limahuli Garden on the north shore to McBryde and Allerton Gardens on the south shore.

Read our guide to the best  swimming beaches on Kauai , from Hanalei Bay on the north shore to Poipu Beach on the south shore!

We also have a guide to the best snorkeling beaches on Kauai , a round-up of the best Kauai north shore beaches , and an article on the best Kauai south shore beaches !

And if you love watching the sun go down in a burst of color, be sure to read our article on where to go for the best sunsets on Kauai !

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later!

All information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is subject to our terms and conditions of use . It is not a substitute for information or advice from official agencies or qualified professionals.

SV Travel Media LLC makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided here, and readers should use their own discretion and judgement, and seek advice from professionals where needed.

Your use of the information described in, and your participation in activities presented on our website may carry the risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, death, or property damage. You freely assume all risks and dangers that may occur as a result of your access, use, purchase, or participation in any information, activity, product, or service listed on our website.

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Your Trip to Kauai: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Lihue Airport Guide

Best Snorkeling Tours

Top Helicopter Tours

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Kauai Museum Guide

Kauai's Best Beaches

Hiking on Kauai

Snorkeling on Kauai

Kauai's Luaus

Guide to Na Pali Coast State Park

Food to Try on Kauai

Nightlife on Kauai

Kauai's Top Restaurants

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.

Helicopter Tour of Kauai with Jack Harter Helicopters

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Hawaii Guide: Planning Your Trip

Driving Along the North Shore of Oahu

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Where was Jurassic Park filmed? Locations and visitor info for all the movies

Many of the popular filming locations, from hawaii to europe, can be toured by visitors.

Jurassic Park , the 1993 Steven Spielberg -directed blockbuster based on a novel of the same name, sparked a sci-fi franchise beloved by fans that has spanned five sequels over the three decades since its release.

Many key scenes were shot across various islands in Hawaii, with the original trilogy branching out to sites across California, and the more recent trio of films going global to Canada, Malta and the UK.

Diehard fans will be excited to know that many of these sites can be visited by tourists. Read on for everything you need to know about the various filming locations for Jurassic Park and its sequels, as well as how you can visit them.

Where was Jurassic Park filmed?

In the movies, the fictional island of Isla Nublar lies near Central America, 120 miles west of Costa Rica. In reality, much of the filming took place in Hawaii in the Pacific Ocean.

The main island which stars as Isla Nublar is actually Oahu, the third-largest Hawaiian island. Kualoa Ranch provided a hub for several scenes – as well as plenty of other movies and TV shows, including Lost , Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and Kong: Skull Island .

Another popular filming site for Jurassic Park – the state’s fourth-largest island.

A few scenes were shot at Jurassic Kahili Ranch , as well as Manawaiopuna Falls . The latter was used for a helicopter takeoff and landing scenes in the original movie.

Kauai’s “ Blue Hole ” serves as the front gate to Jurassic Park, while Olokele Valley is seen in the electric fence scene and Hoopii Falls in Kapaa acts as the Mano de Dios Amber Mine.

Also used are Valley House Plantation Estate in Kealia, which becomes the Visitor Centre exterior, and Waikoko Forest Management Road at the base of Mount Wai’ale’ale, which is the site of the Jurassic Park gate, according to IMDB.

Allerton Garden and Limahuli Garden , both part of Kauai’s National Tropical Botanical Garden, featured in the film, as did Lawai and Hanapepe Valley .

The Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanical Garden on Maui was featured several times in the original movie, including in an opening scene when scientists make their way to the island by helicopter.

Various studios were used for on-set filming of interior and night scenes, including Warner Brothers Burbank Studios and Universal Studios .

Tehachapi Pass , across the Tehachapi Mountains in Kern County, was used to film an archaeological dig, as was Red Rock Canyon State Park near Ridgecrest in the Mojave Desert. The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles was another filming site for the original movie, according to IMDB.

Where the other Jurassic Park movies made?

Many of the filming locations in Kauai and Oahu were also used in the sequels, which – in order of release – are:

• The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997)
• Jurassic Park III (2001)
• Jurassic World (2015)
• Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018)
• Jurassic World Dominion (2022)

Kauai’s Na Pali Coast serves as the fictional Isla Sorna, also known as “Site B2, in The Lost World , while Kipu Kai on the island’s south-east side appears in the franchise’s second instalment, when the Bowman family are dining on the beach.

According to IMDB , the second film also used sites in California including Redwoods National Forest .

In Jurassic Park III , the final rescue scene features Kauai’s Pilaa Beach .

The first film in the Jurassic World trilogy that followed the original trio is also set on Isla Nublar and therefore filmed at Jurassic Kahili Ranch, Manawaiopuna Falls, Olokele Valley and the Blue Hole.

Jurassic World's Sam Neill: 'My career has been one accident after another'

Na Pali Coast State Park (revamped as “the Garden Isle”), Manoa Falls and Honolulu Zoo served as new locations in Jurassic World .

The 2015 film reportedly featured Makai Research Pier in Oahu for the arrival of the Nublar ferry, Hawaii Convention Centre on Oahu as the fictional Hilton Isla Nublar Resort, and Hangar 79 at the Pearl Harbour Aviation Museum for the scene where the characters reunite in a big aeroplane hangar.

The spot where Owen, Claire and Franklin wash ashore in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is Halona Beach on Oahu, while the 2018 movie’s escape sequence was filmed in the island’s He’eia State Park .

Are there Jurassic Park locations in Europe?

Yes. In the latest instalment, 2022’s Jurassic World Dominion , some production moved to Europe. Many scenes were completed at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire .

Malta was also used, ioncluding the capital, Valletta, and the fortified cities Floriana and Birgu .

Other Maltese locations included Għar Tuta cave in Mellieħa – representing a dig site supposedly in Utah – and St Lawrence’s Church in Vittoriosa .

The crew also filmed in at sites in British Columbia, Canada , including the city of Merritt and The Bridge Studios in Burnaby. There was also filming in Atlanta, Georgia , in the USA.

Can I visit the filming locations for Jurassic Park?

It is possible to visit or see plenty of the locations.

For the key sites on Oahu and Kauai, fly into Honolulu International Airport (HNL), and then connect to Lihue Airport (LIH) for the latter.

The ease of getting to some of the popular sites varies, with some accessible by road or sea but others only able to be viewed from afar, including by helicopter tours.

For example, the best way to see the Na Pali Coast is by water or air, with charter boat and helicopter tours available, while Manawaiopuna Falls sits on private property but can be seen by helicopter ride.

I took my kids to Austria by rail – it was easy, fun and cheaper than flying

Jurassic Kahili Ranch is also on private property, with no tours available and strictly enforced trespassing rules.

Kauai’s Kipu Kai beach is accessible but best reached by boat, with charters available, while Pilaa Beach is also tricky to get to but accessible by a steep, rocky access trail.

Allerton Garden and Limahuli Garden and Preserve can be explored more easily, by guided and self-guided tours which can be booked ahead of time on their website.

To reach Hoopii Falls, meanwhile, it’s a 1.8-mile out-and-back hike considered to be a “moderately challenging route” .

On Oahu, Halona Beach can also be hiked to, while the starring Kualoa Ranch offers outdoor activities and tours of many of its popular filming sites by bus, boat, ATV and e-bikes.

Honolulu Zoo, which doubled as the Isla Nublar resort’s petting zoo in Jurassic World , is a popular tourist attraction that be found in Kapi’olani Regoinal Park, between Waikiki Beach and the Diamond Head State Monument, while the Hawaii Convention Centre in Oahu regularly hosts a wide range of events throughout the year.

He’eia State Park is on the windward side of Oahu, in Kaneohe, and the 18-acre site can be seen by self-guided walking tours, while Makai Research Pier is open to the public and offers whale watching and dinner cruises.

Meanwhile, the Pearl Harbour Aviation Museu m – where Hangar 79 is located – is of course open to visitors.

The Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanic Garden in Maui features the Keōpuka Rock (“Jurassic Rock” in the first film) at the Keōpuka Rock Overlook, which can be hiked to by trail.

California’s Red Rock Canyon State Park is open for hiking and camping, while Universal Studios in California puts on tours.

The Griffith Observatory is located on the south slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, in the centre of metropolitan Los Angeles, and therefore easily accessible by public transport, walking, biking or driving, with paid parking available nearby and free parking downhill.

For fans of the later films, the various metropolitan filming sites in British Columbia can also be reached with relative ease, as can those in Malta.

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The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List: 14 Epic Things To Do in Hawaii From a Local

Posted: March 27, 2024 | Last updated: March 27, 2024

Beaches, hikes, and waterfalls are just the start of the epic things to do in Hawaii. This island paradise welcomes millions of visitors every single year. While some travelers want to soak up the sun on the beach, others plan for adventures through Hawaii’s most treacherous mountains.

There are so many incredible spots in Hawaii that it can be hard to narrow things down to the best of the best. But luckily for you, as a Hawaii local, I’ve weeded out the tourist traps and highlighted the gems. So, without further ado, here are the best things to do in Hawaii.

1. Drive the Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is the perfect example of “it’s about the journey, not the destination.” While the sleepy town of Hana is adorable in its own way, it’s the waterfalls, hikes, black sand beaches, and banana bread stands along the way that make the Road to Hana one of the most incredible drives in the world.

There are too many noteworthy Road to Hana stops to mention here, but there are a few must-sees that we simply have to share. Pop by Waikamoi Falls, grab a snack from Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread on Kaenae Peninsula, lounge on the black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park, and hike the Pipiwai Trail through the famous Oheo Gulch.

One last note before you head out on the drive of a lifetime: read up on the worst mistakes to make on the Road to Hana.  That way, you can avoid them and have a smooth journey.

2. Explore Waimea Canyon

Head to the island of Kauai and explore Waimea Canyon – also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

There are a few different ways to explore this picturesque canyon. You can drive up to the scenic viewpoints if you want to keep things nice and easy. If you want to challenge yourself, you can tackle one of the spectacular hikes – I recommend the Waipoo Falls Trail for a fun waterfall surprise. Or you can take to the skies with an epic Waimea Canyon helicopter tour.

3. Pop by the Na Pali Coast

Speaking of jaw-dropping views on Kauai, you won’t want to miss out on the Na Pali Coast. Over thousands of years, rain has carved into this mountain range, creating deep grooves in these bright green cliffs—perfect for rainy-day waterfalls, might I add.

That said, the Na Pali Coast isn’t the easiest place to explore. It’s inaccessible by car, so you’ll have three options: on foot, by sea, or by air. Take your pick.

If you choose to explore the Na Pali Coast on foot, be warned: it’s not an easy journey, but it’s an amazing one. Officially known as the Kalalau Trail, this 22-mile out-and-back path is filled with beautiful viewpoints, hidden waterfalls, and secluded beaches. It is your own little slice of paradise – if you can handle the trek.

But hiking for multiple days isn’t for everyone. If that’s the case, take to the seas instead with a Na Pali Coast boat tour. You’ll be able to enjoy the rugged mountain range from the water while also swimming beside some of Hawaii’s colorful sea creatures.

Last but certainly not least, a helicopter tour offers a bird’s-eye view of the Na Pali Coast. This natural landmark will be seen from a unique perspective, and you will see other sights along the way, like Waimea Canyon, Manawaiopuna Falls, and Hanalei Bay.

4. Watch the Surfers at Pipeline

If there’s one outdoor activity that Hawaii is known for, it’s surfing. There are loads of beaches across the islands where you can surf some fantastic swells, but the most famous is Pipeline.

Located on the North Shore of Oahu, this famed surfing beach is for professionals only. During the winter, waves often reach over 30 feet high! These massive waves make Pipeline the ideal place for all sorts of surf competitions, including the Billabong Pro Pipeline and the Da Hui Backdoor Shootout.

Even if a surf competition isn’t happening during your visit, there’s a good chance that you’ll see surfing greats like Kelly Slater, Billy Kemper, and Carissa Moore riding the waves at Pipeline. So be sure to add this one-of-a-kind spot to your Hawaii bucket list.

5. Pay a Visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

No trip to the Big Island would be complete without a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . As the name implies, the highlights of this national park are the two active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa.

If you’re extra lucky, there might be an active eruption during your visit, and you might see lava flowing! But even if that’s not the case, you’ll still get to experience bits and pieces of these volcanoes’ power. Warm up by the steam vents, get a whiff of sulfur from the magma below, and walk through the lava-made Thurston Lava Tube .

6. Go Waterfall Hopping on Kauai

Even though Hawaii is known for its sunny skies, the island of Kauai is surprisingly rainy. In fact, the Garden Isle is home to one of the rainiest spots in the world, Mt. Waialeale.

While that might be a bummer to some, waterfall chasers will be on cloud nine. After all, with rain comes a whole lot of waterfalls. Some of Kauai’s best cascades include Wailua Falls, Manawaiopuna Falls, Waipoo Falls, and Secret Falls (also known as Uluwehi Falls—and it’s not much of a secret).

7. Tackle the Lanikai Pillbox Hike

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike might be my favorite hike in Hawaii. This short 1.7-mile round-trip trail takes you to some of the best views on the island. While some sections can be quite steep, this hike is doable as long as you take breaks.

At the end of it all, you’ll find the first of the Lanikai pillboxes. What’s a pillbox, you ask? They’re old military bunkers that boast fabulous views. While you can continue to a couple more pillboxes along this trail, you only need to go to the first one to get the full experience.

From the first pillbox, you’ll see a beautiful view of a sunny sky, the bright blue Pacific Ocean, and two bright green, postcard-worthy islands known as the Mokulua Islands. Naturally, you’ll inevitably start filling up your camera roll with these unbeatable views. This is one of the best hikes in Oahu .

8. Kayak Out to the Mokulua Islands

Remember those islands you can see from the Lanikai Pillbox hike in Oahu? Well, you don’t have to admire them from afar—you can kayak out to them !

Rent a kayak from a nearby shop – Kailua Beach Adventures works great – and take it to Kailua Beach. From there, you’ll have a few miles of paddling to tackle.

I’ll be honest: depending on the day, paddling might not be easy. But at the end of it all, you’ll reach Moku Nui, the leftmost of the Mokulua Islands, and you’ll feel like a champion.

9. Soak Up the Sunshine on Lanikai Beach

There are a lot of beaches in Hawaii that are absolutely stunning – and I mean a lot. Odds are, whatever beach you come across will be beautiful – from the famous Waikiki Beach to the unnamed gems on the side of the road. But if I had to pick just one to make it onto this list of epic things to do in Hawaii, it’s Lanikai Beach.

Located right next to Lanikai Pillbox and the Mokulua Islands, this sunny shoreline is home to golden sand and calm turquoise waters. You can’t ask for much more than that. All you have to do is lay out a towel, put on some reef-safe sunscreen, and enjoy a day at this picture-perfect beach.

10. Befriend a Mule on the Kalaupapa Trail

A Kalaupapa mule ride is undoubtedly one of the coolest things you can do in Hawaii. Located on the under-the-radar island of Molokai, this adventure takes you along the highest sea cliffs in the entire world – 1,700 feet high, to be a little more exact. 

11. Visit the Garden of the Gods

But Molokai isn’t the only Hawaiian Island that slips under the radar. There’s also the tiny island of Lanai.

With just 3,000 people and no stoplights, Lanai is the epitome of small island life. But this little isle is still home to some incredible nature spots, including the Garden of the Gods .

When you visit the Garden of the Gods, you’ll feel like you’ve taken a wrong turn from Hawaii and ended up on Mars. With red dirt, scattered boulders, thick fog, and whistling wind, the Garden of the Gods looks nothing like stereotypical Hawaii. But this otherworldly landscape is undoubtedly worth a visit.

12. Watch the Sunrise From Haleakala

Head to the famed island of Maui for a bucket list-worthy sunrise. With an absurdly early wakeup call, you can make your way up to Maui’s tallest peak, Haleakala, which translates to “the House of the Rising Sun.” No wonder it’s a great sunrise spot.

When the sun starts to crest over the horizon, the sky will be painted in dizzying colors of pastel pink, bright orange, and warm gold. You might even get some tinges of purple and indigo in the mix, too. Simply put, it’s absolutely magical.

You have to visit Haleakala National Park.

13. Go for a Snorkel

So far, this list of things to do in Hawaii includes activities both on land and in the sky. But we haven’t dived below the surface yet, and that’s where so much of Hawaii’s beauty lies.

Hawaii’s crystal clear waters are filled with colorful fish, calm turtles, playful dolphins, endangered monk seals, and much more. It’s a completely different world!

You can easily spend hours in some of Hawaii’s best snorkeling spots, like Hanauma Bay on Oahu, Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island, and Molokini off the coast of Maui.

That said, be sure to give the sea life their space, as you would with all wild animals.

14. See Snow on Mauna Kea

You might be thinking, “Snow? In Hawaii?”

Yes, believe it or not, we get snow in Hawaii, but only on the tallest mountain peaks.

The Big Island’s Mauna Kea is the most common place to find snow on the islands. And it’s no wonder why – when measured from the seafloor to the peak, Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world, even beating Mount Everest!

But seeing snow on Mauna Kea is a little more complicated than it seems. Most rental car companies won’t let you drive up to the peak. Your best bet is to take a dedicated Mauna Kea summit tour and cross your fingers for some island snow.

Have Fun Exploring Hawaii

From volcanoes to waterfalls to black sand beaches, it’s no wonder that Hawaii is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the entire world.

Whether you’re hoping to relax on a sunny shoreline or hike through Jurassic World-esque mountains, you can do that in the Hawaiian Islands.

We hope you have an absolutely amazing time on the islands! 

Featured Image Credit: eddygaleotti/ Depositphotos.com .

More Articles From The Happiness Function:

• 15 Hawaiian Pidgin Phrases To Know Before Traveling to Hawai`i
• Haleakala National Park: Things To Do at the Summit and Kipahulu District

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