Kauai Helicopter Tour: Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon & Jurassic Falls

Summary

Fly over emerald valleys, waterfalls & sea cliffs in Kauai

You’ll fly above Kauai’s wildest places: Hanapepe Valley’s patchwork fields, Manawaiopuna Falls from Jurassic Park, Waimea Canyon’s red cliffs, and the jagged Na Pali Coast. With a local guide piloting and two-way headsets included, you’ll get stories and views you just can’t see any other way — plus that rush when you spot waterfalls hidden in mist.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the armrest tighter than I’d admit, I caught my first glimpse of Hanapepe Valley as our helicopter lifted off from Lihue. The pilot — Keahi, born and raised here — pointed out the patchwork of taro fields below. He had this way of narrating that felt more like swapping stories than a tour script. I could smell the faint tang of ocean air even through the glass, and every time we banked left or right, sunlight flashed across the instrument panel and made me squint.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much. When we reached Manawaiopuna Falls (yep, the “Jurassic Park” one), someone behind me hummed the movie theme and Keahi just grinned. The falls looked impossibly thin from above — like a white thread dropped down green velvet. My headset muffled most of the rotor noise but not my own heartbeat. We swept over Olokele Canyon and then Waimea Canyon’s rusty cliffs; honestly, it was hard to keep up with all the colors changing so fast. There were moments when clouds drifted in close enough to blur everything for a second, which made each clearing feel like a reveal.

The main keyword “Kauai helicopter tour” had been on my mind since booking — but sitting there with Hanalei Bay curving out below us, it didn’t matter anymore. I tried to say “Na Pali” properly; Keahi corrected me gently (I still can’t roll my ‘r’ right). The Na Pali Coast itself is something else: sharp green ridges dropping straight into blue water, no roads anywhere near. We hovered long enough for me to notice tiny boats bobbing way down below. Not sure why that stuck with me.

Weather was moody that day so Mt Wai‘ale‘ale stayed half-hidden in mist — apparently that’s normal here. It felt like flying through someone else’s dream for an hour. When we landed back at Lihue heliport, I realized my palms were sweaty from holding on too tight (classic). Still think about those waterfalls sometimes when I hear rain against my window at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kauai Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour

• Fly over Lihue and Nawiliwili Harbor
• Pass by Kapa'a coastline
• View Manawaiopuna "Jurassic Park" Falls
• Fly over Olokele Canyon
• See Waimea Canyon waterfalls
• View Na Pali Coast and Princeville Resort
• Pass Hanalei Bay and historic pier
• Fly over Mt Waiʻaleʻale and waterfalls
• Pass small southern town and Port Allen Harbor

Top questions

How long is the Kauai helicopter tour?

The flight time is approximately 50-55 minutes depending on weather conditions.

Does the Kauai helicopter tour include pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; guests need to check in at Lihue Heliport one hour before departure.

What will I see on the Kauai helicopter tour?

You’ll fly over Hanapepe Valley, Manawaiopuna Falls (“Jurassic Park” falls), Olokele Canyon, Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Coast, Hanalei Bay, and possibly Mt Wai‘ale‘ale if weather allows.

Is the helicopter wheelchair accessible?

Yes, both heliport and aircraft are wheelchair accessible with a lift available for boarding assistance.

Are children allowed on the Kauai helicopter tour?

Yes; children under 23 months are considered lap children and ride free with an adult.

Can I bring bags or cameras on board?

Bags and large cameras or selfie sticks are not allowed inside the helicopter for safety reasons.

Will I be able to talk to the pilot during the flight?

Yes; two-way communication headsets allow you to talk with your pilot throughout the flight.

What happens if it rains during my Kauai helicopter tour?

The route may change based on weather conditions; some sights like Mt Wai‘ale‘ale may be skipped if visibility is poor.

What’s included

Your day includes check-in at Lihue Heliport with weight check and safety briefing before boarding your Eco-Star helicopter. You’ll have business-class style seating, Bose noise-cancelling headsets for clear two-way communication with your State of Hawaii certified pilot-guide, plus all taxes and fees already covered in your booking.