Kauai: Helicopter Tour Over Na Pali Coast & Waterfalls

Summary

Soar above Kauai cliffs waterfalls & valleys with local pilots

You’ll lift off from Kauai with a local pilot and fly over the wild Na Pali Coast, catching glimpses of hidden waterfalls and movie-famous cliffs. Feel the weather shift around you as sunlight hits rain-soaked valleys below. Includes all fees and taxes—just show up 40 minutes early for check-in and let them handle the rest.

What’s the experience like?

Honestly, I almost missed the show time because I got distracted by a rooster outside the hangar (they’re everywhere in Kauai). The check-in was more serious than I expected — they weighed us, which felt awkward at first but made sense once we saw the helicopter. Our pilot, Kaleo, joked about it being “the only time in Hawaii you want to be lighter.” That broke the ice for everyone.

Once we lifted off, everything changed. The doors shut out most of the noise but not the smell — kind of metallic and clean, with a hint of ocean air sneaking in when Kaleo cracked his window. We flew over the Na Pali Coast, and he pointed out places from movies — Jurassic Park, King Kong — but honestly, it looked nothing like Hollywood to me. Real life is messier and better. There were streaks of rain on one side of the island and sunlight on another; my camera couldn’t keep up. At one point he banked left so we could see a waterfall tucked into green cliffs. I think my jaw actually dropped (and yeah, I still think about that view when I’m stuck in traffic).

I tried to ask Kaleo how many times he’d done this flight, but he just grinned and said, “Enough to know every goat on these ridges.” Sometimes you could see tiny hikers far below — dots against all that green. The whole thing lasted about an hour but felt both longer and shorter somehow. We landed back with my heart still thumping a bit too fast. My hair smelled faintly like fuel for hours after (not sure if that’s normal), but it made me smile every time I caught it later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helicopter tour over Kauai scenery

• Board state-of-the-art helicopter
• Fly over Kauai, Hawaii
• View highest sea cliffs at Na Pali Coast
• Complete approximately 60-minute scenic flight

Top questions

How long does the Kauai helicopter tour last?

The helicopter tour lasts approximately 60 minutes covering over 100 miles.

What do you see on the Kauai waterfall safari?

You’ll fly over the Na Pali Coast with views of sea cliffs and waterfalls featured in Hollywood films.

Are there weight restrictions for this Kauai helicopter tour?

Yes, passengers over 250 lbs or combined weight over 420 lbs require an additional seat.

Is hotel pickup included for this Kauai helicopter tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included but public transportation options are nearby.

What time should I arrive before departure?

You should arrive 40 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time for check-in.

Are infants allowed on this helicopter tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the flight.

Is this tour suitable for people with health issues?

This tour is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes covered in advance—just arrive at least 40 minutes before departure to check in with your accurate weight details before meeting your local pilot for takeoff over Kauai’s wild coastlines.