Kauai: Helicopter Tour with Olokele Canyon Landing & Waimea

Summary

Circle Kauai by air, land in Olokele Canyon, see Waimea & waterfalls

You’ll fly above Kauai’s wildest places by helicopter and actually land inside private Olokele Canyon — nobody else does that. Walk among red rocks where only a handful of people ever stand, see Waimea Canyon and Mt. Waialeale from above, and feel what makes this island unforgettable long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“Nobody else lands here,” our pilot, Keahi, grinned as we hovered over Olokele Canyon. I could hear the smile in his voice through my headset — he’s flown this island for years, but you could tell he still gets a kick out of it. The helicopter ride itself was already wild — wind tugging at the rotors, sunlight flickering on red canyon walls. But when we touched down in that private spot, it felt like sneaking into a secret garden. The air smelled sharp and green; even the rocks seemed quieter than anywhere else on Kauai.

I didn’t expect to feel so small looking up at those cliffs. Keahi pointed out old trails and told us about the families who still have land deep in the valley — I tried to imagine growing up here, hearing nothing but birds and wind. My shoes crunched on dry grass as we walked around for photos (I took too many), and honestly, I was more interested in just standing there than posing for Instagram.

The rest of the circle island tour blurred by in flashes: Na Pali’s sea cliffs dropping into blue water, then suddenly Waimea Canyon — which really does look like some kind of Pacific Grand Canyon. I kept catching myself grinning like an idiot every time another waterfall appeared below us. Flying into Mt. Waialeale’s crater was almost too much; you can see why it’s called the wettest place on earth, with all those waterfalls streaming down green walls like silver threads. My ears popped a little from the altitude change, but I barely noticed because Li (my seatmate) was laughing at how wide my eyes got.

I still think about that moment standing in Olokele Canyon — not sure if it was the silence or just knowing we’d landed somewhere most people never will. So yeah, if you’re thinking about a day trip helicopter tour of Kauai from Lihue or anywhere nearby… this is the one where you actually get to touch down inside a canyon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Helicopter tour and canyon exploration

• Circle island tour of Kauai
• Land at private Olokele Canyon
• Take pictures at Olokele Canyon
• Fly past Napali sea cliffs
• Fly past Waimea Canyon
• Fly past Mt. Waialeale waterfalls

Top questions

Does this Kauai helicopter tour include landing at Olokele Canyon?

Yes, this is the only tour with permission to land inside private Olokele Canyon during your flight.

What sights are included on this circle island helicopter tour?

You’ll see Olokele Canyon, Na Pali sea cliffs, Waimea Canyon, and Mt. Waialeale with its waterfalls.

Is pickup included for this Kauai day trip?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; travelers need to arrive at the departure point 40 minutes before takeoff.

Are all fees and taxes included in the booking price?

Yes, all fees and taxes are included with your reservation for this helicopter tour.

Is this helicopter tour suitable for infants or travelers with health issues?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

How early should I arrive before departure?

You should arrive 40 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in procedures.

What happens if my weight information is inaccurate?

If weights are inaccurate and cause safety issues, you may need to buy another seat or be removed without refund.

What’s included

Your flight includes exclusive landing access inside Olokele Canyon (no other company offers this), plus all entry fees and taxes covered up front so there are no surprises on arrival — just show up at the heliport ready for adventure.