Top 7 Kauai Helicopter Tour Companies to Consider

If you’re planning a trip to the stunning island of Kauai, one of the best ways to experience its breathtaking beauty is from above on a helicopter tour. With so many options to choose from, selecting the right tour company can make or break your aerial adventure.

In this guide, we’ll highlight the top 7 Kauai helicopter tour companies that you should consider for an unforgettable experience. From their safety records to the sights they offer, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and ensure your trip to Kauai is nothing short of spectacular. You can even book your helicopter tour in advance on Viator to secure your spot.

Types of Helicopter Tours Available

Doors-Off Tours

For thrill-seekers and people who love photography, a helicopter ride with the doors off is a must-do. Just picture the wind in your hair as you enjoy stunning views of Kauai’s famous landmarks. Your photos will look better without window glare!

Fly along the amazing Na Pali Coast, where tall sea cliffs drop into turquoise waters. As you fly through green valleys, feel the mist from the waterfalls. The doors-off ride makes your helicopter tour exciting and gives you a unique adventure. Book a doors-off helicopter tour for the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Make sure to secure your items like cameras and hats. The wind can be very strong!

Doors-On Tours

Doors-on helicopter rides give you a relaxed and easy trip while you see amazing views. You might miss the wind-in-your-hair thrill of doors-off rides, but you can still admire beautiful sights from a comfy cabin with air conditioning.

This ride is great for families with young kids or anyone who wants a calmer experience. You can look down at the green hills of Hanalei Bay, see the beautiful Jurassic Falls, and enjoy the stunning views of the Na Pali Coast – all from your cozy seat. If you’re interested, Air Ventures Hawaii offers a range of doors-on tours in Kauai for a smooth, comfortable ride.

Make sure to bring your camera! Even though you are looking through a window, the views are fantastic and will help you take special photos.

Private Helicopter Tours

For a special and customized adventure, think about booking a private helicopter tour with Ali’i Kauai Air Tours & Charters. This tour lets you make your own plan, focusing on the places you want to see. You can spend as much time as you wish at each site.

Picture yourself flying above the Garden Isle with your loved ones. You will get the special attention of your pilot and make memories just for you. You can choose a romantic sunset flight over the Na Pali Coast, take an exciting trip into remote valleys, or enjoy a full tour of the island to see all the main attractions.

A private tour is a smart choice that promises a unique adventure and great memories.

Customizable Tours

Can’t decide on just one place to visit? With a customizable Kauai helicopter tour, you don’t need to! This option lets you combine your favorite spots on the island into one amazing trip.

You can work with your chosen tour operator to make a custom plan. This plan will fit your interests and available time. Maybe you want to see the beauty of the Napali Coast and some hidden waterfalls in the green valleys. Or you might want to enjoy the wide Waimea Canyon next to the colorful coral reefs by the ocean.

With a custom tour, you get to enjoy the freedom to design your perfect adventure. This way, you make sure that your experience is personal and unforgettable.

Kauai’s Top Helicopter Tour Companies

Choosing a good tour company can change your helicopter tour experience a lot. In Kauai, there are many well-rated operators, all providing different tours and packages.

When looking at your options, think about things like safety records, customer reviews, fleet quality, and the types of tours they have. Here is our top 7 suggestions for great helicopter tour companies:

1. Airborne Aviation Tours – 4 Passenger Doors-Off Helicopters

For a truly exhilarating way to see Kauai, Airborne Aviation Tours takes you on an unforgettable ride in a doors-off helicopter. With only four passengers on each flight, you’ll experience a personal, up-close adventure high above Kauai’s stunning landscapes.

The lack of rear middle seats means you and your group get an unobstructed view of the island’s breathtaking sights, from the lush valleys to dramatic cliffs, and even the famous waterfalls from Jurassic Park. The adventure is led by an experienced firefighting pilot, so you’re in expert hands as you soar over the wettest spot on Earth and the rugged Na Pali Coast.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply want to take in some of the most jaw-dropping scenery on the planet, this doors-off tour is perfect for those looking for something both exciting and awe-inspiring. Plus, the open-door experience allows for unparalleled photo ops, making it a photographer’s dream.

If you’re after a small, intimate, and truly unique way to see Kauai from above, Airborne Aviation Tours is a top pick for those wanting to feel the wind in their hair and the beauty of Hawaii at their feet.

2. Air Ventures Hawaii – Entire Kauai Airplane Tour with All Window Seats

If you’re looking for an epic aerial adventure over Kauai, Air Ventures Hawaii’s “Entire Kauai Airplane Tour” is a must-do. This tour is perfect for anyone wanting to take in the full spectrum of Kauai’s stunning landscapes.

You’ll fly over the lush rainforests, towering waterfalls, and dramatic coastlines in a specially designed sightseeing aircraft, which ensures you get a great view from every seat — and trust us, the views are spectacular. From the famous Waimea Canyon (often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific) to the remote Na Pali Coast, this tour covers it all. You’ll also catch glimpses of iconic spots like the Opaekaa Falls, Menehune Fish Pond, and the Eucalyptus Tunnel of Trees, which is a beautiful sight from above.

What sets Air Ventures Hawaii apart is their team of experienced pilots, all of whom have over 20 years of experience flying for major airlines. So, not only are you getting an unforgettable sightseeing experience, but you’re also in the hands of true professionals who offer insightful commentary throughout the flight.

3. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – Kauai Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour

If you want to see Kauai like never before, Blue Hawaiian’s Kauai Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour is the way to go. You’ll board a sleek, new Eurocopter Eco-Star, designed to offer a quieter, smoother ride and more expansive views—perfect for capturing the jaw-dropping beauty of this “Garden Isle.”

Over the course of a 50-minute flight, you’ll soar above some of the island’s most iconic landscapes, including the lush, mist-covered peaks of Mt. Waialeale, the rugged cliffs and waterfalls of the Na Pali Coast, and the dramatic red rocks of Waimea Canyon. You might even recognize the famous “Jurassic Park Falls” from the movies!

The experience is made even more memorable with business-class-style seating and large panoramic windows that let you take in every breathtaking view. Plus, a two-way radio system allows you to chat with your pilot, so you can learn all about the island’s geography and history.

With Blue Hawaiian’s FAA Diamond Award for excellence in helicopter maintenance, you can rest assured you’re flying with one of the most trusted and well-maintained fleets in Hawaii. If you’re looking for a truly once-in-a-lifetime aerial tour, Blue Hawaiian is a top choice that promises a high-quality, unforgettable adventure.

4. Ali’i Kauai Air Tours & Charters – Private Doors Off Kauai Helicopter Tour

For those looking to take their Kauai helicopter experience to the next level, Ali’i Kauai Air Tours & Charters offers an unforgettable private doors-off tour that guarantees every passenger a window seat. No more fighting for the best view or squinting through the middle seat—this is as good as it gets.

From the moment you lift off, you’ll be treated to stunning aerial views of some of Kauai’s most iconic spots, including the jaw-dropping Manawaiopuna Falls, famously known as the “Jurassic Park Falls.” You’ll soar over the lush Olokele Canyon, the vibrant red cliffs of Waimea Canyon, and the dramatic, rugged Na Pali Coast.

One of the highlights of this tour is the exclusive access to areas that are virtually unreachable by foot, like the towering cliffs of the North Shore and the surreal Wai’ale’ale crater, known for its abundant rainfall and breathtaking beauty.

The absence of middle seats means no distractions, just unobstructed views of Kauai’s natural wonders. And the thrill of flying with the doors off adds a level of adventure that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for a more personal and exhilarating way to see Kauai from above, this is definitely a tour you won’t want to miss.

5. Jack Harter Helicopters – 60 minute Guided Doors Off Helicopter Tour in Kauai

If you’re looking for the ultimate Kauai helicopter experience, Jack Harter Helicopters is a must-try. Their 60-minute doors-off tour gives you a bird’s-eye view of the island’s most stunning natural wonders, all without the barrier of glass between you and the landscape.

This tour is perfect for photographers or anyone wanting the best, unobstructed views of Kauai’s jaw-dropping sights, including the famous Manawaiopuna Falls (the “Jurassic Falls”), the majestic Waimea Canyon, and the rugged Na Pali Coast. The open-sided helicopter ensures you get crystal-clear views of these landmarks, with the added bonus of no reflection or glare from windows.

As you soar through the sky, the pilot provides a live narration, offering fun facts and historical tidbits about the island’s most iconic spots. Whether you’re a Kauai first-timer or a repeat visitor, this tour lets you experience the island’s beauty in a totally new way. Plus, the 60-minute duration gives you ample time to take it all in, making this tour a great choice if you want to cover all the top sights in one go.

You’ll also enjoy the convenience of round-trip transport to and from the helipad, ensuring your journey is smooth and hassle-free. For a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Jack Harter Helicopters delivers an unforgettable ride over one of Hawaii’s most beautiful islands.

6. Safari Helicopters – Kauai Deluxe Waterfall Safari

If you want to experience Kauai from a whole new perspective, Safari Helicopters’ Kauai Deluxe Waterfall Safari is the way to go. This small-group tour takes you on a breathtaking journey across the island’s most iconic landscapes, all from the sky.

You’ll soar over the towering sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, glide above the dramatic Waimea Canyon (aka the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”), and get up-close views of some of the island’s most famous waterfalls. The best part? You’ll see these stunning sights that are virtually inaccessible from land, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The pilot doubles as a tour guide, sharing fascinating insights about Kauai’s history, geography, and movie-star moments (the island’s been a backdrop for numerous Hollywood films). Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a repeat visitor, this helicopter tour is a fantastic way to see more of Kauai in less time.

With a comfortable, intimate small-group setting, you’ll have a front-row seat to nature’s wonders. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride—it’s one of those trips you’ll never forget.

7. Air Kauai Helicopters – Doors Off Adventure

If you’re looking for the ultimate Kauai helicopter tour, the Air Kauai Helicopters Doors Off Adventure should be at the top of your list. This tour is perfect for those who want a truly exhilarating and up-close experience of the island’s breathtaking beauty. Imagine soaring over the island with the wind in your hair and unobstructed views—thanks to the doorless helicopter design. With just six people per flight, you’ll get a more intimate and personal journey over Kauai’s stunning landscape.

The tour takes you over some of the island’s most iconic landmarks, including the towering cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, the lush rainforests surrounding Mt. Waialeale (one of the wettest places on Earth), and the dramatic waterfalls of Manawaiopuna Falls—better known as the “Jurassic Park” falls. You’ll also fly over Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” for a jaw-dropping aerial view of its vibrant red rock formations.

Whether you’re a photographer looking to capture the perfect shot or simply someone who wants to take in the raw beauty of Kauai, the Doors Off Adventure offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Departing from Lihue Airport, you can choose either a morning or afternoon flight, giving you flexibility for your schedule. Just be ready for an unforgettable ride with unmatched views that will make you feel like you’re flying through a postcard!

What to Expect on a Kauai Helicopter Tour

A helicopter tour of Kauai is something you will always remember. You will be amazed from the beginning to the end as you see the island’s beautiful landscapes from high above. The experience starts with a safety talk and instructions from your pilot. He will tell you about the flight plan.

Once you take off, get ready to be amazed by Kauai’s beauty. You will fly over green valleys, see towering sea cliffs dropping into the ocean, and watch waterfalls from above that seem to go on forever. During your helicopter ride, your pilot will share stories about Kauai’s history, geology, and local legends. This will make your experience even better.

Must-See Locations on Kauai Helicopter Tours

A helicopter tour of Kauai is a sight to see. It shows you many natural wonders that will take your breath away. First on your list should be the Na Pali Coast. Imagine flying above tall sea cliffs that have been shaped by ocean waves for many years. You can also spot hidden beaches along the rough coastline.

As you go inland, you will be amazed by Waimea Canyon. This place is often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” You can see its large size, bright colors, and the many canyons and gorges made by old rivers. No Kauai helicopter tour is complete without seeing Manawaiopuna Falls. This waterfall became famous from the movie Jurassic Park. It plunges 400 feet into a quiet pool, surrounded by a green rainforest. When you travel across Kauai’s north shore, you will love the green valleys, flowing waterfalls, and beautiful Hanalei Bay.

Best Times to Book a Helicopter Tour in Kauai

The best way to get the perfect helicopter tour for your Kauai trip is to book early. Helicopter tours are very popular, and they often fill up fast, especially in busy seasons. By booking in advance, you can choose your date, time, and type of tour.

Kauai has nice weather all year, but some times of day are better for viewing. Morning tours usually have calm air and a lower chance of rain later in the day, so they are great for taking photos. On the other hand, afternoon tours have a special charm, as the sun makes long shadows that look stunning on the landscapes. In the end, when you go on your tour will depend on what you like and the specific tour you select.

Safety Considerations and Tips

When you choose Kauai helicopter tours, make safety your top priority. Pick trusted companies like Jack Harter Helicopters or Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. They have strict safety rules. Make sure the pilots know what they are doing and that the helicopters are kept in good shape.

Please learn about emergency procedures and pay close attention during the pre-flight briefing. Wear comfortable clothes and follow the crew’s instructions. It’s important to stick to weight limits and seating plans for safety and balance during your flight. Focusing on safety will make your Kauai helicopter tour more enjoyable.

Cost of Kauai Helicopter Tours

The price of Kauai helicopter tours can change. It depends on how long the tour is, the route taken, and extra services offered. Usually, standard tours cost between $200 and $500 per person. If you want a fancier or special tour, be ready to spend $700 or more. Even though it may be a bit pricey, seeing the beautiful landscapes, green valleys, and stunning waterfalls from above is worth every penny.

Tips for a Great Helicopter Tour Experience

If it is your first helicopter experience, getting ready ahead of time can help you enjoy your tour more. Wear comfortable clothes and tie down anything loose, like hats or scarves. You might think about taking a small bag or backpack to keep your things safe while you fly.

Make sure to charge your camera batteries and bring extra memory cards. This way, you can take great pictures of the breathtaking views. Feel free to ask your pilot questions during the tour. Their local facts and tips will make your experience better. Finally, relax, enjoy the scenery, and love every moment of this amazing adventure.

Activities and Attractions to Pair with Your Helicopter Tour

Exploring Kauai’s beauty goes beyond just a helicopter tour. You can take your adventure further by visiting the Na Pali Coast. There, you will see stunning sea cliffs. Another great spot is Waimea Canyon, where you can enjoy lush views.

If you want to feel the magic of Jurassic Park, visit places where they filmed, like Manawaiopuna Falls. Princeville lets you enjoy the charm of Hanalei Bay. Also, a trip to the Garden Isle’s north shore reveals the beautiful Kalalau. Pair these activities with your helicopter ride for a memorable journey through Kauai’s amazing landscapes.

Wrapping Up

Considering how beautiful Kauai is, helicopter tours are very popular for exploring the island. You can find various options, from thrilling doors-off rides to private charters. The best companies offer special experiences for different interests, making sure you have a great time over Kauai’s stunning views. Remember to think about safety and cost when choosing a tour.

It’s a good idea to book early to get the best spots. Mixing your helicopter tour with activities on the ground makes your Kauai trip even better. No matter if you seek excitement or love nature, a helicopter tour in Kauai will create unforgettable memories. Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest helicopter tour company in Kauai?

All the helicopter tour companies in Kauai are reliable and focus on safety. You should look for operators that have a great safety record. It’s good to choose experienced pilots. Make sure they have the right certifications and well-kept helicopters. Checking online reviews can give you more information about a company’s safety practices.

How much do you tip a helicopter pilot in Kauai?

Tipping is nice, but it’s not required. A good rule is to give about 10-15% of the tour cost. This shows how happy you are with the pilot’s service and your whole experience.

How long will a 25 mile helicopter ride take?

A 25-mile helicopter ride in Kauai usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This time can change based on the route and any stops for sights along the way. Different tour companies might have a slight difference in time, but it is mostly within this range.