kauai helicopter tour morning or afternoon

Morning or Afternoon? The Best Time of Day for Kauai Helicopter Tours & Other FAQs

Kauai was pretty much made to be seen from the air. Only 20% of the island is developed (including roads!) which means that most visitors only see a tiny fraction of its splendors. And boy does it have splendors.

While every Hawaiian Island has absolutely stunning scenery, Kauai is overwhelming in the “jagged, majestic green mountains that look like the backdrop to every single Jurassic Park movie” department.

Sadly, many of its most beautiful sites are so remote and difficult to reach that they remain unseen by all but the most intrepid hikers. And that’s why helicopter tours are more popular on Kauai than any other Hawaiian Islands.

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FAQs about Kauai Helicopter Tours

For most people, a helicopter ride is a once in a lifetime bucket list experience. Because it seems like such a “big deal” (and maybe because it’s also so expensive), I get asked a lot of questions about tours. Here’s a round up of frequently asked questions…

Is a Kauai helicopter tour “worth it”?

I had never been on a helicopter before (and haven’t since), but it seemed like a real shame to miss out on a helicopter tour on Kauai. And I really just can’t say enough good things about my helicopter flight on Kauai. And there aren’t words to adequately describe the things I saw. All I can say is, if you’re on the fence about doing a helicopter tour on your trip to Kauai, do it!!! I’ve done a lot of tours, excursions, and activities on Kauai, but this is one of the few that I would repeat (others were amazing, but once was enough).

What’s the best time of day for Kauai helicopter tours? Morning or afternoon?

If you’re paying all of that money, you want to get it right. Generally, mornings are going to consistently provide the best flying conditions. Wind and weather pick up in the afternoon and while you can never quite predict the weather, mornings are usually the best bet.

However…the lighting during the afternoon is best along the Napali Coast. It’s kind of a technicality because the Napali Coast is impressive any time of day, but here’s how it works: the mountains along the Napali run north to south. The sun rises in the east so the sun is mostly behind the mountains during the morning hours leaving them somewhat shady. By late afternoon, the sun shines directly on the coast making all those crags and spires sparkle a bit more.

So is there really that big of a difference? Yes and no. I would say for the casual tourist, morning is totally fine. All of the boat tours of the Napali run during the morning as well and it’s spectacular. If you’re a super serious photographer tasked with getting the perfect shot (I’m a professional travel blogger and I wouldn’t even call myself that) then late afternoon is probably best.

But just know you run a bigger risk of your flight getting canceled later in the day if weather develops (which could also happen in the morning).

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What to wear / bring on a helicopter tour?

It’s a quick flight so you’re not going to need much! There are lockers at most of the tour facilities to leave your belongings. You’ll definitely want to wear dark clothing if you’re doing a helicopter tour with doors on. This cuts down on the glare in your photos if photographing through windows. If it’s a doors off tour it’s not as important. But if you’re on a doors off tour, you’ll need a strap for your phone.

When is the best time to book your tour?

Helicopter tours are VERY popular on Kauai (more so than the other Hawaiian Islands) so book in advance. I also recommend booking it early on in your trip so if you have bad weather there’s time to reschedule.

Are helicopter tours safe?

I’m not going to give you a yes or no on this one. I’ve done a tour with no problems and soooooo many tours are flown every day on Kauai, but there are records of accidents (usually because of ill maintained equipment or pilot inexperience regarding weather). You can review records from the National Transportation Safety Board here before you make your final decision regarding specific companies.

Side Note: If you’re looking for a rental car for your trip, I LOVE Discount Hawaii Car Rentals . They’re seriously the only company I ever use. They’ll give you the very best prices, you don’t have to reserve with a credit card or pay until you show up, you can cancel and re-book anytime if you find a better rate, and they usually have a special that adds additional drivers for no fee. It’s a no brainer. Click here to check rates for your trip.

Which company has the cheapest helicopter tours?

I don’t know, but seriously…don’t pick a tour provider based on price. Seriously. There are a TON of companies that offer helicopter tours of Kauai, but I don’t believe this is something you shop around to find the best deal. Helicopter and small airplane crashes aren’t unheard of in Hawaii and it’s usually a result of inexperienced pilots or ill maintained equipment. This is a time when paying more to go with a reputable company is a necessity.

What are the most popular/recommended tour companies?

While I’m not going to do a rundown on every helicopter company here and there may be some good ones I’m missing, here are my top three that I would feel comfortable with:

Blue Hawaiian : This is the company that I personally used. Blue Hawaiian is the granddaddy of all the tour operators. They fly on every major island, and their fleet is modern and impressive. I think they offer the most comfortable flight conditions available. They only fly doors ON flights. Their flights start at $339/person.

Jack Harter Helicopters : Jack Harter is the original Kauai helicopter company and they offer some pretty amazing options. Their star tour is a 60 minute flight in a Hughes 500 (which seats three in the front including the pilot and only two in the back) with the doors OFF. This flight starts at $359. In addition to feeling more adventurous, booking this flight also ensures that you will have a window seat. I would consider the front middle to still be a window seat since the window stretches out to your feet right in front of you. There’s something about feeling the wind in your face as you’re hovering over a waterfall, but if you’re a nervous flier, I would probably stick to doors on.

Island Helicopters : Island Helicopters is the only company to offer a landing during their flight. If you’re a fan of Jurassic Park, you’ll love this tour. In addition to the traditional circle island tour, it includes a stop at Manawaiopuna Falls (well known from the opening scene in Jurassic Park). This tour is $373 and lasts 80 minutes (including the landing).

What will I See on a Kauai Helicopter Tour?

Here’s a rundown of what I saw on my flight with Blue Hawaiian:

Once we were airborne, we flew over Nawiliwili Harbor and along the south side of the island. Our pilot (Bryan from Tennessee!) was great about pointing out places of interest and filling us in on the island’s geography and other interesting facts. We got some good views of Poipu before flying over Hanapepe Valley and on to the first major site of the flight: Waimea Canyon.

Waimea Canyon is a stunner from the roadside overlooks but from the air it was just spectacular. We flew down into the canyon, and up close to a waterfall but it was the rainbow(s) that stole the show here. It was a pretty special sight.

We flew over the edge of the canyon and came down over the Napali Coast (one of the big selling points of a helicopter ride over Kauai) and it was…raining! A lot. But it was still so amazing. Even in the rain, I was still blown away. We flew up the coast, oohing and awing, until we got to Ke’e beach and then followed the north shore into Hanalei Bay (we got a great view of Tunnels).

From here we flew into Hanalei Valley and then into Wai’ale’ale Crater (the birthplace of Kauai). This part of the flight was the real highlight for me. Hanalei Valley is so lush and green and getting to go into the crater (Bryan said only about 40% of flights get the right conditions to go in) was an otherworldly experience. The pictures just don’t do this place justice. The clouds were hanging low, it was raining lightly, and it was still gorgeous. Our pilot told us that many people have an emotional reaction to seeing the crater and it’s easy to see why. Our otherwise chatty flight grew silent as we flew through.

The crater was our last major site on the trip and from there we flew back across the island to Lihue. We had an uneventful landing (always a good thing!) and disembarked. On our way in, each group got to have their picture snapped in front of the helicopter.

Is it scary?

As someone who has mild to moderate anxiety and a decent fear of heights…I was a little nervous beforehand, I got a little psyched out once I was buckled in, but as soon as we were in the air I was completely fine.

I have no issues with motion sickness, but I was told that if you’re prone to it then you should take meds before your flight.

On Another Note: If you’re looking for a condo or vacation rental for your trip, I always book with Vrbo . They’ve got the largest selection of rentals you’ll find anywhere and you can easily filter to find exactly what you’re looking for. Need a specific number of bedrooms and bathrooms? Narrowed it down to a certain location? Want flexible cancellation terms? Need to stay under a fixed budget? Click here to search for Kauai vacation rentals for your trip.

How do they decide where everybody sits in the helicopter & what is the boarding process like?

Most companies leave out of the Lihue Heliport, which is right next to the airport. Blue Hawaiian’s headquarters are in a nice building with a check-in desk, gift shop, restrooms, and safety briefing area. When you check in, they take your weight really discreetly (I didn’t even know that’s what they were doing!) and this is how they determine seating assignments.

About a half hour before our flight, we watched a safety video and got our personal flotation devices (a small pouch you wear strapped around your waist). This is also where we got our pilot’s name and seat assignments (there were three helicopters leaving at our departure time).

Everything is assigned based on weight distribution. The helicopters that Blue Hawaiian uses seat three in the front (Including the pilot) and four in the back. I did the flight solo and was told that I wouldn’t be put in a back middle seat but that if you’re a couple one of you will for sure be in a middle seat.

Next we went outside and waited on the lanai and watched the helicopters land from the previous tour, unload, and get refueled before we were loaded on. This flight was on an ecostar, which is known for being one of the more “comfortable” aircrafts you can fly on.

I was seat #1 which is front middle right next to the pilot (I would consider it a window seat) so I was the first one loaded. The flight crew led us out to the helipad one by one, buckled us in, and handed us our headsets. Once we were loaded, we could talk to the pilot through the headsets.

Want to read more posts about Kauai? I’ve got plenty!

Things You Can ONLY Do on Kauai // Things to Do in Poipu (South Side) // 5 Day Kauai Itinerary // 4 Day Kauai Itinerary (North Shore) // 3 Day Kauai Itinerary //

Where to Stay on Kauai: Princeville vs Poipu // Grand Hyatt Kauai Review // My Favorite Restaurants in Poipu

Kauai Travel Tips (Things to Know Before You Go) // Napali Coast: Boat Tour vs Helicopter // Kauai Helicopter Tour FAQs

Maui vs Kauai

• Passenger Advice

Kauai helicopter tour: Morning or Afternoon

Partake in a Kauai helicopter tour in the morning or afternoon knowing that the island is often blessed with clear skies as to see as much of the landscape as possible.

Guests who participate in a Kauai helicopter tour would be expected to book a morning or afternoon tour only, hence the question morning or afternoon. Little difference between them but a early morning tour is more beneficial in that in case of a delay, a tour for later in the day can be arranged .

Morning or afternoon difference

The morning is my best time, between 10am to 2pm, any delays can be caught up, soon upon your arrival in kauai, what do tour operators say, unpredictable conditions.

Never book a Kauai helicopter tour, or on any Hawaii island on the final days of your stay as it limits your re-scheduling in case of a delay.

Believe me when I say a possibility of a delayed helicopter ride in Kauai is high no thanks to the islands subtropical weather conditions.

Kauai helicopter tours in the morning or afternoon won't make much of a difference in terms of visibility or clear skies photographic opportunities.

But if you must I for sure recommend an early as possible helicopter tour as to allow a reschedule later in the day in case of a delay.

On top of that book a Kauai helicopter tour as soon as you arrive on the island because where a later in the day reschedule is not possible, an extra day or two may be needed to make sure your tour proceeds.

Like any country in the world, a 10am to 2pm schedule would be ideal as it tends to be the brightest time of day - so perfect for taking pictures.

No guarantee the weather will be clear and sunny; so expect helicopter tour conditions that allow for rain or conditions that don't see far over the horizon.

Talk to anyone those who partake in a Kauai helicopter tour regularly as they will say the same thing, it really makes no difference if you tour is in the morning or afternoon.

Kauai is blessed with beautiful conditions from early in the morning throughout the afternoon, all the way up to late in the evening.

Conditions that are ideal for guests who participate in a Kauai helicopter tour.

In fact it would be ideal to bring along sunglasses for a very early tour up to the evening, to keep the bright sunshine out of your eyes.

Its not a matter of morning or afternoon but more so what time of the day is best for your schedule.

Personally, and this is my opinion only, I would say morning is the best time for a Kauai helicopter tour for many reasons.

Early morning helicopter tours allow the passenger often rare, yet unique photographic opportunities with an almost surreal morning shade.

Afternoon lighting can be quite consistent with no change, so the lighting can be almost the same for photographs.

Perfect for clear visibility through a doors shut to Kauai doors off helicopter tour , but not for photographers hoping to capture a multitude of amazing pro photographs.

More so, once you've captured these photographs or finished the helicopter tour, guests can spend the rest of the day touring the island on the ground.

Much like the rest of the world, its recommend that between 10am to 2pm will be the best time to take a helicopter tour.

Therefore, its a two hour window in the late morning plus two hours early in afternoon that will be the best time to fly over Kauai.

Not possible for all but those that can book a helicopter tour at this time should do so for the best lighting conditions.

Its not guaranteed due to Kauai's ever changing weather conditions; but when its a good day you'll experience a bright, clear Kauai landscape.

Give or take 20 to 30 minutes will not make a difference with the stated time; in fact several hours one way or the other won't matter either.

Travelers will understand that for reasons out of your control, a delay or cancellation can occur to those participating in a helicopter tour.

Delays are more likely in Hawaii, so therefore in Kauai then anywhere else in the world, as subtropical conditions can often have its say on your tour.

If you imagine taking a morning helicopter tour but was then delayed for reasons stated.

Perfect, because now you have more time in the day for the operator to make changes to your original Kauai helicopter tour schedule, at no additional cost.

Arrangements can be an hour or two delay, or if not it could be later in the afternoon as you'll still have plenty of time.

Common suggestion by helicopter tour companies in Hawaii is agreed that guests should really partake in a helicopter tour soon after there arrival onto the island.

Once you're arrived in Kauai or you wish to book way in advanced; book it for the first day to two only, but no later to be safe.

What that means is, and going by my idea for delayed early morning helicopter tours can be rescheduled for the afternoon - same applies to later in the week.

Imagine you plan to be in Kauai for 5 days only, well on your first or second day the tour gets cancelled, due to bad weather for example.

Helicopter operator can reschedule your tour later in the day, but as you still have a few more days in Kauai, you're almost guaranteed it will go ahead on the same day or later in the week, if that is the only open slot.

Kauai helicopter tour operators have to deal with the wettest island in Hawaii, so by now have a plan in place to deal with unexpected cancellations in Kauai.

Number one plan is to ensure travelers book early in the there several day stay in Kauai so that all important helicopter tour can still be completed, only later in the day or week.

They're also in agreement about morning or afternoon helicopter rides; saying it does not matter, as early to late in the afternoon tends to be a consistent pattern.

However, what they will tell you is Kauai's climate is unpredictable, so where rides can go ahead; there's no guarantee for clear views for sightseeing or taking photographs will be optimum.

Knowing all this, its expected helicopter tours will still go ahead in rain but not so much in fierce, windy conditions.

Not so much unpredictable as those living in Kauai will tell you it can rain from one minute to the next.

What cannot be predicted is optimum flying conditions, so weather can cause aircrafts to be grounded for a brief time.

High winds, storms or torrential rain is part of those terms so a delay is likely to allow time for these weather conditions to pass over.

If they don't and the delay is indefinite, likely outcome would be a reschedule for the next day or two - so that's why its important you book a helicopter tour as soon as you've arrived in Kauai.

Where its not possible and for reasons out of your control, expect the operator to issue you a full refund.

Don't be too concerned about a morning or afternoon Kauai helicopter tour as operators will tell you, it won't make any difference.

Kauai enjoys a consistent pattern of bright sunny conditions throughout the day which makes it ideal for high visibility when participating in a helicopter tour.

However, I must admit a Kauai earliest in the morning helicopter ride is my preference.

And here's why, in my haste to make sure my tour goes ahead, any delay allows for a re-schedule later in the day.

On top of that you will want to make it a 10am to 2pm helicopter ride as its the brightest time of the day.

You cannot be to picky at the busiest times as the available slots won't allow you to pick and choose a time.

Book a Kauai helicopter tour for the morning but go one better, make it so its on the day you arrive on the island, or the next day if you must.

Reason behind this is to allow for any delays to be rescheduled to a later day during your stay if a time is not available later on the same day.

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7 Kauai Helicopter Tour Tips

A helicopter tour over Kauai is a breathtaking experience that will leave you with memories for life. Although you can go on helicopter tours almost anywhere, in my opinion a helicopter over Kauai is an absolutely essential bucket list item. So much of this island is inaccessible, by car and even by foot, that one of the best ways to take in its beauty is from the air. From above you get a unique perspective and appreciation for the landscape, which you would not get from on the ground. In this post, I’ve put together all of my Kauai helicopter tour tips and advice for booking your trip. It includes how to choose a company, whether you should go doors-on or off, and my thoughts on whether the front-middle seat is so bad after all!

More Kauai Blog Posts

• For more inspiration for your Kauai itinerary read the full Kauai post here:  22 Exciting Things to Do on Kauai
• Check out my favourite shots I took during the helicopter tour in my gallery here:  Kauai Helicopter Gallery – Incredible Doors-Off Helicopter Tour Photos

Though a helicopter tour may seem daunting, all companies have to adhere to strict safety regulations and these types of tours are typically very safe. All passengers also receive a safety briefing before the flight begins. If the conditions on the day are not suitable for flying, the flight will be cancelled and rescheduled – not an uncommon occurrence thanks to Kauai’s tropical weather! Though accidents can happen, helicopter tours on Kauai are an incredible, and safe, way to explore this breathtaking island. That being said, feeling safe is paramount. Do plenty of research in advance and select a company that appeals the most to you.

Choosing a Company

There are so many companies offering helicopter tours on Kauai, it can be overwhelming to know where to start! A helicopter tour is such a big spend that it’s important to choose the right company for you. You’ll want to choose one you trust and that will make the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. As someone who’s seriously scared of flying, it was important for me to find a company with a great reputation for customer service, as well as safety of course! Having an amazing pilot who made us feel safe and reassured allowed me to enjoy the experience so much more.

Therefore, I’d highly advise doing plenty of research beforehand. Read the websites of numerous tour companies, as well as reviews of people’s experiences on independent sites such as forums. You’ll also want to consider the actual air time of the tour you pick. A ’60-minute tour’ doesn’t necessarily mean you will be in the air for the entire hour. Actual air time varies from company to company.

Book in Advance

After you’ve done your research and selected a company, it’s best to book the tour in advance. You’ll want to book your helicopter tour for early on during your trip. This will allow you time to reschedule, should your initial flight get cancelled. Kauai is a tropical island with a lot of rainfall, meaning flights often get cancelled and rescheduled for safety reasons.

You may also find companies offer significant discounts if you book online ahead of time. Helicopter tours are pretty expensive so it’s definitely worth shopping around. Do some price comparison between tours and look out for any discounts available.

Time of Day

The next step is deciding what time of day to book your Kauai helicopter tour. There are are a few factors to consider, the first of which is the weather. It rains a lot on Kauai, particularly in the centre of the island around the mountains. Many sources recommend the morning for helicopter tours as it tends to be less cloudy earlier in the day. However, if you want to take good photos, you’ll also want to consider the lighting. For good light in the canyons, valleys and on the Na Pali Coast, people tend to prefer the afternoon tours. Overall, I think a Kauai helicopter tour will be incredible no matter what time of day you fly. We personally chose our flight time based on the weather forecast, rather than anything else. Nonetheless, these are all factors to consider when booking your tour.

Doors On or Off?

When choosing a helicopter tour you’ll most likely find yourself deciding between a 4 or 6 person helicopter with doors on, or a 4 person doors-off tour. The doors-off helicopters are smaller than the other types, carrying only 4 passengers plus the pilot. Two passengers sit in the front with the pilot, and the other two passengers sit in the back. Obviously in a doors-off helicopter you are exposed to the elements (rain, wind etc.), so this is something to consider.

If a doors-off helicopter tour isn’t for you, you can decide between the two sizes of regular helicopters; 4 or 6-person. In a 6-person helicopter there are 4 people sitting in the back row. This means the views may not be as good for the people sitting in the two back middle seats. It depends on your personal preference, but these are all factors to consider when making your choice!

We chose the doors-off experience with Jack Harter Helicopters as we wanted to ensure we all had good views. Doors-off tours are certainly a bit more expensive than tours with doors on. However, in my opinion the higher price is thoroughly worth it for the unobstructed views.

The Front-Middle Seat Debate

One thing we found mentioned a lot whilst doing research was the ‘front-middle seat’ (seated next to the pilot). Even in doors-off helicopters which don’t have windows to obstruct the view, there’s still a lot of discussion surrounding the front-middle seat. Whether you like this seat is down to your personal preference – there’s a lot of mixed opinion about it online. However, since you can’t actually choose where you sit on the helicopter, you may well end up sitting there yourself. I was allocated the front-middle seat during out helicopter tour, so here is my experience and thoughts on the matter.

Though widely-criticised as the worst seat, I had the front-middle seat and honestly didn’t find it to be an issue. I was seated between the pilot and the friend I was travelling with. The pilot said I could take pictures out of his side of the helicopter, and of course my friend said the same thing. There were a few moments when my friend and I wanted to take pictures at the same time, and I had to wait for her and then have my turn. However, I didn’t find this to be a deal-breaker and I still took some amazing pictures during the flight.

Admittedly, it’s less awkward to lean over a friend to take pictures than if it were a complete stranger. But in that case I think a simple conversation before take-off, asking whether they’ll mind you taking pictures over them, would suffice. I don’t think any reasonable person would deny you that – it’s not every day you’re in a helicopter flying over Kauai after all! I personally had a great experience in the dreaded front-middle seat.

What to Expect

Whether you’ve been in a helicopter before or this is your first time, here are some things to expect before you go!

On any helicopter tour:

• Noise – The helicopter is extremely loud, and everyone wears a headset. There is a button to press to open the microphone and speak to the other passengers/pilot.
• Seating – Where passengers sit on the helicopter is decided by the company. Seats are allocated by weight, not by who is travelling together.
• Bumpiness/turbulence – It’s very common to experience bumpiness when there is wind.

On a doors-off helicopter tour:

• Weather – Without the doors you are exposed to the weather outside, such as wind and rain. Make sure to bring a coat or windbreaker to keep you warm enough during the flight. (This may sound off-putting, but I don’t remember anything about the weather throughout the flight. I was too distracted by the views, so don’t let this deter you!)
• Price – The Kauai doors-off helicopter tour was the most expensive activity of our month-long trip to Hawaii. However, it was an exhilarating experience that was without a doubt worth the extra cash!

I hope this post on my Kauai helicopter tour tips is helpful for planning your own exciting Kauai adventure! If you’re interested, check out my other Hawaii blog posts below:

• 22 Exciting Things to Do on Kauai
• Kauai Helicopter Gallery – Incredible Doors-Off Helicopter Tour Photos
• 20 Incredible Things to Do on Oahu
• 13 Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii
• 15 Things You Must Do on Maui
• 2 Day Road to Hana Itinerary – Best Road Trip on Maui
• How to Travel 4 Islands in 4 Weeks

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Hi, I'm Abbey! I'm 26 and I'm from Wales. From backpacking and au pairing, to study-abroad semesters and eventually settling in a little more longterm, I've spent the best part of the last 6 years either travelling or living abroad. On a mission to improve my Italian, I'm currently based in the historic centre of Venice, Italy.

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Doors Off Helicopter Tour Of Kauai: Complete Review

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: June 23, 2023

Categories AMERICA , HAWAII , TOURS

It had been my dream for over four years to visit Kauai. I lived on Oahu for two years and never had the chance to hop over to Kauai. This time I was not only heading over from Oahu but I was so stoked to have booked a doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai. I don’t think I’ve ever been as excited as I was before getting into that helicopter.

BOOKING A HELICOPTER TOUR ON KAUAI

There are a few things to consider when you book a helicopter tour on Kauai. 

• Duration : By the time you take off and land you need 60 minutes to see the whole island. The shorter tour often doesn’t get all the way up to the Na Pali coast, which is the highlight of the tour in my opinion.
• Doors on or off:  Doors-off means you have a clearer view and less glass in the way for your camera but no other huge advantages. The disadvantage is that the wind can be freezing even on a warm day, the wind can be very strong and you are exposed to the elements such as light rain etc.
• A plane!?: One final option to throw in the mix is a tour by a light plane. They are actually pretty popular because they are half the price of the helicopter tour and you get to see the Na Pali coastline and more from the air. It’s something to consider.

Helicopter Flight:  The most popular helicopter tour on Kauai is the Kauai Island Highlight Helicopter Tour

Sightseeing Plane: The Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon Scenic Plane Flight are well under $200, which is more than half the cost of the same trip via helicopter.

Kauai Helicopter Tour

• Doors on or off
• 1 Hour Flight
• Full Island Highlights Tour

My Kauai doors-off helicopter experience

I’d seen so many photos of the Na Pali coastline and it had captured my imagination. It had enthralled me to the point that I had based an entire month of my life around Kauai and this flight was intended to be the highlight of that month. It didn’t disappoint in the slightest.

I organized the photography-specific open-door helicopter tour of Kauai so that I could capture the photos of the Kauai Coastline I had been dreaming about. On a photography-specific flight, your pilot will happily double back or fly to the exact position you need for your composition. On a general flight, you will cruise past locations once and if you don’t get the shot it’s tough luck and the tour moves on.

I was a little nervous as we stepped up into the helicopter at Lihue Airport on the island of Kauai. I hate building things up too much in my head. It’s so easy for it to be a letdown. I was hoping this flight was going to live up to my dreams throughout the last four years.

The flight began quite slowly. We were looking out over nice scenery but nothing amazing, mostly farmland. There were lots of fields and a surprising amount of forested mountains. The sheer volume of trees on Kauai is really only observable from the air.

We were just warming up! Our first real action was in Waimea Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It was here that our pilot gave us our first opportunity to throw our legs out the side of the doors off the helicopter as we looked down over massive waterfalls. The red rocks of the canyon contrasted magnificently against the immense flow from the falls as they cascaded into the pools below.

The doors off helicopter tour on Kauai warms you up. The doors off helicopter tour on Oahu shoots you straight out into Waikiki followed by Diamond Head crater and from there the trip just rolls on. Whereas on Kauai, you begin across farmland, then cruise through Waimea Canyon, all the time knowing you are heading towards one of the most epic sections of coastline in the world.

Our pilot shot us out at Awaawapuhi valley , one of the many awesome hikes on Kaua i I’d already done. Our chopper felt like a toy compared to the immense, towering ridges. We were surrounded on all sides and it seemed the only way out was up. These narrow ridges seem to swallow the helicopter whole and then all of a sudden the pilot finds the gap.

What Photography Gear do I use?

Do you want to know about the cameras, lenses, and different gear I use to capture my adventures? I’ve listed my four different cameras below but you can check out all my lenses, accessories, and favorite camera backpack in my article: MY PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR: WHAT’S IN MY BACKPACK

• My Main Camera: Sony A7riii
• My Drone : DJI Mavic Air2S
• My 360 Camera: Insta360 X3
• Action Camera : GoPro Hero 12

The gap he came out of gave us our first look at the Na Pali coast. What a damn sight. My dreams were immediately right there before me. The scene I had imagined a million times, right there before me. Sharply cut ridges beaming golden under the sun while the Pacific Ocean stung me with its trademark, deep vibrant blue.

Our pilot spent almost 20 minutes making passes up and down the coast making sure both sides of our doors off the helicopter had good looks at the coast. He even set us up for some classic ‘feet shots’ over ‘Cathedrals’. I was happy just to take it all in but I had one shot in mind. It’s the type of shot you click and then check your camera to make sure it’s real life. The lighting wasn’t perfect but for me, this shot is a perfect moment in my life.

After the Napali Coast, we cruised back past Ke’e Beach and got lost in the land of a million waterfalls. Honestly, when I described the flight to people the next day, I told them we saw 200 waterfalls and that was probably an under-exaggeration.

When our doors off helicopter tour of Kauai, Hawaii steered back into Lihue Airport, I was lost for words. I felt overwhelmed. There was far too much epicness in an hour for one mind to handle. I don’t think there are many better places to do a doors-off helicopter tour. It’s just so diverse. Hundreds of waterfalls, one of if not the best coastline in the world, canyons, and ridges that seemingly engulf you… all within an hour.

Kauai open-door helicopter Tour Prices

Doors off helicopter tours aren’t offered by all companies and make the trip so much better. The prices range from $250-$400 per person.

Helicopter Flight:  The most popular helicopter tour on Kauai is the Kauai Island Highlight Helicopter Tour .

Best time for a doors-off helicopter tour on Kauai

The best time of year for the tour is in the summer. You are more likely to avoid the storms, which can often delay or cancel flights. In the winter the weather wreaks havoc on Kauai and storms pass through very quickly. I did my flight in winter so it is definitely possible to have a great sunny flight.

The best time of day for a doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai is either sunset, sunrise, or the early afternoon. The lighting on the Na Pali coast is really tricky. The light can be very harsh and there are so many shadows and ridges to think about. I found that obviously the soft lighting of sunrise and sunset are great but 1 pm was beautiful! I did my tour just before sunset and am pretty stoked with the lighting we had as we cruised along the Na Pali coastline! If you are deciding whether to do your doors off helicopter tour of Kauai in the morning or afternoon you will be solid either way for lighting just check the weather!

I hope you get the opportunity to get yourself inside a chopper, preferably with the doors off for that full experience of Kauai.

MY TOP HOTEL PICKS FOR KAUAI

• Kauai Shores Hotel – Luxury (but value also):  A luxury feels with the resort-style property, palm trees, and a beautiful pool area.
• Koloa Landing Resort – Luxury (high-end): LARGEST pool on all of Kauai with beautiful, natural-style landscaping.
• The Grand Hyatt Resort – Best Family Resort : Best kids’ club on the island, a 5-acre pool complex with a lazy river pool, a waterslide, and a saltwater lagoon big enough for kayaking.
• Read my full guide: You can check my favorites in my Kauai: Where to Stay Guide

BEST RENTAL CAR COMPANY IN HAWAII

When you book your Hawaii Rental Car online, I personally recommend and always use  Discover Cars . They search for both local and international companies, so you get the best deal!

Friday 24th of February 2023

Hello What a great read! Your pics are amazing. What company did you book your tour with?

Saturday 20th of August 2022

How did you get those feet shots out of the helicopter? Did you have to unbuckle to do that? Also your pilot was cool with you doing these types of photos?

Wednesday 26th of January 2022

Hi - what was the name of the company you used for doors off?

Helicopter tours in Kauai - prices, discounts, timings, routes

Saturday 26th of June 2021

[…] out Jackson’s experience on a door’s off helicopter in […]

15 BEST HIKES ON KAUAI, HAWAII – Circhub

Thursday 20th of May 2021

[…] Open Door Helicopter Flight Kauai: EPIC DOORS OFF HELICOPTER TOUR OF KAUAI […]

7 Best Kauai Helicopter Tours

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Home » Activities » 7 Best Kauai Helicopter Tours

Ask people who’ve been to Kauai what’s the number one thing you can do on Kauai is and the answer is often to take a helicopter tour of the island.

Kauai is a uniquely beautiful place with rainforest waterfalls, deep canyons, astounding sea cliffs and stunning beaches all in one place. With helicopter tours, you can see all this and more from an aerial view. With much of the rugged island inaccessible by other means, it’s perhaps the best way to see the incredible beauty of Kauai in its entirety.

Here is a local guide on the best helicopter tours in Kauai for you to experience the very best the island has to offer and tips before going on one.

Best Kauai Helicopter Tours

1. blue hawaiian helicopters.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers two tours of Kauai. The Discover Kauai tour departs from Princeville on the north side of the island and lasts about 45 minutes. The Kauai Eco Adventure trip departs from Lihue and lasts around 50 minutes.

Both tours provide stunning views of the many waterfalls on the island, including the famous Jurassic Park Waterfall, which was featured prominently in the film Jurrasic Park. You fly over Olokele and Waimea Canyons and pass over the northern shore, which features 3,000-foot sea cliffs. 

If weather permits, you’ll also fly by Mt. Wai’ale’ale, a dormant shield volcano covered with luscious green vegetation and waterfalls.

The Kauai Eco Adventure comes at an attractive $447 per person. 

2. Safari Helicopters Hawai’i

Safari Helicopters offers two unique tours of Kauai, the Deluxe Waterfall Safari and Canyon Landing Safari.

The Deluxe Waterfall Safari package includes a 60-minute round trip flight covering over 100 miles of breathtaking landscapes that makes the island of Kauai famous. In addition to hovering over Jurassic Park falls, you swing by Na Pali and Waimea Canyon. All of this starts at only $309 per person.

Canyon Landing Safari offers all of the same sights as the Deluxe Waterfall package. However, it also includes a landing and 30 minutes on the ground at the Kauai Wildlife Refuge, with views of Olokele Canyon. 

For Jurrasic Park enthusiasts, this was the location used for some of the shots of the perimeter fence in the movie, so it lets you check out a part of cinematic history.

3. Island Helicopters Kauai

If you’re looking for an action-packed flight around all of the significant sights of Kauai, be sure to check out Island Helicopters Kauai. 

Their Grand Skies Island Tour takes you on a 50-55 minute tour of the island, including wonders like Hanapepe Valley, Na Pali Coast, and Lumahai Beach, among 10 other locations.

For Jurassic Park fanatics, the Jurassic Helicopter Tour is a 75-80 minute tour of all the sites included in the Grand Skies tour, plus a landing at the iconic waterfall for a tour on land and a chance to snap some photos.

The Grand Skies Island Tour only costs $250 per person which is an incredible value. The Jurassic Falls Tour with a landing and photo op at this legendary waterfall is only $404 per person.

4. Jack Harter Helicopters

Jack Harter Helicopters offers the thrill of a lifetime with their doors off helicopter charters experience. 

Hop aboard the MD Hughes 500 with the doors open to the sky and view Kaua’i with completely unobscured clarity. Experience the thrill of having the island breezes rush over you from the safety of the comfortable seat of the helicopter. This 60-65 minute tour only costs $339 per person.

If you’d like to have a pampered flight or come with a bigger group, check out their Luxury Experience. Fly Kaui in a 6-seater helicopter with plush seats, noise-canceling headphones, and floor-to-ceiling windows for ideal viewing conditions. There is a discount of $30 for online bookings for the luxury tours.

Jack Harter Helicopters also offers an extended 90-95 minute tour for only $506 per person.

5. Sunshine Helicopters

The Ultimate Kauai Adventure tour offered by Sunshine Helicopters shows travelers all of the major landmarks on a 50-55 minute flight. You’ll see valleys, mountains, cliffs, and waterfalls from the comfort of one of two world-class helicopters.

Sunshine Helicopters offers different tiers of seat prices, similar to commercial airlines. Open seating in the back seats of the FX Star is $294 per person, with first-class seats coming in at $369 per person. If you opt for a tour on the Whisper Star, back seats are $349 and first-class seats are $424.

You can view some of the most famous places on Kauai, including Manawaiopuna Falls, Waimea Canyon, and the Na Pali Coast. They also offer helicopter tours on other islands like Maui. 

6. Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours

Mauna Loa has specialty helicopter tours available for photographers and families. Their Ohana Experience gives your group of up to 4 passengers a private tour option.

The Kauai Pro Photography Flight is a completely customizable 55-60 minute tour of the destinations you’d most like to capture. Bring your gear and your imagination and get shooting! 

This option is $399 and the professionals at Mauna Loa can help you decide on which locations to visit.

The Ohana Experience gives you and your family the private charter experience for a reasonable price of $342 per passenger. It’s a 60-minute tour that takes you to all of the most famous spots on Kauai, like the Mt. Waiale’ale Crater. Kids need to be at least 7 years old to get on the helicopter. 

Travelers get to decide whether they want the doors on or off for the tour.  

7. Ali’i Kauai Air Tours & Charters

Ali’i Kauai offers private helicopter tours to all of its customers with a more intimate, two-seat configuration for every flight. 

Doors on or off, you get to choose your adventure as you zoom over all the highlights: into Mt. Wai’ale’ale crater, through Alakai Swamp, Waimea Canyon, and over Ke’e Beach. You can see it all in this hour-long thrill ride. 

This private-tour experience comes at an affordable price of only $359 per person. Kauai Air Tours also has planes at their disposal in case you’d prefer to view the island by plane. Their pilots give you a good tour and explanation of the different landmarks down below.  

Though Kauai helicopter tours vary, most follow the same general path. Tours that begin at the Lihue Airport will travel west to Hanapepe Valley and Jurassic Falls, then over to Waimea Canyon (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific) and Olokele Canyon.

After the canyons, the tours head out to the spectacular Na Pali Coast, where sea cliffs drop thousands of feet into the ocean. A lot of the other types of tours and excursions in Kauai actually explore it too, especially by boat.

Stunning Bali Hai and Kee Beach are next up, and rounding the corner is Kauai’s tropical North Shore and Hanalei Bay. Weather permitting, the grand finale is the lush volcanic crater of Mount Waialeale, where you’ll be surrounded by 3,000-foot walls weeping with waterfalls.

Manawaiopuna Falls , also known as Jurassic Falls, is a spectacular 400-foot tall waterfall on Kauai that was made famous in the 1993 Steven Spielberg movie Jurassic Park.

The waterfall can be seen on many helicopter tours of the island. However, Island Helicopters is the only company that actually lands at the base of the waterfall. The company’s Jurassic Falls Helicopter Landing Adventure includes approximately 25 minutes on the ground at the falls.

Are Helicopter Tours Safe In Kauai?

Kauai helicopter tours are generally safe, with thousands of tours accomplished safely each year. However, the island features unique risks for helicopter operators. Kauai has a number of microclimates with varying degrees of weather-related issues.

Heavy rain, clouds, fog and strong winds often pop up at a moment’s notice, both in the island’s rugged, mountainous interior and also along the jagged Na Pali coast. And dense foliage and steep mountains make emergency landings problematic.

In our opinion, such conditions put a Kauai option at higher risk than your typical tour in less problematic areas, and for that reason we suggest that you weigh these risks when deciding on one.

Although crashes are rare, they do occur infrequently. The most recent incident involved a Safari Helicopters tour that crashed in a remote area in December 2019, killing the pilot and six passengers.

In January 2016, a Blue Hawaiian helicopter tour made a hard landing at or near Honopu Beach on the Na Pali coast, seriously injuring four passengers and causing minor injuries to two other passengers and the pilot. In 2005, a helicopter operated by Ohana Helicopter Tours collided with terrain prior to takeoff, resulting in no injuries.

And in 2001, Safari Helicopters was involved in another incident when a helicopter malfunctioned and unintentionally lifted off during a preflight check. No injuries were reported during this incident.

Tour companies have passenger weight restrictions for both individuals and total passenger weights. Some companies charge extra for passengers weighing over a certain amount, and there may also be weight restrictions in first-class seating next to the pilot. The following are weight limits for various tour companies:

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters (Surcharge for passengers weighing over 261 pounds) Sunshine Helicopters (Individual weight limit – 240 pounds FX-STAR, 290 pounds WhisperSTAR)

Here are some helpful tips for your helicopter tour:

• Check in 45 minutes before your flight.
• Hats and other loose articles of clothing are not permitted.
• Wear dark clothing to reduce glare from the window reflection.
• All passengers are weighed to ensure the proper balance of the helicopter.
• Light jackets or long sleeve shirts are recommended attire, especially for doors off flights.
• Government-issued ID is required.
• Earrings can interfere with the headphones.
• Do not eat before the tour if you are prone to motion sickness. Take motion sickness medication per labeled instructions.
• Flights subject to cancellations due to weather or air traffic conditions.
• Book the tour during the first part of your Kauai trip. The tour will give you an overview of the island you won’t get elsewhere. Meanwhile, boat tours can also provide their own unique views. Also, if a tour is canceled, you can reschedule the tour later in your trip.
• Most tours leave from Lihue, however a few leave from the Princeville Airport which is convenient for North Shore guests.
• Front seat is the best seat for optimal views.
• As most Kauai helicopter tours navigate the island clockwise, a seat on the right side affords the best views, especially of the Na Pali Coast.
• Early morning or late afternoon flights have the best lighting for photos and videos.
• Since the Na Pali Coast is on the west side of the island, the afternoon sun highlights the Na Pali mountains and valleys in spectacular fashion (weather permitting).
• Photographers should consider doors off tours.
• Tip the pilot $10-$20 per person for one-hour flights, and a minimum of $20 for flights lasting more than an hour.

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• Kauai Helicopter Tours (9)
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What to expect

Traveler's photos, activity provider, payment / cancellation policy, blue hawaiian helicopters kauai eco adventure flight from lihue.

Kauai helicopter tour

Available daily, pick-up not available.

• Live tour commentary available in English

Check-in at Lihue Heliport

Your adventure begins with exploring the stunning Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as “Jurassic Park” falls, wedged in between the mountains of the Hanapepe Valley. Then, fly over the majestic views of the Olokele Canyon and Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific".

Move to Kauai’s magical North Shore revealing the sculpted green valleys and 3,000-foot sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. You'll be enchanted by the pristine clear waters of Hanalei Bay and the Princeville Resort area.

Lastly, your pilot will take you to the Mt Wai’ale’ale, a dormant shield volcano that gets over 450 inches of rainfall each year. This is the second wettest place on earth and has some of the most beautiful green vegetation draped over the mist-covered mountain and 3,000 ft cascading waterfalls.

Recommended add-ons

Front row seating upgrade (240lbs weight limit per person).

• Combined weight must be under 470 lbs. • Guests must be able to communicate in English with the pilot and be physically capable of operating exit doors. • Lap children are not allowed.

Trip Protection

Cancel or reschedule your tour at any time, for any reason, and receive a refund. However, please be aware that the cost of Trip Protection itself is strictly non-refundable.

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

Start time :

• Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Office
• Please Note: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters is a Part 135 On-Demand Air Carrier. Preferred times may be adjusted due to demand and availability. Flight departures are approximate and may change according to seasonality.
• Check-in is 1-hour prior to scheduled flight time. Late check-in will be considered as a no-show and non-refundable; traffic is unpredictable in the Islands; please allow for ample travel time in case of traffic delays.

Important activity information

Restrictions.

• This activity is wheelchair accessible.
• Children of all ages can participate in this activity.
• Do not go SCUBA diving within 24 hours or SNUBA 12 hours prior to your tour. You may snorkel or swim prior to your tour and there is no risk in SCUBA or SNUBA after your helicopter tour.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The Front Row Upgrade is NOT wheelchair accessible.
• Wheelchair accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and ADA compliant. Each base has a custom built chair lift to assist passengers into the helicopter safely and comfortably. The chair lifts are only able to access the rear row of seats therefore guests requiring a chair lift to board the helicopter cannot be accommodated in the front row. The chair lifts are able to accommodate passengers up to 250 lbs. However, wheelchairs and portable oxygen tanks will not be allowed on board.
• Combined front row seat weight must be under 470 lbs.
• Front row passengers must occupy their own seats and must be able to refrain from interfering with the pilot and instrumentation. Lap children cannot be accommodated in the front row. In the event of an emergency front row passengers must be able to receive instructions in English and be physically capable of operating exit doors.
• Hats, scarves or bandannas, iPads or tablet computers, purses, bags or camera bags, selfie sticks, and extendable wands are not permitted on the aircraft.

Other requirements

• Participants are required to sign a liability waiver at the time of check-in.
• Minors are required to have a parent or guardian sign their liability waiver.
• In accordance with FAA regulations, each guest will be weighed upon check-in to ensure proper balance of the aircraft. Misrepresentation of body weight prior to check-in could result in denial of service without refund.
• The additional cost for guests weighing 240 lbs. (108.86 kg) and over is to secure an adjacent seat that will remain empty for the duration of the flight. This is to help properly balance the aircraft and ensure the comfort of all passengers. For each guest weighing more than 240 lbs., an adjacent, empty seat purchase is required.
• You must check-in at least 60 minutes prior to your activity start time.
• All mobile phones must remain in airplane mode while in the helicopter.

Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)

• You can book a maximum of 6.

Required items to bring & attire

• A valid government-issued photo ID
• You must present your printed or digital VELTRA Voucher upon check-in.
• Please wear dark clothing to minimize reflections in photos, and dress comfortably, as the aircraft are temperature-controlled.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• The activity provider does not assume any responsibility for your valuables and/or personal belongings.
• The tour guide has full discretion to refuse service to customers based on attire, behavior, physical fitness and condition.
• This activity may be changed or canceled for your safety, medical issues or comfort.
• Gratuity is not included in the price.
• Complimentary parking available.
• All helicopter tours are subject to weather cancellations. While Blue Hawaiian Helicopters makes every effort to notify you as soon as possible for changes, the pilot will make a weather call up to 15 minutes prior to the flight.
• Guests who book Trip Protection will receive a refund for the helicopter portion of their tour only in the event of cancellation, whether by you or the activity provider. The cost of Trip Protection is 100% non-refundable.

Travelers interested in this activity also viewed

Overall rating

This tour was so amazing! Our pilot was knowledgable and they played fun music during the ride. We saw all the areas of the island that you cannot access. So many waterfalls, Wamea Canyon and the NaPali coast. We plan to ... come back and to this again with our kids.

Kauai is the garden island for a reason. Seeing it all from above was unreal!

Father son First Heli Ride

Very knowledgeable Pilot. The views were majestic and gave me little room for surpassing this experience in any other location. The Jurassic trail was overwhelmingly beautiful. The Napali coast line is like a dream. I wo ... uld highly recommend this tour. Ask for Steven as your pilot.

Activity Provider Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

• Credit card payment

• • Parties of 1-7: Any cancellations made after 48 hours prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. • Parties of 8-17: Any cancellations made after 96 hours prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. A doctor’s note is required to cancel within the designated cancellation period. •The doctor’s note applies only to the person who holds the note. •If the person with a doctor’s note is a minor, One (1) adult or guardian will be allowed a full refund. •The doctor’s note must be dated within 48 hours of the activity date.
• • Parties of 1-7: Any changes made after 48 hours prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc. • Parties of 8-17: Any changes made after 96 hours prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc.

Payment Methods

Cancellation Policy

Change policy, how far in advance should i book this activity.

We recommend booking at least 1-2 weeks in advance. Last-minute bookings are often possible, but availability is limited.

Is there a safe place to store my belongings during the flight?

Personal belongings can be safely stored at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters office prior to your departure.

Do you make a video of the flight tour?

Yes. Every flight is captured in high-quality video. Each helicopter is equipped with four cameras; three external and one in the cabin. The video recording begins during the boarding process. The recording is continuous until landing and includes digital quality music chosen to complement the changing scenery, plus all the pilot's narration. The video is available for purchase right after you return from your flight.

Do you recommend taking anti-motion sickness medication?

The flights operated by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters' professional pilots are very smooth and turns are slow and gentle. If you are particularly prone to motion sickness, taking a precautionary anti-motion sickness medication is a good idea.

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

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What’s the Best Time to Go on a Kauai Helicopter Tour?

A helicopter tour is an ideal way to view unique landscapes and explore a new area during a trip. When planning this adventure, you often have the choice of booking it at nearly any time of day. Though this mainly comes down to your vacation schedule and personal preference, here are some tips to help you get the most out of this experience.

3 Tips for Scheduling a Helicopter Sightseeing Tour

1. consider the lighting.

The sun’s position in the sky can significantly impact visibility during your tour. For example, flying during sunrise could provide gorgeous views but lead to glares in photos. In contrast, lighting is more consistent during afternoon rides.

The best time for sightseeing from above varies by location, but 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. is typically the ideal moment to ride a helicopter. If unsure, check with a local tour company to ask which times are most popular.

2. Choose a Time You’re Typically Active

An early morning tour provides quality views, but you won’t fully enjoy it if you’re half asleep. To get the most out of the experience, pick a time that doesn’t interfere with your normal resting and eating schedule.

When planning, you should also ensure the adventure doesn’t bump up against other plans. Keeping these factors in mind will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without discomfort or stress about making it to the next activity on time

3. Schedule Near the Beginning of Your Trip

Helicopter tours can get rescheduled due to inclement weather or equipment issues, so don’t leave this experience for the last day of your trip. If you have at least a few days before the vacation is over, your tour company can reschedule you for the same time on the following day or shortly afterward. Additionally, going on a tour toward the beginning of your trip will help you see where popular sites are, making getting around easier.

Deluxe Kauai Helicopter Tour

Over 80% of Kauai’s diverse terrain is inaccessible. Making the helicopter the best way to see Kauai’s spectacular waterfalls, canyons, mountains, valleys, rain forests and secluded beaches. We highly recommend this 55 minute Deluxe Kauai Helicopter Tour to be at the top of your list of to do’s while you are here.

Flying above Kauai on an aerial tour is the most beautiful scenic adventure that you will ever witness. A fantastic rainbow of colors surrounds you as you view the famous Manawaiopuna Falls in the Hanapepe Valley (as seen in the movie Jurassic Park).

Enter the Olokele Canyon, the gateway to the world class Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, adorned in its multitudes of rich colors and deep valleys.

Explore, in detail, the spectacular panorama of the isolated Napali Coast, featuring majestic mountains, pristine cathedral cliffs, secluded beaches, and cascading waterfalls, while the pilot shares the legend of the “Lost Tribe” with you. Continuing past the ancient caves and terraces, your flight passes such sites as Hanalei Valley & the famous Lumahai Beach.

Then it’s on to Mount Waialeale Crater (weather permitting as it is the wettest spot on earth). This mountain is the source of the most majestic waterfalls on Kauai, some cascading thousands of feet to the valley’s floor below! Before you land at Lihue Airport, you will pass by Wailua Falls, better known as Fantasy Island Waterfalls.

Activity Details

Flight times:.

• 8:10am, 9:10am, 10:10am, 11:10am, 12:10pm, 1:10pm, 4:10pm depending on availability.
• Check in time is 45 minutes prior.
• Call for current flight availability this tour does sell out in advance.

Weight Limit Restrictions:

Any passenger 240 pounds and over will be required to purchase an additional seat at $195 at the time of reservation. Couples traveling together with combined weights over 420 pounds will be required to purchase one additional seat at time of reservation. Exact body weights must be given at the time of reservation. All passengers will be weighed upon check in. Customers exceeding weight limit restrictions above will not be able to fly & no refunds will be given.

Please Note

• 72 hour notice of cancellation is required for a refund.
• There are no timeshare visits required to enjoy our discounts!
• Call 1-866-897-1637 for additional discounts available for large groups!

Reserve This Tour

Reviews, comments, & questions:.

Breathtaking scenery!

I agree Linda! Kauai from the air = amazing!

Do you do tours on Sundays? In your opinion what time of day is the best or what is available for Sept 9th for 3 people? How many do you take up at a time?

Aloha Michele! Yes this tour runs 7 days a week, the Helicopter can take 6 passengers per flight. Some people prefer the calm morning flights while others really like the afternoon sun on the Napali for their photos. Call me toll free at 1-866-897-1637 I do have availability on the 3rd!

Do you have a minimum age for kids to do the tour?

Aloha Don! No there is no age limit on this tour. As for pricing & seating babies are free (under 2yrs old) they will sit in the lap of one of the parents. For children 2 years and older they have to sit in & purchase their own seat.

We will be in Kauai August 6-15, do we need make a reservation weeks in advance or can we wait to see what the weather is like when we get there and book 1-4 days in advance? Let us know, thanks!

Aloha Shawn! Making reservations in advance secures you a definite seat. Waiting for the weather could loose you a prime fly time. However call us as soon as you land and I will let you know what we have!

Good afternoon,

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Kauai helicopter tour: a complete guide and photos tips

As a traveller, do you tend to go back to places you loved, or do you travel to new destinations? Tough question, isn’t it? We usually prefer to explore new places – our planet is so big! However this time, it’s different. We came to Hawaii a few years ago but only had time to visit the main island: Oahu. And while some places are great, it didn’t really meet the high expectations we had for Hawaii. So we decided to give it another go. And we’re so happy we did! This time, we went to Maui and Kauai. Black sand beaches, sunset above the clouds, amazing banana bread, 2 days trekking in landscapes out of this world, and to finish on a high note, a helicopter tour over the Napali Coast.

If you’re reading this, then you’re looking for the last bit of information to push you over the edge (not literally of course :D) and get all the tips you need to make the most out of this once in a lifetime experience.

So why do it?

• First flight in a helicopter? You’ll love the views as much as the experience itself. There’s nothing like a vertical take off!
• Amazing view on hidden waterfalls and gorgeous valleys that can only be seen from the sky.
• Get a greater sense of the island and how magical it is.
• Kauai has some of the most spectacular views in the world, especially when it comes to the Napali Coast. We hiked 35km (22 miles) over 2 days and were wowed. But I can guarantee you that seeing it from a helicopter was even more incredible

Ok, now that you’re ready to go, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of it.

1. Choosing the company and getting the best seats

Let’s be honest, a helicopter tour isn’t that cheap. That’s why it’s important to take the time to choose the best company for you. Here’s what we recommend you pay attention to.

• Number of passengers on the flight

Some companies offer tours for 6 passengers which means that you might end up in the middle (you can’t really choose your seat as they’re assigned based on weight). And that means no direct access to the window. From there, it’s harder to get the best view or best shots. That’s at least what the Canadian couple we met on Kauai told us about one of their past experience.

The second option is a private tour. It can be a bit more expensive, however, you’re guaranteed to get the best seats with incredible views on the Napali Coast. You also have the option to ask your pilot to go over that waterfall again if you feel like you missed your perfect picture.

And certain companies require a minimum number of passengers to fly. Otherwise your flight can get cancelled at the last minute. Check their policy. On a private tour, flights only get cancelled because of bad weather.

• Doors on or off?

It’s really up to you but here’s why we recommend the doors-off option:

• It feels more adventurous. As soon as the helicopter takes off, you’ll feel right in the heart of the action. Seeing the ground a few hundred feets below and feeling the air on your face will make the experience unforgettable.
• Less chances of getting sick. . Most people will be fine, but if you are subject to motion sickness, the air flowing will help.
• Best option for photography . Without the doors, you’ll have less issues with reflection and distortion, plus you’ll get better contrasts. If you like photography and want to bring the best pics back home, leave the doors at the airport.   If you decide to fly with the doors off, you’ll need a strap on every object that you bring onboard (including your mobile phone).

Some companies offer flights especially dedicated to photographers, especially if you want to spend most of your time on a specific location. If it is the case, Mauna Loa offers a great option.

2. Clothes and getting ready for the flight

What you need to wear will depend on the season. No surprise there. But keep in mind that even if it’s hot on the ground, it’ll be colder when you’re going over 100km/h in the air. Check out the weather forecast and ask your helicopter company for advice on the day.

When we flew in May, a simple rain jacket was enough. It’s a good option as you might encounter a few showers, especially around Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest spots on earth.

If you have long hair, it’s a good idea to tie or braid them.

Finally, if you decide to fly with the doors on, dress in dark colours to avoid reflections as much as possible.

3. Camera lens and settings for aerial photography

If you’re flying doors-off and want to take your phone on the flight (for your Instagram stories for example :D), make sure you buy a cover with a strap. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to change your lens in the air (for obvious security reasons), so pick your favourite lens before take-off (or keep 2 camera bodies with different lenses on each one).

Here’re a few pieces of advice to maximise your chances to take the perfect picture:

• Go with your widest angle (we had our 17-55mm but you can go wider)
• Leave the polarised filter behind. We’re usually big fans of those filters (better contrasts and colours), but with the helicopter’s speed, it’ll be harder to focus as you’ll lose a couple of stops.
• Aperture : it will depend on your lens, but try to find a good compromise between depth of field and light. f/8  is probably a good starting point if you have no idea. Potentially f/6 as with the altitude, the focus point will likely be close to infinity.
• Shutter speed is a crucial parameter for the flight. Choose it based on the light available, trying to set it as fast as possible to minimise the blur generated by the speed and the helicopter vibrations.
• White balance : take it easy, go full auto. Except if you’re a pro photographer 😉
• Tip : deactivate the image preview, the option that shows your pictures on the screen as you take them. It will allow you to shoot faster.
• If your memory card speed allows, shoot in RAW. That way you’ll have more flexibility for post-production.
• You can always change your settings while flying. So remember to check a few pictures and adjust as you go.

Of course, if you want to make the most out of your camera, it’s a good thing to know how it works. Check-out your camera’s user manual, and take the time to know the key settings before you fly. You’ll avoid getting stuck trying to change the camera settings mid-air.

If you don’t want to shoot in full manual, choose semi-auto with aperture priority. We found that it’s the easiest option for beginners.

And finally, we know you want to bring the best pictures home, but don’t keep your nose on your camera and don’t forget to enjoy the flight.

4. In the air: aerial photography tips

• Sit behind the pilot, you’ll see what they see. Our pilot, Guy, was incredible. He made sure we had a great view on every single waterfall. Going on a private tour is definitely your best chance not to miss out on any of the action.
• It goes fast! Once you’ve checked the first few images, shoot non stop, sort later.
• Make sure you have enough battery and enough space on your memory card.  FYI, Rafika took about 16GB of photos during our 60-minute flight!
• Also, for more creative shots, you can take pictures of the inside of the helicopter. Capture the controls, the pilot, the front window…

We ended our trip in Kauai with an helicopter tour. 🔹We flew over so many incredible landscapes and so close to the beautiful Napali Coast 😱 🔹Before choosing a tour we compared many of them and decided to go with Mauno Loa Helicopter tour for an amazing doors off experience. And we definitely were not disappointed. 🔹We took a lot of pics. Will sort them and show you our favourite places 💚 . . . . . #letsgetlost #letsgoeverywhere #natgeolandscape #simplyadventure #travelinspiration #travelphotos #lpfanphoto #iamtb #discoverlandscape #tourdumonde #mysomewhere #enjoyingtheview #fromwhereyoudratherbe #travel2next #traveladdicts #beautifulmatters #monthoflei #makemoments #thathiddengem #voyageursdumonde #getlostnow #natgeoyourshot #mybestintravel #theglobewanderer #lethawaiihappen #hawaiilife #discoverkauai #MLHPhotoMission #napalicoast #viewfromabove A post shared by Travel & Wildlife Photography (@lebigtrip) on May 21, 2017 at 2:27pm PDT

Again, you don’t do this everyday (well… most of us don’t), so don’t forget to have fun :D.

5. Best time to fly

We struggled finding that kind of information online when we were preparing our trip. It’s true that it depends on many parameters: season, weather on the day, and also… on your luck.

What you need to know if that the light varies based on the time of the day (thanks genius!). And there are advantages and inconvenients for both options. Therefore, the best time for you depends on what you’re most interested in. Let me explain.

• Morning : at this time, the weather is usually calmer, meaning less turbulences. It might be the right option for you if you’re prone to motion sickness. The canyon is usually clear of clouds at this time.
• End of the day : the light is beautiful on the Napali Coast, however, some parts of the canyon as well as some waterfalls will be hidden in the shade. You also increase your chances for bad weather then.
• In between : the sun is high in the sky, so visibility is usually pretty good. But, there’s less shade (not ideal for photography), so the landscape can sometimes feel a bit flat.

We flew at 1.30pm, and we loved it! The light was starting to give depth to the cliffs, and the canyon was still clear and bright. We definitely recommend flying early in the afternoon .

6. Photo processing

When you’re back home, it’s time to sort and filter your photos (not our favourite part of the trip). We use Lightroom for our photo processing, but any software will do the trick.

Here are some very simple improvements we usually do on our photos:

• Select the pics without the helicopter blades (except if it adds something to the picture)
• Crop as necessary – it’s not always easy to get the right angle up in the air.
• Increase the contrast. The mist tends to soften it.
• Modify the exposure if you feel like it’s needed.

7. When you’re done…

Don’t forget to come back here to say hi and tell us how you went 🙂 Also, feel free to leave any of your tips in the comments below.

We chose to finish our trip in Kauai with the helicopter tour. From up there, we could see all the places we went to the days before. It was an amazing ending.

But… it was also a bit risky. It is not unusual for companies to reschedule flights due to bad weather. That’s another reason why we chose to go with Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours: if the weather’s not great, and they think that you won’t have a good time, they will reschedule your flight and that… even if technically they are able to fly.

Some of you might be worried about safety. If it’s the case, you can check safety records on the National Transportation Safety Board site .  You’ll get info on the issues that were logged as well as companies involved. Quick reminder: there’s more chances of getting into an accident driving to the airport than flying 😛  We also wanted you to know that we felt very safe and watched a safety procedure video before the tour. You can also decide to fly with the doors on with Mauna Loa if you’re worried.

Voila! We hope that you found our tips useful. If it’s the case, feel free to leave a comment below 🙂

Have a great flight and don’t forget to share this article if you found it helpful.

Many thanks to  Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours   for hosting us and for the great experience. All views expressed are, as always, our own honest opinion.

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Vous photos sont vraiment tres belles. Nous partons l’été prochain à hawaï et nous prévoyons un tour en helico à kauai. Je suis photographe amateure et je me demande quel objectif prendre. J’ai un 10-22 non stabilisé, un 24-70 STAB et un 55-250 stab. Pour mes faire une idée, à quel ficus sont faites vos photos ? Merci Chrystele

Hello Chrystele, je te conseille de prendre ton 24-70. Le grand angle serait top mais sans stabilisation, j’ai peur que tes photos soient floues. En plus, le 24-70 te permettra de trouver le bon niveau de zoom. Bon voyage, vous allez vous régaler! 🙂

I want to make shots like these too. I just bought and external roadeavour phone lens. Hope it works

Fingers crossed 🙂 We never tried, let us know how you go!

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Helicopter Tours

Since 70% of Kaua’i is inaccessible by land, you have to take to the sky to get a full view of all that Kaua’i has to offer. Several tour operators provide options to view the interior and coastline views of Kaua’i from above. In addition to standard tours, private charters are also available. We would recommend any of the following companies to take you on an unforgettable adventure.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

Island helicopters, jack harter helicopters, mauna loa helicopters, safari helicopter tours, sunshine helicopters.

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The Na Pali Coast of Kauai: 3 Ways to Visit (+ Best 2024 Tours!)

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Is the Na Pali Coast at the top of your Kauai bucket list? Read on to discover how to visit the jaw-dropping Na Pali coastline in Kauai!

Stretching for 17 sensational miles along the northwestern coast of Kauai, the Na Pali Coast is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes you’ll see anywhere on the planet, and is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii .

Experiencing the beauty of the Na Pali Coast is without a doubt one of the top things to do in Kauai .

You’ve probably seen the jagged spires of the nā pali (“many cliffs” in Hawaiian) rising up beside the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean in photos online — the Na Pali Coast is one of the most photographed places in Hawaii.

With their red, pink, and rust hues contrasting with the rich emerald or light green on the slopes and valleys, the towering coastal cliffs are dramatic, if a little forbidding, in their beauty.

Some of the cliffs rise up almost straight up, as much as 4,000 feet above the ocean.

In between the cliffs are impossibly narrow, and lush, valleys. Incredibly, they were once settled.

The Hawaiians that lived here cultivated taro and other crops on terraces cut into the hillsides, and fished to supplement their diet.

They also traded with other communities, using outrigger canoes to venture out in the summertime when the waters are calmer. The only other way of transport in and out of the valleys was via strenuous foot trails.

Sadly, the population here was drastically impacted by diseases brought in by foreigners, and eventually the Hawaiians that were left on the coast departed for other places, attracted by the potential for an easier lifestyle elsewhere.

Today, even though it is remote, the Na Pali Coast is one of the bucket-list destinations for travelers to Kauai.

The towering cliffs, verdant valleys, beautiful waterfalls, pristine beaches, and picturesque sea arches and caves of the Na Pali Coast are irresistible to anyone that loves the majesty of nature.

For visitors that arrive by boat, or even hikers, there’s the added attraction of seeing marine life in the water.

Spinner dolphins cavorting in the waters are a common sight, and you may see humpback whales in the winter.

Boat tours may also offer the opportunity to snorkel, and you can look for sea turtles in addition to colorful fish and coral .

While visiting the Na Pali Coast is definitely an adventure, a first visit to Kauai isn’t really complete without admiring this place of infinite beauty, provided the weather gods are on your side.

And once you visit, you’ll want to put the Na Pali Coast on your Kauai itinerary every time you visit the Garden Isle!

Excited? Let’s show you how to visit the spectacular Na Pali Coast of Kauai, along with our tips for the best experience!

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 .

Just need quick links to the best Na Pali Coast tours? Check out the most popular doors-on helicopter tour and the most highly rated doors-off helicopter tour . If you are looking for boat tours, consider this popular large catamaran morning tour , this highly rated smaller catamaran sunset sailing tour , or this super exciting raft adventure .

The Three Ways to Visit the Na Pali Coast of Kauai

There is no road access into the Na Pali Coast.

Currently, you can admire the beauty of the Na Pali Coast in one of three ways: from the air, from the water, or by hiking.

We describe each of the three ways in more detail below.

We’ve done a doors-on helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast, and we’ve enjoyed a sunset catamaran cruise to the coast. We loved both these ways of experiencing the Na Pali Coast!

While we aren’t big hikers, we’ve also hiked a portion of the Kalalau Trail to get up close to the beauty of the coast.

Whichever option you choose for your Napali Coast adventure, note that visiting this beautiful part of the Garden Isle requires some planning!

1. Soar over the Na Pali Coast on a Helicopter Tour

Probably the most thrilling way of experiencing the spectacular beauty of the Na Pali Coast is to take a helicopter tour over Kauai.

Although most Kauai helicopter tours are whole-island tours, you can bet that the Na Pali Coast is high on the flight itinerary on most tours!

If the weather permits, your helicopter pilot will fly low over the serrated ridges, so that you can ooh and aah at the magnificent scenery unfolding beneath you.

Viewing the cliffs, with their red and green hues, rising up by the side of the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean is a thrilling experience that will stay with you for a long time.

You may even fly low enough, or hover, to see the lush narrow valleys up close, waterfalls flowing down the slopes, and the pristine coves that line the coast.

While both doors-on and doors-off helicopter tours offer great views over the Na Pali Coast (most of the photos here were taken on a doors-on tour), there’s no doubt that having nothing between you and the beauty of the Na Pali Coast is quite an experience!

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

Morning or afternoon flight?

Should you pick a morning flight or an afternoon one? There isn’t a clear-cut answer!

Mornings usually tend to be less prone to weather disruptions. Clouds usually roll in and winds kick up as the day progresses, making later departures more likely to be canceled.

On the other hand, the Na Pali cliffs tend to be in the shadow in the morning. The sun shines on the cliffs in the afternoon, making it much nicer for photography.

If you are a serious photographer, though, check to see what the company you choose for your tour will allow in terms of gear.

Which time of day you choose is up to you, but we suggest booking the tour early in your itinerary so if it does get canceled, you have the option to reschedule before you have to leave!

Flights over the Na Pali Coast

This popular doors-off Kauai helicopter tour offers you morning or afternoon departure times. The total flight time is 45 to 50 minutes.

>> Check price and availability for this doors-off Kauai helicopter tour now!

Prefer a doors-on experience? We loved our flight in the Eurocopter ECO Star . Morning and afternoon departures are offered.

The flight time is 50 minutes and the window glass is expansive, allowing for great views over the emerald spires of the Na Pali Coast.

>> Check pricing and availability for this ECO Star helicopter tour now!

You can also fly over Kauai in a small aircraft. The slow-flying airplane with large windows is made especially for sightseeing.

This super popular airplane tour over Kauai lasts about an hour and you’ll fly over many Kauai landmarks, including, of course, the Na Pali Coast.

Several departures are offered through the day and the tour is narrated.

You can bring a camera on board, and, if you have a GoPro, they may even mount it on the exterior of the plane for an extra fee.

>> Check pricing and availability for this Kauai flightseeing tour now!

2. Admire the Na Pali Coast from a Boat!

Boat tours are by far the most popular way of experiencing the Na Pali Coast.

Not only can you admire the coast at leisure from the water, you may even be able to get close to one of the may Na Pali Coast waterfalls!

While boat tours are still pricey, they aren’t quite as pricey as helicopter tours.

And, one of the advantages of boat tours is that you may see marine life on your way to the Na Pali Coast and back!

Plus, you can choose to snorkel in the turquoise waters if you choose a snorkeling tour .

Boat Tour Departure Points

In the summer, some smaller vessel Na Pali Coast tours depart from Hanalei on the north shore. Year-round, boat tours depart from Port Allen on the south shore.

So no matter when you visit Kauai, weather permitting, you can take a boat tour to the famous coast.

The advantage of departing from Hanalei is that the Na Pali Coast is very close, so you do not spend a lot of time getting to and from the coast. 50-foot catamarans and smaller vessels depart from the north shore.

But the very largest catamarans only depart from Port Allen, so if that’s the type of boat you choose, plan on departing from the south shore.

What type of boat should you choose?

When it comes to Na Pali Coast boat tours, you have several choices. You can pick a large catamaran, a smaller boat, or a raft!

The largest (60-foot) catamarans depart from Port Allen. While you’ll be sharing the boat with more people, larger boats tend to be more stable.

The waters around the Na Pali Coast can get very choppy, so if you prefer a more stable Na Pali Coast boat experience, a larger vessel is definitely the way to go!

The larger boats are also likely to offer more amenities, such as restrooms.

But be aware that the larger boats may not be able to maneuver in and out of sea caves along the coast, or get you close enough to be sprayed by a Na Pali Coast waterfall.

For a more intimate experience, you can choose a slightly smaller catamaran or other boat, and there are even some sailing options available.

Adventure lovers may want to consider a zodiac raft tour of the Na Pali Coast!

A zodiac raft is an inflatable rigid boat, agile enough to get in and out of the sea caves along the coast, and get under waterfalls, for a much more thrilling and immersive experience.

You’ll also be closer to marine life en route, such as spinner dolphins.

And some raft tours can actually land at Nu’alolo Kai, where you can explore the remains of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village.

On the flip side, however, your ride will be much choppier, so it’s not for visitors that are prone to motion sickness or those with back or neck problems.

Plus, given the small size of the raft (generally about 12-14 people or so), there are no bathrooms or other amenities on board.

And it’s so noisy, with the waves and the motor of the boat, that no commentary is usually possible.

Morning or afternoon boat tour?

The waters along the Na Pali Coast are usually calmer in the early morning, so if a stable ride is important, pick a morning tour.

But even on morning tours, by the time you head back, the trade winds will most likely have kicked up, creating some motion on the return journey.

The light is better for photos on afternoon tours, as the sunlight falls on the cliffs during the afternoon, bringing out their colors vividly.

The Most Popular Na Pali Coast Boat Tours

This deluxe Na Pali morning snorkel tour on the Lucky Lady is a half-day excursion that will take you past the spectacular scenery of the coast.

You’ll see the jagged cliffs, lush valleys, and waterfalls from the water, and perhaps spot dolphins and turtles, and whales in the distance in the winter.

There’s time for snorkeling and swimming, and lunch is included.

>> Check price and availability for this morning catamaran tour of the Na Pali Coast!

There’s also an afternoon Lucky Lady cruise option that includes sunset and dinner.

This Napali 1/2 Day Snorkel Adventure by Raft zips you in and out of caves and gets you under waterfalls on an exciting exploration of the Na Pali Coast.

En route, you will stop to swim and snorkel at one of the best coral reefs in Kauai. The 5.5-hour excursion includes a deli lunch and beverages.

You can pick a morning tour or an afternoon one. Prepare to get wet!

>> Check price and availability for this 1/2-day raft excursion to the Napali Coast!

This sunset sailing cruise is on a motorized catamaran, but when wind and weather allow, they hoist the sails for a lovely experience going up the coast.

The 5 hour excursion leaves from the Port Allen marina and includes dinner. You’ll see the cliffs in the best light of the day! And you may be treated to a spectacular Kauai sunset , as we were on our last trip!

>> Check price and availability for this Na Pali Coast sunset dinner sail now!

Kayaking the Na Pali Coast

You can also paddle down the Na Pali Coast in the summer, at a time when the surf is small.

On a kayaking tour, you’ll start at Ha’ena, the eastern part of the coast, and end at Polihale Beach, on the western end.

It’s best to join a guided kayaking tour , and you need to be in top shape, a strong swimmer, and experienced kayaker, because it’s not an easy trip.

On a guided tour, you’ll likely have a lunch stop at Miloli’i Beach. Miloli’i, and Kalalau Valley, with a camping permit, are the only two places along the coast where you can legally land.

With an overnight permit, kayakers can camp at either Kalalau Valley, or Miloli’i Valley (only in the summer).

>> Check price and availability for a Na Pali Coast guided kayaking tour now!

3. Hiking the Na Pali Coast

A helicopter tour or a boat tour is a wonderful way to experience the Na Pali Coast, but if you want to get up close to its beauty — see rare plants at touching distance, or swim in the plunge pool of a Na Pali waterfall — then you have to hike!

The Kalalau Trail is the hiking trail that traverses the coast. It’s the only way to access the Na Pali Coast via land.

The epic trail is 11 miles each way, and most hikers do it as a backpacking trip, spending one or more nights at a campsite.

An overnight camping permit is required to hike the trail beyond Hanakapiai Beach, and permits can be obtained here .

Starting at Ke’e Beach in Ha’ena State Park , the trail makes its way through five valleys along the Na Pali Coast and ends at Kalalau Beach, where it is blocked by vertical fluted cliffs.

Along the way, the trail drops down to the ocean at Hanakapiai Beach and then at Kalalau Beach.

The trail is much like the old foot trail that connected settlements here in earlier times!

En route, hikers are treated to glorious views, both over the ocean and along the coast.

Native and introduced Hawaiian plants are abundant along the trail, and many rare and endangered species grow along the cliffs.

Look for wild goats on the cliffs and whales spouting in the waters below in season!

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

Day Hikes at the Na Pali Coast

Hikers that want to experience the Kalalau Trail but not want to do the entire trail have several day hike options!

You can hike just about one half of a mile to a viewpoint for fabulous views over Ke’e Beach, or hike the moderate to strenuous trail two miles each way to Hanakapiai Beach and back.

And if you want to experience one of the valleys in the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, you can hike four miles each way to Hanakapiai Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Kauai . You may even be able to slide into the plunge pool here for a dip.

This trail is strenuous and involves detouring inland from the Kalalau Trail at Hanakapiai Beach. There are several stream crossings!

The trailhead for the Kalalau Trail is within Ha’ena State Park , one of the most-visited state parks in Kauai . Entry and parking reservations are required for Ha’ena State Park, and can be obtained here .

Note that visitation to the park is regulated and spots get snapped up as soon as they become available. Stay on top of the reservations calendar to make sure you do not miss out!

We have a detailed guide to visiting Haena State Park that you must read if you plan to visit.

Taking a dip and watching the sun set at Ke’e Beach, one of the best swimming beaches in Kauai , is a great way to end your hiking adventure in the Na Pali Coast!

Tips for Visiting the Na Pali Coast

Get oriented: where is the na pali coast.

The Na Pali Coast is located in the northwest part of the island of Kauai in Hawaii (see map ).

Ha’ena State Park is the eastern end of the coast. From Ke’e Beach, inside Ha’ena State Park, you can actually see the cliffs of the Na Pali Coast.

The trailhead for the Kalalau Trail into the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park also starts by Ke’e Beach.

Polihale Beach in Polihale State Park is the western end of the coast, and you can view the cliffs of the Na Pali Coast from here as well.

You can also admire the Na Pali Coast from viewpoints in Koke’e State Park , which is located along the west coast of Kauai.

The Kalalau Lookout and the Pu’u O Kila Lookout offer fantastic views into the ridges and valleys of the coast on clear days.

Visit the Na Pali Coast in the summer for the best weather!

Kauai can get very rainy in the winter months, especially along the northern portions of the island.

Since the scenery is the primary reason to visit, and helicopter and boat tours can be expensive, you’ll want to schedule your trip for a time when the weather isn’t likely to dampen your adventure.

Not only is it usually cloudy and rainy in the winter, the ocean is also very rough along the north shore of Kauai, with huge waves.

In fact, boat, raft, and kayak trips to the Na Pali Coast only depart from the north shore during the summer months, because the ocean can get really rough along the north shore in the winter.

Hiking the Na Pali Coast is also more uncomfortable and more dangerous in adverse weather.

For your best shot at a bright sunny day for your Na Pali Coast adventure, plan to visit in the summer, between late May and early September.

Book your Na Pali Coast boat or helicopter tour early in your trip

Weather on Kauai can turn at any time, and both helicopter flights and boat tours are subject to cancelation if weather is unfavorable.

Since admiring the Na Pali Coast is likely high on your wish-list for Kauai, book your boat or aerial tour for as early in your stay as you can.

If your tour does get canceled for some reason, this will give you the opportunity to reschedule or book another tour for a later day in your stay.

Book a morning tour for clearer skies and calmer waters

Mornings on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast tend to be better weather-wise. The ocean is generally calmer, if you are planning a boat tour, and the skies clearer if you are planning an aerial tour.

In the afternoons, clouds usually roll in, and by late morning, swells in the ocean kick up.

Afternoon helicopter or boat tours are usually more apt to be canceled on account of weather than morning tours.

Although our captain was able to get our boat very close to one of the Na Pali Coast waterfalls despite choppy waters, I imagine it’s much easier in the mornings when the waters are calmer.

Book an afternoon tour for better light for photography

If you are very particular about the light for your photos, pick a bright sunny afternoon! When the sun’s rays fall on the cliffs, as they do in the afternoons, the colors of the cliffs look sensational.

In the mornings, the sun is behind the cliffs, so they are in the shadows for the most part.

Bring a rain jacket on your Na Pali Coast boat tour or hike!

On a boat tour of the Na Pali Coast, if the swells kick up, you will likely be sprayed as you travel back and forth.

Bring a light rain jacket with a hood to stay protected, especially if you choose a smaller boat or a raft!

A rain jacket is also useful when you are hiking the Kalalau Trail, as showers (and misty weather) are possible at any time.

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. The botanical gardens are great spots to look for the birds of Kauai , as is Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge .

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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Fatal Kauai Helicopter Crash Intensifies Spotlight On Air Tour Industry

A week before the crash, one federal agency criticized another for allowing risky practices and inadequate communication in the Hawaii air tour industry.

An air tour helicopter crash on Kauai last month that killed three people occurred against a backdrop of conflict among regulators and the tour business over how best to assure safety, including a warning about dangerous practices just a week before the accident.

In a July 3 letter, the National Transportation Safety Board warned the Federal Aviation Administration that some local air tour operators and pilots were drifting toward “risky weather-related operating practices” and flying heavily trafficked sightseeing routes without adequate communication.

The NTSB has criticized the FAA for poor oversight of local air tours and delaying reforms after a crash in 2019 killed seven near Kekaha.

Even as that dispute has played out, the importance of the FAA’s oversight of the air tour business became clearer. A week after the July 11 Kauai crash, recently enacted state legislation requiring more monitoring of air tours by the state Department of Transportation was struck down in the U.S. District Court in Hawaii.

An industry-funded lawsuit successfully argued the FAA had preemptive authority, reinforcing its central role in regulating Hawaii air tours.

The Kauai crash may also raise new questions about the type of helicopter that went down. The Robinson R44 model has been the subject of safety concerns and has a long history of accidents, including mid-air breakups during turbulence.

From 2006 to 2016, the R44 had the highest fatal accident rate among all major helicopter makes, according to the NTSB’s accident database.

The three fatalities on the copter operated by Alii Kauai Air Tours brought the total killed in Hawaii air tour accidents since 2000 to 48.

The letter, from NTSB chair Jennifer Homendy to FAA administrator Michael Whittaker, was the latest NTSB criticism following a fatal crash in 2019 in Kekaha.

That accident five years ago was the result of the pilot’s decision to continue flying in deteriorating weather before losing visibility and crashing into a hillside, the NTSB found. Gaps in communication infrastructure and a lack of safety management at the company, Safari Helicopters, contributed to disaster, the board said. 

During that investigation, NTSB investigators heard testimony about a local culture of “pushing the weather.”

“The biggest thing that we fight here is that old cultural mindset of ‘get it done, just go,’” said Eric Hamp, operations manager from Blue Hawaiian Helicopters.

Homendy’s July 3 letter said the NTSB remains “concerned that there may be a tendency among some companies or individual pilots to develop norms for accepting increasing weather-related risks – until they encounter a situation from which they cannot safely escape.” 

Hawaii operators contacted in the past few weeks pushed back on the idea that there was pressure on the pilots to keep flying no matter what. 

“Pilots get to make the call on weather,” said Casey Riemer from Jack Harter Helicopters. “We will not pressure them, but we will make them justify their decision.”

Curtis Lofstedt from Island Helicopters on Kauai also said his pilots get to decide if conditions are safe to continue flying. 

The owner of Alii Kauai Air Tours, William Zeffiro, declined to comment.

But while the industry presents itself as an effective steward of flight safety standards, observers remain concerned – among them Sen. Brian Schatz, who sits on the congressional committee with oversight of the FAA.

“We clearly have a problem in the state of Hawaii, and people are dying,” he said in an interview.

Rapid Ascent From Waimea Canyon

There were 80 air tour landings per day at Lihue Airport in 2023 — more than half of all landings at the airport and 40% of all the air tour traffic in the state.

Riemer from Jack Harter Helicopters said that nine operators are flying 30 helicopters around Kauai, fewer than 30 years ago. Most of these aircraft are carrying at least two passengers paying a minimum $250 a flight, although most tour options cost more.

Alii Kauai Air Tours promotes its use of Robinson R44 helicopters for its “private and personalized tours” with a maximum of three passengers, including in “doors-off” configuration meant to ensure all-round visibility.

Guy Croydon, a licensed flight instructor, had already piloted the 2009 R44 registered N144KW on three earlier flights along the same route July 11, according to data from the flight tracking website Flightradar24 .

The site uses a number of sources to monitor aviation traffic, including radio signals generated from a transponder on the aircraft picked up by computerized tracking stations — a system called Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast or ADS-B .

The ADS-B data from N144KW show it followed a path used by most local operators on a one-hour sightseeing tour that takes in Waimea Canyon and tracks along the Na Pali Coast before a return leg tracks through the Waialeale Crater — the location of a fatal crash in 2003 involving a Jack Harter helicopter.

The 9-mile stretch of the route from Honopu to Haena on Kauai's north coast is a known blackout zone for radio, radar, ADS-B coverage and cell reception.

But enough data was captured to show that on its final flight, N144KW behaved differently than on earlier flights of the day about 18 minutes after takeoff.

The deviation occurred at 12.50 p.m. as Croydon began the climb out of the Waimea Canyon with his two mainland passengers, James and Amy Quintua from Kentucky.

At 12:50:37 , the helicopter abruptly ascended for 25 seconds as Croydon tried to clear the rim of the Waimea Canyon. The helicopter ascended at a rate of 1,273 feet-per-minute -- more than double the rate the helicopter flew earlier that day at the same location, the helicopter's ADS-B data shows.

That rate of climb is well above Robinson's published factory specifications .

A replay of the flight available on Flightradar24 shows Croydon struggling to maintain level flight in that segment. That half-minute was, at the very least, inconsistent with controlled comfortable flying. Croydon had reduced his air speed when he entered the Waimea Canyon the data shows, which Robinson's own manual advises pilots flying R44s to do if they encounter turbulence.

N144KW eventually cleared the western rim by 160 feet before abruptly descending by 700 feet-per-minute. The helicopter and its occupants then went through a five-minute period of turbulence before its ADS-B signal was lost at 12:55 p.m. over the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve.

About five minutes later, hikers on the coastal Kalalau Trail felt a "huge" and sudden gust of wind blow over them, they told NTSB investigators. A loud “bang” followed and they turned and “saw the helicopter wreckage free falling into the ocean in two sections, a main fuselage section, and the tail boom section” about a quarter-mile offshore.

The lack of cell tower coverage on that part of the coast meant it was something of a miracle that the text message the hikers sent reached Kauai’s police dispatch at 1:20 p.m. Two ocean safety officers on jet skis who reached the location in about 20 minutes reported an oil slick and recovered the body of Amy Quintua. Kauai's fire and police chiefs acknowledged that communication issues delayed news of the accident and the recovery effort.

The NTSB will determine what role weather played in the accident but its preliminary report mentioned a strong pressure gradient off Kauai’s north shore and gusting easterly winds.

The National Weather Service has confirmed there were also two aviation weather warnings – AIRMETS – in effect for the area July 11. AIRMET Sierra indicated lower cloud ceilings, reduced visibility and "extensive mountain obscuration" and AIRMET Tango warned of surface winds up to 30 mph and low-level turbulence on the lee of mountains due to the strong trade winds.

Both weather warnings take on more significance when considering the helicopter’s rapid ascent out of the valley, the model's safety record and the manufacturer's own warning to avoid flying in turbulence and when surface wind speeds exceed 28 mph.

'Mast Bumping' And Mid-Air Breakups

Robinson R44s like N144KW are relatively affordable helicopters in widespread use, “a proven product” according to Chuck Street, the western U.S. representative of the industry lobby group, Vertical Air International.

"There's a lot of them out there, and a lot of successful missions and operations, so I think we have to wait and see what the NTSB has to say about that incident," Street said.

At least 10 other R44s continue operating in Hawaii as of Aug. 1, according to FAA registration data .

But the R44 also has a well-documented history of accidents that are linked to its tendency for “mast bumping.” 

Mast bumping or rocking in Robinson R44s has been linked to multiple accidents including mid-air breakups , particularly in low-gravity conditions. These most often occur during turbulence, especially if the pilot makes abrupt or severe changes to the controls. 

Under those conditions, the Robinson’s two-bladed main rotor can seesaw on its tall mast, producing excessive vibrations and, in the worst cases, striking the cabin or tail assembly, case studies show. The NTSB has reported that was likely the cause of another deadly R-44 crash near Bluestem, Washington, less than a month before the Kauai accident.

The 2009 crash landing of an R44 in Alaska brought the issue to a head in the United States and led the NTSB to call on Robinson to track the frequency of mast bumping incidents, alert service centers to the issue and actively look for an engineering solution.

Robinson issued its own safety notice about the dangers of flying its R44 models in high winds especially on the “downwind side of hills, ridges, or tall buildings where turbulence will likely be most severe,” and addresses the problem in its own training materials.

The company has also made design modifications, and last year released an after-market horizontal stabilizer for the tail section of the R44 to address a dangerous tendency for the helicopter to roll right during mast-bumping events.  

A New Tool: Weather Video

One significant safety development has occurred in Hawaii’s air space since the last fatal accident in 2019 -- remote cameras.  

In theory, Croydon would have been able to review near-realtime video images of some of the route transmitted from remote FAA weather cameras sited at Makaha Ridge and Princeville. 

The camera stations transmit images from four different compass points as well as limited textual weather data like wind speed and temperature. The Makaha Ridge station is 6 miles from the reported crash site and in theory, may have captured footage of the incident that is only available to the public for six hours before the files are written over. A Freedom of Information request by Civil Beat for archived footage is pending.

The FAA began installing a network of the cameras across the state in 2022. There are now 21 and another five will be installed on Kauai, the Big Island, Maui and Molokai. The FAA did not confirm the exact locations.

The cameras have been operating in Alaska for more than a decade but for funding and other reasons took much longer to arrive in Hawaii. The NTSB investigation partly blamed the 2019 Safari Aviation accident that killed seven on the delayed implementation of the weather camera program by the FAA. 

Riemer from Jack Harter Helicopters agrees that the 2019 accident would likely have been prevented if the system had been available, describing it as “the biggest advance in aviation safety that I have seen in my 35 years of involvement with the helicopter industry in Hawaii.”

Then why didn’t the new system help prevent the accident on July 11? 

Lefsted from Island Helicopters said that the four weather cams on Kauai do help pre-flight decision-making, but his company relies on a range of information sources.

The FAA also advises that the images need to be used alongside other weather data, and the camera feeds are on a 10-minute delay so might not be showing rapid weather changes, for example.

It’s not known if Croydon checked weather cam footage as he decided whether to proceed with the 12:30 p.m. tour. But neither camera would have given any indication of the issues in the AIRMET warnings or the conditions in Waimea Canyon where data indicates they encountered turbulence.

The decision to go came down to a judgment call during a few minutes on the Lihue tarmac -- the kind of decision air tour operators in Hawaii continue to make every day. 

What About Safety Culture?

The July 11 accident occurred a week before the U.S. District Court in Hawaii quashed state legislation that would have given the state Department of Transportation additional oversight of air tours. 

A spate of helicopter accidents -- including three in 2019 -- led to calls for more scrutiny of the helicopter flights. Act 311, signed into law in 2022, required operators to file monthly reports on their takeoffs and landings, passenger loads, routes and route variations.  

But in a July 22 decision, Magistrate Judge Kenneth Mansfield placed a permanent injunction on the law , finding that the federal regulatory authority of the FAA legally preempts regulation on the state level.

The industry lobby group Vertical Air International brought the suit because it said it did not want to see a “hodgepodge of very different kinds of requirements across the United States,” Street said. A total of 10 helicopter companies, including Safari Helicopters from the 2019 Kekaha crash, put money into the action, according to Riemer. 

“Some helicopter companies take safety seriously and proactively worked to improve it," said state Sen. Chris Lee, who co-sponsored the original legislation.

"But it’s very telling when other bad actors would rather go to court to stop any real discussion about how to keep people safe. It’s absolutely terrible, but I’m honestly not surprised there are another three dead people on Kauai.”

The injunction also puts the spotlight back on the FAA’s ability to effectively monitor the local industry, an issue that the NTSB letter of July 3 addresses.

“We continue to believe that the FAA needs to develop innovative strategies for conducting operational oversight of air tour operations to reduce procedural drift toward risky weather-related operating practices,” the letter states.

That could include regular FAA review of video recorded onboard and flight-tracking data to detect trends in weather-related operating practices, including flight path deviations, the NTSB said. The NTSB has been pushing for an expansion of ADS-B technology here as one of its key safety recommendations.

But that additional review would further stretch the resources of the FAA's Flight Standards District Office in Honolulu. The office has been historically underfunded and understaffed and was at the center of a whistleblower scandal in 2020 over alleged misconduct by its managers. That led to an investigation by the Office of Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Transportation that still hasn’t been resolved.

The FAA recently wrote to the NTSB that it has increased the number of aviation safety inspectors in Hawaii to 15 after allowing them to reside anywhere in the state to help with retention. The FAA, however, would not provide a list of staff at the Honolulu Flight Standards District Office. Civil Beat has filed a FOIA request.

Issues in the office were supposed to be addressed as part of the FAA’s congressional reauthorization in May, said Schatz, who sits on the  Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. But before they would support that bill, Republican members including Ted Cruz knocked out everything that wasn’t sufficiently pro-industry, he said.

“The industry won this round, just to be blunt," Schatz said.

Other measures that largely align with NTSB’s recommendations for the local industry are contained in another bill Schatz hasn’t been able to enact yet. He said the issues in the industry can’t be addressed through the FAA or rule-making, but require new statutory standards. 

After the developments of last month, operators and industry voices like Street and Riemer are rallying behind one new mandate included in the FAA reauthorization intended to encourage a culture of safety in local helicopter companies.

Operators are now required to create a Safety Management System -- essentially policies and procedures that assess and manage organizational risk. The FAA will be responsible for reviewing the policies, which must be completed within the next three years. 

"Anything that helps improve safety is good," Lofstedt said.

But critics say those policies are a low bar and are best suited for larger operations like airlines with layers of staff and multiple departments. Riemer says most operators will be able to comply by modifying existing software and training packages .

Acknowledging the renewed scrutiny on the local industry, Vertical Air International has convened a safety conference in Honolulu in September to "boost air tour safety” and help operators comply with the FAA's safety management system mandate. 

Thursday: Tour companies are fighting efforts to restrict flights over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 

Read the July 3 NTSB letter in full.

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About the Author

Matthew Leonard is a senior reporter for Civil Beat, focusing on data journalism. He has worked in media and cultural organizations in both hemispheres since 1988. Follow him on Twitter at @mleonardmedia or email [email protected] .

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