Helicopter Ride Over Kauai

One of the best (and only) ways to see Kauai is by helicopter since over 70%(!) of the island is inaccessible by car. Kauai is the oldest of the Hawaiian islands and has the most diverse terrain. After researching various helicopter tour companies, I decided to go with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. They’ve received lots of accolades and seemed to have the best reputation for service, experience, and safety.

B and I were fortunate enough to be seated in the front of the helicopter with the pilot. By far, the best seat in the house with open views in all directions (unlike the back row seats). FYI – you can’t reserve the front seats. The seats are assigned by the computer based on weight, and you’re more likely to sit in the front if you’re lighter.

Our ride

This is river where Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark was filmed. Many movies are filmed in Kauai, the most famous being Jurassic Park.

Waimea Canyon, ‘the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”

Picture-perfect mirror lake in the middle of a forest

Cascading waterfalls

The jagged Napali Coast (western side of the island), makes me think of folds of molten chocolate.

I especially loved flying through the narrow valleys.

The most amazing part of the flight – flying into the middle of the island and being completely surrounded by waterfalls. Our pilot performed a smooth 360 turn so we had a total panoramic view of all the falls. With almost 800 inches of rain each year, this is the wettest spot in the world!
The helicopter ride was spectacular and well-worth the $200/person. [Tip: Book online to save 10%.] I would highly recommend Blue Hawaiian Helicopters…the staff was professional, the helicopters looked new and felt safe, and the experience was mesmerizing.

BITE METER: Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – 4.5 bites (out of 5)