A view of Kauai from above is something to be experienced at least once in a lifetime. Only twenty percent of the island can be explored by car, yet there are boundless interior areas of Kauai accessible in other ways. Helicopter tours in Kauai are one of the most popular things to do when visiting. Though it can be an expensive activity to pursue, helicopter tours of Kauai are well worth the cost, as the dramatic and rugged landscape can only truly be seen by air. An abundance of hidden coves, lush forest canopies, secluded beaches, and plenty of other incredible attractions are visible during a flight. The brilliance in color is a noticeable attribute, as is the tranquility more evident here than on the other Hawaiian islands.

Kauai helicopter tours can be costly but there are ways to save money. Several tour companies offer discounts on tours if you book a certain number of activities solely through them. Rainforest hiking, zip lining, ATV tours, and horseback riding are a few of the options available when booking activities in a bundle. Another way to save when taking helicopter tours in Kauai is by planning your trip through Kauai vacation packages. By combining Kauai hotels with rental cars, flights, and activities, visitors can save quite a bit. Outside of peak tourist seasons such as the winter months is another great time to plan a flight tour of Kauai.

Avoiding the months between December and March can make quite a difference in the total cost of a tour. When at any of the airports in Kauai, be sure to check the local papers and complimentary Kauai guidebooks as they often include coupons for helicopter tours of Kauai. Tourists can also find coupons for in-flight videos of their tour, which reduces the cost of this special souvenir significantly. Sometimes during special events on the island, companies will offer deals to attract more clients.

Kauai Map

Helicopter tours of Kauai have much of the same itinerary from company to company though the exact flight plan may differ. There are many magnificent sights to see during helicopter tours in Kauai, and it's these attractions that make a trip worth every penny. To avoid being overwhelmed by the very loud hum of the engine passengers are given headsets, which cuts out the noise and allows you to focus on sightseeing.

One of the most magnificent sights during Kauai helicopter tours is the legendary and stunning Na Pali Coast. This coastline is one of the most popular attractions in Kauai and one of the island's most stunning features. Hugging the island along the northwest shore, the Na Pali Coast is accessible by foot and by Na Pali Coast boat tours, zodiac rafts, and catamarans, but the unique perspective is by helicopter. The rugged coast, with all its cliffs and crags carved by time, is a spectacular sight that can also be reached by hiking the Kalalau Trail to Hanakapi'ai for a more in-depth exploration of this rare area.

Waimea Canyon is another famous Kauai landmark offering incredible views when seen from above. It is the largest of all canyons in the Pacific. More than ten miles long and about a mile wide, the canyon plunges sharply, topped by lush, green foliage. Thousands of years ago, Waimea was chiseled out by floods and rivers flowing from Mount Waialeale's crest, with lava flows and volcanic eruptions creating deeply etched lines into all sides. Though there are several lookouts offering great canyon views, the best view is from the sky during Kauai helicopter tours.

With most helicopter tours departing from Lihue Airport, many passengers also get a good look at Wailua Falls, just north of the departure point. Mount Waialeale Crater is another attraction seen during helicopter tours, as are Hanalei Valley and renowned Lumahai Beach. Towering mountains, cathedral cliffs, vibrant valleys, ancient terraces, and caves are all part and parcel of a tour. Most helicopter tours of Kauai are roughly 50 to 60 minutes in length. Some include transportation from Kauai hotels to and from the airport, and some even provide a meal. When researching flight options, be sure to note what's included before comparing rates. And when you're up in the air, have your camera ready because you'll be rewarded by one picturesque view after another.