To get magnificent panoramic views of the ruffled edges of the cliffs of the Na Pali Coast you can arrange for a helicopter ride along the cliffs. On these trips you'll also see close-ups of spectacular waterfalls and all the nicks and crannies. Most helicopter companies operate out of the town in Lihue, and all have top-notch reputations for safety.

On the helicopters, earphones are provided to cut the aircraft noise; instead, you listen to stirring music as a background to the pilot's narration. Most flights are 45 minutes to an hour and a half -- across vistas the average visitor will never see.