Taking Flight Over Kauai's Coasts: A Wild, Wicked Helicopter Ride
Aerial Expedition Over Na Pali Coast through Kauai Helicopter Flights (Doors Removed!)
Itching for an adrenaline rush? Hop aboard a breathtaking helicopter tour of Kauai's stunning Na Pali coastline and prepare for an epic aerial photography adventure!
If you aren't aware, I've had a lifelong obsession with helicopters. As a kid, I dreamt of becoming a helicopter pilot (still might, dang it).
During our recent exploration of the Hawaiian gem that is Kauai, I just couldn't resist the chance to glide over the island's famous Na Pali coastline in a chopper!
Soaring above the clouds, hovering over expansive landscapes, and capable of landing almost anywhere - helicopters remain among the coolest rides on the planet.
Lofty flights can be pricy, but there are certain destinations worth every penny, such as the Grand Canyon, NYC, and Cape Town. Now, add Kauai's Na Pali coast to that list.
Now, let's buckle up for the ride of a lifetime with a no-doors helicopter tour!
Helicopter Riding Rules with a Kick
Guide to Riding the Skies of Kauai
- Helicopter Hooligan: A Doorless Wicked Ride
- Jack Harter Helicopters Doors-Off Tour: A 60-minute tour filled with awe-inspiring vistas. Don't be concerned, as Mauna Loa Helicopters offers the same! Hey, #photogs - no glass to hinder your shots here.
- Mauna Loa Helicopters Doors-On Tour: A calmer, more relaxed alternative, offering nice Waimea Canyon and Na Pali Coast highlights. BOOK IT HERE
- Cloud Hopping on a Tight Budget
- Na Pali Sightseeing Airplane Flight: An affordable, airborne option to enjoy the Na Pali coast for under $200 (half the cost of a helicopter)! BOOK IT HERE
- Longer Flights, Short Flight Time
- An hour may sound excessive, but those minutes will fly by as you enjoy this exhilarating adventure!
Waimea Canyon: Pacific's Grand Ole' Canyon
Post takeoff from Lihue Airport, we embarked on our Kauai helicopter escapade into the Waimea Canyon, aka the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Thanks, Mark Twain!
The canyon stretches a mind-blowing 14 miles and a mile wide, with rugged cliffs colored in fiery reds, oranges, and verdant greens. This natural wonder runs along the entire western edge of the island, boasting 45 miles of hiking trails.
The crown jewel? Waipo'o Waterfall, a staggering 800-foot cascade of water. Most tours make two passes to ensure everyone gets a picturesque view.
➜ Check Out My Waimea Canyon Travel Guide
Waterfalls Galore and More
When it comes to waterfalls on Kauai, there's no shortage. From the ground, only a select few can be explored. But from a lofty vantage, that's when you truly appreciate the island's watery wonders.
Our helicopter tour carried us over Hanapepe Valley, home of the popular Jurassic Park waterfall, a 400-foot wonder named Manawaiopuna Falls.
Throughout the flight, we sensed a torrential deluge cascading into every nook and cranny we passed!
Na Pali Coastline: A Coast Like No Other
The highlight of our aerial adventure came next as we approached Kauai's breathtaking Na Pali Coast State Park. Often considered the ultimate part of the Hawaiian archipelago, Na Pali (meaning "the cliffs") displays lush green cliffs, jagged mountain peaks, and pristine white sand beaches.
Clear turquoise waters line the shoreline, making you feel like you've stepped into a postcard-perfect paradise.
Keep a keen eye out for "Cathedrals," a series of knife-edge ridges that make for an unforgettable sight.
This is also the area where the Kalalau Trail resides, a challenging 2-3 day hiking and camping trail along the coastline.
Mount Wai'ale'ale's Weeping Wall
Our tour concluded with a journey towards the rainy Hanalei Valley and the Mount Wai'ale'ale Volcano, one of the wettest spots on earth.
Upon the summit of Wai'ale'ale, the volcano is visible for only about 20 days a year. We flew below the clouds, into the rain, and right up close to the "Weeping Wall" for a truly icy experience!
If you're seeking a difficult hike in Kauai, give the Blue Hole Hike a shot, also known as the hike to the Weeping Wall. It's a challenging full-day trek in wet weather.
Capturing Kauai's Aloha from Above
Helicopter photography is a unique and exhilarating challenge that requires some planning. Here are some tips to help you capture rad images:
Snap Happy, Buddy!
Shoot as many photos as possible, taking advantage of rapid fire mode. Helicopter tours can move quickly, so work swiftly and shoot like crazy! Don't forget to bring a second battery and a fast memory card with plenty of storage.
Avoid Blurry Shots
Set your shutter speed to 1/1200 (or higher) to ensure your pictures aren't blurry. Auto ISO is helpful for adjustments on the fly.
Polarizers and Lens Hoods
If you're flying with the doors on, a polarizing filter and lens hood can help reduce glare and unwanted reflections caused by the helicopter's windows.
The Right Camera Gear
If you have two camera bodies, bring them both, or consider renting an additional one from LensRentals.com. Use one equipped with a wide-angle lens (16-35mm) and another with a telephoto zoom (70-200mm). If you can only bring one camera and lens combo, opt for something in the middle, like a 24-70mm.
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Traveling the world for more than 10 years as a professional photographer and writer, I've earned my stripes as an experienced guide. I hope my Kauai travel tips strike a chord and boost your wanderlust! Using my affiliate links will provide me with a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks a bunch!
About The Author
- Embracing the island's diverse beauty, a travel enthusiast embarks on an exciting adventure that includes a helicopter ride along Kauai's famous Na Pali coastline. This exhilarating journey delves into spectacular waterfalls, lush landscapes, and awe-inspiring cliffs. (lifestyle, travel)
- Balancing adrenaline-fueled sports with relaxation, the author recommends adding a doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai's Na Pali coast to the list of must-see sights around the world, joining the ranks of iconic locations like the Grand Canyon and Cape Town. (sports)
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