Helicopter tours in Lihue offer an unparalleled aerial experience of Kauai’s stunning landscapes. With options from Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Island Helicopters, and Jack Harter Helicopters, visitors can explore the island’s hidden wonders from above. These tours showcase Kauai’s diverse terrain, including the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Manawaiopuna Falls, providing a unique perspective of the Garden Isle’s natural beauty.
What Are the Top Helicopter Tour Providers in Lihue?
Lihue boasts several reputable helicopter tour companies, each offering unique experiences:
- Blue Hawaiian Helicopters
- Island Helicopters
- Jack Harter Helicopters
Let’s explore what each of these providers has to offer.
What Does Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Offer?
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters is renowned for its Kauai Eco Adventure Flight. This tour provides:
- Duration: 50 minutes
- Cost: $389 per person (standard seating)
- Capacity: Up to 6 passengers
- Weight Limits: Combined weight under 470 lbs, individual weights under 240 lbs
What Are the Highlights of Blue Hawaiian’s Tour?
The Kauai Eco Adventure Flight showcases:
- Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Park falls)
- Olokele Canyon
- Waimea Canyon
- Na Pali Coast
- Hanalei Bay
- Mt. Wai’ale’ale
Blue Hawaiian also offers a First Class Front Seating option for those seeking an enhanced experience.
What Makes Island Helicopters Unique?
Island Helicopters stands out with two distinct tour options:
- Grand Skies Island Tour
- Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure
What’s Included in the Grand Skies Island Tour?
The Grand Skies Island Tour offers:
- Duration: 50-55 minutes
- Cost: $250 per person
- Capacity: Up to 6 passengers
This tour covers:
- Na Pali Coast
- Hanalei Bay
- Jurassic Falls
- Waimea Canyon
- Mt. Wai’ale’ale’s crater interior
How Does the Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure Differ?
The Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure is a unique offering:
- Duration: 75-80 minutes
- Cost: $404 per person
- Capacity: Up to 6 passengers
This tour includes all the sights of the Grand Skies Island Tour plus an exclusive landing at Jurassic Falls, making it the only tour in Lihue with this feature.
What Options Does Jack Harter Helicopters Provide?
Jack Harter Helicopters offers two distinct experiences:
- Doors-Off Helicopter Tour
- Doors-On Helicopter Tour
Both tours last 60 minutes and accommodate up to 6 passengers. The doors-off option is particularly popular among thrill-seekers and photographers.
How Do These Tours Prioritize Safety?
Safety is paramount for all helicopter tour providers in Lihue:
- Blue Hawaiian Helicopters: Enforces strict weight limits and health guidelines
- Island Helicopters: Boasts over 40 years of expertise
- Jack Harter Helicopters: Brings 60+ years of experience to ensure passenger safety
All companies employ experienced pilots and maintain their aircraft to the highest standards.
What In-Flight Experiences Can Passengers Expect?
Each tour company offers unique in-flight experiences:
Company | Experience Highlights |
---|---|
Blue Hawaiian | Narrated tour with historical and geographical insights |
Island Helicopters | Exclusive Jurassic Falls landing (on select tours) |
Jack Harter | Doors-off option for unobstructed views |
Are Private Helicopter Tours Available in Lihue?
Yes, all three major providers offer private helicopter tours:
- Blue Hawaiian Helicopters:
- Customizable charters
-
Ideal for VIP clientele and special occasions
-
Island Helicopters:
- Private tours for up to 6 passengers
-
Personalized experiences not available in standard tours
-
Jack Harter Helicopters:
- Range of private charter services
- Options for wedding proposals, flower drops, and aerial photography
Pricing for private tours is typically available upon request and can be tailored to specific needs and itineraries.
What Do Customer Reviews Say About Lihue Helicopter Tours?
Customer feedback for helicopter tours in Lihue is overwhelmingly positive:
- Blue Hawaiian Helicopters: 4.91/5 stars based on 91 reviews
- Island Helicopters: Voted #1 in the U.S. by USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2024
- Jack Harter Helicopters: Consistently voted Best Helicopter Tour of Kauai
Common praise includes:
– Breathtaking views
– Knowledgeable pilots
– Professional service
– Unique perspectives of Kauai’s landscape
How Can Visitors Choose the Right Helicopter Tour in Lihue?
When selecting a helicopter tour in Lihue, consider:
- Budget: Tours range from $250 to $404+ per person
- Duration: Options from 50 to 80 minutes
- Specific Interests:
- Doors-on vs. doors-off experience
- Landing options (e.g., Jurassic Falls)
- Seating preferences (standard vs. first-class)
- Physical Requirements: Weight limits and health considerations
- Group Size: Most tours accommodate up to 6 passengers
What Should Passengers Prepare for a Helicopter Tour in Lihue?
To make the most of your helicopter tour:
- Wear dark, solid-colored clothing to reduce glare
- Bring a camera (ensure it’s secured for doors-off flights)
- Consider motion sickness medication if prone to airsickness
- Arrive early for safety briefings and weigh-ins
- Follow all safety instructions provided by the tour operator
Are There Any Seasonal Considerations for Helicopter Tours in Lihue?
While helicopter tours operate year-round, consider:
- Winter (November-April): Potential for more rain but also lush landscapes and waterfalls
- Summer (May-October): Generally clearer skies but less dramatic waterfalls
- Peak Season (June-August, December-February): Book well in advance due to high demand
What Makes Helicopter Tours in Lihue a Must-Do Activity?
Helicopter tours in Lihue offer:
- Access to remote areas inaccessible by land
- Panoramic views of Kauai’s diverse landscapes
- Efficient way to see multiple island highlights in a short time
- Unique photo opportunities
- Knowledgeable narration about Kauai’s history and geography
These tours provide an unparalleled perspective of Kauai’s natural beauty, making them a highlight of many visitors’ trips to the Garden Isle.
Reference:
1. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Kauai Eco Adventure Flight
2. Island Helicopter Tours in Kauai
3. Jack Harter Helicopters | Kauai Helicopter Tours Hawaii