Helicopter Tours in Kauai

• Sights
• Restaurants
• Hotels
• Entertainment
• Shopping
• Activities
• Travel Tips
• Features

Helicopter Tours

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. The newest helicopter company to the island is not new to Hawaii, having flown for 20 years on Maui and the Big Island. They are the only company on Kauai flying the latest in helicopter technology, the Eco-Star, costing $1.8 million. It has 23% more interior space for its six passengers, has unparalleled viewing, and offers a few extra safety features none of the other helicopters on the island has. As the name implies, the helicopter is a bit more environmentally friendly, with a 50% noise-reduction rate. Their flights run a tad shorter than others (approximately 50 minutes instead of the 55 to 65 minutes that others tout), although the flight feels very complete. The rate is $232. A DVD of your actual tour is available for an additional $25. [. Harbor Mall in Nawiliwili, Lihue. 808/245-5800 or 800/745-2583. www.bluehawaiian.com

Inter-Island Helicopters. This company flies four-seater Hughes 500 helicopters with the doors off. It can get chilly at higher elevations, so bring a sweater and wear long pants. They offer a spectacular tour that includes landing by a waterfall for a picnic and swim. Tours depart from Hanapepe's Port Allen Airport. Prices range from $189 to $280 per person. [. From Rte. 50, turn makai onto Rte. 543 in Hanapepe. 808/335-5009 or 800/656-5009. www.interislandhelicopters.com

Safari Helicopters. This company flies the "Super" ASTAR helicopter, which offers floor-to-ceiling windows on its doors, four roof windows, and Bose X-Generation headphones. Two-way microphones allow passengers to converse with the pilot. The price is $213; a DVD is $28 extra. [. 3225 Akahi St., Lihue. 808/246-0136 or 800/326-3356. www.safariair.com

Will Squyres Helicopter Tours. The majority of this company's pilots were born and raised in Hawaii, making them excellent tour guides. Will Squyres removed its two-way microphones, eliminating the possibility of one passenger hogging the airwaves. Prices start at $189. [. 3222 Kuhio Hwy., Lihue. 808/245-8881 or 888/245-4354. www.helicopters-hawaii.com