Up in the Air
There are more tourist helicopters flying around Kauai than probably any other place you'll ever be. The flights can be truly amazing and typically feature the dramatic scenery of Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast. The helicopters can show you wonderful things that you won't see any other way, including hidden waterfalls and canyons. You'll be wearing headphones to block out the noise, and many pilots fly with a soundtrack to match the views. Some will even videotape your flight for a unique souvenir.
How do you choose which helicopter company to go with? They all claim to be really good, of course, so it might be best to peruse their Web sites and see which one sounds most appealing to you.
Air Kauai www.airkauai.com
Bali Hai Helicopter Tours www.flybalihai.com
Island Helicopters www.islandhelicopters.com
Jack Harter Helicopters www.helicopters-kauai.com
Heli USA www.heliusa.com
Inter-Island Helicopters www.hawaiian.net/~interisland
'Ohana Helicopters www.ohana-helicopters.com
Safari Helicopters www.safariair.com
Will Squyres Helicopter Tours www.helicopters-hawaii.com
TRAVEL TIP
A helicopter tour of Kauai can be a magnificent experience. Those prone to motion sickness, however, might consult with the pilot before signing up. Also, you should be aware that not everybody appreciates the noisy copters, which can disturb an otherwise tranquil or scenic moment as they swoop down through the mountains and across the beaches. Don't be surprised if you see the occasional angry sunbather or hiker shaking a fist from down below.
Some Unusual Flying
In addition to helicopters, you have a few other options to choose from:
Kauai Tropical Bi-Plane: Will fly you around in the old style. tropical.biplanes@verizon.net
Birds in Paradise: Takes you flying in microlight motorized hang-gliders. Go for an introductory lesson or take some major schooling as you fly over Kauai's dramatic landscape. birds@birdsinparadise.com
