Kauai: Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopters
Kauai, USA
Kauai: Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopters
Recommended by 98% of travelers
Kauai, USA
- 1 hour (approx.)
- Flight time: 50 minutes
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Overview
Get those drone views of Hawaii’s “Garden Isle”—but get them yourself, in an open-door helicopter. With no rear middle seats, you and your crew will take to the skies for nearly an hour, flying above lush canyons, wild cliffs, and the wettest spot on Earth. Led by a trained firefighting pilot, you’ll get a fast-paced-yet-awe-inducing adventure, and you’ll nab some of the most gorgeous views on the planet.
- Fly above Kauai with a trained pilot at the helm
- See waterfalls from Jurassic Park, the Na Pali Coast, and more exquisite sights
- Get open-door access to the island's best views
- Limited to 4 guests, you'll get an intimate flight experience
What's Included
Meeting and Pickup
Itinerary
Additional Info
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.9
based on 2,023 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
dzhvmr6rg5, Apr 2026
My sister and I did this right after landing in Kauai and I told her after we were done that we could turn right around and go home and the trip would be worth it. Incredible. No words to describe. Adrenaline pumping awesomeness.
Ansh_B, Apr 2026
Great experience, very thrillingm bring a jacket! I had a great time and was able to see everything but hard to take everything in.
Charlene_S, Mar 2026
The staff are amazing, super friendly and professional. Our hearts go it to those affected by the crash.
Gregory_B, Mar 2026
An absolutely incredible experience and a must-do! The tour company was beyond accommodating. Our cruise ship was delayed by about three hours, but they were still able to fit me onto a later flight without any hassle. Top-notch service and breathtaking views!
Cari_J, Mar 2026
One of the most incredible experiences I've ever had! Everyone was amazing and chill. Made us feel safe and comfortable and I cant believe all we saw.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for sharing such an awesome review! We’re thrilled to hear the experience ranked among the most incredible you’ve ever had. Our team works hard to keep things relaxed, fun, and safe, so it means a lot to know you felt comfortable from start to finish. And those views really are unbelievable from the air.
We loved having you fly with us and hope to welcome you back for another adventure someday!
Arjita_G, Mar 2026
Very safe and smooth glide. Extremely efficient and knowledgeable pilot.
It was our first helicopter tour, so, we were little scared, but it was just awesome!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for sharing your experience with us! We’re so glad to hear that your first helicopter tour felt safe, smooth, and enjoyable. It’s completely natural to feel a little nervous before taking off, and it means a lot to know our pilot’s skill and knowledge helped put you at ease.
Thank you for flying with us — we’re thrilled you had an awesome time and hope to welcome you back for more Kauai views from above!
Ceir_C, Mar 2026
I’m sure it would’ve been a blast, but weather canceled. The no door experience is great. Will rebook in future
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for your understanding and kindness. Weather can be unpredictable here on Kauai, and safety always comes first, but we know how disappointing it can be when plans change. We’re glad to hear the doors‑off experience is still on your list, and we’d love to welcome you aboard when the skies clear. Looking forward to giving you that unforgettable flight next time you’re here!
Michele_G, Mar 2026
AMAZING!! Would 100# recommend and locking for the next helicopter adventure already! Do it, despite the price, it’s a must-do!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such an AMAZING adventure with us. It’s great to know our team helped make your experience unforgettable, and we love that you’re already looking forward to your next helicopter tour.
Thank you for the enthusiastic recommendation — we agree, it’s absolutely a must‑do when visiting Kaua‘i. We truly appreciate you choosing to fly with us and can’t wait to welcome you back for another adventure.
Dave_W, Mar 2026
Absolutely amazing experience! Friendly staff, excellent pilot, stunning views of the island. Lots of great information about the area and history of Kawai. 10 out of 10 would highly recommend!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the amazing review! We’re thrilled to hear this was the best experience ever for you. Our team works hard to provide friendly service, skilled piloting, and unforgettable views of Kaua‘i, so it’s wonderful to know everything came together to make your flight so special.
We’re also glad you enjoyed learning about the island’s history and unique landscapes — sharing that knowledge is one of our favorite parts of the job.
Thank you for the 10/10 recommendation. We truly appreciate you choosing to fly with us and hope to welcome you back on a future visit to Kaua‘i.
Douglas_W, Mar 2026
An exciting open air tour of the most beautiful parts of Kauai. Not for the faint of heart though, you really feel the rush from the prop. We had a radio sound issue which made it difficult to understand the pilot as he gave us the tour. Our friends in the other chopper did not experience this. It was a tight fit in the front of the Huey compared to other doors on trips I've done.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for flying with us, Douglas, and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re glad you enjoyed the open‑air adventure and the incredible views of Kaua‘i — it’s definitely a thrilling way to see the island.
We appreciate you mentioning the radio issue as well. Clear communication is an important part of the tour, and feedback like yours helps us identify and correct anything that may impact the experience. We’re also sorry to hear the front seat felt tighter than expected; the Hughes 500 has a compact design that enhances visibility and maneuverability, but we understand it can feel snug for some guests.
It’s great to hear your friends had a smooth flight in the other aircraft, and we’re happy you all got to enjoy the tour together. Mahalo again for choosing us for your Kaua‘i adventure — we hope to welcome you back for another flight in the future.
Sienna_W, Mar 2026
Highly recommended. Beautiful views. Honestly once in a lifetime. Everyone was extremely professional. Brian was a great pilot. We had a great time.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation. We’re thrilled to hear that the views felt like a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience and that our team helped make your flight memorable. Brian will be delighted to know he made such a positive impression.
We’re grateful you chose to fly with us and are so glad you had a great time exploring Kauai from the sky.
Venkatasubramanian_K, Mar 2026
Excellent customer service, Stunning views, worth experiencing this! Would highly recommend this!! Don't miss it!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the stunning views and felt well taken care of by our team. Creating an unforgettable experience for our guests is what we strive for every day, and it means a lot to know it was worth it for you.
We truly appreciate the recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another incredible flight over Kauai.
Deborah_T, Mar 2026
Because of heavy rain, our flight was canceled & we were told that we would get a full refund in the next few days
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your understanding. Safety is always our top priority, and with the heavy rain that day, flying simply wouldn’t have been safe or enjoyable. We appreciate your patience and are glad Viator was able to process your full refund.
We hope you’ll consider joining us again when the weather is clear — Kauai is absolutely breathtaking from the air, and we’d love the chance to share that experience with you.
Tyriq_B, Mar 2026
Bret was so amazing thank you for a very memorable and experience me and my wife will never forget!!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the fantastic review! We’re so glad to hear you and your wife had such a memorable experience. Bret will be thrilled to know he helped make your flight unforgettable — moments like these are exactly why we love what we do.
Thank you for the 10/10 recommendation and for choosing to fly with us!
Michael_O, Mar 2026
An amazing experience, the views are out of this world! This was my first time in a chopper and although a bit scarey at first, but I always felt safe as pilot Adam did a great job. The astonishing views are breathtaking, it was definitely worth the money!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the wonderful review! We’re so glad your first helicopter experience turned into such an unforgettable adventure. Those out‑of‑this‑world views of Kauai are truly something special, and it’s great to hear that Adam helped you feel safe and comfortable from the very beginning.
The breathtaking scenery is worth every moment in the air, and we’re thrilled you felt it was worth the money. Thank you for choosing to fly with us and for sharing your experience!
Jordan_M, Mar 2026
Me and my 10-year-old son had an amazing experience. After the 15 minute safety briefing, they ushered us out to the helicopter where our pilot Adam took us on an amazing experience of a ride. It is truly the only way to see some of the features of this island in a way that you could never experience it otherwise. My son even said that Adam the pilot was one of the top 10 people on earth!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the spectacular review! We’re so glad you and your son had such an amazing experience — sharing a doors‑off helicopter tour together is something truly unforgettable. After the safety briefing, it’s always exciting to head out to the aircraft, and we’re thrilled that Adam made the flight both safe and extraordinary.
Some of Kauai’s most stunning features can only be seen from the air, and it’s wonderful to hear how much you both enjoyed those unique views. Your son’s comment about Adam being “one of the top 10 people on earth” absolutely made our day — he’ll be honored to hear it.
Thank you for choosing to fly with us and for sharing such a special memory!
Skyler_S, Mar 2026
What an amazing time! My wife and I were able to do this tour on a crisp clear morning over beautiful Kauai, and how amazing it was! Seeing the beautiful island and all the water falls from the sky is a must and the Nepali coast is breathtaking! You see so many things you’d never see without it! Our captain was awesome and super informative about the island too!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the amazing review! We’re so glad you and your wife were able to experience Kauai from the air on such a clear, beautiful morning — it truly makes those waterfalls and the Nā Pali Coast even more breathtaking. Seeing places you’d never reach on foot is what makes this tour so special, and it’s wonderful to hear how much you enjoyed it.
Your captain will be thrilled to know their knowledge and commentary added to the experience. Thank you for sharing your excitement and for choosing to fly with us!
John_S, Mar 2026
Go with the doors open! wonderful experience with a great pilot/guide. Great views of the entire island, especially the cliffs and the volcano tube.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the great review! We’re so glad the Scott family enjoyed the doors‑open adventure — it’s truly one of the most exciting ways to experience Kauai. Your pilot will be thrilled to know you loved the views of the island, especially the cliffs and the volcanic features that can only be appreciated from the air.
Thank you for choosing to fly with us and for sharing your experience!
Steve_O, Mar 2026
Kel and I had a great flight. Travis was very courteous and informed of the great sights to see. He gave everyone a spectacular view all the places you can’t get to only by air. I would recommend Airborne Aviation for a wonderful view of the island.
We would recommend wearing more clothes like a sweatshirt and closed toe shoes. Still was not bad and they warned us.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear you and Kel had such a great flight. Travis will be thrilled to know his courtesy, knowledge, and thoughtful flying helped make the experience memorable. Those sights you can only reach by air are truly special, and it means a lot that you enjoyed them with us.
Thank you as well for sharing helpful tips about dressing warm — that breeze is part of the adventure, and we’re always happy when guests feel prepared. We appreciate your recommendation and are grateful you chose Airborne Aviation for your island views!
Nilay_C, Mar 2026
What a wonderful experience! The pilot Brian was not only great at flying the helicopter but he was really enthusiastic about the and quite knowledgeable. He gave plenty of time to photograph these beautiful landscapes. Doesn't matter if you sit on left side or right side. He was turning around to give everyone the best view. Worth the price. Strongly recommend.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a great experience with Brian — he’ll be so glad to know his enthusiasm, knowledge, and thoughtful flying made your tour memorable. Giving everyone time to capture Kauai’s stunning landscapes is something we take pride in, and it’s great to hear you enjoyed the views from every angle.
Thank you for the strong recommendation and for saying it was worth the price. We’re grateful you chose to fly with us!
Daryl_H, Mar 2026
Great fun. So gorgeious. Pilot was excellent, everyone had good views. 60 minutes was enough time to see all the beauty. Loved the open doors (wear a hoodie or something warm).
Fun to actually see first-hand all the sights in the paintings and photos
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the great review! We’re so glad to hear you had such a fun and gorgeous experience. The open‑door views really are something special, and it’s wonderful to know everyone enjoyed excellent visibility throughout the flight.
Thank you as well for sharing helpful tips about dressing warm — that breeze is part of the adventure. It’s always exciting to see Kauai’s iconic sights in person after recognizing them from photos and paintings. We’re thrilled you chose to experience them with us!
Jennifer_C, Mar 2026
It was amazing! Such a beautiful island and an exciting way to see it. Would definitely recommend. Thrilling would also be a great word to describe the experience.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear you had an amazing and thrilling way to experience Kauai’s beauty from above. It’s truly a special perspective, and we’re thrilled it made such an impression. Thank you for the recommendation and for choosing to fly with us — we loved having you on board!
Gaby_L, Mar 2026
Highly recommended! All in one hour,Coast line, Napali beach, waterfalls& rainbow, Waimea canyon, etc. Your trip Kauai is not complete without this helicopter ride.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear you had an amazing all‑in‑one experience — from the coastline and Nā Pali to the waterfalls, rainbows, and Waimea Canyon. Kauai truly shines from the air, and it means a lot that you consider this ride an essential part of any trip to the island. Thank you for the high recommendation and for choosing to fly with us!
Anthony_H, Mar 2026
Best excursion we did, definitely worth every penny! Can't beat the views of all the waterfalls and the coastline.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the fantastic review! We’re thrilled to hear this was the best excursion of your trip and worth every penny. The waterfalls and coastline are truly unbeatable from the air, and we’re so glad you enjoyed those views with us. Thank you for flying with our team and for sharing your experience!
Qi_Z, Mar 2026
This was truly one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had. The entire team was incredibly warm and welcoming from the moment I arrived. Even though I was the only passenger that day, they still honored the flight and made me feel so special and well taken care of — that alone meant a lot.
The flight itself was smooth, safe, and absolutely breathtaking. I felt completely comfortable the whole time, and the views were beyond anything I had imagined. It wasn’t just a helicopter ride — it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
I genuinely believe this is the best helicopter company in Hawaii. Highly, highly recommend!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for sharing such an incredible review! We’re truly honored to hear this was one of the most unforgettable experiences you’ve ever had. Our team will be so touched by your kind words — making every guest feel welcomed, cared for, and valued is exactly what we strive for, whether it’s a full flight or a solo adventure.
We’re thrilled that your pilot and the entire experience helped you feel comfortable, safe, and able to fully enjoy those breathtaking views. Kauai is magical from the air, and it means so much that the flight exceeded your expectations in every way.
Your belief that we’re the best helicopter company in Hawaii is a compliment we don’t take lightly. Thank you for the heartfelt recommendation and for choosing to fly with us — it was a privilege to be part of your journey.
Cherie_K, Mar 2026
This is a must do to see the Island. Best tour we had on our trip. Very friendly staff. Just do it!!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the great review! We’re thrilled to hear this was a must‑do experience and the highlight of your trip. Our team will be so glad to know their friendliness made a positive impression. Thank you for the wonderful recommendation — sometimes you really do just have to go for it!
Ray_D, Feb 2026
Wear a jacket and dress warm. It's cold at higher altitudes.. take lots of pictures it's an amazing experience!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the great review! We’re so glad to hear you had an amazing experience. The doors‑off flight definitely gets chilly at higher altitudes, so your tip about dressing warm is right on the mark. And absolutely — those views are worth every photo. Thanks for flying with us and for sharing your experience!
Blake_L, Feb 2026
Me and my brother decided to do this tour a few months before we arrived for our trip to Kauai. My expectations were high reading all the reviews and others experiences. But our experience EXCEEDED my expectations by a mile. I was pretty nervous to do this, as I've never really done anything this 'extreme' before. Our pilot max was one of the most chill people I've ever met. I felt comfortable and at ease the moment we met him and hopped into the helicopter. He even offered to take a picture of me and my brother in front of the helicopter before we took off. This was for sure the best thing I've done in my lifetime and I'm not exaggerating. The views felt like something out of a movie. If you're worried/ have anxiety about things like this, or if you're worried about the cost... DON'T! Trust me, don't let it hold you back from this. 10/10 would recommend!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for sharing such an incredible review! We’re honored to hear that your flight with us became a true peak‑life experience. It means so much that the tour not only met your expectations but exceeded them by a mile. Max will be thrilled to know he helped you feel comfortable and at ease from the moment you met — he has a real gift for that.
We’re also glad you and your brother were able to capture a special moment together before takeoff. The views of Kauai really do feel like something out of a movie, and it’s wonderful to hear they left such a lasting impression.
Thank you for encouraging others who may feel nervous or unsure — your words will absolutely help future guests feel more confident about taking the leap. We truly appreciate the 10/10 recommendation and are grateful you chose to fly with us.
Lindsey_K, Feb 2026
Maybe not once in your lifetime, but certainly at least once! You won’t regret it. I’m afraid of heights and felt secure after the first 5-10 mins. I’ve been to Kauai a number of times and can’t believe I’ve only just now done this tour- a unique perspective (quite literally) of one of the most gorgeous places in earth. 10/10 must do!
All the helicopter tours got amazing reviews - I’ve only done this one but can confidently say it was a flawless experience! Expect to arrive 45m ahead of your flight time to check in and be weighed. You’ll then have a quick safety briefing and board your helicopter shortly thereafter. Super efficient. Use their email/text to follow directions to their specific helipad (there are a few clustered together at the Lihue Airport). Once you’re done, you’re free to go- but highly encourage you to factor in a tip for your pilot, ours did an incredible job!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the incredible review! We’re thrilled to hear this was a 10/10 experience and that even with a fear of heights, you felt secure and able to fully enjoy the flight. Seeing Kauai from this perspective is truly something special, and it means a lot that you chose to experience it with us after so many visits to the island.
We appreciate you highlighting the smooth check‑in process and the helpful details about arrival time, directions, and tipping — those insights are so valuable for future guests. Our team, from the ground crew to your pilot, will be delighted to know they helped make your tour flawless.
Thank you again for flying with us and for the wonderful recommendation. We hope to welcome you back on your next Kauai adventure!
Gina_K, Feb 2026
Kate was a fantastic pilot. Our flight with her is something we will be talking about for a long time. I can't recommend Airborne Aviation enough!!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the fantastic review! We’re thrilled to hear that Kate made your flight such a memorable experience. She’ll be delighted to know her skill and hospitality left such a lasting impression. Thank you for the wonderful recommendation and for choosing to fly with Airborne Aviation — we’re honored to be part of a moment you’ll be talking about for years to come!
Attractions in Kauai, USA
- Kalalau Lookout Tours & Tickets
- Fern Grotto Tours & Tickets
- Niihau Tours & Tickets
- Makua Beach (Tunnels Beach) Tours & Tickets
- Pā'ula'ula State Historical Park (Russian Fort Elizabeth) Tours & Tickets
- Anini Beach Tours & Tickets
- Lihue Tours & Tickets
- Mt. Waialeale Tours & Tickets
- Opaekaa Falls Tours & Tickets
- Huleia National Wildlife Refuge Tours & Tickets
- Polihale State Park Tours & Tickets
- Hanalei Bay Tours & Tickets
- Waimea Canyon Tours & Tickets
- Na Pali Coast Tours & Tickets