Discover the Helicopter Company That Started It All

When it comes to helicopter tours in Kauaʻi, Jack Harter Helicopters is a name that has stood the test of time. As one of the island’s pioneers in aerial sightseeing since 1962, Jack Harter helped introduce generations of travelers to the unmatched beauty of the Garden Isle from above.

From the first open-door flights over the Nā Pali Coast to today’s world-class fleet of MD500s and AStars, Jack Harter remains synonymous with adventure, safety, and jaw-dropping island scenery. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, photographing the Nā Pali cliffs, or looking for a smooth, luxury ride with your family, there’s a tour perfect for every traveler.

Below, we’ll explore three of Jack Harter’s most popular experiences—each offering a unique perspective of Kauaʻi’s breathtaking landscape.

🌀 1. Doors-Off “Heart of the Island” Kauaʻi Helicopter Tour

Duration: ~45 minutes
Aircraft: Hughes MD500 (up to 4 passengers)
Book Now: 👉 Reserve the Doors-Off Heart of the Island Tour

Tour Overview:
This thrilling shorter flight dives into the heart of Kauaʻi’s ancient volcano, Mt. Waiʻaleʻale—one of the wettest spots on Earth and the birthplace of the island. You’ll soar through lush valleys and sheer cliffs that seem to ripple with waterfalls, offering an unforgettable view of Kauaʻi’s most sacred landscapes.

Your pilot will highlight iconic filming locations from Jurassic Park, Tropic Thunder, and Blue Hawaii, as you hover through emerald canyons carved by time and rain.

Why it’s special:

Perfect for those who want the full doors-off thrill in a shorter, focused adventure
Incredible photography opportunities of Kauaʻi’s volcanic core
Unmatched sense of immersion and adrenaline

Good to Know:

Weight limit: 250 lbs per individual, 400 lbs per pair
Minimum age: 10 years old
Secure shoes required; no hats, scarves, or loose items
Weather-dependent flight route for safety and visibility

“The Heart of the Island Tour is ideal if you want to experience Kauaʻi’s wild interior without committing to a full island loop—every minute feels like pure magic.”

🌈 2. Doors-Off Kauaʻi Island Tour (65-Minute Adventure)

Duration: ~65 minutes
Aircraft: Hughes MD500 (up to 4 passengers)
Book Now: 👉 Reserve the Doors-Off Kauai Island Tour

Tour Overview:
For those who want the complete Kauaʻi experience, this is it. With the doors off, you’ll circle the entire island in just over an hour, feeling the cool trade winds and hearing your pilot’s live narration through Bose headsets as you pass every major highlight.

Possible Sights Include:

Nāwiliwili Harbor & the ancient Menehune Fishpond
Kipu Kai Beach & the Tunnel of Trees
Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Falls)
Olokele Canyon & Waimea Canyon — “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”
Nā Pali Coast’s sea cliffs & hidden valleys
Hanalei Bay and the North Shore beaches
Mt. Waiʻaleʻale crater & Wailua Falls

This tour is a favorite among photographers and adventure lovers who want the most open, unobstructed views of Kauaʻi’s most famous landmarks.

Why it’s special:

Signature Doors-Off experience from the company that started it all
Full island coverage with cinematic views
Intimate 4-passenger cabin ensures everyone has a great seat

Good to Know:

Minimum age: 10 years
Weight and height restrictions apply (150 lbs max for front middle seat)
Bring a jacket; it’s breezy up there!

“This is Kauaʻi’s most immersive flight—no windows, no barriers, just you, the wind, and the island below.”

☁️ 3. Doors-On AStar Luxury Helicopter Tour (65 Minutes)

Duration: ~65 minutes
Aircraft: Eurocopter AStar (up to 6 passengers)
Book Now: 👉 Reserve the AStar Doors-On Tour

Tour Overview:
Prefer a little comfort with your adventure? The AStar Doors-On Tour offers a smooth, air-conditioned ride with panoramic windows from floor to ceiling—perfect for families, first-time flyers, or those seeking a more relaxed experience.

Highlights Include:
All the same incredible Kauaʻi landmarks as the Doors-Off tour—Waimea Canyon, Nā Pali Coast, Hanalei Bay, and Mt. Waiʻaleʻale—plus the comfort of luxury seating, Bose noise-canceling headsets, and crystal-clear narration.

Why it’s special:

Enclosed, climate-controlled comfort for up to 6 passengers
Ideal for children and families (no age restriction)
Excellent photo opportunities through anti-glare windows

Good to Know:

Infants and children welcome (car seat required if under 35 lbs)
Recommended dark clothing to reduce glare in photos
Flexible seating requests (weight balance considered)

“The AStar Tour is the perfect choice for families or travelers who want breathtaking beauty—without the breeze.”

🌺 Why Fly with Jack Harter Helicopters

Kauaʻi’s original helicopter company (est. 1962)
Family-owned and operated with a flawless safety record
Choice of doors-on or doors-off experiences
Experienced local pilots who know Kauaʻi’s history, geography, and stories
Depart conveniently from Līhuʻe Heliport

Whether you’re chasing adventure or simply want to witness the island’s grandeur from a new perspective, a flight with Jack Harter Helicopters is a must-do experience on Kauaʻi.

✈️ Ready to See the Garden Isle from Above?

Jack Harter Helicopters offers an experience that’s part history, part adventure, and entirely unforgettable. Book your flight today and see why travelers from around the world say this is the best thing to do on Kauaʻi.

👉 Book Directly Through KauaiHelicopterTours.com for the Best Price and Instant Confirmation.