Day Trip Fr Oahu to Kauai: Highlights & Movie Sites W/ Helicopter

Exploring the stunning island of Kauai from Oahu has never been easier. This day trip packs in breathtaking helicopter views, iconic movie locations, and mouthwatering local cuisine. Visitors can soar over the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon, then dive into Kauai’s rich culture and natural beauty. With a small group size, the experience offers personalized service and unique insights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaiian traveler, this adventure promises an unforgettable journey.

This experience made our article of The 15 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Oahu.

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Key Points

Explore Kauai’s natural wonders, including the iconic Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and cascading waterfalls, on a helicopter tour and ground-based tour.
Visit movie locations featured in "The Descendants" and experience local cuisine at the Tahiti Nui restaurant.
Enjoy a full-day tour from Waikiki to Kauai, including round-trip flights and an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver/guide.
Witness Kauai’s diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush tropical jungles, in a small group setting for personalized service.
Immerse in Kauai’s cinematic history and culture, with the opportunity to explore the island’s scenic viewpoints, beaches, and mountain landscapes.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day tour from Waikiki to Kauai showcases the island’s breathtaking natural wonders.

Highlights include a helicopter tour over the awe-inspiring Na Pali Coast, Hanapepe Valley, and Waimea Canyon. Travelers will experience cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches, and lush tropical jungles – some of which were filming locations for movies like Jurassic Park and Blue Hawaii.

With a small group for personalized service, this tour also includes round-trip flights from Oahu. Guests can look forward to a well-curated itinerary that immerses them in Kauai’s natural beauty and cinematic history.

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Itinerary and Activities

The day begins with an early pickup at Waikiki hotels, followed by a transfer to the airport for the flight to Lihue on Kauai.

The day begins with an early pickup at Waikiki hotels, followed by a transfer to the airport for the flight to Lihue on Kauai.

Once on the island, the tour highlights include Opaeka’a Falls, Ahukini Landing, Lydgate Beach, and Kapa’a.

Guests then visit the Kealia Scenic Viewpoint, Kalalea Mountain, and Princeville.

Lunch is served at the iconic Tahiti Nui restaurant, featured in the movie The Descendants.

The day culminates with a 45-minute scenic helicopter tour showcasing the Na Pali Coast, Hanapepe Valley, and Waimea Canyon’s hidden beaches, Hanalei Bay, and the towering Mount Waialeale.

Scenic Helicopter Tour

The 45-minute scenic helicopter tour showcases the breathtaking natural wonders of Kauai.

Soaring over the iconic Na Pali Coast, passengers marvel at the sheer sea cliffs and hidden beaches. The dramatic Waimea Canyon, dubbed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," reveals its vibrant colors.

Waterfalls cascade through the lush Hanapepe Valley, while the misty Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest spots on Earth, dominates the landscape.

This aerial adventure provides a unique perspective of Kauai’s diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the sea, and the pristine beauty that has made it a filming location for Hollywood blockbusters.

Exploring Kauai’s Landmarks

After the breathtaking helicopter tour over Kauai’s natural wonders, the land portion of the day trip explores the island’s renowned landmarks.

Guests visit the cascading Opaeka’a Falls, Ahukini Landing, and Lydgate Beach. In Kapa’a, they’ll discover the Kealia Scenic Viewpoint and Kalalea Mountain.

The tour culminates in Princeville, where they’ll enjoy a local lunch at the Tahiti Nui restaurant, featured in the film The Descendants.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into Kauai’s history, culture, and film locations, offering a well-rounded experience of the Garden Isle.

Dining Experience at Tahiti Nui

Guests delight in the local flavor of Tahiti Nui, the restaurant featured in the 2011 film The Descendants.

Located in the quaint town of Hanalei, the eatery offers a taste of Kauai’s rich culture and cuisine. Diners savor classic Hawaiian dishes, including fresh seafood, fragrant curries, and tropical cocktails.

The relaxed, island-inspired atmosphere complements the menu, transporting visitors to a tranquil oasis.

Lunch at Tahiti Nui provides a welcomed respite during the day’s activities, allowing guests to refuel and appreciate the local gastronomic delights that make Kauai a culinary destination.

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Logistics and Inclusions

This tour includes a range of inclusions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The package covers round-trip airfare from Oahu to Kauai, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle and a professional driver/guide.

Travelers will also enjoy a 45-minute helicopter tour showcasing the island’s breathtaking landscapes.

Meals aren’t included, but there’s an opportunity to dine at the renowned Tahiti Nui restaurant.

While gratuities are covered, passengers over 240 lbs may incur a comfort seat surcharge.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 24 travelers and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Important Considerations

What should travelers keep in mind when booking this tour? First, confirm your reservation details – this tour is non-refundable and changes aren’t allowed.

Confirm your reservation details – this tour is non-refundable and changes aren’t allowed.

Bring valid ID, as the TSA requires date of birth and gender for the interisland flights.

Also, be aware of weight restrictions for the helicopter ride – both passengers and bags are weighed at check-in.

If the tour’s helicopter portion is canceled, you may face additional fees.

Finally, be prepared for potential delays and limited snacks during the long day.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

While the helicopter tour received high praise from customers, the land portion of the tour received more mixed reviews.

Travelers lauded the incredible aerial views and enjoyable lunch at Tahiti Nui. However, some felt the land tour lacked sufficient narration and had too many lengthy movie segments.

Other issues included delays in pickup, lack of snacks, and feeling abandoned after the return flight.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Oahu to Kauai offers an unforgettable experience showcasing the island’s stunning natural beauty and iconic movie locations. Soar over the breathtaking Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon on a scenic helicopter tour, then explore renowned sites like Opaeka’a Falls and savor local cuisine at the famous Tahiti Nui restaurant. With personalized service and small-group travel, it’s an adventure that provides a unique perspective on Kauai’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.