Panorama

Among the spectacular sights you'll see on this tour are Manaowaipuna Falls (the falls seen in Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park), Mount Wai'ale'ale (if you are lucky, you will get to 'copter inside the crater) and, of course, the epic Na Pali cliffs. The combined narrative and background music adds to the stunning visual effects. Craft are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows for optimal viewing. Owner and pilot Chuck DiPiazza has been in the business on Kauai for more than 10 years. Call for prices and more information.

If you want to see everything, see it by helicopter. This company offers daily tours, departing from both Lihue and Princeville Airports. Journey down the spectacular Na Pali coastline, over ancient Hawaiian trails, Waialeala Crater, Waimea Canyon and more. Na Pali, in particular, cannot be viewed by car; an aerial view is the best way to experience this Kauai phenomenon.Several different tours are available; all cover island highlights and are conducted by experienced pilots. Rates average $135 per person for 45 minutes. Call for timings.

Distinguished by their rainbow-striped hulls, these helicopters are special for another reason: A section of the unique "Scenic View" windows open, allowing passengers to avoid the glare factor that ruins many-a-picture. The helicopters tour the Na Pali coast, Waimea Canyon and other stunning landmarks. Navigated and narrated by experts, the tours have earned rave reviews from such expert guides as Conde Nast.

This air tour company is based out of Hilo and Kauai, and is owned by a retired Naval Reserves officer. With a small staff and state-of-the-art helicopters, the company aims to offer a truly unforgettable tour experience. Heli-tours visit the many waterfalls, jungles and isolated beaches of Kauai. Inter-island flights are also available. The Kaua'i tour is for 55-minute in the off-season, Internet discounts are sometimes available.

The backdrop of the famed Fantasy Island television show, this stunning waterfall is located directly off the road, just past the town of Lihue on the southern coast of Kaua'i. It is just a short ride down a rough road in Kapaia Valley. The falls can be viewed from the side of the road, but there is a trail for experienced hikers. It is steep and challenging, and local tour guides recommend that only the hardiest adventurers try to make the descent.

This tour company aims to not only visit the top tourist attractions, but also to show tourists parts of the island that are only known to locals. Common tour highlights include Waimea Canyon, Wailua Falls and Mount Waialeale (famous for getting the highest rainfall in the world.) The knowledgeable pilots know how to display Kauai's breathtaking natural beauty to the fullest. The charges are $209 per person.