Add dates

Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon: Our most recommended tours and activities

Kauai: Island Highlights Helicopter Tour

1. Kauai: Island Highlights Helicopter Tour

Explore Hawaii's Garden Isle, Kauai, from the best vantage point possible: the sky. Get a bird's eye view of some of Hawaii's most gorgeous scenery on this helicopter tour. See the island's most iconic locations, including the Na Pali Coast, the Waimea Canyon, the Jurassic Falls, and more. Uncover waterfalls, towering red cliffs, emerald green jungles, and the lush paradise of one of Hawaii's oldest islands on this tour. See these natural marvels from a different perspective all while listening to your pilot's information about each sight. Soar above the thundering Jurassic Falls — the iconic waterfall featured in Jurassic Park. Fly above the rolling red hills and valleys of the Waimea Canyon, and glide through the air over Kauai's most iconic location: the Na Pali Coast. Marvel at the countless waterfalls nestled in Waialeale Crater. Best of all, snap pictures of these natural wonders without having to stop along the way, all from the comfort of your helicopter seat.

Kauai: Waimea Canyon, Jurassic Falls, & More Helicopter Tour

2. Kauai: Waimea Canyon, Jurassic Falls, & More Helicopter Tour

Take a journey on and over the Garden Isle and see scenery that's been the backdrop for Hollywood blockbusters for decades on this Kauai helicopter trip. See Manawaiopuna Falls, Olokele Canyon, Waimea Canyon, and the Na Pali Coast.  Take off on an up-to-date helicopter and immediately start taking in a bird's eye view of the lush jungles, red canyons, choppy seas, and gorgeous landscapes that make up Kauai, the oldest island in the Hawaiian Islands archipelago.  Marvel at Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as Jurrasic Park Falls thanks to it being featured in the hit 1993 Steven Spielberg film. This privately-owned location is only accessible by helicopter, making it part of the 80% of Kauai that isn’t accessible by car. Land in Olokele Canyon, home to endangered plant life. Once kapu (forbidden), guests can now enjoy this pristine paradise valley. Soar over Waimea Canyon next, and see characteristic crimson and emerald jagged cliffs. Before heading back to the starting point of the trip, enjoy views of the world-famous Napali Coast. Spot jagged cliffs rising straight from the sea, making for one of Hawaii's most famous destinations.

Kauai: Air Tour of Na Pali Coast, Entire Island of Kauai

3. Kauai: Air Tour of Na Pali Coast, Entire Island of Kauai

Climb aboard the new Australian-made G8 AirVan for a personalized 65-minute Grande Deluxe Air Tour of Kauai. Fly through the Waimea Canyon and then catch your breath as the majestic cathedral spires of the Na Pali are suddenly beneath you. Continue alongside the ridgeline behind the lovely Hanalei Bay and travel south to see the numerous waterfalls of Hanalei Valley as well as the crater below Kauai's Mt. Wai`ale`ale (weather permitting). In winter months whale watching may also be possible! The experienced pilot will tell you about the rich history and mythical lore of Kauai, and using the 2-way intercom you can ask questions. Only Wings Over Kauai features an expert agricultural narration by the owner and chief pilot, the research scientist Dr. Bruce Coulombe. For approximately 65-70 minutes, you’ll experience a safe and thrilling experience that’s the ultimate air tour of the Garden Island. What makes Wings Over Kauai unique is a dedication to customer satisfaction and attention to detail. The ultimate goal for every flight is to make sure every passenger has the best experience possible.

Kauai: Sightseeing Flight over Napali Coast & Waimea Canyon

4. Kauai: Sightseeing Flight over Napali Coast & Waimea Canyon

Soak in spectacular views of the lovely island of Kauai from the air on a sightseeing flight tour. Let your pilot fly you over places that are completely inaccessible by car and remain untouched by human hands. Experience the untouched beauty of this spectacular island from a unique perspective. Aboard your scenic flight tour, discover the best of Kauai on an incredible flying adventure. Fly over the Garden Isle's most scenic areas to truly get a sense of this majestic place. Soar over the cathedral-like spires of the Napali Coastline and high above Hanalei Bay's white crescent sand beach. Snap some pictures of the azure blue waters below, as well as the monumental red valley walls of Waimea Canyon.

Kauai: Full-Day Tour with Fern Grotto River Cruise

5. Kauai: Full-Day Tour with Fern Grotto River Cruise

Experience the beaches of East Shore, the striking geology of Fern Grotto and lush North Shore. This tour shows you the spectacular sights of Kauai. Follow your guide for a journey on land and water. Your day starts as your tour guide picks you up on Kauai's North or East Shore. The comfortable, air-conditioned touring van offers large viewing windows on all sides for you to admire the beaches, mountains, and waterfalls. Arrive at the Wailua River and step aboard a spacious open-air riverboat for a leisurely journey to the Fern Grotto. A short walk through the rainforest brings you to one of Kauai's geological wonders, where ferns grow upside down in a natural amphitheater of lava rock – the perfect location to be serenaded and entertained by Hawaiian musicians and hula dancers.  Continue your journey to other spectacular sites on the North and East Shores of our beautiful Garden Isle.

Kauai: Full-Day Waimea Canyon & Wailua River Tour

6. Kauai: Full-Day Waimea Canyon & Wailua River Tour

Join us for a Kauai excursion that includes a visit to Waimea Canyon and a cruise along the Wailua River. You’ll see the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and visit many of the places made famous in movies and TV series on your Wailua River cruise. We’ll travel to Waimea Canyon by State Road 550, and your guide will point out a number of interesting sights along the way. You’ll be able to see the island of Niihau, just a short distance to the west of Kauai, as well as the Poipu Resorts on the south coast, Queen Victoria's profile and Nawiliwili Harbor. We’ll continue our adventure with a cruise along the Wailua River to the famed Fern Grotto, a natural lava rock amphitheater covered by ferns. You’ll also see the cascading Opaeka`a Falls, the backdrop for many movies and TV programs, and Coco Palms, which featured in Elvis Presley’s movie, “Blue Hawaii.” The birth stones are located here as well. This is an ancient site sacred to Hawaiians, as they considered it an important place for all Kauai kings to be born.

Kauai: Customized Luxury Private Tour

7. Kauai: Customized Luxury Private Tour

Enjoy an exciting 6-hour tour with your own private driver as you explore Kauai by luxury vehicle. Choose either the lush north and east shores, or the majestic south and west sides of the island. In the northeast, you’ll see waterfalls, visit the Kilauea Lighthouse, and take in Hanalei Bay’s exquisite landscape and beaches. If you tour the southwest of Kauai, you’ll see Waimea Canyon, Spouting Horn, the Kauai Coffee Plantation, Poipu beaches, and historic Koloa Town. Leave the driving to your chauffeur as you focus on admiring the island’s exquisite beaches and lush landscapes, which are unlike anything else in the world.

Kauai: Full-Day Kauaʻi Adventure

8. Kauai: Full-Day Kauaʻi Adventure

Join us on our most popular tour duration! This is a custom tour – we can hike as little or as much as you would like. Options include a driving tour to check out some of the North Shores’ most famous waterfalls, beaches, and lookouts (with a stop at a favorite local spot for lunch and/or time for a couple short hikes). Or, meet in historic “Hanapēpē Town” on the western (or “leeward”) side of the island, a launching off point to explore Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Park(s). Options for hikes and/or sites to see in these two parks is limitless – they include areas of diverse vegetation, fauna, and terrain. From ridge top hikes high above the Nāpali Coast to equally stunning views along the rim of Waimea Canyon. Waimea/Kōkeʻe tours include a scenic drive of at least one hour each way (a little longer taking into account stopping at the choicest overlooks along the way). Our guests love this scenic drive and stopping on top of the mountain at rustic Koke’e Lodge for a delicious lunch. Aside from the drive, and possibly stopping at the lodge for lunch, how much hiking we do depends on your interest and ability level. Much can be seen in this area because these diverse viewpoints are relatively close together. When you hike with a guide, your experience is much safer, deeper, and more satisfying. The expertise of our local guides can point out and explain things you would not have seen or known about on your own. They are happy to share places that wouldn’t have been on your radar and take you to areas of tremendous beauty. Being surrounded by nature is our goal, and we aim to make your day with us the highlights of your trip on Kauaʻi. Utilizing tools such as specialized hiking equipment, 4×4 vehicles (as needed), and first aid training/equipment will ensure you have the safest, most enjoyable, time possible. So book today and leave the planning to us. Let the enjoyment of being in nature with a trusted guide be our service to you! Please keep in mind that tour durations begin when you meet your guide until you part ways.

Kauai: Private Luxury Full Island Sightseeing Flight

9. Kauai: Private Luxury Full Island Sightseeing Flight

Get a bird’s eye view of all the most iconic sights of Kaui on this exclusive 1 hour and 10-minute flight from Lihue for up to 3 passengers. Fly over rugged landscapes, sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys.  Meet your pilot and hop aboard a comfortable airplane. Feel the thrill of taking off. Listen as you pilot provides personalized narration about the geography, history, legends, and culture of this tropical paradise.  Glide over the sunny and secluded coastline, Kipu Kai, nicknamed the baby Napali Coast. Gaze out at sandy Poipu Beach, the Spouting Horn, Hawaii’s largest coffee plantation, and the lush Hanapepe Valley, where you can spy the Jurassic Falls. Gain an entirely new perspective on the Garden Island’s diverse landscape as you cruise over dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, red lava fields, and cascading waterfalls from above.  Experience a rush of excitement as you make a big u-turn inside the Waimea Canyon. Marvel at the beauty of this multicolored expanse speckled with lush greenery and foliage.  Ride over the 21-mile long Napali Coast, consisting of ancient valleys, waterfalls, sweeping cliffs, and bright blue ocean waters. Admire view sof the Kilauea River with its mesmerizing waterfall as you continue up the lush Hanalei Valley.  See jagged 4,000-foot cliffs as you continue your sightseeing tour flying down the Wailua River to catch sights of Fern Grotto. Conclude your magical journey by passing by Coco Palms where Elvis made the romantic film “Blue Hawaii.”

Kauai Tour Bundle: Self-Drive GPS Road Trip

10. Kauai Tour Bundle: Self-Drive GPS Road Trip

Welcome to Shaka Guide's audio tour app, your gateway to the enchanting island of Kauai, Hawaii. Prepare to embark on a remarkable adventure through lush rainforests, breathtaking coastlines, majestic waterfalls, and vibrant cultural sites. As you begin your tour of Kauai with the Shaka Guide app, get ready to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty and rich history. The app will provide informative and engaging audio commentary, sharing insights into the island's geology, flora and fauna, Hawaiian legends, and local traditions. Your journey begins along the North Shore, where you'll witness the iconic Napali Coastline, known for its dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and emerald green valleys. The app will guide you through the scenic drive, pointing out significant landmarks such as Hanalei Bay, the Kilauea Lighthouse, and the charming town of Hanalei. Continue your exploration of Kauai's wonders as you venture to the lush and verdant Wailua River Valley. The app will lead you to the scenic overlooks, where you can marvel at the cascading Wailua Falls and learn about the legends associated with this majestic site. Discover the mystical beauty of the Garden Isle's interior as you journey to Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." The app will provide insights into the geology and history of this awe-inspiring natural wonder as you navigate the scenic drive. Capture panoramic views from Puu Hinahina Lookout and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of the canyon. Visit the iconic Spouting Horn, a natural blowhole that creates a dramatic water spout when the waves crash against the lava rock formations. Learn about the cultural significance of this site and listen to the captivating stories and legends associated with the area. As you explore Kauai's east side, the app will guide you through the historic town of Kapaa, where you can discover charming boutiques, local eateries, and cultural landmarks. Learn about the island's sugar plantation history and the impact it had on the local community. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the stunning beaches that grace the shores of Kauai. From the golden sands of Poipu Beach to the secluded and pristine beaches of the Na Pali Coast, the app will guide you to the best spots for relaxation, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Throughout your journey, the Shaka Guide app will recommend local eateries, hidden gems, and cultural experiences that will enrich your visit to Kauai. Whether it's trying local Hawaiian delicacies, attending a traditional luau, or exploring ancient Hawaiian heiaus (sacred sites), the app will provide valuable insights to enhance your trip. With the Shaka Guide app as your knowledgeable companion, your tour of Kauai will be enriched with fascinating stories, natural insights, and practical information. So, grab your phone, and get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Kauai, Hawaii.

Available activities

12 activities found
Sort by:

Other Sightseeing Options in Waimea Canyon

Want to discover all there is to do in Waimea Canyon? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Waimea Canyon

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 732 reviews

This was my first helicopter ride, and it was absolutely one of the most enjoyable and memorable travel experiences I’ve ever had. Kate, our pilot, was fantastic providing great information as we weaved our way through the canyons, mountains, fields and coasts. The tour made a stop at a mountain top owned by a Robinson descendant, and the views were breathtaking, which is an understatement. The tour even got as far as the Na Pali coast and Hanalei. We lucked out with great weather and visibility. I’ll certainly treasure the photos and videos I took for the rest of my life. I can’t recommend the tour any more highly. It’s expensive, but it’s easily worth it. The staff at the meeting location and office were just the friendliest people you could ever meet.

Max was a pleasant pilot. What really made the tour fantastic was the choreographed audio soundtrack in your headsets with music to correspond with the different sites. Max also made turns to allow both sides of the aircraft to get great views of pictures and pointed out a humpback whale adult and child.

Awesome experience. Highly recommended. This excursion takes you to admire the beauty of the island, waterfalls, beaches , whales from where you are flying over.

We really enjoyed this guide. We were able to pause and play on our own pace. Was very informative.

Amazing. Kate and Sherry were awesome. I want to try helicopter rides on every vacation!