Manawaiopuna Falls Kauai
The iconic 400-foot Manawaiopuna Falls, famously known as 'Jurassic Falls,' is accessible only by helicopter, offering a cinematic adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Clearer skies, better light
Manawaiopuna Falls Kauai
Best Time
Clearer skies, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The iconic 400-foot Manawaiopuna Falls, famously known as 'Jurassic Falls,' is accessible only by helicopter, offering a cinematic adventure.
"It's a core memory, absolutely worth it if you can get the landing tour!"
Book Landing Tours Early
Landing at Jurassic Falls is a bucket-list item; book well in advance with operators like Island Helicopters.
Doors-Off for Best Photos
For unobstructed views and incredible photos, opt for a doors-off helicopter tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Manawaiopuna Falls (Jurassic Falls)
Hanapepe Valley
The iconic 400-foot waterfall featured in 'Jurassic Park,' accessible only by helicopter.
Doors-Off Helicopter Experience
Kauai Skies
Capture unparalleled aerial views and thrilling photo opportunities with a doors-off helicopter tour.
Waimea Canyon Views
Waimea Canyon
Witness the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific' from above, a breathtaking geological wonder.
Na Pali Coastline
North Shore, Kauai
Marvel at the dramatic cliffs and lush valleys of Kauai's legendary coastline from the sky.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Helicopter Tour Early
+1Landing vs. Flyby: What's Your View?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Landing Tours Early
Landing at Jurassic Falls is a bucket-list item; book well in advance with operators like Island Helicopters. +1
Doors-Off for Best Photos
For unobstructed views and incredible photos, opt for a doors-off helicopter tour.
Check Weather Conditions
Kauai weather can change rapidly; tours may be rescheduled. Be flexible with your plans.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
Dress in layers and wear comfortable, non-slip shoes for your helicopter adventure.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Landing Tours Early
Landing at Jurassic Falls is a bucket-list item; book well in advance with operators like Island Helicopters. +1
Doors-Off for Best Photos
For unobstructed views and incredible photos, opt for a doors-off helicopter tour.
Check Weather Conditions
Kauai weather can change rapidly; tours may be rescheduled. Be flexible with your plans.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
Dress in layers and wear comfortable, non-slip shoes for your helicopter adventure.
Embrace the 'Jurassic Park' Vibe
Many tours play the movie soundtrack, enhancing the magical experience for fans.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about Manawaiopuna Falls, calling it a 'core memory' and an 'unforgettable experience.' The 'Jurassic Park' connection and the sheer beauty of the waterfall, especially when viewed from a helicopter, are major highlights. While some find landing tours to be a splurge, most agree it's worth the cost for the unique perspective and photo opportunities.
"Core memory. We went last year in August with Island Helicopters, Isabella was our pilot, and this place is stunning! If you are able to get the landing tour, it's worth it!"
Luke Southern
"Great visit to the falls via Island Helicopters!"
Darrel Brown
"What an experience if you have a chance to see it in person. These photos do not do it justice. It's an easy walk to the falls from where the helicopter lands."
Andy Furlong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as Jurassic Falls, is located on private land in Kauai and is inaccessible by road. The only way to visit is by taking a helicopter tour. Popular operators include Island Helicopters and Ali'i Air Tours.
Island Helicopters is frequently mentioned for its ability to land at Manawaiopuna Falls, offering a unique experience. Ali'i Air Tours also provides scenic flights over the falls. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for landing tours. +1
No, Manawaiopuna Falls is situated on private property and has no public road access. A helicopter tour is the sole method of visiting this iconic waterfall.
Yes, most helicopter tours that visit Manawaiopuna Falls also showcase other stunning Kauai landmarks such as the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and numerous other waterfalls.
Helicopter tours to Manawaiopuna Falls typically range from 50 minutes to over an hour, depending on the specific itinerary and operator. Some tours offer extended flights for more comprehensive island views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost of helicopter tours to Manawaiopuna Falls can vary significantly, generally ranging from $250 to over $400 per person. Landing tours are typically more expensive than flyby tours. Prices depend on the tour duration, operator, and inclusions.
Absolutely. Due to the popularity of Manawaiopuna Falls and limited tour slots, especially for landing tours, booking your helicopter tour well in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred date and time.
Landing tours allow you to disembark and get closer to Manawaiopuna Falls for photos, offering a more immersive experience. Flyby tours provide aerial views from the helicopter without landing. Landing tours are generally more expensive.
Most helicopter tours have age and weight restrictions for safety reasons. It's essential to check with your chosen tour operator for specific guidelines regarding passengers.
Kauai's weather can be unpredictable. If conditions are unsafe for flying, your tour will likely be rescheduled. Tour operators usually offer flexibility for rebooking.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best shots, consider a doors-off helicopter tour, which provides unobstructed views. If your tour has doors on, try to position yourself near a window. Shoot in burst mode to capture the best moments.
Most operators allow passengers to bring cameras, but check their specific policies regarding equipment size and type. Ensure your camera is secured to prevent it from falling.
Use a fast shutter speed to combat motion blur from the helicopter. Consider increasing your ISO slightly if lighting is low. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on windows.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always best to confirm with your tour operator about any specific restrictions or guidelines they may have.
The dramatic 400-foot drop, lush green surroundings, and the iconic 'Jurassic Park' connection make Manawaiopuna Falls a highly photogenic subject, especially when viewed from the unique perspective of a helicopter.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider tours that offer a slightly shorter duration if you have very young children, or look for operators known for their family-friendly approach. The awe-inspiring views of Kauai's diverse landscapes, from the waterfalls to the canyons, will likely be a highlight for everyone.
🎬 Movie Buffs & 'Jurassic Park' Fans
+1Choosing a tour that lands at the falls offers the most authentic 'Jurassic Park' experience. It's a chance to capture photos that echo the movie's memorable scenes and to feel a direct connection to cinematic history. This is more than just sightseeing; it's a chance to relive a piece of movie magic.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for varying light conditions and consider bringing a camera with good low-light performance or a fast shutter speed. The dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast and the vastness of Waimea Canyon also offer incredible photographic opportunities from the helicopter.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Jurassic Park' Connection
+3Many helicopter tours capitalize on this connection, sometimes even playing the 'Jurassic Park' theme music during the flight, further immersing visitors in the movie magic. The sheer scale and beauty of the falls, combined with its Hollywood fame, create a truly memorable experience. It’s a prime example of how film tourism can elevate a natural wonder into a global icon.
While the land is privately owned and inaccessible by road, the helicopter tours offer a privileged view, allowing visitors to recreate those famous movie moments from the sky. The ability to land near the falls for some tours adds another layer of exclusivity and excitement, making it feel like you've truly discovered a lost world.
+1Choosing Your Helicopter Tour Experience
For an even more immersive experience, consider a tour that allows you to land near Manawaiopuna Falls. These tours, often operated by companies like Island Helicopters, provide the chance to disembark and get closer to the waterfall, offering unique photo angles and a more intimate encounter with this natural wonder. However, landing tours are typically more expensive and have limited availability, so booking well in advance is essential.
Another crucial factor is whether to choose a 'doors-off' or 'doors-on' tour. Doors-off flights offer unobstructed views and unparalleled photographic freedom, allowing you to capture stunning, clear shots without glass reflections. These tours can be more thrilling but may require passengers to be more comfortable with heights and open air. Doors-on tours still provide excellent views through large windows and are a great option for those who prefer a more enclosed experience.
Beyond the Falls: Kauai's Aerial Wonders
+2Another highlight often included is Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific.' From a helicopter, you can truly grasp the immense scale and vibrant colors of this vast geological formation, with its deep gorges and varied terrain. The aerial perspective reveals intricate patterns and a sense of awe that ground-level views can't fully convey.
+2Beyond these iconic landmarks, helicopter tours provide a unique vantage point for discovering Kauai's lush interior, hidden valleys, and numerous other waterfalls that dot the island's verdant landscape. It's an opportunity to witness the raw, untamed beauty of the 'Garden Isle' from a perspective few get to experience, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.
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