Jurassic Falls Helicopter Tour (Manawaiopuna Falls): How to Land at Kauai’s Iconic Waterfall
If you’ve ever watched Jurassic Park and thought, “I want to go there,” this is the guide for you. The real waterfall from the film is Manawaiopuna Falls—better known as Jurassic Falls—and it’s tucked inside Kauai’s lush Hananpēpē Valley. While many helicopter tours fly over it, only one company is allowed to land at the base of the falls. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how that exclusive landing works, what to expect before, during, and after your flight, and how to get the most out of this once‑in‑a‑lifetime adventure.
Short answer for planners: To stand at the foot of Jurassic Falls, you must book the Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure with Island Helicopters—the only operator with landing permission at the private property.
Why Jurassic Falls Captivates Travelers (and Filmmakers)
In 1993, Steven Spielberg chose Kauai for its prehistoric feel—cathedral cliffs, dense rainforest, and waterfalls that seem to pour straight out of the clouds. Manawaiopuna Falls became the visual shorthand for Isla Nublar’s wild beauty, and it’s no less jaw‑dropping in real life. The cascade plunges nearly 400 feet down a vertical wall of green, throwing up a cool mist you can feel from the landing area. Seeing it from the sky is thrilling. Stepping out at the base is surreal.
The Only Way to Land at Jurassic Falls
You’ll see plenty of tours advertising fly‑bys. Landing is different—and restricted. Island Helicopters holds exclusive permission to set down at a private landing zone near the base of the falls, a privilege granted through long‑standing relationships, rigorous safety standards, and stewardship of the site.
What that means for you:
- Guaranteed landing access when conditions allow, not just a distant look.
- Small‑group experience on a defined trail and platform area—safe, respectful, unforgettable.
- Guided storytelling from pilots who know the site’s film history, geology, and cultural context.
Bottom line: If an immersive experience is non‑negotiable, choose Island Helicopters.
Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure: Step‑by‑Step Itinerary
Here’s how your day typically unfolds. (Exact timing can vary with weather and operations.)
1) Check‑in at Līhu‘e Airport
Arrive 45 minutes early at Island Helicopters’ office. You’ll check in, staff will review seating and answer any pre-flight questions, ground personnel will guide you through a safety briefing, and you will board the aircraft.
Pro tip: Wear dark, non‑reflective clothing, shoes, socks to minimize window glare in your photos.
2) Lift‑off & Scenic Flight Over Kauai
From take-off, it’s pure spectacle. This is the most efficient way to experience Kauai’s roadless interior—more than 70% of the island is inaccessible by car.
3) Approach to Manawaiopuna (Jurassic) Falls
As you sweep into Hananpēpē Valley, the waterfall appears—familiar yet larger than life. Your pilot descends to a grassy landing area used exclusively for this tour. The rotor wash settles, your pilot unlatches the doors, and the soundtrack in your head gets louder.
4) On‑Site Exploration (Approx. 20–25 Minutes)
Follow your pilot-guide along a short, unpaved path to the base area. You’ll be able to capture photos and videoes, and have time to take in the magnificance—feel the cool spray, listen to the thunder of water, and be amazed at the 400 foot powerful cascade. Your pilot will happily help with group photos.
5) Return Flight: Views From Every Angle
You’ll lift off again to continue on the circle-island tour, back toward Līhu‘e. Depending on conditions, your pilot will showcase a greatest‑hits reel of Kauai: the Nā Pali Coast and its spires, the color‑layered Waimea Canyon, and the mist‑fed walls near Mount Waiʻaleʻale.
What to Wear, Bring, and Expect (Comfort + Safety)
Clothing & Gear
- Dark top and bottoms (reduce reflections in cabin glass)
- Closed‑toe shoes with good traction
- Sunglasses; a light layer (if you get cold easily)
- Phone or compact camera
Safety First
- Island Helicopters operates to stringent FAA standards with experienced pilots and thorough briefings. Listen for line personnel and your pilot’s cues during boarding, landing, and when exploring near the falls.
Weather Reality
- Kauai’s weather changes quickly. Your pilot may adjust the route or timing to deliver the best visibility and safest experience. Trust the pros—that flexibility is how you still see the good stuff.
Who This Tour Is Perfect For
- Movie fans: Stand in a frame of film history—Jurassic Park comes alive under your feet.
- First‑timers to Kauai: The fastest, most complete highlight reel in one outing.
- Couples & honeymooners: It’s hard to top a private landing at a legendary waterfall.
- Adventure collectors: The exclusive landing turns a great tour into a brag‑worthy story.
Booking Tips: How to Secure Your Spot
- Reserve early. Seats for the landing tour sell out quickly—especially in peak seasons and holidays.
- Aim for morning flights for calmer winds and crisp contrast on cliffs. Afternoon provide gorgeous lighting, but weather can roll in towards the later afternoon.
- Add buffer time in your itinerary. Reserve a day at the beginning of your stay to ensure you have a date to reschedule in the case of weather cancellations.
- Check policies on camera gear so you’re set before arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can you visit Jurassic Falls?
Yes—but only with Island Helicopters, which holds exclusive permission to access Manawaiopuna Falls. Hiking to the Falls is strictly prohibited, and considered tresspassing on private property.
Where is Jurassic Falls?
In Hananpēpē Valley on Kauai’s south side. The site is on private land, accessible only by helicopter on the designated tour.
How tall is Jurassic Falls?
Roughly 400 feet from crest to pool.
How long is the Jurassic Falls helicopter tour?
Plan for 50–55 of flight time in the air, and an addional 20–25 minute landing experience. Exact duration depends on route and conditions.
Is it safe?
Yes—reputable operators follow strict FAA standards. Island Helicopters pairs experienced pilots with aircrafts designed for the conditions present on Kauai. Island Helicopters and all their pilots are FAA Part 135 certified, for the strictest requirements to operate commercial air services.
What should I wear?
Dark, non‑reflective clothing; closed‑toe shoes; sunglasses; and a light layer. Bring a phone/camera.
Doors‑on or doors‑off?
Most visitors prefer doors‑on for comfort, narration, and easy photography..
What if the weather isn’t perfect?
Pilots adjust routes and timing to find the best windows. Safety and visibility come first; flexibility helps you see more.
Why Choose Island Helicopters for Jurassic Falls
- Exclusive Landing Rights: The only tour allowed to land at Manawaiopuna Falls.
- Deep Local Expertise: Decades of flying Kauai’s canyons, valleys, and coastlines.
- Story‑Driven Experience: Pilots weave together film lore, geology, and culture.
- Trusted Safety Culture: Pro briefings, careful seating, and aircraft maintained to rigorous standards.
When you want the Jurassic Falls experience—not just a fly‑by—this is it.
Ready to Stand at the Base of Jurassic Falls?
This is the moment most travelers remember long after they’ve left Hawaii: wind on your face, mist on your skin, and a 400‑foot curtain of water roaring in front of you. If Jurassic Falls is on your bucket list, don’t leave it to chance—secure your seat now.
Book the Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure with Island Helicopters.
- Lock in your preferred day and time early.
- Traveling during peak season? Reserve as soon as your dates are set.