If you're looking to do a helicopter tour of Kauai (and there's good reason - the most beautiful parts are accessible only by air), the doors-off Hughes 500 is the only way to go. It's an absolutely amazing, wind in your face ride. Our pilot Jason was masterful with the aircraft and just so considerate, always turning the chopper so... more

We booked the doors off one hour tour in the Hughes 500. From start to end the tour was first class. Very friendly and helpful staff and professionally run. Don't be afraid of the doors off, everything is very safe...and you get the best views with nothing between you and what there is to see. The tour is not cheap... more

horrifying experience! turbulence, frequent shifts in movement and position of aircraft. views were disconcerting. show-off pilot (Ben) flew into the rain with zero visibility. they should advise people who may be prone to motion sickness in advance. i asked about the motion sickness bracelets they sell and the barf bags provided and was told, "you'll be fine." my husband and... more

Ok, let me start by saying, viewing the island of Kauai via helicopter is an absolute must, it is incredibly awesome, beautiful and majestic. I cannot say enough about how great this experience is. Words cannot capture the views. I also strongly recommend taking the tour with the doors off the helicopter. Now, having said that, here is what you... more

After doing some research I had determined that I wanted to take an open-door helicopter tour of Kauai. Jack Harter is one of the few (if not the only) that offered this choice so it was a simple decision. I had chosen open-door since I wanted to do some photography which is impeded by the plexiglass doors on other helicopters.... more

We had a great experience with Jack Harter Helicopters. We booked the "doors off" tour ... felt very safe with all the harnesses, and their attention to detail. Ben was our pilot; provided a very thorough commentary as he flew us aound the island ... pointing out features, history, etc. We were staying at Marriott Kaui Beach Resort (Lihue). The... more

We spoke to a number of people about riding a helicopter and if it was worth the cost. We were referred to this operator and went with the doors off version. IT IS WORTH THE MONEY TO DO THIS!! It is the only way to see this beautiful island. I was concerned with possible airsickness but no worries at all... more

We took the Hughes 500 tour in March of 2008 (the helicopter with the doors off) and were treated to the experience of a lifetime. It was so thrilling and exciting, nothing will probably ever compare to it. I got some awesome pictures, especially with no glass to obstruct our view. I was a little anxious when we first took... more

Absolutely loved the Hughes 500 doors-off helicopter tour. Mike, the driver/safety instructor was very friendly and informative. He set the tone for a fun experience. The pilot, Ben, was great. We had the back seat and he would turn to get views from both sides of the helicopter so didn't miss out on anything. He was informative and excellent at... more