Big Kahuna Kauai Air Tour
Air Tour Route
*Note that your actual air tour route may vary based on tower instructions, weather, or any other condition which could effect the safety or comfort of our passengers.
Big Kahuna Air Tour Details
- Tour Time: 60-65 minutes (six flights daily)
- 275 pound per person weight limit
- Children under 2 fly free if they can sit on an adult’s lap
About our GA-8 Airvans
- Two, six-passenger GA-8 Airvans
- Spacious and comfortable
- Every seat has a wide-angle bubble window specifically designed for sightseeing and photography
- Two-way noise reduction headsets
- Safe and Reliable
Our most popular Kauai air tour encompasses the entire Garden Island. Enjoy views of the Menehune Fish Pond, the Eucalyptus Tunnel of Trees, Waita Reservoir (the largest reservoir on Kauai), Captain Cook’s Landing in Waimea Town, the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, the majestic Napali Coastline, Lumahai Beach (were the movie “South Pacific” was filmed), Hanalei Valley, beautiful cascading waterfalls, Kilauea Lighthouse (the largest frigate bird sanctuary), and miles of stunning coastline and beaches.
Air Ventures Hawaii is the Eco-friendly Choice – and a Great Value
When you travel with Air Ventures Hawaii, you’ll be flying the most eco-friendly Kauai air tour company. Our Airvans use only a fraction of the fuel that a typical helicopter consumes, which translates to cost savings for you – save up to $150 per person compared to a typical Kauai helicopter tour.
GA-8 Airvan – Built for Touring and Comfort
The Airvan is a very spacious aircraft (there are no “middle” seats) and every seat has a extra-large bubble window specifically designed for sightseeing and photography – so everyone can enjoy the view. The airplane’s slower speed allows optimal exposure time for viewing Kauai’s most awesome features. And, you’ll share the experience with your fellow passengers through two-way noise reduction headsets as our friendly pilots share the legends and history of Kauai during your flight.
Special Kauai Group Rates Available
Traveling with a group of more than six? We offer group rates and are happy to provide you with side-by-side flights in our two GA-8 Airvans, when possible. These special group rates are only available by phone so please call us at (808) 720-0916.
Private Charters and Photography Tours
Beyond our popular Kauai air tours, we are able to offer private charters which allow you to “go where you want” (within reason, of course). The GA-8 Airvan’s slow flying and stable characteristics make it a great low-cost platform for photography and video – from scenic shots, to aerial job site documentation, to crop surveys – we’ve done it all. Please call us for pricing on these special tours.
Common Questions about the Big Kahuna Kauai Air Tour
What is the difference between a helicopter tour and an airplane tour?
We are both regulated by the same FAA routes and altitudes. Our flights are usually smoother, we fly much slower, and you get a much better view of the island with Air Ventures Hawaii. We offer extra-large window seats at no extra charge for all passengers, unlike some helicopters which can have two middle seats. We also have a more lenient weight restriction of 275lbs per passenger on the GA-8 Airvan, and 270lbs per passenger on the Cessna. On some helicopter flights, passengers must pay an additional charge if they weigh over 230lbs. Our tours are a full 60 minutes long unlike helicopter tours which are usually between 45-50 minutes of flying time. We are the most cost-effective way to see the island. Read more about Helicopter Tours vs. Airplane Tours.
Do you offer transportation?
Unfortunately, due to COVID restrictions, we are unable to provide transportation for cruise ship passengers at this time. We hope to resume in the future.
Are taxes and fuel surcharges included in the price?
Taxes and fuel surcharges are included (credit card and booking fees may be additional) in the Big Kahuna Air Tour and Private Cessna Tours.
What if the weather is bad? Do we get a refund?
Should your flight be delayed or canceled due to inclement weather, we will make every effort to reschedule you. In the event that rescheduling is not possible, you will receive a refund. We recommend you book your tour to fly early in your stay. We definitely do not want you to miss seeing our “Island Paradise” from above.
Are pilot gratuities Included?
Gratuities are not included in our tour prices. It's entirely up to each individual whether or not to tip your pilot although it is very much appreciated when you do.
Will I see as much from the airplane as in a helicopter?
You will actually see more of our "Island Paradise" with us because you will get a panoramic view, unlike helicopters flying below the ridge lines which may obstruct your view. Unlike most helicopter tours which average approximately 48 minutes, our tours are a full 60 minutes, we fly much slower, so you see much more.
Will I see everything in your tour description?
Every attempt will be made by our pilots to cover each site described, weather permitting. Pilots will adjust their flight path for wind and weather and may include alternate sites. You will have the very best air tour of Kauai possible on the day of your tour! However, your safety and comfort always come first!
How is your safety record?
We have a perfect safety record with no accidents or incidents. Our pilots are all highly trained professionals.
How long has AirVentures been in business?
Air Ventures Hawaii has been in business since 2004. The current owner was a partner in Fly Kauai and Tropical Biplanes when in 2013 he acquired Air Ventures Hawaii merging the two companies and purchasing a new Waco Biplane and Cessna 182.
What should I wear?
We recommend you wear comfortable clothing. If you are comfortable on the ground you should be equally comfortable in the airplane. We do, however, recommend wearing a color other than white to reduce any glare from our bubble windows in the Airvans.
Should we bring a camera?
Yes, we encourage passengers to bring their cameras. You will achieve beautiful photos with any lens. We can also mount your Go-Pro on the exterior of our airplane for a fee of $35.00 should you desire. We also make our GoPro available for rent for $55.00, and we give you the SD card following your tour.
What is the best tour?
Every Kauai air tour we offer encompasses the entire Island. You will experience Jurassic Falls, Waimea Canyon, Napali Coast, Kilauea Lighthouse, Hanalei Valley, Waialeale Crater, Wailua Falls, Opaekaa Falls, Kilohana Crater and much, much more. Our most popular tour is the Big Kahuna Tour because it is our most cost-effective tour. We're sure you will be happy with any of our tours.
How many people does the Airvan hold and what are the seating arrangement?
Our two GA-8 Airvans each hold six passengers with an aisle-way between passengers. Every seat has an extra-large bubble window for excellent photography and viewing.
Cancellation Policy
A 48-hour cancellation or change of tour notice is required for all airplane tours. If for any reason you decide to cancel or change your reservation, you must notify us 48-hours prior to the tour date/time. Cancellations, changes, or no-shows within 48-hours of the tour are not refundable and will be charged in full. Routes and flight patterns subject to change due to weather conditions.
Reservation Policy
Total fares include applicable taxes and fees. Any child under 24 months of age is welcome as a lap child at no charge. Children 24 months and over require an individual full-fare seat. There is a 275 pound per passenger weight limit. Your credit card will be charged at time of booking.
