📸 Jurassic Falls Helicopter Landing | Island Helicopters | Kauai, Hawaii
📝 My Story
There are few travel moments that make you feel like you're stepping directly into a movie — and landing at Jurassic Falls with Island Helicopters is exactly that kind of magic.
Tucked deep within Kauai’s Hanapepe Valley, this 400-foot tall waterfall — officially known as Manawaiopuna Falls— became world-famous after its breathtaking appearance in the original Jurassic Park movie.
Island Helicopters is one of the few companies permitted to actually land at the base of the falls, and being able to walk right up to it was simply unforgettable.
The thunderous sound of the water, the lush jungle surroundings, and the sheer beauty of the moment made it feel like we had stepped onto another planet.
If you’re visiting Kauai and looking for an adventure you’ll never forget, this is it.
🌎 Location
📍 Google Maps - Island Helicopters Kauai & Manawaiopuna Falls
📌 Quick Info
🏙️ City: Near Hanapepe, Kauai
🅿️ Parking: Not applicable — helicopter tours depart from Lihue Airport area
🚻 Bathrooms: Available at helicopter terminals (none at the falls)
🚲 Bike Rentals: Not applicable
🧭 Travel Tip: Book your Island Helicopters tour early — availability is limited!
📸 Photographer’s Note: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full grandeur of the falls
🛐 Etiquette: Respect the sacred nature of the site and stay with your tour guide
🕰️ Best Time to Explore: Morning flights offer smoother air and better lighting
♿ Accessibility: Must be able to board a helicopter independently (check with tour company if needed)
💡 Pro Tip
Bring a lightweight jacket even if it’s sunny — it can be surprisingly cool and misty near the falls.
Also, wearing dark clothing reduces window glare for better helicopter photos!
📸 Photography Tip
Shoot slightly downward to avoid helicopter window reflections.
If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, use a polarizing filter to make the colors richer and cut the glare on the waterfalls and foliage.
🎉 Fun Fact
The famous landing scene in Jurassic Park — when the characters arrive on Isla Nublar — was filmed right here!
You’re literally walking in the footsteps of movie history.
🗺️ Planning Your Own Hawaii Adventure?
If you’re planning your own trip to Kauai (or anywhere across Hawaii), you can find this hidden gem — and many more — on my public travel map:
👉 View My Hawaii Travel Map Here ➔
🌺 Return to Main Hawaii Travel Story
Want to read the full story of our unforgettable adventure across Kauai and Maui?
👉 Click here to explore our complete Hawaii Travel Journal ➔
