Drones

Question

We will be staying at Hanalei Bay resort and exploring eastern and southern parts of the island. We would like to take some pictures with our drone and wanted info regarding laws, common practices etc. We are a couple in our 60s, yes, we would apply utmost courtesy and consideration of others and would probably engage in an hour or less on any given day of our 10 day trip. Thx in advance for your responses.

Answer

Flying a drone in Kauai can be a fantastic way to capture the island’s stunning landscapes, but there are important rules and local considerations to keep in mind to ensure a safe and respectful experience.

Drone Regulations in Hawaii:

All drones are subject to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules. You must register your drone if it weighs over 0.55 lbs (250 grams).
Drones must be flown below 400 feet and remain within visual line-of-sight at all times.
Do not fly near airports, helipads, or emergency response activities.
Flying over people, private property without permission, or in national/state parks without specific permits is generally prohibited.

Local Kauai Considerations:

Many of Kauai’s beaches and public areas allow recreational drone use if FAA rules are followed, but some areas, especially state parks like Wailua Falls, Sleeping Giant (Nounou), and Na Pali Coast, require permits or forbid drone flights.
Private resorts may have their own rules; always ask permission if flying from or near resort property.
Respect wildlife and other visitors: avoid flying over people, nesting seabirds, or sensitive areas. Limit flights to short sessions, as you suggested, to reduce disturbance.

Best Practices for Enjoyable Drone Use:

Plan your flight early in the day when winds are lighter and lighting is good.
Scout locations ahead of time for open spaces, minimal crowds, and safe takeoff/landing areas.
Keep flights brief—an hour or less is ideal, especially near populated or scenic areas.
Carry a map of restricted areas or download apps such as B4UFLY (FAA app) to ensure you’re compliant.
Maintain courteous behavior: avoid flying over people, private homes, or sensitive wildlife areas.

By following FAA regulations, local rules, and courteous practices, you can safely capture beautiful aerial images of Hanalei Bay and other eastern and southern Kauai locations while ensuring a positive experience for everyone.

Drones

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