Helicopter Tours
Florida offers a wide range of helicopter tours that provide unique aerial views of the state’s stunning landscapes, from coastlines to theme parks. Here are some key locations where helicopter tours are available:
1. Orlando & Kissimmee (area info)
- Popular Tours: Fly over Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld for spectacular views of these world-renowned attractions. Tours also cover nearby lakes and natural scenery.
- Tour Providers: MaxFlight Helicopter Services, Orlando Helicopter Adventures, and Air Florida Helicopter Charters offer multiple route options ranging from short flights to extended experiences.
2. Miami & South Beach (area info)
- Popular Tours: These tours often highlight Miami’s skyline, South Beach, Star Island, and the Art Deco District. Some longer tours even venture to the nearby Everglades.
- Tour Providers: Miami Helicopter Inc., Heli Air Miami, and South Beach Helicopters are popular operators offering various scenic tours of the region.
3. Florida Keys & Key West (area info)
- Popular Tours: Experience the beauty of the Florida Keys, with flights over turquoise waters, coral reefs, and iconic locations like Seven Mile Bridge and Bahia Honda State Park.
- Tour Providers: Old City Helicopters Key West offers a range of tours around Key West and the surrounding areas.
4. Tampa Bay & St. Petersburg (area info)
- Popular Tours: Fly over the Tampa Bay area, including scenic views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, Downtown Tampa, and Clearwater Beach.
- Tour Providers: Tampa Bay Aviation and Old City Helicopters St. Petersburg offer several aerial experiences.
5. Daytona Beach (area info)
- Popular Tours: Helicopter tours of Daytona Beach focus on the coastlines, the iconic Daytona International Speedway, and the natural inlets nearby.
- Tour Providers: Heli-Hogs Daytona Beach offers customizable helicopter tours along the shorelines and major attractions.
6. Fort Lauderdale & Hollywood (area info)
- Popular Tours: Explore Fort Lauderdale’s canals (known as the “Venice of America”), Hollywood Beach, and the Everglades from the air.
- Tour Providers: Helicopters Over Miami/Fort Lauderdale offers comprehensive tours that cover the beaches, marinas, and mansions of the region.
7. Naples & Marco Island (area info)
- Popular Tours: Aerial views of Naples and Marco Island, showcasing the coastal beauty and nearby Everglades.
- Tour Providers: Naples Air, Inc. and Marco Island Helicopter Tours offer a variety of options for tourists.
8. Pensacola & the Panhandle (area info)
- Popular Tours: Helicopter rides over Pensacola Beach and the Emerald Coast, with panoramic views of white sandy beaches and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Tour Providers: Panhandle Helicopter operates scenic flights over the beaches of Destin, Panama City Beach, and Pensacola .
Before Heading There
Before embarking on a helicopter tour in Florida, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure safety, comfort, and a memorable experience:
1. Weather Conditions
- Florida’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during the summer with thunderstorms and high humidity. Tours may be rescheduled due to severe weather, so it’s important to check the forecast and confirm with the tour provider on the day of your booking .
2. Booking and Reservation Policies
- Helicopter tours are often in high demand, especially in popular tourist areas like Miami and Orlando. It’s advisable to book your tour in advance and understand the company’s cancellation policy in case of weather-related or personal changes .
3. Safety Briefing
- Prior to the flight, there will be a mandatory safety briefing. Pay close attention to the instructions provided by the pilot or guide regarding seat belts, emergency procedures, and behavior during the flight. This is crucial for both your safety and the safety of others .
4. Weight Restrictions
- Most helicopter tours have strict weight limits for safety and balance reasons. Be sure to check weight limits and inform the company ahead of time if you or anyone in your group exceeds the limit. Some tours may charge extra or require a different arrangement based on weight .
5. What to Wear
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as helicopters can get warm inside. Sunglasses and light jackets are a good idea for added comfort, and avoid loose items like hats that could blow away during the flight .
6. Motion Sickness
- If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking preventative measures, such as medication, before the flight. Helicopter movements can cause discomfort, especially during turns or turbulence.
7. Photography Rules
- Many people enjoy capturing the views, but check with the tour operator regarding restrictions on cameras or phones during the flight. Secure wrist straps for cameras and phones are often encouraged, and some companies may prohibit selfie sticks or drones during the tour .
8. Tour Duration
- Most tours last anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, so plan your schedule accordingly. The length of the tour will impact the price and the sites you’ll be able to see. Ask about the tour route beforehand to make sure it covers the landmarks or areas you’re most interested in .
Helicopter tours provide incredible opportunities to see Florida’s diverse landscapes from a breathtaking perspective, whether you’re interested in cityscapes, natural parks, or the coastline. By keeping these points in mind, you can have a safe, smooth, and enjoyable helicopter tour experience in Florida.
