Take to the skies with High Tide Aviation on St. Simons Island for aerial tours that reveal Georgia’s Golden Isles like never before. From lighthouses to barrier islands, these flights offer unmatched coastal views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
20 minutes to 1.5 hours
Fitness Level
No specific fitness requirements; suitable for most ages and abilities
Wildlife
History
St. Simons Lighthouse has guided vessels since 1872, standing as a key feature in the region's maritime navigation history.
Conservation
High Tide Aviation supports sustainable tourism by minimizing ground impact and educating visitors on coastal ecosystem preservation.
High Tide Aviation
Take to the skies with High Tide Aviation on St. Simons Island for aerial tours that reveal Georgia’s Golden Isles like never before. From lighthouses to barrier islands, these flights offer unmatched coastal views.
High Tide Aviation is an aerial tour operator based on St. Simons Island, Georgia, offering a range of airplane and helicopter experiences across the Golden Isles and the nearby North Carolina coast. Flights highlight coastal landmarks and natural scenery, including the St. Simons Lighthouse, Driftwood Beach, Neptune Park, Sea Island Beach, Shark Tooth Beach, Fort Caswell, and the historic Orton Plantation. Tour options vary from short discovery flights to extended scenic passport and custom airplane tours tailored for special occasions such as date nights and gender reveals.
Airplane experiences include the Golden Isles Passport (a 50-mile coastal route), the St. Simons Lighthouse Tour (approximately 17 miles), the Jekyll Island airplane route (about 25 miles), and a customizable Southport Airplane Tour that allows clients to choose duration and route. Helicopter offerings feature lighthouse-focused flights, Oak Island and Bald Head Island tours, a Cape Fear Passport helicopter tour, and two discovery-flight formats. The helicopter discovery flights use a Robinson R44 and provide hands-on instruction where participants can operate flight controls with an instructor guiding the experience. Flight durations listed include 15-, 20-, 25-, and 35-minute options depending on the tour.
High Tide Aviation structures flights to emphasize scenic coastal viewing and landmark identification, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as dolphins over coastal shoals. Flights depart from St. Simons Island and are bookable by tour type and desired duration. Pilots and instructors provide guidance and commentary to orient passengers and enhance the sightseeing experience.
Base Location
St. Simons Island, GA
Flights depart from St. Simons Island
Tours Offered
10 Tours
Airplane and helicopter experiences
Flight Range
15–35 minutes
Short scenic and discovery flights
Discovery Flights
2 Options
Hands-on pilot experiences
Reserve seats for airplane and helicopter tours from St. Simons Island — limited availability on discovery flights and custom airplane tours.
Book Early for Best Availability
Popular flight times fill quickly, especially during peak seasons, so reserve your seat well in advance.
Bring a Light Jacket
Temperatures can drop at altitude; a light jacket helps keep you comfortable during flights.
Charge Your Camera Batteries
You’ll want to capture clear, vivid shots of the islands and lighthouses, so ensure your gear is ready.
Arrive 30 Minutes Early
Allow extra time for check-in and safety briefings before your flight.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning aerial views of the Golden Isles and landmarks.
Light Outerwear
Helps maintain comfort against cooler temperatures during flights.
spring|fall|winter
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare when flying in bright sunlight.
summer
Binoculars
Optional for detailed viewing of distant wildlife and landscape features.