Take to the skies above Southport, North Carolina, and experience iconic lighthouses, historic forts, and scenic river views on this unforgettable helicopter tour. Discover why these coastal landmarks have guided mariners and inspired stories for centuries.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30–45 minutes
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required, suitable for all adults and children above the minimum age.
Wildlife
History
Southport has served as a strategic point since the colonial era and was officially established in the early 18th century, with the lighthouses guiding sailors through shifting sandbars and perilous waters.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to preserve coastal habitats and protect the marine ecosystem surrounding Southport, emphasizing sustainable tourism and environmental responsibility.
High Tide Aviation
Take to the skies above Southport, North Carolina, and experience iconic lighthouses, historic forts, and scenic river views on this unforgettable helicopter tour. Discover why these coastal landmarks have guided mariners and inspired stories for centuries.
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 Ahead for Best Availability
Helicopter tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons—reserve your spot early to ensure your flight date.
Dress for the Weather
Wear comfortable layers and bring sunglasses; temperatures can vary at altitude and windows can reflect sunlight.
Charge Your Camera
The aerial views are spectacular—ensure your camera or phone battery is fully charged for capturing every moment.
Arrive Early for Safety Briefing
Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your flight for check-in and a safety briefing to familiarize yourself with helicopter procedures.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare through the helicopter windows during sunny flights.
summer
Light Jacket
Altitude can make temperatures cooler, so a lightweight jacket helps keep you comfortable.
spring
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning aerial photographs of lighthouses and coastline views.
Comfortable Footwear
Wear easy-to-remove shoes for quick boarding and exiting of the helicopter.