Take to the skies for a private 17-mile airplane tour showcasing St. Simons Island’s historic lighthouse, serene beaches, and charming landmarks. Discover breathtaking views and rich local history from above.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30–45 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required as this is a seated aerial tour.
Wildlife
History
The St. Simons Lighthouse was originally built in 1810 and has guided ships safely along Georgia’s coast for over two centuries.
Conservation
Efforts on St. Simons Island focus on protecting coastal habitats and sea turtle nesting areas through local conservation programs.
High Tide Aviation
Take to the skies for a private 17-mile airplane tour showcasing St. Simons Island’s historic lighthouse, serene beaches, and charming landmarks. Discover breathtaking views and rich local history from above.
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 in Advance
Private airplane tours are popular and have limited availability; secure your slot early to avoid disappointment.
Check the Weather
Ideal flying conditions are important for safety and visibility, so monitor the local weather forecast before your tour.
Bring a Light Jacket
Even on warm days, it can get breezy at higher altitudes, so a light jacket or windbreaker is recommended.
Use a Camera with Stabilization
To capture crisp photos during the flight, use a camera or smartphone with good image stabilization.
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from glare while flying over the water and coastal areas.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
To capture sweeping aerial views and memorable moments.
Light Jacket
Useful for cooler breezes at altitude, especially during spring and fall.
spring
Binoculars
Enhance your bird and wildlife watching from the air.