Miami Beach Helicopter Tour: Biscayne Bay & Star Island Aerial Sightseeing
Lift off from the helipad and watch Miami rearrange itself beneath you: glittering islands, the Port of Miami’s giant liners, and the pale green estuaries of Oleta River. This 30–35 minute helicopter tour delivers compact, cinematic views of Biscayne Bay and the city’s most iconic waterfronts.
The Experience
Before You Go
Confirm weight and ID policies
You’ll be asked to provide passenger weights and government ID—bring the ID listed on your booking and be honest about weight for safety and balance.
Ask about the doors-off option early
If you want pictures with the doors off, request it when booking or before boarding; not all flights or conditions allow it.
Dress in layers and wear sunglasses
Rotor wash and altitude can make it cooler aloft—bring a light windbreaker and polarized sunglasses to reduce glare.
Charge and secure your camera
Bring a fully charged camera or phone and a wrist/neck strap—loose items can be hazardous during flight.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Flyby view of Gulfstream Park’s racetrack—grandstands and stables form a unique horseshoe pattern.
- •The tidal channels of Oleta River State Park reveal mangrove roots and narrow creeks that look like veins from above.
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •Brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Biscayne Bay’s shallow seagrass beds and mangroves are sensitive—pilots follow routes that reduce noise over protected areas and operators encourage minimal disturbance to wildlife.
The Port of Miami, at the mouth of the Miami River, grew into a major cruise and cargo hub over the 20th century, reshaping Miami’s economy and shoreline.
Photographer's Notes
- • Circle over Fisher Island for luxury estate panoramas
- • High pass along Sunny Isles for long beach ribbons
- • Biscayne Bay for shipping and natural contrasts
What to Bring
SunglassesEssential
Reduces glare over water and helps with clear visuals for photos.
Light windbreakerEssential
Rotor wash can feel cool; a thin jacket keeps you comfortable during flight.
Camera with wrist strapEssential
Essential for capturing aerial shots—secure it to prevent drops.
Photo-polarizer filter
Helps manage reflections on water and improves color saturation in bright light.
Common Questions
Can I request doors-off during the tour?
Ask the pilot or operator when booking; doors-off is subject to aircraft configuration, weather, and safety restrictions and may not be available on every flight.
What is the weight limit?
Passengers must not weigh more than 280 lbs (127 kg); the operator requests weight information during booking for balance and safety.
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the designated airport gate or helipad listed on your confirmation—the operator will provide the exact meeting point.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights will be canceled for unsafe weather; you can receive a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure or if the operator cancels due to conditions.
Are children allowed?
Children are allowed but must meet the same safety and weight requirements; check with the operator for minimum age and seat rules.
Is this safe for pregnant travelers?
This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious spinal or cardiovascular conditions—consult your physician beforehand.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
30–35 minutes
Location
Miami Beach, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
No special fitness required beyond the ability to board and sit during takeoff and landing; moderate fitness recommended for quick boarding.
Ready to Explore Miami Beach?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now