Soaring high above the picturesque Catalina Island, the Avalon: Santa Catalina Island Aerial Helicopter Tour offers an unparalleled aerial experience. This 20-minute adventure, priced at €228.01 per person, invites guests to witness the island’s stunning landmarks from a unique vantage point. With a live English-speaking guide on board, the tour promises to uncover the island’s rich history and natural wonders, leaving adventurers with a newfound appreciation for this captivating destination. But the real question remains: what breathtaking sights await those who embark on this aerial adventure?
Key Points
- Aerial helicopter tour of Santa Catalina Island, with a duration of 20 minutes and a price of €228.01 per person.
- Tour highlights iconic landmarks like Catalina Casino, Descanso Beach Club, and Mount Orizaba, with a live English-speaking guide providing commentary.
- Potential wildlife sightings include buffalo, eagles, and dolphins, along with views of historical sites like Middle Ranch and Wrigley Memorial.
- Departure from Pebbly Beach in Avalon, with a flight path covering Two Harbors and Airport in the Sky.
- Meeting point at Maverick Helicopter Terminal in Avalon, with valid passport or ID card required for check-in and weight and balance limitations for seating.
Overview and Pricing
The Aerial Helicopter Tour of Santa Catalina Island offers a unique perspective of the island’s stunning natural beauty. Priced at €228.01 per person, the 20-minute tour accommodates small groups of up to 7 participants.
Led by a live English-speaking guide, the tour showcases the island’s iconic landmarks, including the Catalina Casino, Descanso Beach Club, and the highest peak, Mount Orizaba. Passengers can expect to see a range of wildlife, from buffalo to eagles and dolphins.
Departing from Pebbly Beach in Avalon, the tour provides breathtaking aerial views of the island’s charming streets, beaches, and secluded coves.
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Experience Highlights
Passengers soar over Catalina Bay, Catalina Casino, Descanso Beach Club, and Hamilton Cove, offering stunning aerial perspectives of the island’s iconic landmarks.
During the flight, they may spot wildlife like buffalo, eagles, and dolphins. Historical sites like Middle Ranch, El Rancho Escondido, Wrigley Memorial, and Botanic Garden come into view.
The helicopter ascends past Mount Orizaba, Catalina’s highest peak, providing panoramic vistas. Charming streets, beautiful beaches, and secluded coves like Bird Rock and Empire Landing are also showcased.
The tour concludes with sweeping views of Catalina Bay and the historic Catalina Island Golf Course.
Itinerary Details
Departing from Pebbly Beach in Avalon, the helicopter tour journeys past charming streets, beautiful beaches, and secluded coves like Bird Rock and Empire Landing.
The aerial adventure then flies over Two Harbors and the Airport in the Sky before concluding with panoramic views of Catalina Bay and the historic Catalina Island Golf Course.
Throughout the 20-minute experience, the tour provides a unique bird’s-eye perspective of the island’s natural wonders and cultural landmarks, including Middle Ranch, El Rancho Escondido, Wrigley Memorial, and Botanic Garden.
Meeting Point and Requirements
Maverick Helicopter Terminal in Avalon serves as the meeting point for the aerial tour of Santa Catalina Island. Passengers must bring a valid passport or ID card for check-in. Those over 300 lbs/136 kg need to purchase an additional seat. Photo ID is required for passengers aged 18 and over. While the itinerary may change for safety or operational reasons, seating is assigned based on weight and balance limits, not by group affiliation.
| Requirements | Details |
| — | — |
| Meeting Point | Maverick Helicopter Terminal, Avalon |
| Identification | Passport or ID card |
| Age | Photo ID for ages 18+ |
| Weight | Additional seat for 300 lbs/136 kg+ |
| Seating | Assigned by weight and balance |
More Great Tours NearbySafety and Operational Considerations
While the itinerary may change for safety or operational reasons, the tour operator prioritizes passenger wellbeing.
Seating is arranged based on weight and balance limits, not guaranteed next to party members. Passengers over 300 lbs/136 kg must purchase an additional seat.
Seating is assigned according to weight and balance, not group preferences. Passengers over 300 lbs must book an extra seat.
All passengers aged 18 and over must present a valid photo ID at check-in. The pilot may modify the flight plan if necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Participants should bring their passport or ID card and be prepared for the possibility of minor itinerary adjustments during the tour.
Scenic Views and Landmarks
The aerial helicopter tour offers stunning views of Catalina Island’s picturesque landscapes and historic landmarks. Soaring over the island, passengers can admire the charming streets and beautiful beaches of Avalon, as well as the secluded coves like Bird Rock and Empire Landing. The tour showcases the island’s diverse wildlife, including buffalo, eagles, and dolphins. Key landmarks visible from the air include the Catalina Casino, Descanso Beach Club, and the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden. The tour culminates with sweeping vistas of Catalina Bay and the historic Catalina Island Golf Course.
| Scenic Views | Historic Landmarks |
| — | — |
| Catalina Bay | Middle Ranch |
| Descanso Beach Club | El Rancho Escondido |
| Hamilton Cove | Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden |
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
What wildlife can visitors hope to spot during the aerial helicopter tour of Catalina Island? From the sky, guests may catch glimpses of majestic bald eagles soaring over the island’s rugged terrain.
The island is also home to a thriving buffalo population, often seen grazing in the interior. With luck, visitors may even spot pods of dolphins frolicking in the crystal-clear waters of Catalina Bay.
The diversity of wildlife on Catalina is truly remarkable, and the helicopter tour provides a unique vantage point to observe these creatures in their natural habitat.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The helicopter tour package includes the flight and live tour guide commentary in English. Additional inclusions are taxes, fees, and tips. However, hotel pickup and drop-off are not provided.
| Included | Not Included |
| — | — |
| Helicopter flight | Hotel pickup/drop-off |
| Live tour guide in English | Meals |
| Taxes and fees | Personal expenses |
| Tips | |
Passengers should bring a valid photo ID and note that those over 300 lbs/136 kg must purchase an additional seat. The itinerary may change for safety or operational reasons, and seating is based on weight and balance limits, not guaranteed next to party members.
Ask Away
Can I Bring My Own Camera on the Tour?
Passengers can bring their own camera on the tour. The tour overview indicates that you will have the opportunity to take photos and capture the scenic views during the 20-minute helicopter flight.
What Is the Dress Code for the Helicopter Tour?
There’s no formal dress code for the helicopter tour. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Passengers should avoid anything too loose or bulky that could interfere with the helicopter’s operation.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Passengers?
There’s no minimum age requirement for the helicopter tour. All passengers, regardless of age, must have a valid ID or passport for check-in.
Can I Purchase Additional Photos or Videos From the Tour?
Passengers can purchase additional photos or videos of the tour. The helicopter tour operator offers a range of photo and video packages that can be purchased before or after the flight for an additional fee.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?
The tour doesn’t offer any special dietary accommodations. However, passengers are advised to bring snacks or drinks as desired. The focus is on the aerial sightseeing experience rather than catering to specific dietary needs.
Final Words
The Avalon: Santa Catalina Island Aerial Helicopter Tour provides a breathtaking 20-minute aerial adventure showcasing the island’s renowned landmarks and natural beauty. Travelers can marvel at the iconic Catalina Casino, Mount Orizaba, and local wildlife while a knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights. This unique tour offers an unforgettable way to experience Catalina Island’s rich history and stunning scenery from the sky.
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