Our Picks For The 6 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a gateway to the Whitsundays, and what better way to see this stunning part of Australia than from the air? Helicopter flights offer a unique perspective—flying over white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and lush islands that are often only visible from above. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to take in the breathtaking scenery, Airlie Beach’s helicopter tours are hard to beat. We particularly love tours that combine stunning aerial views with time on the ground—like the Heart Reef & Whitehaven Rest and Relax, which offers a 2.5-hour adventure that includes a substantial stop on Whitehaven Beach.

For travelers who want the quick thrill of a bird’s eye view, shorter tours such as the Reef & Whitehaven Spectacular are perfect. If you prefer a more leisurely experience with time to unwind on the beach, options like the Whitehaven Rest & Relax Package provide a nice balance. Whichever you choose, these helicopter tours showcase the most remarkable sights of the Whitsundays in ways that photos simply can’t capture.

1. Heart Reef & Whitehaven Rest and Relax – 2.5Hr Helicopter Tour

At number one, this tour combines a spectacular visit to Whitehaven Beach with an aerial journey over the iconic Heart Reef—a must-see for anyone wanting a full, immersive experience. Priced at $848.50 per person, this 2.5-hour adventure is ideal for those seeking both scenic beauty and relaxation. The flight kicks off with a flyby over Mount Rooper and Shute Harbour, giving you a panoramic introduction to the Whitsundays’ coastline. Then, you’ll land on Whitehaven Beach, renowned for its brilliant white sands and crystal-clear waters, where you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour stop with nibblies and ice-cold beverages. It’s perfect for strolling, taking photos, or just soaking up the sun.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a generous beach stop with the chance to see Heart Reef, a natural coral formation shaped like a heart, visible from the air. The pilot shares interesting insights about the area, making the experience both beautiful and educational. The reviews are glowing—people mention the “fantastic views” and describe it as the “best way to see the Great Barrier Reef” with a pilot who makes the experience memorable.

Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive tour that mixes aerial views with a significant stop on one of the world’s most photographed beaches, this is your top choice.

2. Reef & Whitehaven Spectacular – 60 Minute Helicopter Tour

For around $690.71, the Reef & Whitehaven Spectacular offers a condensed but equally breathtaking look at the Whitsundays—from the air. This 1-hour helicopter ride is ideal if your schedule is tight but you still want a taste of the region’s highlights. The flight heads out past South Molle Island and approaches Whitsunday Island, giving you incredible views of Hill Inlet and the famous swirling sands.

This tour includes a flyover of Heart Reef, making it a popular pick for first-timers. The short duration means you’ll spend less time on the ground but get plenty of stunning visuals—perfect for capturing memorable photos. The reviews praise the “spectacular views” and mention the “incredible Whitehaven Beach” seen from above.

Bottom line: Best for travelers on a time crunch who still want an impressive overview of the Whitsundays, including the Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach.

3. Whitehaven From Above – 30 Minute Whitsunday Helicopter Tour

At number three, this half-hour tour provides a quick but memorable look at Whitehaven Beach and the surrounding islands. Costing $375.84 per person, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a taste of the scenery without a full day commitment. The flight departs from Shute Harbour, passing over Hamilton Island, Long Island, and the Sailing Capital of Airlie Beach, giving you a solid sense of the region’s layout.

The highlight is the bird’s-eye view of Hill Inlet, which is especially striking from the air. Guests often comment on how “amazing the views” are, and it’s a perfect option for families or travelers with tight schedules. While short, this tour offers a compact dose of the region’s natural beauty.

Bottom line: Perfect for a quick, scenic overview when time is limited but you want a high-quality experience.

4. Whitehaven Rest & Relax Package – 2 Hour Beach & Helicopter Tour

Number four features a balanced approach starting at $423.88, combining a 2-hour helicopter flight with a 1.5-hour stop on Whitehaven Beach. This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing break with time on the iconic white sands. The flight includes aerial views of Shute Harbour, Long Island, and Hamilton Island, with the highlight being the Whitehaven Beach visit, where you can take a walk, enjoy canapés, and dip your toes in the water.

What’s special here is the opportunity to unwind on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with the helicopter flight providing an unforgettable perspective. The reviews emphasize the “super chill beach time” and the “thrilling helicopter ride”, with pilots like Justin earning praise for safety and friendliness.

Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a leisurely beach experience combined with a scenic flight, making it a good choice for couples or honeymooners.

5. Whitsunday Whirl – 20 Minute Helicopter Tour

If your schedule is tight but you still want a peek at the region, the Whitsunday Whirl at only $244.58 offers a quick 20-minute scenic flight. This tour covers Airlie Beach, Shute Harbour, and surrounding islands, giving you a snapshot of the area’s natural beauty. Departing from Shute Harbour, the flight flies past South Molle Island, Long Island, and the iconic Whitehaven Beach, providing perfect photo opportunities.

Guests rave about the “fantastic views” and mention spotting whales, turtles, and dolphins from the air, making this an excellent choice for wildlife lovers. It’s perfect if you want a memorable experience without a long commitment.

Bottom line: An ideal if you’re on a tight schedule but still want a memorable flight with wildlife and island scenery.

6. Cape Gloucester Getaway – 2 Hour Helicopter & Resort Visit

Finally, the Cape Gloucester Getaway offers a more exclusive experience at $410.98, combining a helicopter flight with a 1.5-hour visit to Cape Gloucester Resort. Flying over Dryander National Park and coastal beaches, this tour is perfect for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation. The highlight is landing on the beach for a swim or lunch at the resort, with full access to its amenities.

This tour stands out for its focus on luxury and exclusivity, with a small number of reviews praising the “beautiful scenery” and the “relaxing resort” experience. It’s suited for travelers seeking a quieter, more private escape.

Bottom line: Great for those wanting a blend of scenic flying and leisure at a boutique resort.

How to Choose the Best Helicopter Tour in Airlie Beach

When selecting your helicopter experience, consider your budget, time availability, and what you most want to see. If you’re after a full-day adventure with plenty of beach time, the Heart Reef & Whitehaven Rest and Relax delivers. For a quick but still impressive taste, the Whitsunday Whirl is perfect. Those wanting a luxurious, relaxing day might prefer the Cape Gloucester Getaway, while travelers with limited time should consider the Whitehaven From Above.

Think about your fitness level, as some tours include significant ground stops, like Whitehaven Beach. Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and experience.

In summary, Airlie Beach offers a range of helicopter flights that highlight its stunning islands, beaches, and reefs. From the comprehensive Heart Reef & Whitehaven tour to quick scenic flights like Whitsunday Whirl, there’s an option for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a luxurious afternoon or a quick thrill, these tours will give you a memorable view of this incredible part of Australia. Be sure to book ahead and pick the one that best matches your interests and schedule.