Helicopter Tour of Clearwater Beach and Belleair Country Club

Exploring the Helicopter Tour of Clearwater Beach and Belleair Country Club

If you’re looking for a way to see Clearwater’s stunning coastline from a fresh perspective, a helicopter tour might just be the ticket. Based on reviews and details from Tampa Bay Aviation, this 20-minute flight offers a bird’s-eye view of iconic sights like Pier 60, white sandy beaches, and Florida’s first golf course. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve combed through what travelers say and the specifics to help you decide if this experience fits your plans.

What appeals most are the breathtaking views of marine life and pristine barrier islands—it’s the kind of experience that sticks with you long after the flight ends. Plus, a quick hop over the Belleair Golf Course adds a different flavor to the scenery, highlighting Florida’s mix of natural beauty and leisure. On the flip side, it’s not an overly long tour, so your time in the air is limited to roughly 20 minutes, which is something to keep in mind if you crave more adventure. This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic vistas and are happy with a concise, but memorable, aerial experience.

If you’re considering a trip that blends natural beauty with a touch of local culture—like viewing the famous Pier 60 or the coast’s marine life—this helicopter tour might be perfect. But if you’re after a longer, more in-depth sightseeing or family-oriented activities, you might want to explore other options. Now, let’s break down the key takeaways before we get into all the details.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking sights of Clearwater Beach, barrier islands, and the golf course.
• Short but Impactful: The 20-minute flight packs a lot of visuals into just a brief window.
• Highly Rated: It’s received top marks from travelers, with glowing reviews about the scenery and pilot knowledge.
• Good Value: At $145.50 per person, it’s a competitive price for a unique aerial perspective.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book about a month ahead, so plan accordingly.
• Weather Dependent: Like all helicopter experiences, this one relies on clear weather for a safe ride.

The Experience: What to Expect During the Tour

Starting from the Clearwater Airpark, just a few minutes from the famous beaches, you’ll meet your pilot—who’s often described as friendly, informative, and passionate about the area. The activity is private, meaning you’ll be flying with your group alone, which makes for a more intimate experience. You’ll be asked to provide your preferred departure time during booking, and the tour usually lasts about 20 minutes.

Once airborne, the pilot will take you over some of the most scenic spots in the area. Your first stop is to glide along the coast, where you’ll see the beautiful beaches and abundant marine life. This is a highlight for many, as the coastline offers a mesmerizing view of white sand, shimmering water, and possibly even sea turtles or endangered birds if luck’s on your side.

Next, the tour zips over the Dunedin Causeway toward Pier 60. From above, you’ll get a different perspective of the famous 1,080-foot fishing pier and its bustling recreational park. Travelers often enjoy waving down at the fishermen below, feeling a genuine connection to the local scene. The bird’s-eye view of the pier and the surrounding park creates a vivid scene that’s hard to match from the ground.

The final notable stop is over Florida’s first golf course, the Belleair Golf Course, with its lush, manicured greens. Flying over the fairways offers a completely different kind of beauty—neatly maintained landscapes contrasting with the wild, natural coastline.

Throughout the flight, you’ll want to have your camera ready. As one reviewer mentioned, “the thrill of flying over it all is something you will never forget.” The vistas are expansive, and capturing that moment from above makes for some fantastic photos. The pilot’s commentary, which many describe as informative and engaging, adds context to what you’re seeing, enriching the experience.

What Travelers Say

One aspect that stands out from reviews is just how breathtaking the views are. Brittnie shared that the experience was “absolutely breathtaking” and appreciated the pilot’s knowledge, mentioning how helpful it was to learn about the area from someone who knew it well. Julia, on the other hand, found the tour to be “thrilling and entertaining,” especially noting her grandsons’ enthusiasm and how they rated it as their favorite holiday activity.

Many travelers also highlighted the cost-effectiveness of this short tour, considering the stunning aerial views they received. Although the flight is only a bit over 20 minutes, the impact on memory and photo opportunities is significant. The fact that it’s a private tour adds to the value, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more personalized experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

Price-wise, at $145.50 per person, this helicopter ride is competitive for a quick but memorable sightseeing experience. It’s most often booked about 30 days in advance, so planning ahead helps secure your preferred time slot. Keep in mind, the total weight per passenger should not exceed 300 lbs, and the combined weight of all passengers must stay under 550 lbs. This is typical for helicopter rides, but it’s worth noting if you’re on the heavier side.

Most travelers find the activity suitable, with the main limitation being weather. If conditions aren’t clear, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled, so flexibility helps. The company offers free cancellations up to 24 hours before the flight, which adds peace of mind.

Children over 5 are welcome, but younger kids must be accompanied by an adult. Since the tour is relatively short, it’s a good fit for those with limited time but still seeking a high-impact experience.

Transportation to the meeting point is included in the package, and the activity begins at the Clearwater Airpark, very close to the beaches and hotels in the area. This makes it convenient to incorporate into a day of beach lounging or other local activities.

Is This Tour Truly Worth It?

For those craving stunning views and a sense of adventure without a lengthy commitment, this helicopter ride hits the right notes. The combination of scenic coastline, marine life, and the golf course makes for a well-rounded visual tour that’s especially suited for first-timers or anyone wanting a quick, memorable experience. When the reviews mention the “breathtaking” nature of the scenery, you get a sense that this is much more than just a sightseeing flight—it’s a genuine highlight.

However, if you’re looking for a longer or more comprehensive aerial tour, this might feel a bit brief. Also, as with any helicopter activity, it’s weather-dependent, so flexibility is key. But if the weather cooperates, expect a ride filled with beautiful vistas and a unique perspective on Clearwater’s well-known beaches and golf landscape.

FAQs

Is this tour private or shared?
This is a private experience, so only your group will participate. If you book for two or fewer people, a private tour fee of $20 applies.

How long does the helicopter ride last?
The actual flight time is approximately 20 minutes, providing a quick but impactful view of the coast and local landmarks.

What is the maximum weight per passenger?
Each passenger can weigh up to 300 lbs, with the combined passenger weight not exceeding 550 lbs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the flight are non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera to capture the incredible views. Dress comfortably—there’s no mention of specific dress code, but weather-appropriate clothing is always wise.

Is this suitable for children?
Children over age 5 are welcome when accompanied by an adult. Kids under 5 are not mentioned explicitly, but generally, they may not be suitable for helicopter rides due to safety reasons.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this helicopter tour offers a fantastic way to see Clearwater’s beautiful scenery from above. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a short, scenic adventure that leaves a lasting impression. The combination of stunning beaches, marine life, and a touch of golfing landscape makes this experience quite unique in the area.

If you’re someone who loves capturing beautiful vistas and doesn’t mind a quick flight, you’ll likely find this tour to be well worth the price. Just remember to book early and keep an eye on the weather forecast to ensure clear skies. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable add-on to your beach vacation, this helicopter ride delivers on the promise of spectacular views and unforgettable moments.

Final Recommendation

This tour is best suited for adventurers and sightseers who appreciate the thrill of flying and want to see Clearwater from a different angle. It caters well to couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a brief but impactful experience. If you’re after a longer tour or traveling with very young children, you might want to explore other options. But for a short, scenic escapade that captures the essence of Clearwater’s natural beauty, this helicopter ride could be the highlight of your trip.