Soaring high above the Pacific, the Avalon: Santa Catalina Island Aerial Helicopter Tour offers a unique perspective on this captivating island. Visitors can marvel at the stunning vistas, from the iconic Catalina Casino to the picturesque Descanso Beach Club, all while keeping an eye out for local wildlife. With a personalized experience guided by knowledgeable experts, this 20-minute adventure promises to be a highlight of any Catalina Island getaway. But the true magic lies in what lies beyond the horizon, waiting to be discovered.
Key Points
- Experience a 20-minute helicopter tour that offers bird’s-eye views of Catalina Bay, Catalina Casino, Descanso Beach Club, and Hamilton Cove.
- Enjoy a small-group tour with a live English-speaking guide and opportunities to spot wildlife like buffalo, eagles, and dolphins.
- Fly over historical landmarks like Middle Ranch and El Rancho Escondido, as well as the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden.
- Depart from Pebbly Beach in Avalon and soar over beautiful beaches and secluded coves like Bird Rock and Isthmus Cove.
- Comply with safety regulations, including weight restrictions, age limits, and no intoxication, to ensure a smooth and secure tour experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This helicopter tour from Avalon, Santa Catalina Island costs €224.08 per person and lasts for 20 minutes.
It’s a small-group experience, limited to 7 participants, with a live English-speaking guide.
Passengers can enjoy free cancellation up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.
The tour offers a unique bird’s-eye view of Catalina Bay, the iconic Catalina Casino, Descanso Beach Club, and the secluded Hamilton Cove.
During the flight, you might spot wildlife like buffalo, eagles, and dolphins, as well as historical landmarks such as Middle Ranch, El Rancho Escondido, and the Airport in the Sky.
This aerial adventure promises to showcase the island’s unspoiled natural beauty.
Tour Highlights
The helicopter tour showcases Catalina Island’s diverse landscapes and wildlife, offering breathtaking aerial views of Catalina Bay, the iconic Catalina Casino, Descanso Beach Club, and the secluded Hamilton Cove. Soar over historical landmarks like Middle Ranch, El Rancho Escondido, and the Airport in the Sky, and spot native buffalo, majestic eagles, and playful dolphins. Marvel at the unspoiled natural beauty of the Wrigley Memorial, the Botanic Garden, and the towering Mount Orizaba.
| Tour Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Catalina Bay | |
| Catalina Casino | |
| Descanso Beach Club | |
| Hamilton Cove | |
| Native Wildlife |
Flight Route and Experience
The helicopter tour departs from Pebbly Beach in Avalon, offering passengers a journey over the picturesque harbor town known for its charming boutiques and eateries.
As the aircraft ascends, guests will observe the beautiful beaches and secluded coves below, including Bird Rock, Empire Landing, and Isthmus Cove.
The flight route provides a unique perspective of the island’s natural landscapes, allowing passengers to appreciate the unspoiled beauty of the region.
The tour concludes with a descent past the stunning Catalina Bay, giving riders a final glimpse of the island’s picturesque scenery before returning to the ground.
Important Information
Participants meet at the Maverick Helicopter Terminal on Catalina Island to begin their adventure. They’ll need to bring their passport or ID card, as it’s required for check-in.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 years old, people with claustrophobia, or wheelchair users. Passengers over 300 lbs (136 kg) must purchase an additional seat to comply with legal weight and balance limits. All participants aged 18 and up must present a valid photo ID at check-in.
The itinerary may be modified for safety and operational reasons, and intoxication isn’t allowed. With these important details in mind, adventurers can look forward to an unforgettable aerial tour of Santa Catalina Island.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySafety and Regulations
To ensure a safe and enjoyable flight, the itinerary may be modified for safety and operational considerations.
Helicopter seating is assigned based on legal weight and balance limits, and intoxication isn’t allowed during the tour. Passengers must follow all instructions provided by the tour guide and pilot to maintain a high level of safety.
There are also some restrictions on who can participate in the tour, such as no children under 2 years old and no wheelchair users. Passengers over 300 lbs (136 kg) must purchase an additional seat.
All participants aged 18 and older must present a valid photo ID at check-in. These safety measures are in place to ensure a smooth and secure helicopter experience for everyone.
Meeting Point and Check-in
Passengers meet at the Maverick Helicopter Terminal on Catalina Island to begin their helicopter tour. This is the designated check-in location where you will present their photo IDs before the flight. The terminal staff will verify the passenger manifest and seating assignments based on legal weight and balance limits. Once checked in, guests can relax in the comfortable waiting area until it’s time to board the helicopter.
| Check-In Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| ID Verification | All passengers aged 18+ must present a valid photo ID |
| Seating Assignment | Passengers are seated based on legal weight & balance |
| Check-In Time | Guests should arrive 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure |
The helicopter tour offers an unforgettable aerial adventure over the beautiful island of Catalina.
What to Bring and Restrictions
Although the Avalon helicopter tour offers a breathtaking aerial experience, there are certain restrictions and requirements passengers should be aware of prior to the flight.
All participants aged 18 and above must present a valid photo ID at check-in. Children under 2 years of age aren’t permitted on the tour, and those with claustrophobia or who use wheelchairs may not be able to participate.
Plus, passengers weighing over 300 lbs (136 kg) must purchase an additional seat. It’s important to note that intoxication isn’t allowed, and the itinerary may be modified for safety and operational considerations.
Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable helicopter adventure over the stunning landscapes of Santa Catalina Island.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
The Avalon helicopter tour offers convenient booking and flexible cancellation options. Customers can reserve their spots online or through the Maverick Helicopter Terminal on Catalina Island, and they’re entitled to a full refund if they cancel up to 3 days in advance of the scheduled flight. This allows for peace of mind and the ability to reschedule if plans change. The tour’s booking and cancellation policy are summarized in the table below:
| Booking | Cancellation |
|---|---|
| Online or in-person at Maverick Terminal | Up to 3 days before flight for full refund |
| Reservations required | No refunds within 3 days of flight |
| Secure your spot in advance | Flexibility to change plans |
| Instant confirmation | Easy rescheduling available |
| Cashless payments accepted |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Tour Provide Transportation to the Meeting Point?
No, the tour does not provide transportation to the meeting point. Participants are responsible for getting themselves to the Maverick Helicopter Terminal on Catalina Island, where the tour departs from.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Helicopter Tour?
No, pets are not allowed on the helicopter tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals onboard for safety and comfort reasons. Only registered service animals are permitted.
Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Tour?
The tour does not provide any meals or snacks. Guests are responsible for their own dietary needs. There are no special dietary requirements to participate in the helicopter tour, and the tour can accommodate most dietary restrictions.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Solo Travelers?
There is no minimum age requirement for solo travelers on this helicopter tour. However, the tour is not suitable for children under 2 years old. All participants aged 18 and above must present photo ID at check-in.
Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Helicopter Tour?
Passengers can take photos and videos during the helicopter tour. The tour operator encourages capturing the scenic aerial views, but drone use isn’t permitted. Participants should avoid blocking the pilot’s visibility or hindering the other passengers’ experience.
Recap
The Avalon: Santa Catalina Island Aerial Helicopter Tour offers a breathtaking 20-minute adventure, providing stunning bird’s-eye views of the island’s iconic sites.
With a personalized experience led by an expert guide, guests can spot local wildlife and appreciate Catalina’s natural beauty.
Booking online ensures a hassle-free experience, with the option to cancel up to three days in advance.
You can check if your dates are available here: