The Tour Specialists Blog

With its dramatic reef lagoons, tropical islands, and rainforest-covered mountains, Cairns is one of the best places in Australia for scenic helicopter flights. Whether you're looking for a quick aerial view or a half-day reef-and-fly adventure, this guide will help you choose the best flight and know what to expect along the way.

Top Helicopter Tours from Cairns

1. Reef Scenic Flights (30–45 Minutes)

- Fly over Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlasoff Cay
- View coral formations, sand cays, and marine life from above
- Perfect for first-time visitors and photographers

2. Sand Cay Landing Tours

- Land on Vlasoff Cay or a private coral sandbank
- Champagne and refreshments included on most tours
- Ideal for romantic escapes, proposals, and luxury guests

3. Fly & Cruise Combos

- Combine a helicopter flight with a Great Barrier Reef snorkel tour
- Options include fly-out, cruise-back or vice versa
- Operated by luxury reef tour providers from Cairns

4. Rainforest & Waterfall Flights

- Fly inland over Barron Gorge, Stoney Creek Falls, and Kuranda
- Great for guests who’ve already seen the reef or want a varied landscape
- Year-round tours with great photographic opportunities

Cairns Helicopter Departure Points

- Cairns City Heliport (near Reef Fleet Terminal)
- Cairns Airport private heli terminals
- Transfers available from most hotels and marinas

Best Time to Fly in a Helicopter Over the Reef

- Dry season (May to October) offers best visibility
- Morning flights tend to be smoother with clearer skies
- Book ahead in peak season (June to September)

Insider Tips & Hints on Booking Helicopter Flights in Cairns

- Wear pale colours to minimise reflection in windows
- Let the pilot know if you want extra time over a specific site
- Some flights may spot whales during winter migration
- Bring a GoPro or wide-angle lens for best footage

Elevate Your Reef & Helicopter Ride Experience

Scenic helicopter flights from Cairns offer unbeatable views of the reef and rainforest in one unforgettable journey. Whether it’s your first visit or a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, taking to the skies adds a spectacular new dimension to your tropical escape.

Visit The Tour Specialists to browse the best helicopter flights in Cairns and book your aerial adventure.

• Cairns Helicopter Flights
• Cairns Helicopter & Reef Combo
• Port Douglas Helicopter Fllights
• Port Douglas Helicopter & Reef Combo
• Townsvile Helicopter Flights
• Whitsundays Helicopter Flights
• Gold Coast Helicopter Flights
• Darwin Helicopter Flights

Read The Tour Specialists Blog for all the things you need to know before you go.