Advertisement

How to see Myrtle Beach from the sky: Your guide to the area’s aerial activities

Myrtle Beach is quite a sight. But have you ever wondered what it looks like from above?

Larger-than-life landmarks seem smaller from a higher vantage point. The hustle and bustle along the Boardwalk melts away, and the sound of the waves crashing on the beach is replaced by the white noise of the wind.

The Grand Strand is a completely different place when you observe it from the air, and it’s breathtaking.

There are several thrilling ways to take in the mesmerizing views: Tag along with experienced helicopter pilots, strap into a parasail and get a bird’s-eye view from 300 feet above the ocean, or watch the sunset from above the Boardwalk while riding the SkyWheel.

New to Myrtle Beach? Our newsletter has what you need to know. Sign up here

Take your appreciation for Myrtle Beach to new heights (literally) with these exciting experiences. Onward and upward!

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter Adventures

Centrally located across the street from Broadway at the Beach, Helicopter Adventures has five operating landing pads and 12 helicopters — so you likely won’t be waiting long for your flight. Tours start at $20 per person for a two-mile introductory flight where you can take in the views of the gorgeous beaches and iconic landmarks. Helicopter Adventures is open seven days a week. Reservations are not required, but reserving your tour ahead of time will help you beat the crowds.

Website: www.helicopteradventures.com

Address: 1860 21st Ave. N., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Oceanfront Helicopters

Oceanfront Helicopters, with its over 40 years of aviation experience, offers nine different tours. You can witness wildlife and nature from above on their scenic Inlet Tour or spot your favorite Myrtle Beach attractions on the Broadway Tour. If this is your first flight, try Oceanfront Helicopters’ Intro Tour for just $20.

Website: http://oceanfrontheli.com

Address: 3000 S. Kings Hwy., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Parasailing

Downwind Sails Watersports

Feel the wind in your hair and absorb 360 degrees of aerial views as you soar 400 feet about the ocean. A parasailing adventure with Downwind Sails begins with a 30- to 45-minute banana boat ride to and from the parasail boat and a 10- to 12-minute flight in the air. It’s an exhilarating experience you won’t forget, especially because they have professional photographers on staff to capture the moment for you.

Website: www.downwindsailsmyrtlebeach.com

Address: 2985 S. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

New Wave Watersports

Keep an eye out for marine wildlife as you parasail high above the waters of Myrtle Beach. Just sit back and enjoy the view with your family and friends. Two or three people can fly at a time, so you don’t have to take this thrilling ride alone.

Website: www.newwavewatersports.com

Address: 1701 S. Ocean Blvd., North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582

Shoreline Watersports

If you want to feel like you’re flying but don’t want to go as high as some other parasailing companies, book your trip with Shoreline Watersports. They’ll take you 300 feet above the Grand Strand.

Website: https://shorelinewatersports.com

Address: 409 Ocean Blvd. S., Surfside Beach, SC 29575

Thrill Rides

SkyWheel

For a serene trip into the skies of Myrtle Beach, take a ride on the SkyWheel. This iconic attraction takes riders 187 feet in the air in a fully enclosed gondola that provides a safe way to observe the view. The vantage point is stunning at all times of the day, but try to catch the sunset as it is particularly stunning from above.

Website: http://skywheel.com

Address: 1110 N. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

The Sling Shot

The Sling Shot at Free Fall Thrill Park is one of Myrtle Beach’s most thrilling attractions. At speeds of upwards of 100 mph, The Sling Shot thrusts riders about 300 feet into the air above the Boardwalk. The ride is brief, but the adrenaline rush makes the views even more outstanding.

Website: https://freefallpark.com

Address: 1201 N. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Best spots and tips for stargazing near Myrtle Beach and along the SC coast