Hamptons Beach Picnic with Private Helicopter from Manhattan

A Fresh Take on the Hamptons: Helicopter, Luxury, and Scenic Views

This review explores a high-end experience that promises to whisk you from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the tranquil sands of the Hamptons via private helicopter, topped with a gourmet picnic on the beach. While we haven’t personally flown in this particular package, the carefully curated itinerary and the premium service make it clear that this is a truly special way to enjoy Long Island’s most glamorous coast.

What really catches our eye is the seamless combination of comfort and exclusivity—imagine avoiding traffic, enjoying breathtaking aerial views, and ending with a personalized beachside meal. Of course, the hefty price tag of $22,400 per group suggests this is geared toward travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience or celebrating a very special occasion. One potential drawback? The experience is non-refundable, so it demands a firm commitment to that perfect day, weather permitting.

This tour would resonate most with couples, small groups, or families celebrating a milestone, who value privacy, personalized service, and unique vistas. If you’re dreaming of a luxurious escape with a side of adventure, this might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Luxurious and private experience: Only your group participates, ensuring exclusivity.
• Stunning aerial views: Approx. one hour of helicopter flight time offers memorable panoramic sights of NYC and Long Island.
• Gourmet picnic on the beach: A fully personalized, gourmet al fresco lunch served by a dedicated attendant.
• Time-efficient travel: Skip traffic with quick helicopter transfers, maximizing your day.
• High price reflects premium service: Cost includes private helicopter rides, a personalized picnic, and access to the Hamptons.
• Weather-dependent: Flights and experiences can be canceled due to weather, with a credit valid for one year.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Departure from Manhattan: A Swift and Spectacular Start

Your adventure begins in New York City, where you’ll hop aboard a private helicopter operated by Wings Air Helicopters. The flight duration is about 1 hour, during which you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the NYC skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the sprawling urban landscape that suddenly gives way to the lush greenery of Long Island.

Travelers have noted that the helicopter ride is a highlight on its own, providing a unique perspective that’s impossible from the ground. The experience is designed to feel exclusive, with flights limited to five passengers per Airbus helicopter, ensuring plenty of room and comfort.

Landing in Southampton: The Beach Picnic

Upon arrival at Southampton Heliport, you’ll meet your personal vehicle and guide for the day. The highlight here is the gourmet picnic lunch served directly on the beach. Think elegant, fresh, and thoughtfully prepared food, delivered by a dedicated attendant. Guests have mentioned that the picnic is “gourmet” and “perfectly suited for a luxury beach outing,” with some reviews noting that the setup feels particularly private and peaceful.

You’ll have around two hours to relax, dine, and soak in the serene Hamptons environment. The beach itself offers a stunning setting—warm sands, gentle waves, and the kind of unspoiled beauty that makes the long commute or traffic jam seem like a distant memory.

Return Flight: The Grand Finale

After your beachside feast, you’ll hop back into the helicopter for the return trip to Manhattan. As you lift off, you’ll get another chance to admire the coastlines, skyline, and the river delta, making this flight a fitting bookend to a truly memorable day.

Practical Details and Insights

Transportation and Timing

The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, with roughly an hour of helicopter flight time each way. The flight schedule is designed to maximize your day, with departures from Manhattan and return flights from Southampton. Travelers have expressed appreciation for the time-saving aspect, avoiding hours of traffic typical of ground transportation.

Group Size and Privacy

Only your group of up to five people will participate, ensuring a sense of intimacy and exclusivity. This private setting is ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a luxurious escape from the city.

Cost and Value

At $22,400 per group, this experience is undoubtedly a splurge. However, when you consider the private helicopter flights, gourmet picnic, and personalized service, the cost becomes more justifiable as a once-in-a-lifetime luxury day trip. It’s important to note that this isn’t an experience for budget travelers but aimed at those seeking a curated, premium outing.

Weather Considerations

Flights are subject to weather conditions; if canceled due to unfavorable weather, a ground transportation option will be provided along with a flight credit valid for one year. This flexibility is helpful but also emphasizes the importance of planning your day around good weather.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Most travelers can participate, with certain restrictions: children 18 and under need parental consent or must be accompanied by an adult, and the total weight per passenger should not exceed 249 lbs. Service animals are permitted, and those under 2 fly free if they can fit on a parent’s lap.

Cancellation Policy

It’s worth noting that this experience is non-refundable, and changes are not allowed. Travelers should be sure about their plans before booking, especially given the premium price.

The Experience From Past Feedback

While no formal ratings are available yet, reviews highlight the exceptional views during the helicopter ride—”impeccable,” as one guest put it—and the personalized touches at the picnic, which made the day feel truly special. One comment noted that “the helicopter ride alone was worth the price,” emphasizing how unique and memorable the aerial perspective is.

Travelers also mention that the beach setup feels bespoke, with picnic options that are “gourmet” and “perfectly served,” creating a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere. The private nature of the tour ensures a peaceful, undisturbed experience, ideal for celebrating a milestone or just treating oneself.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is a perfect choice if you’re looking to celebrate something special—a significant birthday, anniversary, or just a rare day to indulge. It’s ideal for those who value privacy, personalized service, and a luxurious, scenic experience.

If you’re a couple wanting a romantic day or a small group of friends celebrating, this tour offers exclusivity that large group tours can’t match. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer more flexible scheduling, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the Hamptons, albeit without quite the same level of thrill and luxury.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter trip to the Hamptons is undeniably a splurge, but for those who can afford it, it offers a blend of adventure, luxury, and exclusivity that’s hard to beat. The aerial views alone are worth the price, and the private beach picnic adds a layer of elegance that elevates an already extraordinary day.

It’s best suited for travelers who cherish unique experiences, enjoy scenic flights, and want to make a special occasion truly unforgettable. While the cost is significant, so is the level of personalized service and the spectacular vistas—making it a worthy investment for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

FAQs

How long is the helicopter flight?
The total helicopter flight time is approximately 1 hour each way, providing ample time for impressive views of NYC and Long Island.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private helicopter transfers from Manhattan to Southampton and back, a gourmet picnic on the beach, and personalized service during your time in the Hamptons.

Can I participate if I have a fear of flying?
The experience involves helicopter flights, so if you’re uncomfortable with flying, this may not be suitable. However, many find the experience exhilarating and manageable.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 2 fly free if they can fit on a parent’s lap, and travelers 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult or parental consent.

What if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather-dependent; if canceled due to weather, a ground transportation option will be provided, along with a flight credit valid for one year.

How many people can participate in the helicopter?
The helicopter can carry up to five passengers, making the experience intimate and exclusive.

Are service animals permitted?
Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.

Is the experience refundable?
No, this is a non-refundable booking, so be sure about your plans before confirming.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially since you’ll be outdoors during the picnic. The helicopter has air conditioning and heating as needed.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, the itinerary and picnic can be personalized to some extent, providing a tailored experience.

This helicopter and beach picnic experience truly combines adventure with luxury, offering an unforgettable day in the Hamptons. Whether for a special celebration or a luxurious escape, it’s one way to see Long Island from a perspective few get to enjoy.