SOUTHPORT CITY TOUR FIELD GUIDE
From Above: Old Baldy to Oak Island—A Short, Sweeping Air Tour Over Southport’s Seacoast
A 55‑mile, 45‑minute aerial loop operated from Southport that sights Old Baldy and Oak Island Lighthouse along with Fort Caswell and downtown Southport—this guide lays out the route, practicalities, and what to expect.
From Above: Old Baldy to Oak Island—A Short, Sweeping Air Tour Over Southport’s Seacoast.
Embark on a compact aerial circuit that pairs coastal history with wide, cinematic views: the Lighthouse Tour – Airplane lifts off from Southport to show Old Baldy and Oak Island Lighthouse, traces the curve of barrier islands and marshes, and sweeps over Fort Caswell and the film‑friendly downtown before returning to shore.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Lighthouses and Barrier Islands
The flight is built around two beacon landmarks—Old Baldy and Oak Island Lighthouse—set against long, unspoiled beaches and the interlaced marshes of the Cape Fear region.
Fort Caswell and Film‑Ready Southport
From above you’ll pick out Fort Caswell’s footprint and the compact, picturesque downtown of Southport—the same waterfront backdrop used frequently in films and television.
A Coastal Run Past Islands and Piers
The planned routing moves north past Wrightsville and Figure Eight Island, over Lea‑Hutaff’s quiet beaches and on to Surf City before following the Intracoastal Waterway south for expansive marsh views.
What the day feels like
What the flight feels like
Expect a brisk, scenic circuit: a short climb puts the shoreline and its landmarks into perspective—lighthouses, barrier islands, piers and marsh—while the pilot narrates landmarks and the route before a measured return to Southport.
THE LANDSCAPE
Lighthouses and Barrier Islands
The flight is built around two beacon landmarks—Old Baldy and Oak Island Lighthouse—set against long, unspoiled beaches and the interlaced marshes of the Cape Fear region.
THE HISTORY
Fort Caswell and Film‑Ready Southport
From above you’ll pick out Fort Caswell’s footprint and the compact, picturesque downtown of Southport—the same waterfront backdrop used frequently in films and television.
THE ROUTE
A Coastal Run Past Islands and Piers
The planned routing moves north past Wrightsville and Figure Eight Island, over Lea‑Hutaff’s quiet beaches and on to Surf City before following the Intracoastal Waterway south for expansive marsh views.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this flight
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The route covers about 55 miles and runs approximately 45 minutes.
Dress simply for an airplane flight: please wear shirts and shoes.
Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time to check in and board.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the flight?
The planned route covers roughly 55 miles and lasts about 45 minutes.
What lighthouses and landmarks will we see?
The flight features Old Baldy (Bald Head Lighthouse), Oak Island Lighthouse, Fort Caswell and an aerial pass over downtown Southport.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine—please wear shirts and shoes for the flight.
How much does the tour cost?
Rates listed in the description are $220 per adult and $110 per child.
Who operates the tour?
The Lighthouse Tour – Airplane is operated by High Tide Aviation.