Scenic flights are often the splurge experience that turns a good trip into an unforgettable one. For backpackers, they are usually less about transport and more about seeing Australia’s landscapes in a way that is impossible from the ground. Coastal flyovers, reef views, dramatic rock formations, remote terrain, and sweeping city or regional panoramas can all feel completely different from the air. Because they sit at the more premium end of the budget, scenic flights are usually worth choosing carefully. This subcategory is here to help backpackers think about when an aerial experience makes sense, what kind of scenery it suits best, and why some flights become genuine bucket-list moments. If you are considering scenic flights in Australia as part of a bigger trip, this page will help you understand the appeal and compare the style of experiences available.
Things to do
Discover scenic flights in Australia for backpackers, from coastal flyovers to unforgettable views over iconic landscapes.
Port Douglas
See the reef, Low Isles and rainforest from above on a scenic helicopter flight from Port Douglas, with 30, 45 and 60-minute options.
Up to 1 hour
A$487.00
Port Douglas
Beach take-off tandem paragliding with big coastal views, qualified pilots and optional return transfers from Cairns, Trinity Beach and Palm Cove.
Up to 1 hour
A$295.00