How To Save Money On A Trip To Abu Dhabi

BY  Sibashree Oct 22, 2025

“Let’s go somewhere quiet,” he said! And being so elated that he was finally making a travel plan, I couldn't realize that he meant off-the-grid, solar-powered, rainwater-shower kind of quiet somewhere remote in New Zealand.  It was the Great Barrier Island, and it turned out to be the breather spot for me, where you just relax and connect.  With everything green, solar power, and local people considering themselves guardians of the land, the Great Barrier Island in New Zealand shows why sustainability is more than a buzzword.  Furthermore, the conservation law governs 2/3rd of the Great Barrier Island. So, it is saved from development and commercialization. The result? In 2017, it became one of the 13 remote areas and the first island in the world to be recognized as a Dark Sky Sanctuary.  Known as Te Motu o Aotea in the Maori language, it has also attracted people who move or travel to this part of New Zealand for a slow and meaningful way of living/traveling. And you won’t believe that it’s just a 30 to 40-minute flight from Auckland. You can even take the daily ferry to the island.  So, getting there is easy, and you can move around easily thanks to the e-bikes, cars, taxis, and shuttles available. However, remaining respectful to the traditions and rich Maori heritage in the island is a challenge.  Here, I will discuss sustainable travel tips for Great Barrier Island, provide a brief overview of the island, highlight the best activities, explain how to get there, and more. Where Is The Great Barrier Island, New Zealand?  The Great Barrier Island is located in the Hauraki Gulf, around 100 kilometers northeast of Auckland. You will get flights and ferries from Auckland.  Furthermore, if you are traveling from Wellington or Christchurch, you will first reach Auckland and then take a flight to the Great Barrier Island. An Overview Of Aotea, Great Barrier Island, New Zealand The Great Barrier Island is a pristine part of New Zealand, with Māori tribes as the original inhabitants. The Maori tribes gave it the name of Aotea, meaning “White Clouds.”  Today, a pristine paradise located off the northeastern coast of New Zealand, the Great Barrier Island, is known for its rugged landscapes, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural heritage. It has diverse geological features such as rugged mountains, beaches, and forests.  So, no wonder it is rich in biodiversity. With an area of 285 square kilometers, this island is home to dense native bush, manuka and kanuka trees, and coastal flora that thrive in its subtropical climate. Also, you will spot pāteke (brown teal), kākā (parrot), and the endangered black petrel here.  And how can I forget the thundering flapping of kererū wings over our tents?  Lesser-Known Facts About Great Barrier Island: Off-The-Grid Living  Sustainable living is a choice on the Great Barrier Island. So, from the Aotea Arts & History Village to being run by solar power, there are a lot of things that make the Great Barrier Island stand out.  Rare Facts and Sustainable PracticesDetailsOperated off the national power grid• Reliance on solar power• Rainwater harvesting• Composting toilets Minimalism and community reliance• No banks• No ATMs• No large supermarkets• Barter systems• Small general storesFirst Island in the world to become a Dark Sky Sanctuary• Least light-polluted• Clearest sky ideal for stargazingNo public rubbish bins• Pack in and pack out waste policy.• Banning of single-use cups• Mug libraries in cafes for takeaway drinksAncient Māori settlement sites• Archaeological sites such as pā fortifications, middens, and stone working areas, dating back 700-800 years. • Strong Māori connectionHome to the rare Chevron Skink• The only known habitat of the Chevron SkinkChevron Skink is one of the rarest and largest lizards of New Zealand. • Only found on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier IslandsForgotten Wharf at Blind Bay• A hidden historical site that once served as a key point for shipping kauri logs and suppliesShoal Bay Pottery’s Trust-Based Payment System• Buy handmade potteries and mugs, and just drop the money in a box.• This practice celebrates the community spirit of the island. Dual Coastline Personality• The East Coast has wild surf beaches like Awana and Medlands.• The West Coast is dotted with calm, sheltered coves ideal for diving and kayaking.Aotea Arts & History Village• Colonial cottages transformed into galleries and museums. • Explore historical artefacts, crafts, and more at the museums and galleries.  Great Barrier Island Travel Tips: How To Reach There? There are four ways to travel to the Great Barrier Island. You can take a flight, a ferry, or opt for a flight+boat experience. Also, you can opt for chartered flight services.  1. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island By Flight? From Auckland: You can take a flight from Auckland to the Great Barrier Island. Barrier Air operates three to four flights daily. The flight departs from the Auckland Domestic Terminal and flies to the Claris Airport near the center of the island. For adults, a return ticket costs $396, and for a one-way trip, it is $208. For children aged 2 to 12 years, a return ticket will cost $383, and a one-way ticket is priced at $198.  From Northshore: The ticket price for adults for a Northshore to the Great Barrier Island flight costs $406 (round trip) and $213 (one-way trip). For children, the ticket price of a round trip is $388, and a one-way ticket is $205.  From Whitianga & Tauranga Sunair Aviation operates these flights to the Great Barrier Island. For adults, the one-way ticket is $290, and the ticket price for a round trip is $580.  For children aged 2 to 11 years, it is $210 for a one-way trip and $420 for a return.  2. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island By Ferry? You will get a Sealink ferry from Auckland's Wynyard Wharf to Tryphena, the southernmost part of the Great Barrier Island. The ferries run daily in the summer and three times a week in the winter.  This 4.5-hour journey is stunning, with dolphins, orcas, and whales making their appearances. The ticket prices range between $75.50 and $169 based on the age or category of the traveler and the season.  Also, these ferries carry freight to the island, charging between $459 and $1028. 3. Traveling To The Great Barrier Island By Flight And Ferry It is the best travel combination to travel to and from the Great Barrier Island. Take a flight one way and return from the island by ferry.  How To Move Around The Great Barrier Island?  Car rentals, roof-top tent cars, e-bikes, taxis, and shuttles are the transportation modes to move around the Great Barrier Island. Mode of TransportPrice Details Car Rentals• $60-110 Per DayRoof Top Tent Car Rentals• $185/Night (Minimum booking for 2 Days)E-Bikes• $20/Hours• $75 for a Full Day• Contact: +64 (0) 22 344 0645Taxis and Shuttles • Wagon Taxis• 12 or 20 Seater Vans• Charges: $35 to $145 Moreover, like us, you can also book a shuttle or taxi service to Good Heavens Dark Sky in Medlands Beach. We reached Medlands Beach just before sunset, and we camped near the dunes.  We padded down the beach barefoot, and the Sun going down the hills spread the last rays of the light on the water, vanished like the most treasured secret.  With silence prevailing, it felt like sheer magic, and we waited with bated breath for the stargazing moments.  How To Explore Aotea Great Barrier Island New Zealand Sustainably: Know The Best Activities  From hiking to stargazing, the activities on the Great Barrier Island are diverse. Here is a brief overview.  1. Hiking The Aotea Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gus || NZ Hiking (@wanderinggus) It is the most challenging activity on the Great Barrier Island. The trekking route passes through the historic Kauri dam sites, amazing views, and forests.  The route takes you to the highest peak of Mount Hobson, Hirakimata. You will get a panoramic view of the surroundings after reaching the highest point.  2. Exploring Kaitoke Hot Springs View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aotea Great Barrier Island (@greatbarrierislandofficial) Hiking to the Kaitoke Hot Springs was fun. We reach the hot springs after a short walk through the native bush.  The pools beside the Kaitoke Stream are ideal for swimming and relaxing.  3. Stargazing With Good Heavens I have already mentioned that the Great Barrier Island is an international Dark Sky Sanctuary. We loved the guided tour with Good Heavens as they provided us with laser pointers and telescopes.  It was great fun exploring the Southern celestial sphere and listening to the Māori and Greek stellar mythology. 4. Visiting Glenfern Sanctuary View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anna Sephton (@anna_sephton_) This sanctuary in Port FitzRoy is famous as the home for native species in a predator-free environment. I loved spotting rare native birds like the Kākā and Pateke (Brown Teal). 5. Kayaking In Whangaparapara Harbour The untouched coastline looked beautiful as we went kayaking in the Whangaparapara Harbour. Further, we visited the historic old Whaling Station.  And the highlight of the trip? Spotting dolphins.  6. Snorkeling At Medlands Beach Medlands is more ideal for surfing. However, when the water and weather are calm, it becomes a haven for snorkeling enthusiasts.  The underwaters here are rich in subtropical marine species.  7. Surfing At Awana Bay View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jack Simkin (@jacksimkin_) Surrounded by a long and golden sand beach, Awana on the eastern coast of the Great Barrier Island is a popular surfing spot.  The consistent breaks here make it ideal for surfers of all expertise levels.  8. Birdwatching Native Species Rich in biodiversity, the Great Barrier Island is home to many rare and native birds of New Zealand.  In the forests, wetlands, and coastal areas, you can spot Kākā, Black Petrel, and Pateke (Brown Teal).  9. Camping At Harataonga Bay View this post on Instagram A post shared by MOJA (@mojaonthemove) Harataonga Bay offers one of the most fulfilling camping experiences in the Great Barrier Island. It is on the northeastern coast of the island.  The Harataonga coastal walkway is beautiful, and you can use it as the base for swimming, relaxing, and other water activities.  10. Fishing In Tryphena Harbour View this post on Instagram A post shared by Territory Boys (@territory.boys) It’s a Snapper! The Tryphena Harbour is a popular hub for recreational fishing. The Hauraki Gulf waters, especially, are rich in marine life.  You can catch the fish from a rock or a wharf. Also, you can book a fishing charter boat.  11. Mountain Biking Trails Palmers Track Lookout is a popular biking trail on the Great Barrier Island. We loved the drive to Windy Canyon on the first day, and on the second day, we went for a short walk to the Palmers Track Lookout. However, this route to the Palmers Track Lookout is quite challenging for bikers, as the rock faces are very steep.  12. Visiting Local Art Galleries The Aotea Community Gallery was an eye opener for us, showing the rich heritage and art scene of the island. In fact, the entire Aotea Arts & History Village is a delight for art enthusiasts.  The gallery hosts regular exhibitions and workshops, showcasing and teaching arts and crafts, which are important for the lifestyle of the island. You can even collect the souvenirs from the local gift shops.  This art village is another example of how the people on the Great Barrier Island are sincere about preserving their local heritage. The Aotea Arts and History Village gained its current status and name in 2023. However, the journey began way back in 2001 when it was first registered as the Aotea Community Artz Charitable Trust in October.  So, in October 2026, it will complete its 25th year.  13. Enjoying Local Cuisine View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eat What You Kill (@eatwhatyoukill.co.nz) Mānuka honey was yum, and we also enjoyed the gin and craft beer here. Also, whatever we ordered, we did not give the signature fish and chips a miss during even a single meal.  14. Attending Cultural Events The local festivals and cultural events of the Great Barrier Island are a great way to get to know people here. The Wharf2Wharf sporting challenge and the FitzRoy Mussel Fest are some of the most popular cultural events here.  15. Relaxing At Secluded Beaches View this post on Instagram A post shared by anapau la (@anapau.crw) The Blind Bay beach at Okupu, North of Tryphena, is a beautiful beach on the west coast of the island. The vibe is pretty relaxed here, and I found the locals picnicking.  Furthermore, the ancient pohutukawa trees were the main attractions for me.  Gooseberry is another beach where we enjoyed a relaxing vibe. It is in the heart of the Tryphena Harbour. The purple caves between the Gooseberry Flat and the Pa Beach are a surreal sight to behold.  Great Barrier Island Travel Tips To Choose The Most Eco-Friendly Accommodation Options: Camping And Ecopods View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jacks Sanctuary (@jacks.sanctuary) Lodges, cabins, beach houses, tree houses, cottages, and more! There are diverse accommodation options on the Great Barrier Island. However, as backpackers, we chose camping.  Medlands Beach campsite by the Medlands Stream was our base for the Great Barrier Island trip. It is a well-sheltered campsite. However, booking needs to be done in advance.  Akapoua Bay campsite near the Port Fitzroy waterside, Awana Beach campsite near the Awana Surf Beach, Harataonga campsite, and Whangapoua campsite are the other popular camping grounds in the Great Barrier Island.  Moreover, Whangaparapara has Island Ecopods near the Whangaparapara Wharf and the edge of the Department of Conservation Forest Estate. These ecodpods can accommodate one to four guests, and for each extra guest, you will have to pay $25 extra.  The one sleeping pod for two guests costs $200 per night, and the two sleeping pods for four guests cost $400 per night.  Go Great Barrier Island Tourism Package With How Other Tour And Travel Companies Offering Sustainable Experiences View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aotea Great Barrier Island (@greatbarrierislandofficial) The Great Barrier Island Tourism offers many packages for every kind of travel experience. You can choose a dedicated sun and surfing package, a hiker’s package, or something suitable for adventure lovers.  There are even packages for romantic getaways, such as Alice’s Seaside Cottages, Heaven’s Above, and Medland Magic.  Furthermore, they have curated their top 10 travel packages in their Top 10 section so that you can quickly find their all-inclusive packages.  The travel packages are well within $1000 per person, and you can build your own package by selecting the number of people in your group, your accommodation, transport options, and any other special experiences like Dark Sky experience, fishing charter, etc.  Moreover, reputable tour companies such as Good Heavens, Motu Trails, and Aotea Eco Tours offer curated experiences on the island.  These companies provide guided tours, accommodation packages, and sustainable travel options. They are highly rated for their knowledgeable guides, eco-friendly practices, and personalized itineraries.  Booking through these companies ensures a hassle-free and enriching travel experience. Great Barrier Island Travel Tips For Your Next Trip The Great Barrier Island is a lot of fun. However, you have to keep this checklist and things to avoid in your mind for the most seamless experience. Things to Keep in MindThings to Avoid • Book flights or a ferry in advance• Reserve accommodations early• Arrange local transportation• Pack eco-friendly travel gear.• Confirm tour bookings• Carry health essentials• Download offline maps• Inform emergency contacts• Check weather forecasts• Respect local customs and environment.• Carry insect repellent, sunscreen, and sufficient drinking water• Not booking transportation early• Ignoring weather conditions• Overpacking non-essential items• Disregarding local regulations• Not preparing for limited connectivity.• Forgetting to carry cash• Underestimating travel time• Not researching activities• Skipping travel insurance• Neglecting sustainable travel practices Is The Great Barrier Island Travel Worth It?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Charlotte Spratt (@charlotte.spratt) Yes, a trip to the Great Barrier Island is absolutely worth it. Sustainability, romance, heritage, and scenic appeal go hand in hand in this beautiful, remote location of New Zealand.  Furthermore, the dark sky experience here is matchless, and authorities such as Discovery Travel talk about its Dark Sky Sanctuary status and stargazing potential. Nat Geo, on the other hand, is all praises for the conservation efforts on the island and how it practices sustainability.  So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a sustainability advocate, the island promises unforgettable experiences. 5-Day In Great Barrier Island: This Is How Our Itinerary Was… View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paul Michael | Travel photography (@paulmichael) Our five days on the Great Barrier Island were about digital detox. The limited network connectivity was a blessing. Also, we watched the stars every night, and we got enough time for journaling.  Nevertheless, this is how we spent our five days on the Great Barrier Island.  DaysActivities Day 1• Reaching Great Barrier Island• Lunch at My Fat Puku Café• Drive to Medlands Beach and sunset walk.• Stargazing• Tipi & Bob's Waterfront Lodge RestaurantDay 2• Breakfast• Bush walk to Kaitoke Hot Springs• Visit to Awana Beach• Lunch at Wild Rose Café• A short walk to Palmers Track LookoutRomantic private dinnerDay 3• Kayaking or paddleboarding in Tryphena• Lunch at Currach Irish Pub• Relaxing at Gooseberry Flat Beach• Drive to Windy Canyon• Sunset viewing and stargazingDay 4• Couple spa treatment• Light brunch• A visit to the Aotea Community Gallery• Exploring Port FitzRoyDay 5• Watching sunrise at Medlands or Awana Beach• Having breakfast and taking a stroll• Dip at Kaitoke Hot Springs• Swimming at Okupu Beach• Flight to Auckland Great Barrier Island Travel Tips: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Great Barrier Island travel tips.  1. Why Is It Called The Great Barrier Island? Captain James Cook started an expedition from 1768 to 1771 to see how Venus transits across the Sun. On his way, he reached the New Zealand Coast and mapped the Great Barrier Island. In 1769, he mapped and named this part of the New Zealand Coast as the Great Barrier Island, as it offered protection and shelter to the Hauraki Gulf.  2. What To Pack For The Great Barrier Island? The Great Barrier Island is an off-the-grid space. So, you will not find streetlights here. So, you will have to pack a torch. Furthermore, warm clothes, a car charger for your phone, and towels are the things you need to pack for a trip to the Great Barrier Island.  3. What Is The Great Barrier Island Population? The population of the Great Barrier Island in 2023 is the latest information I have. The Census Report of 2023 says that the island had 1251 permanent residents in 2023. In 2018, the population of the island was 936. So, the journey from 936 to 1251 was a sharp 34% increase.  4. Is Driving In The Great Barrier Island Safe? Driving on the roads of the Great Barrier Island needs skill and patience. The winding roadways are often unsealed and without any central line. Furthermore, there will be horses, bikes, and pedestrians on the road. So, you will have to keep to the left while driving.  5. What Are The Emergency And Safety Contact For The Great Barrier Island? Keep these phone numbers handy if you are traveling to the Great Barrier Island. • Department of Conservation: 0800 ASK DOC (0800 275 362)• Claris Medical Centre: 09 429 0356• Auckland City Service Centre: 09 429 0258• Police, Fire or Emergencies: 111 or 429 0343However, cellphone coverage remains a concern here, especially on the eastern coast of the island.  Read Also: Interesting Facts about Australia that will surprise you! 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BY  Sibashree May 20, 2022

"The sea cures all the ailments of man" – Plato. I took these words of Plato in my heart and started to build a connection with the ocean and the beaches that adorn them – in the course of all that; I found Madeira beach; it was full of fun, amusement and relaxation.  Just like they say – an ocean breeze puts your mind at ease– if you want to put your mind at ease, then there are plenty of things to do in Madeira beach.  Florida is rich with ocean life and beach activities. You can go deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, jet-skiing, boating and more fun things in Florida.  You can take the warm and sunny weather to your face upon visiting a bar. Several attractions like Walt Disney, Kennedy Space center, St Petersburg and especially John’s Pass Boardwalk are some of the attractions of Florida.  If you are thinking of visiting Madeira Beach, then I will be happy to indulge you in finding out the most interesting aspects of this pretty beach in Florida.  I have prepared this article with ten amazing things to do in Madeira Beach, Florida. If you are dead set on going to Madeira Beach, be my guest.  What Are Some Fun Things To Do In Madeira Beach?  Be it for relaxation or just for having fun, an ocean breeze can fill your mind and your soul with refreshment. When you want refreshment, there is no better place than the edge of the world, the beach. Madeira is one of the best beaches in Florida, and you will love doing these fun things mentioned below.  1. John’s Pass Boardwalk  John’s Pass Boardwalk is the primary attraction of Madeira Beach. This is a sea-themed fishing village turned into a fun place you can go to in Madeira. In John’s Pass Boardwalk, you have many things to do for fun in Madeira beach.  Things to do: Have Fun In John’s Broadwalk: John’s Pass Boardwalk overlooks the crystal blue ocean. You can spend a day or two there.  Attend John’s Pass Food Festival: The food festivals attract around 130000 audiences every year; you can have plenty of fun as a part of the festival.  Dine At The Restaurants: More than 130 restaurants and boutiques are there to entertain you with good food that waters your mouth. You can have an exquisite dinner in one of these restaurants.  2. Parasail Flight Not everyone is laid back or the relaxing type. If you want to do something daring and fun on the Madeira beach, then you won’t be disappointed if you take part in parasailing activities.  All you need to do is go on the water on a boat and take yourself to the sky. You can take your go pro or your camera along to record the moment. You have many fun things to do on Madeira beach; parasailing is among many of them. But you need to remember all the terms and conditions of the parasailing crews. Things to do:  Book Your Tickets Through Mobile: You need to book your ticket for one hour-long parasailing. The parasailing boats also offer free cancellation.  Go On A Boat Ride: You need to go on a boat ride with the parasailing group; this is a dual opportunity of both a boat ride and parasailing.  Take Pictures & Videos: If you are looking for family things to do in Madeira beach, then parasailing can be a good option. You can take pictures or record memories of parasailing once you take off.  Read More: 10 Best Places To Travel In November 3. Dolphin Watching Cruise  For more fun and relaxing things to do in Madeira Beach, you can try dolphin watching. Many beautiful boats on the shore of Madeira beach are waiting for you to visit the deep waters and meet the dolphins. These boats offer mobile booking and free cancellation on demand. You can book one of these boats and go on a one hour journey of dolphin watching.  Things to do:  Book Tickets Online: You can book online tickets through your smartphone and go on a boat journey of one and a half hours to watch dolphins. These boats offer free cancellations of your journey.  Take Your Friends & Family: The boats can take up to 76 people on board. They have plenty of room for more people on the boat. Also, the boats have restrooms, snack bars, and so many fun things to do on the boats.  Watch Dolphins & The Wildlife: The gulf coast of Florida is full of vibrant sea life and the exotic dolphins who love your company. You can take a camera or binoculars to watch the dolphins and other sea life.  4. Waverunners & Jet Ski Rentals  If you enjoy water sports, you have more exciting things to do in Madeira beach. You can rent a wave runner or jet ski and roam around the soothing water of the gulf coast of Mexico. You can go to Woody’s Watersports and get all the watersports gears you need.  Things to do: Book Jet Ski Tickets: Many jet ski and wave runner rentals are available near public transportation places. They offer mobile booking instant confirmation of your booking. You can also cancel your booking on-demand.  Ride Jet Ski & Waverunners: Once you have rented your wave runners, you can travel around the gulf coast of Florida. These wave runners and jet skis offer life jackets. You will have full protection, and you can watch the dolphins while moving around in the ocean.  5. Go Fishing In The Gulf Coast Of Florida  It is very convenient to have the urge to go fishing at Madeira Beach ocean. You can book a charter from the beach and go catch some tuna, kingfish, grouper, Mahi, amberjack, and so much more. There are many state-licensed fishing charters at Madeira beach.  Things to do: Catch Fishes: The gulf coast of Florida is rich in healthy fishes; you can catch groupers, tuna, kingfish, amberjack, Mahi and many other fishes. The characters offer mobile booking and free cancellation of the tickets if you need it.  Store & Cook Your Fishes: The fishing charters let you keep and store your catch. Many of them help you catch and clean the fish. You can take your catch to any of the restaurants of John’s Pass and have it cooked just the way you want it.  Have Fun During Fishing Cruise: Fishing cruises are more fun than you can imagine. You can also have a fun time on the boats while fishing with experienced fishing crews and boat captains.  6. Take A Trip To The Seixal Black Sand Beach and Sea Pools  Seixal is a village on the north coast of Madeira known for its beautiful scenery. It features a unique black sand beach created by the island’s volcanic history. This beach is surrounded by steep sea cliffs that resemble a scene from Jurassic Park. The village also has several natural sea pools made from volcanic rock. These pools are free to visit.  Additionally, they provide a safe, sheltered place for swimming and relaxing while enjoying Madeira's impressive coastline.  7. Enjoy Food & Nightlife  Ran out of things to do in Madeira beach? If that is the case, then you are not taking the taste and the thrill of the Nightlife and the food in Madeira Beach. The food festival at John’s Pass and the different restaurants there are calling you. Foods of diverse tastes and flavours make Madeira Beach an attraction.  The wine shops in Madeira Beach are also among the best in Florida. The wines available at the winery shops are of exotic taste and quality.  Things to do:  Enjoy Foods: If you are a foodie, you will love the different foods available at the beach restaurants. Different kinds of seafood and fish are the main attraction of the Madeira Beach restaurants. There are hundreds of famous restaurants just waiting for you. John’s Pass becomes a place for great food during the Food Festival.  Enjoy Nightlife: The nightlife at John’s Pass and the concerts are some of the nighttime activities to keep you happy and occupied.  Know More: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food 8. John’s Pass Mangrove Paddle  If you are sore from all the exhilarating fun and beach hopping, there are some relaxing things to do in Madeira Beach. Paddling through the Mangrove islands and the tunnels is among the most relaxing things you could do in Madeira Beach. Once you reach the Sandbar, you can do plenty more things, like swimming and looking for seashells.  Things To Do: Paddle Through The Mangrove Islands: You can rent a Kayak and paddle out to the Sandbar. There are many kayaks to rent at the beach; they also offer free cancellation and full refund. If you want, you can also take your animals.  Have Fun At Sand: You can Paddle out to the Sandbar and get on the shore to have fun. The water there is calm, so you can swim or look for some seashells at the beach.  Meet The Wildlife: You will often see dolphins and some manatees; a paddling session will help you lose lots of physical and mental tension. Paddling through the mangrove tunnel is yet another fun and relaxing activity.  9. Sunset Cruise When it comes to spending an evening, you can go from both exotic fun beach hopping to relaxing. You can watch the sun drop into the deep blue of the gulf coast of Florida as you take a sunset cruise. There are many boats to take you on a sunset tour of the ocean.  Things To Do: See The Sunset: Seeing the sunset into the deep blue of the ocean is a wonderful feeling you can have while enjoying a sunset cruise on the gulf coast of Florida. The boats offer mobile booking and free cancellation when you need it.  Enjoy The Cruise: The boat will pass along the beautiful houses of the coastal area. The boat captains are closely acquainted with the history of the area. They can share their experience along the way. You can bring your pets and the drinks that you need to enjoy on the boat.  10. Take A Serene Walk Alongside The Santana Houses  The Santana Houses, or Casas de Santana, are iconic, triangular-shaped homes with thatched roofs made of straw or reeds, found in the town of Santana on Madeira Island, Portugal. These colorful, traditional structures represent a significant part of Madeira's historical heritage, with the roofs designed to shed rainwater and the wooden construction providing insulation. While no longer the primary dwelling type, they serve as a major tourist attraction and cultural symbol.  Things To Do:  Take A Look At The Traditional Houses- Visit the Casas Típicas de Santana to see the charming, colorful, thatched-roof houses that are an icon of Madeira. Local farmers once used these structures and are now preserved as a cultural symbol. Pay A Visit To The Santana Theme Park: Step into the Parque Temático Madeira for a fairy-tale-like experience. Inside the park, you'll find dozens of meticulously recreated cottages with traditional interiors, vintage furniture, and farm tools. You might also catch folklore performances of Madeiran songs and dances if you time your visit for July. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):  If you have made up your mind about visiting Madeira beach, then you must follow the above recommendations. These are some of the best things to do at Madeira beach. But if you have any further questions related to Madeira beach, then you can follow these questions that I have answered below.  1. How Many Days Do You Need In Madeira? There are hundreds of fun activities and sites you need to do in Madeira beach. That is why we recommend you spend at least a week there. But, you won't need more than 10 to 15 days to experience all the fun there. 2. Is The Water At Madeira Beach Clear? Madeira beach is known for the clear water and the white sand. 3. Is It Safe To Swim At Madeira Beach? If you want to swim at Madeira beach, you will probably have no problem there. But some people do get some problems from the red tides; problems like burning eyes and skin irritation are among the most common problems. 4. Is Madeira Beach Kid Friendly? Madeira beach is very much kid-friendly. They can play around on the soft and cost sand and build sandcastles. The beach is safe for the kids, so there is no need to worry about it. Things To Do In Madeira Beach Discussed  Madeira beach is rich in fun activities; you can enjoy the food there, play beach sports, go on boat cruises, and enjoy watersports. Spending a few days at John’s pass boardwalk brings a sense of pleasure and relaxation to you.  The pristine water of the gulf coast of Florida is a sight your eyes will never forget. Would you visit Madeira beach? Please let us know your opinion.  Read Also: Top Trips For Travelling With A Big Group Of People 10 Best Fishing Charters In Florida To Visit In 2022 10 Best Hotels In Sanibel Island

BY  Sibashree Jul 23, 2025

You and your family should have some vacation time coming up. This can be for a weekend or longer. Visiting the great city of Sydney is a great decision.  Everyone knows that when you go on vacation, there never seems to be enough time to visit everywhere that you want to see.  There are plenty of bus tours and walking tours around the city, and while these are beneficial for your health, you don’t get to see everything, which can be very disappointing. This is one of the reasons why many people decide to hire chopper, which many people commonly refer to as a helicopter.  When it comes to sightseeing, there is no better way to see the city than from the air. You get to kill two birds with one stone here because you get to ride in a helicopter for the very first time, and you also get to see what Sydney is really about.  The Reasons Why It Makes Sense To View The City Of Sydney From The Air The following are some of the top reasons why it makes perfect sense to view the City of Sydney from the air. 1. You Get A View like No other Once the helicopter is high enough, you can actually see the whole city from the best vantage point. It will allow you to see the many buildings, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the water that flows beneath it. There are so many landmarks to be seen and you will get to see all of them in a fraction of the time. You will not have to experience any of the noise that the city provides, and you get to see everything without interruption. 2. No Crowds To Contend With  The reason why you’re going to Sydney is because it is an incredibly popular destination. The place serves as a tourist attraction not only for Australians but for people from all across the world.  This means that it gets incredibly crowded at certain times of the year. Therefore, the tourists should embrace anything that allows them to avoid these crowds.  There will be no queues for you, no waiting to take a photograph because you will be viewing everything from the comfort of your seat in the helicopter. Things You  Get To See & How You Can Enjoy  As was pointed out earlier, you only have a certain amount of time to see the city, and as everyone keeps telling us, time is money. You could spend the whole day walking around the city and still not get to experience everything, but in about 30 minutes in a helicopter, you get to see the complete city. It is an unforgettable experience that everyone needs to enjoy at least once in their lifetime. People often like to take photographs either with their camera or their smartphone. A helicopter tour allows you to take the best photographs imaginable. You will get to take a picture of the city's skyline. The tour includes the Sydney Harbour Opera House and many of the city's popular tourist attractions. While touring in Sidney, you get to see the iconic places and the destinations from the air within minutes.  However,  you would not have been able to do that if you were travelling on the ground.  You get to see the following things: 1. Sydney Tower Eye: As the helicopter flies on the skies of the city, you get to see the Sydney Tower Eye. Sydney From The Air looks the most mesmerizing and incredible. Travellers get an incredible feeling when they get to see the tower where they must have gone shopping. 2. Opera House  The Opera Tower looks like a small flower which can literally fit into your hands. Therefore, you get the best view of Sidney from the air.  The monument looks smaller than anything, and you get to see it from an angle which you have never seen before. 3. Harbour Bridge  Enjoying the aerial view of the Harbour Bridge while watching Sydney from the air is an experience. As a result, no one shall ever forget it in their life. The cars and the vehicles on the bridge appear to be tiny, while the helicopter passes over the bridge. You feel like you are watching your own LEGO city, but the truth is that they're real. 4. Pynchgut Island  The chopper crosses Pinchgut Island after crossing the Harbour Bridge. The flyers get to see the ancient fort from the sky.  5. Watson Bay  The flyers then enjoy the incredible view of the turquoise blue waters of Watson Bay.  The flyers get to see the ocean like they are flying a drone.  However, the flyers in a helicopter get a firsthand view of the entire thing rather than flying a drone. The waves and the people on the beach, everything overall looks very tiny and incredible. 6. Dover Heights  The helicopter then passes by the cliffs of Dover Heights. The passengers, therefore, enjoy the view from the windows of the helicopter. 7. Bondi Beach  The helicopter then flies to Bondi Beach. 8. Sydney Skylines  The flyers, therefore, get an overall tour of the entire Sydney Skyline while they enjoy Sydney From The Air. IS Tour Of  Sydney From The Air Safe? And Other Things You Should Know About The Helicopter Tour Services The companies associated with the tour ensure proper safety for their passengers. They ensure to provide people with the most incredible experience of their life while not compromising safety factors. The operators measure the weight of the flyers. The professionals, therefore, balance people and then onboard them on the helicopter. The operators provide the flyers with a safety kit which ensures safety during crisis. Other Facilities Provided By The Helicopter Company : The helicopter companies in Sidney also provide multiple other facilities, such as free parking. Therefore, tourists do not have to worry about parking.  The flying companies also provide free pickup and drop-off facilities after the ride is over.