The human obsession with flight stems from a refusal to accept limitations and an intense desire to finally move out of gravity's basement. Claim your own airspace with today's Groupon: for $187, you get a 20-minute helicopter surf and whale tour with champagne, sparkling grape juice, or flowers from Channel Islands Helicopters in Oxnard (a $375 value).

Channel Islands Helicopters (CiHeli) takes eyes to the skies for thrilling whale-watching tours over the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. During the surf and whale tour guests enjoy bird's-eye views from a climate-controlled R-44 airship as they scan the waters below for signs of whales, aquatic Sasquatches, and other marine life. From the belly of an airborne beast, visitors can peep views of the entire whale, or even a whole pod, rather than just glimpses as the whale surfaces to breathe or visit its star-crossed seagull lover. Although the real action is in the water, sky-bound observers can turn their eyes inland for dramatic views of the coastline, Ventura Harbor, and Port Hueneme. Tours also includes champagne, sparkling grape juice, or flowers to give a date or college field trip a special feel. CiHeli is the only tour company authorized to fly over the sanctuary, and reports all encounters to the sanctuary database, allowing the tours to assist in protecting the majestic animals.