Hyundai Air & Sea Show

By air, on land, at sea – Memorial Day Weekend offers a slice of nostalgia and patriotism when the Hyundai Air & Sea Show returns for its eighth annual National Salute to America’s Heroes in Miami Beach. The action-packed production, dubbed “The Greatest Show Above the Earth,” bridges all six branches of the U.S. military, police, firefighter and first responder agencies for a show-stopping signature event on May 25 and 26, marking the unofficial start of summer.

Grab your wingman, aviator sunglasses and sunscreen, and dig your toes in the sand as you watch choreographed Top Gun-style flyovers and special op demonstrations. Whether you’re a maverick flying solo or attending with the whole family, the show has a wide range of aeronautical innovation and activations for everyone, both days from noon to 6:30 p.m. The event, which is a tribute to the heroes who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our freedom, is free and open to the public.

Pre-Show Salute To Service

Miami welcomes the men and women of the U.S. military at two pre-show events. The Jack Daniel’s Performers Take Off Party, May 23, at 1-800-LUCKY in the heart of Wynwood kicks off the holiday weekend. Pre-show events continue May 24 at the Good Boy Vodka Salute on Española Way in South Beach, where the pedestrian-only street and its lively restaurant scene jumpstarts the festivities.

Run Of Shows, May 25 And 26

The Hyundai Air & Sea Show, one of the largest military equipment events in the nation, will feature an ensemble of U.S. military, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, and professional water sports athletes. The daily show lineup starts with offshore demonstrations and then takes to the sky for a soaring display of military jets and parachuters. Florida Power & Light Company will host the FPL Patriot Display Village, a six touch-point area for on-land activations, simulations, kids’ fun zone and general rest stop.

Daily Sea Show

Firing up their engines to open the show, the Cigarette powerboats, also known as the “go-fast” boats, lead the day’s events, commencing with racing exhibitions and extreme water sports. Synchronized to captivate the beachside audience, fly boarders will wake the crowds with high-performance aquatic displays featuring explosive maneuvers and graceful landings on the water that is nothing short of pro status. Meanwhile, the Jet Ski freestyle segment of the program will make waves of its own.

Daily Air Show

All eyes turn to the sky when the air portion assumes command. With one of the largest collections of military aircrafts overhead, onlookers will catch views and witness the magnitude of the barrage of lightning-speed jets, historic planes, helicopters and parachuters blanketing the sky.

New this year is the F-18 (F/A-18 Hornet), a versatile carrier-capable combat jet renowned for its supersonic capabilities and all-weather performance. Returning favorites include the widely exported F-16 Fighting Falcons, the revered F-15 Eagles, the ground troop-beloved A-10 Thunderbolt II ("Warthog"), and the F-22 Raptor, the most advanced fighter jets in the world. Also featured are the F-35 Lightning II and a selection of B-1, B-2 and B-52 Bombers, as well as HH60 Helicopters.

Accompanying the fleet of aircrafts, precision jumps will be executed by highly trained military paratroopers. Comprised of five distinct groups – the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, the Army Black Daggers, Navy Leap Frogs, the USAF Pararescue and the recognizable maroon beret-wearing Red Devils from the British Army’s Parachute Regiment – they will showcase their expertise through formation jumps and individual displays.

On-Land Activations

Expanding to five city blocks along Ocean Drive, the FPL Patriot Display Village in front of the dunes in Lummus Park will have interactive areas – Action Zone, Kids Zone, Jet Cockpit Photo Op, Food and Beverage, Military Displays and Public Viewing – for interludes and interactions with military personnel and equipment, flight simulators, extreme sports, food concessions, show merchandise and more.

Among the more popular areas, the Action Zone will feature Keith Sayer’s Monster Energy FMX Motocross team demonstrations and the USA Boxing Exhibition, a competition for age groups 8 to 25. The Kids Zone is a popular destination for younger family members, offering attractions such as rock climbing, bungee jumping, inflatables and paintless paintball, making it a sought-after spot for children.

Music Explosion

Following the Air & Sea Show on May 25, the Music Explosion concert will illuminate the beach with free entertainment and performances by top musical acts, U.S. Military bands and the U.S. Army Golden Knights’ nighttime pyro parachute jump.

As the sun sets, a breathtaking 3D Mapping Projection on historic Art Deco buildings will adorn the iconic structures, paying homage to our nation’s heroes. The evening concludes with the FRLA Fireworks Extravaganza presented by the Florida Restaurant Lodging Association.

Where To Watch The Hyundai Air & Sea Show

While the show flies across a significant portion of Miami Beach and you can watch from almost anywhere along the beach, the primary viewing location will be in Lummus Park between 11th and 14th streets on Ocean Drive.

Getting There and Getting Around

The Hyundai Air & Sea Show draws a sizable crowd. You might want to take advantage of ride-sharing options. For those driving to the event, City of Miami Beach parking can be found in garages at 13th Street and Collins Avenue and a few blocks from the park at 12th Street and Drexel Avenue.

If traveling from Orlando, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale or Aventura, take the Brightline high-speed train to Miami Central Station in Downtown Miami and transfer to Brightline’s Miami Beach Express Shuttle. The shuttle leaves 10 minutes after every arrival and drops off at either 5th or 11th Street and Washington Avenue. The service costs $10 for the first guest and $5 for each additional rider from the same party.

Tips For Attending The Hyundai Air & Sea Show

To ensure a prime spot on the sand, aim to arrive as early as possible. Hydration is key, so drink plenty of water.

Be mindful of potential loud noise from the jets and boats. If sensitive to sound, consider using ear protection and adjust any auditory devices.

Above all, remember the event’s purpose – paying tribute to the brave individuals who have served our nation.

By: Cristina Sorondo | March 5, 2024