15 Exceptional Helicopter Flights & Tours In Los Angeles

Exploring Los Angeles by helicopter offers a perspective no landbound trip can match. With its sprawling cityscape, iconic landmarks, and stunning coastlines, LA is one of the best places in the world for aerial sightseeing. Whether you’re looking for a quick 15-minute flight over Long Beach or a full hour touring Hollywood’s highlights, helicopter tours in LA give you a chance to see the city from above in a way that’s both thrilling and memorable.

What makes LA ideal for helicopter tours is its diverse scenery — from the glittering skyscrapers of Downtown to the rugged beauty of Malibu’s coast. The city’s landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, Beverly Hills mansions, and Santa Monica Pier all shine brightest from the air. Plus, many tours include narration, so you learn as you fly, making the experience both fun and informative.

1. Private Helicopter Tour over Long Beach

At number 1, this 15-minute private helicopter flight from Long Beach is perfect for a quick yet unforgettable overview of LA’s coastal highlights. You’ll swoop past the Queen Mary, hover over downtown Long Beach, and see the Battleship Iowa in the bustling port. The tour offers beautiful views of Catalina Island and the Pacific coastline, making it a great way to get a taste of California’s maritime charm.

Guests praise the personalized experience thanks to its private setting. The narration throughout adds context, and the tour’s top reviews highlight how smooth and exciting the ride is. It’s an excellent choice if you want a short, scenic adventure that hits key sights like Shoreline Village and the Vincent Thomas Bridge. For a quick introduction to LA’s waterfront, this tour delivers excellent value at $199 per person.

Bottom line: Perfect for those short on time but eager for a memorable view of Long Beach and its iconic sights.

2. Los Angeles: Private 1-Hour Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

At number 2, this private 65-minute helicopter tour takes you soaring above LA’s most famous neighborhoods. From the Hollywood Sign to Malibu, this flight covers the city’s best-known sights, including Universal Studios, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica Pier, and celebrity homes. It’s a comprehensive cruise that really shows off Los Angeles’ diversity.

This tour stands out for its spectacular views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu Canyon, with guests noting how close-up and detailed the sights are. The guide’s commentary helps bring the city’s stories to life, and guests say it’s a must-do for a first-time visitor wanting to see everything in one go. Though $620 per person, the experience’s richness and coverage make it worth the splurge.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers with a full hour to indulge in LA’s top sights all at once.

3. Experience Private Helicopter Attractions of Los Angeles

Holding the third spot, this 50-minute private helicopter ride offers a tight but exciting glance at LA’s most photogenic spots. Flying over the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Hollywood Sign, and exclusive celebrity homes in Beverly Hills, this flight caters to those who want a personalized, action-packed experience.

Guests love how friendly and professional the guide is, and many say it’s a trip they will never forget. The tour’s highlights include flying over Dodger Stadium, Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Bowl — all landmarks that make LA special from the air. The price of $649 gives you a luxurious, intimate glimpse into LA’s glamour.

Bottom line: Great for those who want a shorter, private adventure with a focus on iconic sights.

4. Downtown LA Lights: Your Private Sunset and Night Helicopter Tour

Positioned at number 4, this 35-minute private sunset/night tour offers a magical view of LA as it lights up after sunset. Starting from Long Beach, you’ll fly north over Venice Beach, the Getty Museum, and the Hollywood Sign. As night falls, the city’s skyscrapers and landmarks sparkle from above.

Travelers rave about the experience, especially how the illuminated skyline transforms the city into a glittering spectacle. The tour includes views of Downtown LA, Dodgers Stadium at night, and Griffith Observatory’s glow, making it ideal for romantic evenings or special celebrations. At $270 per person, the price reflects the exclusivity and stunning scenery.

Bottom line: Perfect for a romantic, private escape offering breathtaking night views of Los Angeles.

5. Hooray for Hollywood Helicopter Tour 35 Minutes

This celebrity-themed 35-minute helicopter ride is a fun way to see Hollywood from above. You’ll fly over the mansions of Hollywood Hills and Beverly Hills, get a close-up of the Hollywood Sign, and cruise Sunset Boulevard and Hollywood Boulevard. The tour captures all the glitz Hollywood is famous for.

Guests comment on how the pilot made everyone feel comfortable, and the views of iconic landmarks like TCL Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre are unforgettable. For $420, you get a lively, star-studded perspective of Tinseltown that’s ideal for pop-culture lovers and first-timers alike.

Bottom line: Best suited for fans of Hollywood and those wanting a lively, celebrity-focused tour.

6. Hollywood & Beaches Helicopter Tour 50 Minutes

At number 6, this 50-minute private tour combines city sights with coastal beaches. Flying over the Hollywood Sign, Dodgers Stadium, and the Getty, then down to Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach, this trip offers a comprehensive look at LA from land to sea.

Guests love how much ground is covered in half an hour, especially the views of Santa Monica and the Malibu coast. The tour accommodates up to three passengers, making it a good option for small groups or families. At $525, it balances a thorough experience with a reasonable price for such a wide scope.

Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting to see both city landmarks and beaches in one flight.

7. California Coast and Canyons Helicopter Tour 35 Minutes

Number 7’s 35-minute scenic flight is perfect for lovers of coastal scenery. You’ll fly over Topanga Canyon, swoop along Pacific Coast Highway, and admire Venice, Santa Monica, Malibu, and Pacific Palisades from above.

Guests mention how stunning the views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Hollywood Hills are, especially during the flight. The tour is a fantastic way to experience Southern California’s varied landscape from the air, with highlights like Malibu Pier and the beaches along the coast. At $420, it offers great value for a scenic coast and canyon experience.

Bottom line: Suited for travelers wanting to combine mountain, beach, and city views in one short flight.

8. LA Helicopter Tour with Malibu Landing

Positioned at number 8, this 2-hour luxury tour includes a landing in Malibu. It begins with spectacular aerial views of Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Venice Beach, with a stop at Malibu’s helipad for a break and photos. The tour includes complimentary sparkling wine, making it a romantic option.

Guests describe the experience as personalized and memorable, often highlighting how the Malibu stop lets you soak in the coast’s beauty. At $925, it’s a premium experience, best suited for couples or those celebrating a special occasion.

Bottom line: Perfect for a romantic day or special celebration with a bit of luxury and a Malibu coastal touch.

9. Private Helicopter Ride to Hollywood Sign

This short but iconic 10-minute tour delivers a close-up view of the Hollywood Sign. Flying over Universal Studios and gliding near the landmark, it’s designed for those who want a quick, up-close photo opportunity and a taste of Hollywood’s glamour.

Guests say it’s a great value at $319 for a compact, memorable experience. It’s best for travelers with limited time wanting a personalized shot of LA’s most famous symbol.

Bottom line: Short, sweet, and perfect for a quick Hollywood highlight.

10. Private Helicopter Tour of Beaches & Downtown Los Angeles from Long Beach

Number 10 offers a 45-minute private flight from Long Beach that emphasizes LA’s coastal and downtown skyline. Flying past Manhattan and Venice Beach, then over Santa Monica Pier and downtown, this tour packs in Hollywood Hills, the San Gabriel Mountains, and the Hollywood Sign.

Guests appreciate the detailed narration and the scenic vistas, noting how it covers a wide range of LA’s most famous sights in less than an hour. At $360, it balances cost with a thorough overview.

Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable aerial tour from Long Beach.

11. Grand Los Angeles Helicopter Tour 65 Minutes

Number 11 features the longest tour at 1 hour and 5 minutes, ideal for those wanting every detail. It starts with the San Fernando Valley, then moves south into Malibu Canyon, the coastline, and includes views of the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and Dodgers Stadium.

Guests say it’s the most complete LA experience, with professional pilots and a route that hits all major landmarks. At $625, it’s a significant investment but offers unmatched coverage and perspective.

Bottom line: Best for serious sightseeing enthusiasts eager to see all of LA from above.

12. Hollywood Sign & Coast Helicopter Tour in Los Angeles 35 Minutes

Positioned at number 12, this 35-minute tour combines city landmarks with beach views. Flying over Universal Studios, Hollywood Sign, Mulholland Drive, and Santa Monica Pier, it’s a balanced mix of city and coast.

Guests describe it as “absolutely humbling,” with stunning views of Hollywood and Santa Monica. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a bit of everything in a shorter flight at $420.

Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting city and beach sights together.

13. Long Beach: California Coastal 30-Minute Helicopter Tour

Number 13 provides a quick 30-minute scenic tour focusing on Long Beach and nearby coastlines. You’ll see Huntington Beach Pier, Balboa Island, Laguna Beach, and the Pacific Ocean’s stunning shoreline.

Guests find it offers a compact but impressive look at California coastlines, suitable for travelers short on time but eager to see the surf and sand from above. It’s priced at $279, making it an accessible option.

Bottom line: Great for a quick coastal overview with a focus on Southern California beaches.

14. Hollywood and Beyond Helicopter Tour from Long Beach

This 1.5-hour luxury tour starts from Long Beach, including Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the Pacific Ocean. It passes over LA’s busy ports, the Hollywood Sign, and the Getty Center for a full panoramic experience.

Guests appreciate the detailed route and the ability to customize the experience, noting how it’s ideal for a special occasion. At $381.01, it offers a relaxed, comprehensive experience for those with extra time and budget.

Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking a deep dive into LA’s sights with a luxe touch.

15. 1 Hour Private Romantic Sunset Helicopter Tour

Finishing at number 15, this hour-long sunset tour provides a private, romantic way to see LA’s iconic skyline and coastline. Flying over Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Sign, and Santa Monica during sunset creates a magical atmosphere.

Reviewers mention feeling like VIPs, with champagne and a souvenir photo included. It’s best for couples celebrating a special occasion or seeking an intimate experience. The $899 price reflects its exclusivity.

Bottom line: The perfect choice for couples wanting a luxurious, private sunset experience of Los Angeles.

How to Choose

When selecting a helicopter tour, consider your budget, the duration you desire, and the sites you most want to see. If your focus is on the coast, the California Coast and Canyons Tour offers a quick but scenic flight. For a comprehensive day of sightseeing, the Grand Los Angeles Helicopter Tour is perfect. If a romantic sunset or private experience appeals, the 1 Hour Romantic Sunset Helicopter Tour provides a memorable setting.

Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, and consider your fitness level and comfort with heights, as some tours involve landings or longer flights. Tailor your choice to what excites you most—whether it’s chasing Hollywood stars, sweeping coastal views, or enjoying an intimate sunset ride.

Final Thoughts

LA’s helicopter tours offer a remarkable way to see the city’s diverse landscapes and famous landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, Malibu coast, and Santa Monica Pier from above. If you’re short on time, the quick 15-minute Long Beach flight is a solid option. For those wanting an all-encompassing experience, the Grand LA Tour provides a comprehensive aerial overview.

Couples or those celebrating special occasions will love the Sunset Helicopter Tour, while fans of Hollywood’s glamour might choose the Hooray for Hollywood Tour. No matter your choice, booking early and taking note of your interests will ensure you get the most out of your LA helicopter adventure.