2 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Catalina Island

Catalina Island offers some of Southern California’s most striking coastal scenery, and seeing it from a helicopter adds a new dimension of awe. The island’s rugged interior, towering cliffs, and historic landmarks come alive when viewed from above, making helicopter tours a standout way to experience Catalina. Whether you want an all-day sightseeing adventure or a quick scenic transfer to the mainland, helicopter flights deliver memorable sights and unique perspectives that are hard to match from the ground.

Catalina’s natural beauty and quirky history combine to create compelling reasons for a helicopter experience. The Catalina Explorer Helicopter Tour offers a rundown, taking you over iconic spots like the Wrigley Memorial and Mount Orizaba. Meanwhile, a Helicopter Transfer from Catalina to Long Beach provides a speedy, scenic way to travel between island and coast—great for those pressed for time but eager for a taste of aerial adventure.

1. Catalina Explorer Helicopter Tour

This Catalina Explorer Helicopter Tour is perfect for travelers wanting a deep dive into the island’s highlights. Priced at $204.17 per person, it offers around a 1-hour flight that shows you some of Catalina’s most breathtaking sights. Departing from Pebbly Beach, you’ll fly over the rugged interior of the island, which stretches 22 miles from tip to tip, and see cliffs rising dramatically from the ocean.

The tour’s itinerary includes flyovers of the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, the historic Catalina Island Golf Course, and Mount Orizaba—the island’s highest peak at 1,597 feet. As you descend past Catalina Bay, the views of sparkling waters and rugged terrain are spectacular. The pilot shares interesting facts about the island’s natural features and history, making the experience both scenic and educational. One recent reviewer called it an “absolutely amazing experience” and appreciated the pilot’s storytelling.

This tour ranks high for its comprehensive coverage and the opportunity to see Catalina’s diverse landscape from above. It’s best suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with a sense of adventure and don’t mind investing a bit more for a full hour of aerial exploration. It’s an excellent value given the extensive views and the personalized experience.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, immersive helicopter tour that showcases Catalina’s natural beauty and landmarks, ideal for first-time visitors and photo enthusiasts.

2. Helicopter Transfer: Catalina Island to Long Beach

For those on a tight schedule or simply seeking a quick yet scenic way to travel, the Helicopter Transfer from Catalina to Long Beach offers a 20-minute flight at $195.67 per person. This option provides a luxurious and efficient alternative to ferry rides or boat transfers, giving you the chance to soar over the Pacific and enjoy panoramic coastal views.

While this flight doesn’t include sightseeing stops, it’s a great way to see the coastline’s distinctive features—sparkling water, beaches, and seaside cliffs—at a high altitude. The transfer is particularly convenient for travelers heading to the mainland after a Catalina visit, offering a picture-perfect start or finish to your day. The experience is straightforward, with departures available on select days, and the flight itself is short enough to fit into tight schedules.

Although reviews are limited, the value is clear: for just under $200, you get a quick, scenic lift, making it perfect for business travelers, quick getaways, or anyone wanting a memorable flight without the commitment of a longer tour.

Bottom Line: A fast, scenic transfer option that combines convenience with the thrill of flying, perfect for time-sensitive travelers or those wanting a quick coastal panorama.

How to Choose the Best Helicopter Tour in Catalina Island

When selecting between these helicopter options, consider your priorities: do you want an in-depth sightseeing experience that covers key landmarks and natural beauty? The Catalina Explorer Helicopter Tour is your best bet. Or are you simply looking to cut travel time and enjoy a scenic coast flight? The Helicopter Transfer might be the best fit.

Budget, time constraints, and interests are also important. If you’re celebrating or want a memorable tour with plenty of photo opportunities, the full-hour exploration is well worth the price. Conversely, if you’re in a hurry or just want a quick thrill, the transfer provides stunning views at a lower time investment.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months. Check availability on your preferred dates and consider weather conditions, as Catalina’s skies can be unpredictable.

In summary, Catalina Island’s helicopter tours offer a range of options from immersive sightseeing to quick transfers. The Catalina Explorer Helicopter Tour is perfect for those who want a detailed aerial overview, while the Helicopter Transfer to Long Beach suits travelers after a swift, scenic ride. No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable aerial views.