Burbank’s 3 Top Helicopter Flights & Tours (With Prices)

Burbank isn’t just a hub for media production and entertainment—it’s also a fantastic starting point for memorable helicopter tours that reveal Los Angeles’ most iconic sights from the air. Unlike sprawling downtown LA, Burbank’s location offers easier access to both Hollywood landmarks and the California coast, making it an ideal launchpad for aerial adventures. Whether you want a quick glimpse of the Hollywood Sign or a sweeping tour of the Santa Monica coastline, these helicopter experiences provide a birds-eye view you won’t forget. Plus, flying over these sights gives you a fresh perspective that photos just can’t match.

What makes Burbank’s helicopter tours especially appealing is the variety. From ultra-short rides perfect for a quick thrill to longer, more detailed explorations of LA’s coastline and celebrity hotspots, there are options for every budget and schedule. And many tours include engaging commentary, so you learn about the sights as you take in the view. If you’re interested in seeing famous Hollywood mansions, Universal Studios, or the Santa Monica Pier, these tours deliver a dose of LA glamour from thousands of feet above the city streets.

Quick Overview

In this guide, we’ve picked the best helicopter experiences based on duration, highlights, reviews, and value. You’ll find a 10-minute Hollywood Sign Tour ideal for a quick thrill, a 20-minute Hollywood celebrity experience that adds more celebrity spotting, and a 30-minute coastline tour perfect for those wanting an expansive view of LA’s beaches and mountains. To see detailed descriptions of each, follow these links: 10-Minute Hollywood Sign Helicopter Tour, Los Angeles: 20 Minutes Hollywood Celebrity Helicopter Tour, and Los Angeles: 30 Minutes Helicopter Tour of the Coastline. Now, let’s explore each option in detail.

1. 10-Minute Hollywood Sign Helicopter Tour

For those short on time but eager to see one of LA’s most recognizable symbols, this 10-minute helicopter ride offers an unbeatable view of the Hollywood Sign. Starting from Burbank, this flight is perfect for fitting into a busy day. The tour whisks you over the Hollywood Hills, Griffith Park, and the famous Universal Studios. As you soar, you’ll enjoy live commentary via your audio headset, which describes the landmarks and shares fun facts.

What makes this tour stand out is the ability to see the Hollywood Sign from a close, dramatic angle—most land-based views are distant or obstructed. You’ll also fly over Mulholland Drive, Beverly Hills, and see celebrity mansions from above. Many travelers rave about the feeling of personal space—”a helicopter all to ourselves”—and the friendly, professional attitude of the team. The sunset option is especially popular, casting a warm glow over the city and the Pacific Ocean, making for a memorable snapshot opportunity.

Bottom line: This is a highly-rated, affordable quick hit that offers spectacular views with personal attention. It’s best suited for first-timers or those with limited time wanting a taste of Hollywood from above.

2. Los Angeles: 20 Minutes Hollywood Celebrity Helicopter Tour

Stepping up in length and luxury, this 20-minute VIP helicopter tour takes you beyond the basics. It’s designed for visitors who want to experience Hollywood’s glamour in a more immersive way, adding more time to explore the city’s star-studded sights. The tour departs from Burbank and includes flying over Universal Studios and the Hollywood Bowl, with a focus on celebrity homes and landmarks.

During the ride, you’ll learn fascinating details about Hollywood celebrities, Beverly Hills, and Bel Air, making it a hit for those intrigued by the Hollywood lifestyle. The longer duration allows for a more relaxed viewing experience, giving you ample time to soak in the sights like Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the lively Sunset Strip.

Reviews mention that the guides share “a lot of interesting facts” and that the flight offers a VIP experience that’s worth the extra cost for fans of celebrity culture. The price reflects the added time and exclusivity, but many find it excellent value considering the personalized experience and the chance to see LA’s most famous neighborhoods from above.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a deeper dive into Hollywood’s sights, especially if they’re interested in celebrity homes and iconic landmarks. It’s a premium experience that balances length, content, and comfort.

3. Los Angeles: 30 Minutes Helicopter Tour of the Coastline

For a comprehensive aerial tour, this 30-minute coastlines flight offers panoramic views of Santa Monica, Venice, and the Pacific Palisades. Starting from Burbank, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see LA’s beaches and mountains all in one go. The tour takes off over the Santa Monica Mountains, giving you expansive vistas of the Santa Monica Pier and the Venice Canals.

This experience is especially notable for its focus on coastal scenery—“a stunning view of the coast’s natural beauty,” as one reviewer put it. You’ll also see Marina del Rey and Pacific Palisades, with up-close views of the Venice Canals and the lively Pier. The flight is a fantastic way to appreciate how Los Angeles blends city life with oceanfront relaxation.

While slightly more expensive, many find the value in the 30-minute duration, as it covers both mountains and coast, offering a well-rounded perspective of LA’s varied geography. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine city landmarks with coastal scenery in one streamlined experience.

Bottom line: Best suited for visitors wanting a comprehensive scenic tour of LA’s coast and mountains, especially those interested in iconic beaches and neighborhoods.

How to Choose

When selecting the right helicopter tour, consider your budget, available time, and what sights excite you most. If you’re short on time but want a quick, high-impact view of the Hollywood Sign, the 10-minute Hollywood Sign Helicopter Tour is ideal. For a longer, more detailed look at Hollywood’s famous neighborhoods and celebrity homes, the 20-minute VIP experience offers more depth. If your focus is on LA’s beaches and mountain scenery, then the 30-minute coast tour provides an expansive view of the coastline and iconic sites.

Booking early can ensure you get your preferred time slot, especially during peak seasons. Check availability for sunset rides if you want a particularly stunning backdrop to your flight.

Final Thoughts

Burbank offers a surprisingly diverse selection of helicopter tours that suit a variety of interests and schedules. The quick 10-minute ride is perfect for a first-time flyer or a gift, while the longer coast or Hollywood tours showcase Los Angeles’ most famous sights in more detail.

For those wanting a glimpse of Hollywood’s star power, the 20-minute VIP tour is a solid choice. If your goal is to see LA’s stunning beaches and rugged mountains, the 30-minute coast tour will not disappoint. Booking in advance is recommended, especially if you want to catch sunset flights or popular time slots.

No matter which tour you choose, experiencing LA from above offers a fresh, exhilarating perspective that makes your trip truly unforgettable.