Los Angeles isn’t just a city; it’s a sprawling, cinematic playground filled with iconic sights, famous neighborhoods, and stunning coastlines. Seeing LA from the air offers a perspective that land-based tours simply can’t match. Imagine soaring past the Hollywood Sign, hovering above Beverly Hills mansions, or catching sunrise over Malibu with the Pacific stretching endlessly below. Among these options, we’re particularly fond of the Beverly Hills and Hollywood: Helicopter Tour for its breathtaking views and lively commentary, or the Los Angeles Romantic Helicopter Tour with Mountain Landing for couples seeking a special, private experience. Whatever your interests, these tours turn a city drive into a memorable adventure.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of helicopter experiences, ranging from quick 10-minute rides over the Hollywood Sign to elaborate two-hour tours covering Malibu, Santa Monica, and downtown LA. Some tours focus on night flights for city lights, like the Los Angeles at Night 30-Minute Flight, while others pair scenic flights with landings, such as the LA Helicopter Tour with Malibu Landing. Budget-wise, options start around $199 per person for 15-minute jaunts, climbing to over $900 for exclusive landings in Malibu. Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Beverly Hills and Hollywood: Helicopter Tour
At number 1, this 20-minute helicopter flight offers a perfect snapshot of LA’s star-studded neighborhoods. It’s ideal if you want a taste of LA glamour without a big time investment. You’ll fly past Hollywood’s famous sign, get close to celeb homes in Beverly Hills, and soar over Universal Studios. The live commentary from your pilot makes the experience both fun and informative, revealing facts about the city’s famous landmarks. This tour is praised for its high rating (4.9/5 from 799 reviews) and value at $199 per person.
What makes it stand out? The ability to see Hollywood’s iconic sights from a private helicopter, combined with the spectacular views of the coast, mountains, and ocean. It’s a quick, affordable way to tick off LA’s must-see sights in a single flight. Perfect for first-timers or those short on time who want a glamorous experience.
Bottom line: This tour offers a great introduction to LA’s most famous areas, with strong reviews and excellent value.
2. Private Helicopter Tour over Long Beach
This 15-minute private flight from Long Beach delivers a personalized view of the LA coast. Swoop over the Queen Mary, hover near the Battleship Iowa, and enjoy seamless narration as you fly. For just $199, it’s a great way to get a quick overview of the harbor, downtown Long Beach, and Catalina Island’s distant silhouette.
What makes this tour unique? Its private nature—up to three passengers share the experience, making it ideal for a quick celebration or a romantic outing. Reviews consistently praise the smooth rides and informative guides. The itinerary includes Belmont Shore Pier, Shoreline Village, and the Vincent Thomas Bridge, providing a well-rounded coastal perspective.
Bottom line: A personalized, scenic option perfect for those wanting a short but detailed L.A. coast experience.
3. Los Angeles at Night 30-Minute Helicopter Flight
For a breathtaking view of LA’s skyline at dusk, this 30-minute night flight ranks high. Seeing downtown LA aglow and flying over the Hollywood Hills with the Hollywood Sign illuminated creates a magical atmosphere. You’ll also enjoy views of Staples Center and Dodger Stadium, adding a sporty vibe to your night.
The experience costs $399 per person and has a stellar rating of 4.9/5 (from 75 reviews). The nighttime perspective reveals LA’s vibrant lights, especially beautiful over the downtown skyscrapers and Hollywood’s flickering signs. It’s ideal for travelers who want a romantic or memorable evening adventure.
Bottom line: A fantastic choice for those wanting city lights and starry skies in a 30-minute window.
4. California Coastline Helicopter Tour
This 30-minute tour offers a bird’s-eye view of the California coast—from Santa Monica and Malibu to the Santa Monica Mountains. Glide over Pacific Palisades’ luxurious homes, the beaches of Santa Monica, and the Getty Center perched above LA. For just $299, it’s a beautifully curated experience for coast lovers.
It’s praised for its scenic diversity, combining ocean vistas with mountain scenery, and is perfect for those interested in coastal geography and architecture. The flying altitude allows clear views of beach communities and famous homes. Reviews mention how stunning the coastal views are, especially during clear days.
Bottom line: A well-rounded coastal tour ideal for travelers who want to combine city views with ocean scenery.
5. Los Angeles: Private 1-Hour Sightseeing Helicopter Tour
This one-hour private flight explores LA’s top sights, including the Hollywood Sign, Universal Studios, Beverly Hills, Malibu, and Santa Monica Pier. It’s considered one of the best value options for a comprehensive sightseeing experience at $620. The tour’s length allows for a more relaxed, detailed view of LA’s diverse neighborhoods.
What makes it stand out? Its extensive itinerary and private setting mean you’ll fly over celebrity homes, the Hollywood Bowl, and downtown skyscrapers, capturing the city’s contrasts. Reviewers mention “a once-in-a-lifetime flight,” highlighting how it’s suited for travelers wanting a full overview in one go.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want to see a lot in a single flight without rushing.
6. Experience Private Helicopter Attractions of Los Angeles
This 50-minute private helicopter ride offers a luxurious and scenic journey over LA’s most iconic spots. It includes views of the Hollywood Sign, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Dodger Stadium, and Hollywood Hills. Its length and personalized approach appeal to those seeking an adventure with exclusivity.
Guests describe the experience as beautiful and memorable, with the pilot providing insights into LA’s architecture and culture. It’s tailored for adventure-seekers who desire a high-end, intimate experience, with an emphasis on top-notch safety and service.
Bottom line: A premium experience ideal for celebrating special occasions or for those who want a more immersive LA view.
7. Los Angeles Romantic Helicopter Tour with Mountain Landing
This 1.5-hour flight is crafted for couples celebrating love. It includes a mountain landing on a private Malibu peak, where you can enjoy a toast and spectacular views of Malibu Beach and the Pacific. The tour is priced at $649 per person but is highly rated for its romantic exclusivity.
The highlight is the mountain landing, offering a unique vantage point and a chance to capture unforgettable photos. Reviewers say it’s a perfect romantic getaway that combines adventure, luxury, and intimacy.
Bottom line: Ideal for romantic occasions or those wanting a special splurge with breathtaking scenery.
8. Downtown LA Lights: Your Private Sunset and Night Helicopter Tour
This 35-minute private tour provides a luxurious view of LA’s nighttime cityscape. Starting from Long Beach, you’ll fly over Venice Beach, the Getty Museum, and the Hollywood Sign, then glide over downtown LA with its illuminated skyscrapers. It’s perfect for those who love the glamour of nighttime LA.
Rated highly at 5.0/5 (from 23 reviews), travelers love the VIP experience and breathtaking views. The itinerary includes Dodger Stadium, Crypto Arena, and the majestic city lights that make LA so iconic at night.
Bottom line: An unforgettable luxury flight for night owls and cityscape lovers.
9. Hooray for Hollywood Helicopter Tour 35 Minutes
This celebrity-themed 35-minute tour is a highlight for film fans. It takes you above Hollywood’s landmarks, including the Hollywood Sign, Beverly Hills mansions, and the Chinese Theatre. You’ll fly along Sunset Boulevard and get a close-up view of the Hollywood Hills.
Rated 5/5 by those who want to “elevate” their LA visit, this tour is praised for its entertainment value and famous sights. The highlight? Flying over the Hollywood Sign and famous streets where movies and TV shows are made.
Bottom line: Perfect for pop culture enthusiasts wanting a fun, engaging experience.
10. Hollywood & Beaches Helicopter Tour 50 Minutes
This 50-minute private tour is packed with coastal and city sights. You’ll fly over the Hollywood Sign, Santa Monica Pier, and Malibu. It’s ideal for travelers wanting both urban and beach landscapes in one flight.
The tour’s reviews mention beautiful views and smooth rides. It’s suited for those seeking a comprehensive coastal experience with enough time to soak in the scenery.
Bottom line: Best for beach lovers and city explorers wanting a full coastal overview.
11. California Coast and Canyons Helicopter Tour
This 35-minute ride offers stunning vistas of Topanga Canyon, Venice Beach, and the Hollywood Hills. It’s a great way to see LA’s natural beauty from above, with views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific Ocean.
Guests love the variety of scenery, and the flying altitude gives spectacular perspectives of beaches and mountains. It’s suited for those interested in geography and scenic landscapes.
Bottom line: An excellent combo tour for exploring coast and canyon views.
12. Private Helicopter Tour of Rancho Palos Verdes, Long Beach, and More
This 30-minute private flight captures LA’s coastal scenery, including Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Palos Verdes. It’s perfect for those wanting an exclusive and relaxed coastal tour.
Passengers rave about the experienced pilot and beautiful vistas of Abalone Cove and the Battleship USS Iowa. It’s best suited for a short, scenic escape along the coast.
Bottom line: A quintessential coastal experience for travelers craving privacy and natural beauty.
13. LA Helicopter Tour with Malibu Landing
This two-hour tour combines a scenic flight with a landing in Malibu, offering a rare chance to explore the coast from above and ground. It features views of Malibu Pier, Surfrider Beach, and famous Malibu homes, along with a photo stop on the helipad.
Rated highly, the tour includes complimentary sparkling wine and ample photo opportunities. It’s suited for those seeking a luxurious, memorable experience and willing to spend more.
Bottom line: An exclusive, in-depth way to experience the LA coast with a famous Malibu landing.
14. Private Helicopter Ride to Hollywood Sign
This 10-minute private flight focuses solely on the Hollywood Sign, offering a close-up view ideal for photos. It’s perfect for short, focused excursions or lovers of iconic landmarks.
Reviewers find it worthwhile for the chance to get close to the sign from a unique vantage point. It’s best for visitors with limited time who want a memorable shot of the symbol of LA’s entertainment industry.
Bottom line: A quick, iconic tour crafted for photo enthusiasts.
15. Private Helicopter Tour of Beaches & Downtown Los Angeles from Long Beach
For 45 minutes, this private tour takes you from Long Beach over Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, then inland to downtown LA. It offers a comprehensive view of LA’s beachfront and urban highlights.
Reviewers praise the professional pilot and detailed narration. It’s best suited for those wanting a balanced mix of coastal and city sights.
Bottom line: Great for full-spectrum aerial sightseeing.
16. Grand Los Angeles Helicopter Tour 65 Minutes
This premium, hour-long tour covers LA’s top sights—from the San Fernando Valley to the Malibu coastline and Downtown LA. You’ll fly over the Hollywood Sign, the Getty Center, and Staples Center, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Rated 5/5 by a few travelers, this is the ultimate LA helicopter experience, blending urban, coastal, and mountain views into a single, memorable flight.
Bottom line: The best choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive, panoramic tour of Los Angeles.
How to Choose Your Perfect Helicopter Tour in Los Angeles
Choosing the right LA helicopter experience depends on your budget, available time, and what sights excite you most. If you want a quick glimpse of Hollywood and Beverly Hills, the Beverly Hills and Hollywood helicopter tour offers a great balance of value and stunning views. For a more personalized and luxurious outing, the Experience Private Helicopter Attractions is ideal. If you’re celebrating a special event, consider the romantic Malibu landing or the nighttime LA flight to add a touch of magic.
Think about whether you prefer shorter jaunts or a deeper, more comprehensive exploration like the Grand LA Helicopter Tour. For those with limited time but a desire to see both coast and city, the 45-minute private tour from Long Beach provides an excellent middle ground.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons or for the more exclusive experiences, to ensure availability and the best times—and don’t forget to double-check whether you want views during the day or at night.
Los Angeles offers a wide array of helicopter tours tailored to different interests—whether you’re after a quick Hollywood highlight, a romantic Malibu escape, or an all-encompassing panoramic flight. For first-timers, the 20-minute Beverly Hills and Hollywood tour provides an iconic taste, while seasoned travelers might opt for the Grand LA Tour for a full perspective of the city’s diverse landscapes. No matter your choice, booking ahead is key to securing a seat and making sure your LA aerial adventure becomes a highlight of your trip.