Hollywood and Beyond Helicopter Tour from Long Beach

Imagine seeing Hollywood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and the Pacific Ocean all in one breathtaking 40-minute flight. Starting from Long Beach, this heli-tour offers a bird’s-eye view of LA’s most famous landmarks, with the chance to spot the Hollywood sign, Dodger Stadium, and the Queen Mary. For just over four hundred dollars per person, you’ll fly with Maverick Helicopters, a well-regarded operator praised for smooth flights and knowledgeable pilots.

What we love most about this experience is how intimately it exposes you to LA’s diverse neighborhoods and iconic sights. The stunning aerial perspective makes it easier to appreciate the scale and location of everything from the Hollywood Sign to the Getty Museum. Plus, the organized nature and the professionalism of the crew make it feel safe and enjoyable throughout. One minor consideration is that this tour does not include Malibu, so if you’re hoping to see the coast further north, you might need an additional excursion.

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate authentic city views and a bit of adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a quick, high-impact overview of Los Angeles and its surroundings without committing to a full day of sightseeing. If you’re new to LA or just want a memorable way to see the city’s highlights from a different perspective, this helicopter experience can be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Unparalleled aerial views of LA’s most famous landmarks and neighborhoods
• Professional, well-organized with knowledgeable pilots
• 40-minute flight offers a substantial overview without being overwhelming
• Includes all fees and taxes – no hidden costs
• Not suitable for over 300 lbs passengers or those intoxicated
• Minimum of 4 travelers needed to confirm the tour

What to Expect on the Hollywood and Beyond Helicopter Tour

This helicopter trip is about seeing Los Angeles from a new angle. You’ll meet at the Long Beach start point, just off Queens Highway, where your adventure begins. The small group size—up to seven passengers plus the pilot—keeps the experience intimate, and seating is assigned based on weight and balance regulations. This means you might not sit exactly with your group, but it all contributes to a safe, smooth ride.

Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Long Beach: After check-in and safety instructions, the helicopter lifts off, revealing immediate views of the Vast Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. These bustling hubs are among the busiest in the world, and seeing them from the air underscores LA’s importance as a commercial and logistical center.

Santa Monica Pier: Your first visual treat is the iconic Santa Monica Pier, famous for its lively atmosphere, amusement park, and beachside charm. From above, the vibrant colors and bustling crowds seem even more lively.

Hollywood Sign: No trip to LA is complete without glimpsing the world-famous Hollywood Sign. Seeing it from the sky gives you perspective on how sparsely it’s actually nestled among the hills, contrasting sharply with the Hollywood Hills’ lush greenery.

Downtown LA: You’ll pass over LA Live, the LA Coliseum, and the Crypto.com Arena—home of the Lakers and Kings. The towering skyscrapers and sports venues make downtown LA look both modern and energetic.

Sunset Boulevard & Getty Museum: The flight then sweeps over Sunset Boulevard, one of LA’s most storied streets, before heading to the Getty Museum, perched atop a hill with stunning architecture and views that seem to stretch forever.

Dodger Stadium & Queen Mary: You’ll fly past the historic Dodger Stadium, and then over the Queen Mary, a vintage ocean liner turned hotel and museum, offering a glimpse of the city’s maritime past.

The Experience in Detail

What makes this tour particularly worthwhile is the quality of the views. As Robert_M described in his review, it’s a “well organized, well piloted, well narrated” trip that offers a “great bird’s-eye view of LA.” The pilot’s commentary adds context, pointing out landmarks and giving a sense of how everything fits into LA’s unique landscape.

The 40-minute duration hits a sweet spot. It’s long enough to see a variety of sights, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring or costly. You’ll be in the air long enough to gain a real appreciation for the city’s diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks.

Practical Considerations

The tour costs $381.01 per person, which might seem steep initially, but when you consider the exclusivity, the safety, and the stunning views, it offers good value. The price includes all taxes and fees, so there are no hidden additional costs. Keep in mind that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point in Long Beach on your own.

Passengers are limited to 300 lbs each, and the total weight of all participants plus the pilot cannot exceed 1170 lbs. This ensures safety and proper aircraft balance. For those who are slightly over the weight limit, an additional seat can be purchased directly on the day of the tour.

The tour requires a minimum of 4 passengers to run, which may affect travel plans if you’re a smaller group or traveling solo. However, the reviews suggest that the experienced guides and smooth flying make the small-group experience very enjoyable.

Why This Tour Works Well

If you’re someone who loves seeing cities from the sky, this helicopter tour delivers an immersive overview of Los Angeles’s most memorable sights. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting an exciting introduction, as well as seasoned travelers eager to see LA from a different perspective.

Travelers who enjoy photo opportunities will be delighted, as the views are both panoramic and detailed. The combination of urban landmarks and natural scenery makes for a compelling visual experience.

The professional narration and experienced pilot add a layer of confidence, especially for those who might be nervous about flying. Plus, the small group enhances the sense of intimacy and personal attention.

Who Should Consider This Experience

This tour is best suited for those with an appreciation for panoramic views and a desire to see the diverse geography of LA. It’s perfect for photographers, city lovers, or those celebrating a special occasion. If you’re the type who appreciates well-organized, safe, and informative tours, this will meet your expectations.

However, if you’re hoping to see Malibu or other coastal areas further north, you might need to look for additional helicopter excursions. Also, travelers who weigh over 300 lbs should plan for an extra seat, adding to the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 40 minutes, providing ample time to see many highlights from the sky.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll fly over Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA, Sunset Boulevard, Getty Museum, Dodger Stadium, and Queen Mary.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The information provided mainly discusses adult passengers, but generally, most travelers can participate if they meet size and health requirements.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, each passenger must weigh 300 lbs or less; otherwise, an additional seat must be purchased.

Does the tour include transportation to the meeting point?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrive at the Long Beach meeting point in advance.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Refunds are not available for cancellations made within 3 days of the tour.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if it’s canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I book this tour on short notice?
Most bookings are made about 50 days in advance, but last-minute availability depends on demand and weather.

Is this tour appropriate for solo travelers?
Yes, as long as the minimum group size of 4 is met, solo travelers can participate.

Are there any safety precautions I should know?
Passengers must adhere to safety instructions. The operator reserves the right to refuse service to intoxicated passengers for safety reasons.

Wrapping It Up

The Hollywood and Beyond Helicopter Tour from Long Beach offers a unique, exhilarating way to see Los Angeles. It combines stunning views, expert narration, and a comfortable, small-group setting that makes it more than just a flight—it’s a memorable experience. The tour’s quality and professionalism have earned high praise, making it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking an authentic aerial perspective of LA’s most famous sights.

While it’s not inexpensive, the value lies in the exclusivity, safety, and unforgettable views. If you want a highlight of your trip that captures the sprawling beauty and vibrancy of LA, this helicopter tour is a strong choice. Perfect for first-timers, landscape lovers, or anyone looking to add a dash of adventure to their California trip.

Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want a new way to explore, this tour offers an engaging, visually stunning experience. Just remember to book in advance and arrive ready for an adventure that truly takes your breath away.