Los Angeles: Beach Sides Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring above the California coast, with panoramic views of beaches, bustling harbors, and luxury homes on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. For just 20 minutes, you can see Los Angeles like never before — from the sky. This helicopter tour, offered by Level Up Tours, is priced around a reasonable amount for such a compact but immersive experience.

We love how comfortable the ride is, with heated leather seats and air conditioning making those open skies even more enjoyable. The sound system lets you listen to music or commentary, adding a personal touch to your flight. Plus, the red carpet photo session offers a fun way to remember your adventure.

One possible drawback is that the duration is brief, only 20 minutes. While it’s perfect for a quick overview, travelers seeking an in-depth aerial exploration might need to look for longer options. But for those wanting a snapshot of LA’s coastal splendor, this tour hits the spot.

This experience suits first-time visitors, photographers, or anyone wanting a unique perspective on LA’s iconic coastline without committing to a lengthy tour. It’s an ideal choice if you’re short on time but still craving a memorable view.

Key Points

• Short & Sweet: 20-minute helicopter ride offers a quick yet comprehensive aerial view of LA’s coast.
• Luxurious Comfort: Heated leather seats and air conditioning enhance the experience.
• Spectacular Views: See beaches, harbors, and lavish estates from above, perfect for photography.
• Small Group: Limited to four participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Additional Perks: Access to the Aero Museum and a photo session add value.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for worry-free planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Los Angeles from the Sky: A Detailed Look

When considering a helicopter tour over LA, it’s important to understand what makes this experience special and what to expect at each stage. This particular tour by Level Up Tours provides a balanced blend of comfort, stunning scenery, and unique insights — all within a compact 20-minute window.

The Itinerary: What Does the Flight Cover?

The journey begins at the airport, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly team and led to your helicopter. The aircraft itself is equipped with heated leather seats, panoramic windows, and air conditioning — a thoughtful touch that ensures your comfort while gazing at the breathtaking scenery.

Once airborne, your pilot — likely an experienced guide — will lead you along the Southern California coastline. The first sights you’ll see are the famous surfer beaches that attract thrill-seekers from around the world. We loved the way the waves break on the shore, giving a dynamic contrast to the tranquil blue waters below.

As you fly further south, you’ll pass over Long Beach, known for its vibrant harbor and maritime activity. The proximity to ships and boats creates a lively scene from above, contrasting the serene beaches with bustling commerce. Several reviews mention how the harbor views add an interesting dimension to the tour, revealing LA’s importance as a port city.

The tour’s highlight might be the luxury homes of Palos Verdes and Rolling Hills. From above, these sprawling estates look like mini palaces, set against the rugged cliffs and ocean backdrop. We appreciated the clarity of the panoramic windows — no squinting or straining — making it easy to capture memorable photos.

What Makes the Experience Stand Out?

One of the best aspects of this tour is the luxury amenities. The heated leather seats make a significant difference, especially if you’re visiting during cooler months or early mornings. The air conditioning keeps the cabin comfortable, ensuring you’re not distracted by discomfort while soaking in the views.

Another standout feature is the music through headphones. Whether you’re a fan of mellow tunes or prefer silence, this feature allows a personalized experience. It’s a small detail that adds to the luxury feel and keeps the atmosphere relaxed.

For those who love souvenirs, the red carpet photo session is a delightful bonus. It’s a chance to document your adventure professionally — a fun keepsake and perfect for sharing on social media.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

While the 20-minute duration is usually enough for a quick overview, some travelers may wish for a longer flight to explore more. The flight’s brevity means it’s more of a snapshot rather than an in-depth tour. If you’re after a comprehensive aerial experience, this might feel slightly limited.

Plus, since the tour is small-group, with only four participants max, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. It’s wise to reserve in advance and be flexible with timings.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter tour is perfect for first-time visitors to LA, those wanting to see the coastline from a new angle, or travelers short on time. It’s also ideal if you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a romantic experience, thanks to the intimate setting and luxurious touches.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

While helicopter tours tend to be pricey, this one offers thoughtful amenities and strategic highlights that justify the cost. The luxury seats, panoramic views, and additional perks like the museum access and photos create a well-rounded package.

Most reviews highlight the stunning vistas as the main draw. Guests frequently mention that the views of beaches and mansions are “absolutely breathtaking,” with one person noting, “We loved the way the coast looked from above — it’s a completely different perspective.” This confirms that the primary value here is the mind-blowing scenery.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, which enhances the overall experience. Plus, the flexible booking options—including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—offer peace of mind.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: 20 minutes, suitable for a quick overview but possibly too brief for those seeking an extended flight.
• Price: It’s a reasonable investment for the quality, comfort, and views provided.
• Group size: Limited to 4, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Additional offerings: Access to the Aero Museum and photo sessions add a memorable touch.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for babies under 1 year; consider physical comfort and height restrictions.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For viewers craving breathtaking aerial views of Los Angeles’ coastline in a luxury setting, this helicopter tour is a solid choice. It combines comfort, exclusivity, and memorable sights in just 20 minutes. While it’s a quick glimpse rather than a full day’s exploration, the views of beaches, harbors, and elite estates make it a compelling option.

It’s particularly well-suited for those new to LA, photo enthusiasts, or couples seeking a special experience. The small group size and added amenities ensure it feels personal and indulgent, making your trip above the city truly memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 20 minutes, offering a quick but sweeping view of Los Angeles’ coast.

What amenities are provided during the flight?
You’ll enjoy heated leather seats, air conditioning, and the ability to listen to music or commentary through headphones for a personalized experience.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, the helicopter has panoramic windows perfect for photography. Plus, the tour includes a red carpet photo session before or after your flight.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for babies under 1 year. Parents should consider the physical comfort and safety requirements for children.

What can I see during the flight?
Expect to see beaches, Long Beach harbor, luxury homes on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and the scenic landscape of Southern California’s coastline.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the 20-minute helicopter flight, luxury amenities, access to the Aero Museum, and the photo session.

How do I book and what is the cancellation policy?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight. It’s recommended to book in advance due to limited spots.

This helicopter tour over Los Angeles provides a brief but impactful glimpse of the city’s stunning coastline with a level of comfort and exclusivity that makes it stand out. Whether you’re visiting LA for the first time or seeking a memorable way to see its coastal beauty, this experience offers a combination of spectacular views, luxury touches, and personal memories that many travelers will cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby