Hollywood and Beyond Helicopter Tour from Long Beach

Exploring Los Angeles from the Sky: A Helicopter Tour Breakdown

When it comes to taking in Los Angeles’ sights, nothing beats seeing the city from a helicopter. The Hollywood and Beyond Helicopter Tour from Long Beach promises an aerial glimpse of LA’s most famous spots — all while flying comfortably in a sleek chopper. We’ve gathered all the details to help you decide if this experience is right for you, from its route to its value and authenticity.

What We Love About This Tour

• Unmatched panoramic views of Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the Pacific Ocean that make for incredible photo opportunities.
• Knowledgeable pilots and guides who narrate and point out each landmark, making the tour both fun and informative.
• Convenient starting point in Long Beach, away from the busy LA airports, which eases logistics and helps you avoid the crowds.

A possible drawback? The tour lasts about 40 minutes of flying, which means you won’t fit every LA highlight into one run — Malibu, for instance, isn’t included. Still, if you’re after a quick, high-impact sightseeing experience, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for travelers eager for a memorable, scenic overview of LA’s most iconic sights without the hassle of ground traffic or long museum lines.

Good To Know

• Stunning views of Los Angeles landmarks from Hollywood to Santa Monica.
• Short and sweet: 40-minute flight packed with photo-worthy moments.
• Excellent narration and guidance enhance the experience.
• All fees and taxes included in the price for transparency.
• Limited capacity: Only up to seven passengers per helicopter, adding an intimate feel.
• Booking well in advance (about 50 days) suggests high demand and popularity.

The Experience: In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Meeting Point and Duration

You’ll start your adventure at 1175 Queens Hwy in Long Beach, a straightforward location that avoids the hustle of downtown LA airports. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with about 40 minutes of actual flight time. The rest covers pre-flight check-in and safety briefings, which are typically handled smoothly thanks to Maverick Helicopters’ professional staff.

The Flight Route and Landmarks

The route is designed to maximize your sightseeing time over the most recognizable spots. It begins with a scenic flight over Long Beach’s busy Ports, one of the world’s largest seaport complexes, giving you a sense of LA’s vital shipping industry. Then, the tour heads north over the Pacific Ocean, passing the Santa Monica Pier, a lively hub filled with neon lights, rides, and bustling crowds, especially at sunset or twilight.

Next, your pilot guides you toward Hollywood, where you’ll get a clear view of the Hollywood Sign perched on the hills — a must-see for any LA visitor. From there, the tour swoops through Downtown LA, showcasing landmarks like LA Live, the LA Coliseum, USC, and Crypto.com Arena, home to the Lakers and Kings.

The route continues over the Vincent Thomas Bridge, linking San Pedro with Long Beach, offering a fantastic perspective of LA’s harbor area. Then, you’ll fly along Sunset Boulevard, famed for its entertainment history, ending the aerial journey with a pass over the Getty Museum and Dodger Stadium — a highlight for sports fans.

Finally, the helicopter circles over the Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner from the 1930s, adding a touch of maritime nostalgia to your flight.

What You’ll Feel and See

Expect a smooth, quiet ride with plenty of opportunities to take photos. The pilot’s narration enhances the experience, pointing out what makes each site special. Reviewers mention that the pilots are well-trained and engaging, adding value by sharing interesting facts and little-known details about these landmarks.

Extra Touches

Since the tour is limited to seven passengers plus the pilot, it’s a more intimate experience than larger sightseeing tours. This small group setting enables better interaction and more personalized attention. You might be surprised by how close-up the views are — a far cry from looking at cityscapes through a bus window.

The Practical Side: Costs, Booking, and Logistics

Price and Value

At $381.01 per person, this helicopter tour isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s a competitive rate given the luxury experience and exclusive access to aerial views. When you consider the cost of helicopter rentals and the included all fees and taxes, the price becomes justifiable for those craving a memorable and premium sightseeing experience.

Booking in Advance

Most travelers book about 50 days ahead, reflecting strong demand. Planning early is advisable if you want to secure a spot, especially during peak tourist seasons or special occasions.

What’s Not Included

• Hotel pickup or drop-off isn’t part of this package, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Long Beach. Given the location, it might be a short drive or an Uber from your hotel.
• Travel insurance or additional services aren’t included, so be prepared for that extra cost if needed.

Weight and Capacity Restrictions

To ensure safety and comfort, each passenger must weigh less than 300 lbs. If someone exceeds this, they’ll need to buy an extra seat, payable directly on the day. The total helicopter weight capacity is 1170 lbs with up to seven passengers. This regulation ensures a safe and balanced flight for everyone aboard.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer, Robert_M, described the tour as “well organized, well piloted, well narrated, well done in general,” emphasizing the professionalism and quality of the experience. His comment about wishing Malibu could be included shows how eager visitors are to see even more of LA’s scenic spots, though the current route still covers a solid selection of sights.

Another passenger appreciated the knowledgeable guides, noting that the pilots provided a “bird’s-eye view of LA” that was both visually stunning and narratively interesting. This attention to detail makes the tour more than just a flight — it’s an educational journey through LA’s iconic neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a luxurious, scenic, and photo-friendly way to see Los Angeles, this helicopter tour offers an impressive blend of convenience, comfort, and visual spectacle. While it’s an investment, the unparalleled views and expert narration make it a standout experience that’s worth considering, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable highlight of your trip.

This tour is ideal for those who value quality and authentic aerial perspectives. It’s particularly suited for first-timers who want a broad overview of LA’s top sights, or anyone eager to tick off a bucket list experience in style.

FAQ About the Hollywood and Beyond Helicopter Tour

How long does the actual flight last?
The helicopter flight is approximately 40 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the aerial views of LA’s most famous landmarks.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at 1175 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, which is a straightforward location outside central LA, making logistics easier for travelers.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the 40-minute helicopter flight plus all fees and taxes, ensuring no hidden charges.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, each passenger must weigh under 300 lbs. If over, you’ll need to purchase an extra seat on the day of the tour.

How many people are in each helicopter?
The helicopter capacity is limited to seven passengers plus the pilot, creating a more intimate experience.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier, Downtown LA, Dodgers Stadium, Queen Mary, Getty Museum, Vincent Thomas Bridge, and Sunset Boulevard.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, most people book around 50 days ahead due to high demand, especially during peak seasons.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While most travelers can participate, children should be capable of sitting through a 40-minute flight and meet the age/weight requirements.

Are there any safety concerns?
The tour is operated by Maverick Helicopters, with professional pilots and strict safety protocols. The tour can be canceled due to weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met.

Can I see Malibu from the helicopter?
Not on this route — the current itinerary doesn’t include Malibu, but you might find other tours that do if that’s a priority.

Final Wrap-Up

The Hollywood and Beyond Helicopter Tour from Long Beach offers a compelling way to see LA’s highlights from a perspective few get to enjoy. It’s a perfect choice for travelers craving a premium, scenic experience with knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and a small-group atmosphere. While it’s a pricier option, the exclusivity and photographic potential make it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a memorable, panoramic glimpse of Los Angeles.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to elevate your sightseeing game, this helicopter trip delivers on both excitement and quality. Just remember to book early, dress comfortably, and prepare for a bird’s-eye adventure you won’t soon forget.