Private Helicopter Tour over Long Beach

If you’re dreaming of catching stunning aerial views of Long Beach and LA’s coastline, a private helicopter tour might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact flight, the reviews and details suggest it’s a memorable way to see the city’s iconic sights in a quick, personal way.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines a personalized touch—since it’s a private tour—with excellent views of landmarks like the Queen Mary, Battleship Iowa, and Catalina Island. Plus, it’s only about 15 minutes, so it won’t eat up your entire day but still offers enough time to soak in some breathtaking scenery.

That said, a potential consideration is weight restrictions—passengers over 300 lbs or groups exceeding 580 lbs might not be accommodated, which is good to keep in mind if you’re traveling with heavier friends or family. Also, since it’s a short flight, it’s best suited for those looking for a quick, spectacular overview rather than a long, immersive experience.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who want a high-impact, stunning view of Long Beach and LA’s coastline, especially if you’re into unique photo opportunities or celebrating a special occasion.

Key Points

• Private tour means a personalized, intimate experience with your group.
• 15-minute flight offers a quick yet scenic overview of LA’s coast and landmarks.
• Landmarks like Queen Mary & Battleship Iowa are highlights you’ll see from above.
• Good value for the price of $199, given the personalized service and views.
• Narration and live commentary enhance the experience, providing context about the sights.
• Weight restrictions are important to consider if you’re traveling with heavier passengers.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The first thing to know about this helicopter tour is that it’s designed to maximize the “wow” factor in a short span of time. You’ll meet at the Long Beach helipad, located conveniently near public transportation, which makes it fairly easy to reach. After a quick check-in—where passengers might be weighed to ensure safety—the adventure begins.

Once in the helicopter, your pilot will guide you through the sights with live narration, helping you understand what you’re seeing. Reviews mention friendly pilots who make nervous passengers comfortable, which can be reassuring if this is your first time in a helicopter. There’s an emphasis on safety and professionalism, so you’re in good hands.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• View of the Queen Mary: Expect a close-up of this historic ocean liner turned hotel and museum, a Long Beach icon that’s especially photogenic from the air. A review describes the view as “absolutely amazing,” which is a common sentiment among those lucky enough to see it from above.

• Long Beach Waterfront & Belmont Shore Pier: These spots are lively and picturesque, perfect for capturing some vibrant coastal scenes. You might also catch a glimpse of Shoreline Village, a popular area for dining and strolling.

• Battleship USS Iowa: Sitting moored in the port, this massive battleship is a commanding sight from above, and many reviews highlight how impressive it looks from the sky. It’s a reminder of Long Beach’s naval history and adds a historical touch to your aerial tour.

• Vincent Thomas Bridge: This iconic suspension bridge connects Long Beach to San Pedro and is a striking feature during your flight. It’s a favorite among reviewers who love the engineering marvels seen from above.

• Downtown Long Beach & Ocean Views: As you circle back, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the downtown skyline and the Pacific Ocean, including Catalina Island in the distance if weather permits. Several reviews mention how stunning and peaceful the ocean vistas are, especially on a clear day.

The Overall Flight

Most reviews emphasize how smooth and comfortable the ride is, with many pilots described as knowledgeable and personable. One reviewer even joked about how pilots often get asked how long they’ve been flying, highlighting the relaxed atmosphere created on board.

Since it’s a private experience, your group can enjoy the flight without the noise or distraction of strangers. The included headsets make it easy to hear the narration, allowing you to learn about each landmark as you glide overhead.

Why the Price is Worth It

At $199 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, particularly because it’s a private experience. You get to see some of Long Beach’s most iconic sights in about 15 minutes, which, when you think about how much effort it takes to visit these landmarks on foot or by car, makes for a pretty efficient and memorable outing.

Many reviews mention how the experience exceeded expectations—viewing the city and coastline from this vantage point is something most travelers wouldn’t do every day. Plus, the live commentary adds educational value, making it more than just a pretty ride.

Additional Notes & Considerations

While most travelers find the experience fantastic, remember that there are weight limits—certainly for safety reasons—and passengers might be weighed upon arrival. If you or someone in your group is close to or over 300 lbs, it’s best to check in advance.

The tour is also weather-dependent. If the skies are too cloudy or stormy, the flight might be canceled or rescheduled, but the company offers full refunds in those cases, so there’s little risk.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a quick but striking view of Long Beach and LA’s coastline. It’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just ticking off a bucket list item of flying in a helicopter.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an avid photographer or someone who loves scenic views, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to capture Long Beach’s landmarks from above. Also, if you’re celebrating a birthday or special event, the private aspect makes it more intimate.

However, if you prefer longer rides or want a more in-depth experience, this might feel a bit brief. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time or those who want a high-impact, low-commitment aerial view.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour offers an exciting way to see Long Beach and LA’s coastline from a fresh perspective. The well-reviewed pilots, stunning vistas, and personalized service make it stand out. For about 15 minutes and $199, you’re getting a memorable experience that’s worth considering if you value spectacular views and a touch of adventure.

It’s particularly well-suited for those wanting a quick, scenic highlight or celebrating a special occasion. Just be sure to check the weight restrictions and weather forecast before booking to ensure a smooth flight.

FAQ

Is this a private helicopter tour?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, making the experience more personalized and intimate.

How long is the flight?
The flight lasts approximately 15 minutes, giving you a brief but beautiful overview of Long Beach and surrounding landmarks.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see the Queen Mary, Battleship Iowa, Belmont Shore Pier, Vincent Thomas Bridge, Shoreline Village, Downtown Long Beach, and scenic ocean views including Catalina Island if the weather allows.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, the total weight per passenger should not exceed 299 lbs, and the company cannot accommodate groups with a combined weight over 580 lbs. Passengers may be weighed upon arrival.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes all taxes, fees, fuel surcharge, headsets for narration, live commentary, and the private tour itself.

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions prevent flying, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

Is this suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, but specific age restrictions aren’t detailed. Given the flight duration and nature of the experience, it’s generally suitable for older children and teens.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 25 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan ahead, especially for busy seasons.

If you’re after a quick, visually stunning experience with a personal touch, this Long Beach helicopter tour might just be the highlight of your trip. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of LA’s most iconic sights from a perspective most people never get to enjoy.