Long Beach: Private LA Coast Surf and Turf Helicopter Tour

Thinking about seeing Los Angeles from a totally different perspective? This Long Beach private helicopter tour promises to give you a bird’s eye view of the city’s famed landmarks and breathtaking coastlines. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, I’ve gathered enough info to help you decide if it’s worth the splurge.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines the thrill of flying with the chance to capture those picture-perfect views of LA’s skyline and beaches. Plus, having an experienced pilot as your guide means you’ll get insightful commentary along the way, making it not just a sightseeing flight but an informative one as well.

However, a price tag of $999 per person isn’t pocket change, and that’s something to consider when weighing whether this tour fits your travel style. If you’re a lover of stunning vistas and unique experiences, this could be just the thing to add a wow factor to your LA trip.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want to see the city from above but also crave a quick, exciting adventure that hits both city and coast. If you’re okay with the cost and looking for something memorable, it might be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Stunning views of iconic LA landmarks and coastline
• Private group setting offers a personalized experience
• Includes bottled water and all taxes, no hidden fees
• 60-minute flight duration provides ample time to see many sights
• Great for those wanting a mix of urban and natural scenery
• Booking flexibility with free cancellation and pay later options

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Experience

The Long Beach: Private LA Coast Surf and Turf Helicopter Tour offers a chance to see LA in a way that’s hard to match from the ground. It’s a 75-minute adventure that combines soaring over the city’s famous landmarks with sweeping views of beaches and waves, providing a multi-faceted look at Southern California’s diverse landscape.

What makes this helicopter tour particularly appealing is how it balances urban excitement with natural beauty. You’ll start above the city’s skyline, getting a close-up look at iconic sights like downtown LA, Hollywood, and perhaps even the Griffith Observatory. Then, the tour transitions smoothly to the coast, where the views of sandy beaches and rolling surf are likely to be a highlight. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, the chance to see LA from above is genuinely a special experience.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—at $999 per person, this tour is on the pricier side. But, considering it includes all taxes and bottled water, and is a private experience, many find it offers relatively good value for a personalized, once-in-a-lifetime perspective on LA. Still, it’s worth considering if this level of splurge aligns with your trip priorities.

If you’re someone who loves stunning views, new experiences, and capturing incredible photos, this helicopter tour could be just the thing to elevate your LA adventure. It’s also well-suited for those wanting a memorable, somewhat luxurious way to check off a bucket list experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

This 75-minute helicopter flight is designed to give you a broad, yet detailed view of the Los Angeles area, from the city’s dense urban core to its sprawling coastline. The adventure begins at a convenient meeting point off the 405 in Long Beach, with free parking available in front of the hangar.

Once on board, you’ll meet your experienced pilot and guide, who will brief you on safety procedures and point out key sights during the flight. The flight is private, so you won’t be sharing the sky with strangers—this makes for a more relaxed and intimate experience.

During the 45-minute flight, you’ll fly over some of LA’s most recognized landmarks—think Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA’s skyscrapers, and perhaps the Getty Center or Santa Monica Pier. The pilot, acting as your guide, offers insights into what you’re seeing, making the experience both visual and educational.

As the helicopter transitions to the coast, you’ll get spectacular views of sandy beaches like Venice, Santa Monica, and Malibu, with the waves rolling beneath you. These coastlines are often the highlight, especially for those interested in the natural beauty of Southern California.

Throughout the flight, you’ll be able to capture Instagram-worthy photos—the kind that make your friends jealous. The pilot’s commentary, combined with the vistas, makes every second memorable. Some past reviews mention that the views “are truly breathtaking” and that “you see things you wouldn’t notice from the ground.”

The Details of the Tour

This is a private group tour, which means you can enjoy the experience without strangers. It’s typically available in the morning and afternoon, giving you flexibility depending on your plans. The total duration is about 75 minutes, with the actual flight lasting approximately 45 minutes.

Included in the price are bottled water and all taxes, so there are no surprises on the cost front. You just need to consider optional gratuity if you feel the pilot went above and beyond. The provider, Worldwide Tourism Inc, has a solid rating of 4.2, indicating generally positive reviews.

Booking is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—and you can reserve now and pay later, which offers extra peace of mind. This flexibility is a big plus if your travel plans are still up in the air.

The meeting point is easy to access, with parking right in front of the hangar. You’ll head into the hangar area, check in, and then board your helicopter for takeoff.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

While I haven’t personally flown this route, reviews from past participants highlight the stunning vistas as a major draw. One reviewer mentioned, “The views of the coastline and city skyline are absolutely incredible,” and many noted how the experience “exceeded expectations” in terms of scenery.

Some expressed appreciation for the personalized nature of the private tour, saying it felt more tailored and intimate than larger group experiences. Others appreciated the pilot’s knowledge and insights, making the flight educational as well as visually stunning.

A common theme is that this tour provides “a unique perspective on LA,” especially if it’s your first time seeing the city from above. For those interested in photography, many reviews emphasize how “it’s a photographer’s dream,” with plenty of opportunities for taking remarkable shots.

On the downside, some mentioned that at $999, it’s a significant investment, but many believe the quality of the experience and views justify the price. It’s a splurge, but one that tends to leave people with incredible memories and photos.

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The Value for Money

Given the private setting, the duration, and the included amenities, many reviewers consider this tour a good value for those seeking a memorable experience. It’s not a cheap outing, but it’s comparable to other high-end helicopter tours in LA — and you get exclusivity and personalized attention.

The fact that it covers both urban landmarks and scenic coastlines makes it a well-rounded experience. If you think about how much you’d pay for a city tour, a boat cruise, or a day at a theme park, a helicopter ride like this is often a more streamlined way to tick multiple boxes in one go.

However, it’s worth noting that this experience is best enjoyed by those who appreciate aerial views and don’t have a strict budget. It’s a special treat, not necessarily a regular activity, but many find it worth the price for the memories and photos alone.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers craving a luxury touch to their LA visit, or those celebrating a special occasion. It’s also ideal if you want a private, flexible experience with personalized commentary.

If you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group looking for an unforgettable adventure, this could be your highlight. It’s also great for photographers wanting to capture LA from a perspective few get to see, or anyone who simply wants a unique story to tell back home.

It’s less suited for travelers on a tight budget or those who prefer longer, more comprehensive tours. Also, if you’re nervous about flying or have mobility issues, it’s worth checking with the provider beforehand, but generally, helicopter tours are accessible with some safety considerations.

The Sum Up

In the end, the Long Beach: Private LA Coast Surf and Turf Helicopter Tour offers a compelling way to see Los Angeles in a way that’s both exhilarating and visually stunning. With breathtaking views over the city’s landmarks and beautiful coastlines, it delivers a memorable experience that’s well worth the splurge for many travelers.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a personalized, exclusive experience and don’t mind investing in a high-end adventure. The panoramic photos, natural beauty, and insightful pilot commentary make it a worthwhile addition for anyone wanting a special story from their trip.

While it may be on the pricier side, many reviews confirm that the views and the experience itself are truly spectacular. If you’re after a unique perspective on LA and are open to a private, unforgettable flight, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The total experience lasts about 75 minutes, with the flight itself being approximately 45 minutes.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the helicopter ride, all taxes, bottled water, and the guidance of an experienced pilot. Gratuity is optional.

Is it a group or private tour?
It’s a private group, so you won’t be sharing the helicopter with strangers, making it a more intimate experience.

Where do we meet for the tour?
You meet at a location off the 405 at Cherry Ave., with free parking available in front of the hangar.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.

What sights will I see?
You’ll get views of LA’s famous landmarks, beaches, and coastlines. The pilot provides insights into the sights during the flight.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify, but helicopter tours typically have age and height restrictions. Best to check directly if traveling with children.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera or phone for photos. The tour includes bottled water, and dress comfortably, considering the weather.

Is this experience worth the cost?
Many find the experience excellent value for the money given the exclusive, scenic, and memorable nature of the flight. It’s a special treat for those who prioritize views and personalized experiences.

This helicopter tour offers a special way to see LA that’s perfect for capturing memories and enjoying the city from a fresh angle. If you’re looking for a sophisticated, private adventure that combines urban sights with natural beauty, this could be just what your trip needs.

You can check availability for your dates here: