Los Angeles: Hollywood & Beyond Helicopter Tour

If you’re considering a helicopter tour over Los Angeles, the Hollywood & Beyond experience by Maverick Helicopters offers a way to see some of the most iconic sights from a different perspective. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, I’ve gone through the details and some reviews to give you a honest, practical look at what to expect—and whether it’s worth the splurge.

What really draws us in is the chance to soar over Hollywood, the beaches, and the bustling ports, giving you a glimpse of LA’s sprawling urban landscape and natural beauty from above. Plus, the 40-minute duration feels just right—long enough to get a solid overview without it dragging on. A potential downside? The price point of $449 per person might seem steep if you’re watching your budget, but for many, the exclusive views and experience can justify it.

This tour seems best suited for those who love spectacular vistas, are eager to see LA’s landmarks from above, and want a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’re traveling with someone special or are a fan of aerial views, this could be right up your alley. However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth tour or traveling with young children, you might want to consider your options carefully.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the Pacific Ocean are part of the package.
• The 40-minute flight offers a quick, exhilarating overview of LA’s most famous sights.
• The small group size (limited to 7) ensures a more intimate experience.
• Price reflects the luxury aspect and exclusive aerial perspective.
• Includes pilot commentary—adding context to the sights as you fly.
• Departure point is at the Queen Mary Terminal in Long Beach, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Up-Close Look at the Experience

This helicopter tour is a fun way to see Los Angeles from a perspective most visitors only dream of. The departure from the Queen Mary Terminal in Long Beach is convenient if you’re already in Southern California, and the 40-minute flight promises a decent snapshot of the LA skyline and coastline.

What the Tour Covers

The journey begins at Long Beach, where you’ll board a helicopter operated by Maverick Helicopters—known for their professionalism and smooth rides. From the air, you’ll immediately notice the vibrant Ports of Long Beach and LA, two of the busiest seaports in the world. These scenes are particularly interesting if you’re into logistics, ships, or just love seeing the hustle and bustle from above.

As you ascend, you’ll glide over well-known landmarks like the Vincent Thomas Bridge, a striking span connecting Long Beach and San Pedro. Then it’s on to the Sunset Boulevard and Getty Museum, offering a glimpse of LA’s cultural and entertainment hubs. We loved the way the pilot’s commentary added context, pointing out landmarks like the Hollywood Sign—the crown jewel of LA views.

Hollywood and Beverly Hills

One of the highlights is definitely the Hollywood Hills and Bel Air, where celebrity mansions sit behind gates, and the views of the Hollywood Sign are simply unforgettable. From the sky, the Sign looks impressive, and the surrounding hills provide a dramatic backdrop. The pilot may also point out the Hollywood Bowl, Universal Studios, and the UCLA campus—all recognizable from the air.

Downtown LA and Sports Venues

Flying into downtown LA, you’ll get a quick look at LA Live, the LA Coliseum, Crypto.com Arena, and Dodgers Stadium—famous sports venues that fans will enjoy spotting from above. It’s a fast-paced overview, but the sights are memorable enough to make you feel like you’ve touched the heart of the city.

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The Final Flyover of Long Beach

The last leg of the tour takes you back over Long Beach, including the Long Beach Grand Prix track and the historic Queen Mary—a floating museum that’s part of the city’s maritime history. It’s a fitting end, giving you a sense of the area’s maritime and entertainment history.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The fare covers the helicopter ride, pilot commentary, and all taxes and fees. That means what you see is what you get, with no surprises. However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to make your way to the departure point. The experience is limited to small groups of 7, which enhances privacy and comfort but can also mean booking ahead is essential.

There’s an important note for passengers over 300 lbs—they need to purchase an additional seat, which adds to the cost, and seating is assigned based on weight and balance for safety reasons. Also, you’ll need to present ID and a passport or ID card at check-in.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early to check in and go through safety procedures.
• Bring sunglasses and possibly a hat for comfort, especially since the flight is in the open.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness or altitude sickness, consider taking precautions—though the flight duration is short, the views are worth it.
• The tour is usually available in the morning or afternoon, so pick the time with the best weather forecast for clear skies.

Authentic Feedback From Other Travelers

One review simply states, “Sau geil,” which loosely translates to “super cool,” highlighting the excitement and thrill of the experience. The fact that it’s rated 4.8 out of 5 based on four reviews suggests most travelers find it worthwhile.

Many reviewers praise the stunning views, with comments emphasizing the breathtaking scenery and the unique perspective the helicopter provides. The pilot’s commentary seems to add a lot of value, helping visitors understand what they’re seeing.

Some points to consider: the cost might feel high, but when you think about the exclusive aerial views of LA’s landmarks, it’s a rare opportunity. Keep in mind that the duration of 40 minutes is fairly short, so if you’re expecting a long tour, this isn’t it. But for a quick, memorable glimpse of LA from above, it hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter experience is ideal for travelers craving a memorable, photo-worthy adventure. It’s perfect if you want a concentrated view of Hollywood, the beaches, and downtown LA without the hassle of city traffic or large tour groups.

It also suits those who are comfortable with a somewhat pricey experience and are seeking a luxury thrill. If you’re traveling with someone special or celebrating a milestone, this could make for a truly unforgettable moment.

However, if you’re traveling with young children or have altitude sickness, you might want to weigh those factors carefully. The tour isn’t designed specifically for families, but older kids or teens who are comfortable with heights could enjoy the ride.

Final Thoughts

The Los Angeles: Hollywood & Beyond Helicopter Tour offers a remarkable way to see LA’s most iconic sights from a fresh angle. You’ll love the spectacular views, especially of the Hollywood Sign, the beaches, and downtown LA. The small group size and pilot commentary add a personalized touch that makes the experience feel special.

While the cost may be prohibitive for some, many find that the exclusive perspectives and photo opportunities justify the expense. It’s a quick but intense way to appreciate the city’s sprawling landscape and vibrant culture—all from the comfort of a helicopter.

If you’re someone who values unique experiences and memorable vistas, this tour could be a highlight of your LA trip. Just be sure to book in advance, arrive prepared, and keep your camera ready for those unbeatable shots.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, the tour departs from the Maverick Helicopter Terminal at Queen Mary in Long Beach, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

How long is the helicopter ride?
The flight lasts about 40 minutes, providing a concise but comprehensive aerial overview of LA and surrounding areas.

What landmarks will I see?
You can expect to see Hollywood, the Hollywood Sign, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Downtown LA, USC, LA Coliseum, Crypto.com Arena, and Long Beach including the Queen Mary.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The experience isn’t specifically tailored for children, but older kids or teens comfortable with heights and motion sickness might enjoy it. Children under 2 are not permitted.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID card, sunglasses, and dress appropriately for the weather. The helicopter is open-air, so layers are helpful.

What if I weigh over 300 lbs.?
You will need to purchase an additional seat, and seating is assigned based on safety considerations.

Are there any safety considerations?
All flights are operated with safety in mind, and pilot commentary enhances your understanding during the flight.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

What kind of group size should I expect?
The tour is limited to 7 participants, making it intimate and less crowded than larger group tours.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, the itinerary may be modified for safety or operational reasons, which could include changing weather conditions.

This helicopter tour offers a glimpse of LA’s most famous sights in just 40 minutes, blending adventure with spectacular vistas. If you’re after a memorable experience above the city, it’s worth considering—just make sure it aligns with your budget and travel style.

You can check availability for your dates here: