Beverly Hills and Hollywood: Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring high above Beverly Hills and Hollywood, catching sight of sprawling mansions, the iconic Hollywood Sign, and the shimmering coastlines—all in just 20 minutes. That’s the promise of this helicopter adventure, a popular choice for travelers wanting a unique perspective on LA’s most famous sights.

With a stellar average rating of 4.9 out of 5 from nearly 800 reviews, this tour has earned its place as a standout experience in Los Angeles.

What we love about this tour is how close you get to the glamour—literally. The views are breathtaking, especially when flying over the Hollywood Hills and the homes of stars. Plus, the live commentary from your pilot adds a layer of storytelling that makes the experience both informative and fun.

The only caveat? The 20-minute flight feels short for such a concentrated dose of LA’s highlights, but that’s part of its charm—quick, exhilarating, and packed with sights.

This tour suits those with a sense of adventure, a love of iconic sights, or anyone who simply wants to see LA from a different angle. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable way to kick off your visit, this helicopter ride offers excellent value and unforgettable views.

This experience made our article of Los Angeles’s 15 Top Helicopter Flights & Tours.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of the Hollywood Sign, Beverly Hills mansions, and the Pacific coast
• Informative live commentary from friendly, professional pilots
• 20-minute flight provides a quick but rundown of LA’s most famous sights
• Comfortable experience, with noise-canceling headphones and small aircraft for intimacy
• Flexible options include private tours, sunset flights, and group sizes up to 3 passengers
• Highly rated with 799 reviews averaging 4.9/5 for safety, professionalism, and scenery

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Helicopter Tour

This tour offers a swift but spectacular glimpse into Los Angeles’ most renowned neighborhoods. Starting at Burbank Airport, a hub close to Universal and Warner Bros Studios, you’ll check in at the Orbic Air Helicopter Tours office. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to handle check-in and preparations—think of it as the pre-flight ritual that sets the tone for an exciting adventure.

Once airborne, your pilot—who’s both friendly and knowledgeable—will provide live commentary, pointing out landmarks and sharing fun facts about the areas you fly over. Expect your ride to include noise-canceling headphones, so you can focus on the pilot’s narratives without the hum of the helicopter.

The Flight Path and Highlights

As you lift off, the first sights are Hollywood Hills and the sprawling LA basin. The Universal Studios area is easy to spot, with its famous Harry Potter Wizarding World and the occasional puff of smoke from stunt shows. You might also see crowds lining up for rides or attractions—an amusing reminder of how lively this area is.

Next comes the Hollywood Sign—a must-see from the air. The view offers a perspective few get on foot, perfect for snapping photos or selfies. Many reviewers mention how this moment is “unforgettable” and an instant photo opportunity, particularly because the vantage point is so unique.

From there, the pilot guides you over Mulholland Drive and Laurel Canyon, areas famous for their musical legends and historic homes. You’ll fly over Beverly Hills and the ultra-wealthy Bel-Air, where the multi-million-dollar mansions speak to Hollywood’s opulence. One noted celebrity purchase is the $90 million mansion bought by Jay-Z and Beyoncé in 2017, a fact that adds a touch of Hollywood gossip to the aerial view.

The Experience of the Flight

The reviews highlight how comfortable and safe the experience is. Many travelers mention “feeling secure” thanks to professional pilots and well-run operations. The aircraft itself is small—up to 3 passengers plus the pilot—which creates an intimate setting, ideal for those who prefer a more personal experience.

While the 20-minute duration might seem brief, it’s enough to take in the major sights without feeling overwhelmed. Several travelers comment that the flight “went by too fast”, emphasizing how captivating the views are.

Additional Options and Practical Considerations

For those looking to extend or customize their experience, there are options to private book the tour or add a sunset flight—an excellent way to see LA’s skyline glow. Prices start at $199 per person, which many consider a good value given the scenery and exclusivity.

Keep in mind that the tour is weather-dependent. If fog or rain rolls in, the flight might be canceled, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling. Also, passenger weight limits are in place (300 lbs/136 kg per seat), so it’s worth informing the operator at booking.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point:
Your adventure begins at Burbank Airport, a convenient hub for Hollywood-bound travelers. The check-in process is straightforward, and staff receive high praise for their friendliness. Arrive early to ensure a smooth start and to get comfortable.

Lift-off and Aerial Views:
After boarding, the helicopter ascends over the Hollywood Hills—famous for their stunning mansions and scenic drives. From up high, the LA basin unfolds beneath you, with the city’s sprawling urban landscape in all directions.

Universal Studios:
Flying over Universal Studios, you might catch glimpses of the Wizarding World, and possibly see visitors queueing or watching shows. The view underscores the scale of Hollywood’s film industry and entertainment empire.

Hollywood Sign:
The highlight for many is flying right past the Hollywood Sign. The vantage point allows for photos from a perspective that’s impossible on foot and offers a sense of the size and placement of this iconic marker.

Mulholland Drive and Laurel Canyon:
Next, the route takes you over Mulholland Drive, famous for its winding roads and celebrity homes. The historic Laurel Canyon is also visible, celebrating its musical legends and bohemian roots.

Beverly Hills and Bel-Air:
The tour then skirts over Beverly Hills, with its tree-lined streets and luxury estates. Many reviewers mention the Beyoncé and Jay-Z mansion as a notable sight—though from the air, these details are small, and some find the view more about the general opulence than specific properties.

Sunset and Private Tours:
Optionally, you can book a private or sunset tour for a more personalized and visually stunning experience, elevating the overall value.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Many reviews praise the friendly pilots and excellent safety standards. One says, “The pilot was the man! He went above and beyond and showed us a great time.” Others comment on how “the views from the helicopter are unbeatable” and that it’s “a must-do when visiting Beverly Hills / Hollywood.” The feedback emphasizes that the “quick 20-minute flight feels much longer in terms of visual impact”, thanks to the continuous stunning scenery.

Some travelers noted that the experience is very well-organized. Check-in is smooth, and staff are welcoming. The small aircraft setup is appreciated for the intimacy, making it easier to enjoy the ride and ask questions.

A handful of reviews mention the experience could be even longer, but most agree that the price matches the value—a brief, high-quality peek into Hollywood’s glamour and natural beauty.

Practical Details

Price: $199 per person, which many reviewers consider reasonable for such exclusive access and spectacular views. It’s a compact, 20-minute thrill that delivers plenty of photo opportunities and storytelling.

Duration: Approximately 20 minutes, usually available in the morning, afternoon, or evening. The time of day can influence the lighting and scenery—sunset flights turn the city into a glowing panorama.

Group Size: The helicopter seats up to three passengers plus the pilot, making for a more private, less crowded experience. Private options are available if you want to go solo or with your group.

Meeting Point:
The tour departs from Orbic Air Helicopter Tours at Burbank Airport. Check-in opens 30 minutes before departure.

Included:
– Helicopter tour
– Tour guide
– Noise-canceling headphones
– Live pilot commentary

Not Included:
– Transportation to/from the airport (you’ll need to arrange your own)

Restrictions:
– No weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, drugs, or smoking allowed
– Cameras are permitted but professional cameras may require extra fee
– Passenger weight limits apply (300 lbs per seat)
– Weather can cancel flights, with full refunds or rescheduling

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This helicopter tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of LA’s iconic sights, romantic couples, or groups celebrating special occasions. It’s also suitable for families with kids who are comfortable with small aircraft and heights—many reviews mention children as young as 8 enjoying the ride.

If you’re after a longer or more immersive experience, or prefer ground-based tours, this might not satisfy your curiosity fully. But for those wanting a breathtaking, photo-rich snapshot of Hollywood’s glamour, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Beverly Hills and Hollywood Helicopter Tour offers an exhilarating way to see Los Angeles from a perspective few get to enjoy. The views are stunning, the commentary engaging, and the overall professionalism of the operation high. For a mid-range price, you get a memorable, photo-worthy experience that captures the essence of Tinseltown’s glamour and natural beauty.

While it’s a quick jaunt, it’s packed with enough wow moments to justify doing it early in your trip—setting the scene for everything else LA has to offer. It’s perfect for those who love a sense of adventure, stunning vistas, and a bit of Hollywood sparkle.

For travelers seeking an authentic, safe, and fun aerial overview of LA’s most famous sights, this helicopter ride is a solid choice—a highlight your photos and memories will thank you for.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 20 minutes, providing a quick but rundown of Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the coast.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Orbic Air Helicopter Tours at Burbank Airport, just a short drive from Universal Studios and Warner Bros.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID (a copy is accepted). It’s advised to arrive 30 minutes early for check-in. Cameras are allowed, but professional cameras may incur extra fees.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention families with children enjoying the experience. The main restriction is passenger weight, and children should be comfortable with small aircraft.

Can I book a private or sunset tour?
Yes, for an additional fee, you can book private flights or opt for a sunset experience for more dramatic vistas.

What if the weather is bad?
Flights are subject to weather conditions. If canceled, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Are there any restrictions on passenger weight?
Yes, each seat has a 300 lbs (136 kg) limit. Be sure to advise your weight during booking.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to arrange your own transportation to Burbank Airport. The tour starts at the Orbic Air office.

In essence, this helicopter tour offers an efficient, scenic, and entertaining way to get a bird’s-eye view of Hollywood’s glittering neighborhoods. It’s a compact adventure packed with photo opportunities and stories—sure to appeal to anyone who dreams of seeing LA from above.

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