Burbank is a fantastic launch point for helicopter tours because of its proximity to Hollywood, the Los Angeles skyline, and the stunning Pacific Coast. From the air, you get a different view of the city’s famous sights—glittering movie studios, celebrity mansions, and iconic beaches—making it a natural choice for aerial sightseeing.
Our favorites include a quick but memorable Hollywood Sign flight, a longer coast tour, and a VIP Hollywood experience, each offering a different way to see Los Angeles from above.
If you’re short on time but want a taste of LA’s glitz, the 10-Minute Hollywood Sign Helicopter Tour is perfect. For those seeking a more extensive experience, the 30 Minutes Helicopter Tour of the Coastline offers sweeping views of beaches and mountains.
And if Hollywood’s glamour is your main focus, the 20 Minutes Hollywood Celebrity Helicopter Tour provides a VIP peek into celebrity neighborhoods. Below, we explore each of these options in detail to help you choose the right flight for your LA adventure.
1. 10-Minute Hollywood Sign Helicopter Tour
At number one, this quick yet immersive helicopter ride offers a unique perspective on the world’s most famous landmark—the Hollywood Sign.
For just $159 per person, you’ll fly over Hollywood Hills, Griffith Park, and even Universal Studios, all while listening to engaging stories about the sights around you through your audio headset. The short duration makes it ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or as an add-on to other sightseeing plans.
What makes this tour special is its focus on delivering a personalized experience in just 10 minutes. The views of celebrity mansions and the sprawling cityscape are stunning, especially if you opt for the sunset version, when the Pacific Ocean glows in the background.
Reviewers praise its value for money and the up-close views of the Hollywood Sign that are impossible to get from the ground. Plus, the live narration adds a layer of insight about LA’s most iconic sites.
Bottom line: If you want a memorable, fast, and visually striking experience, this tour hits the spot. It’s great for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see Hollywood from above.
2. Los Angeles: 30 Minutes Helicopter Tour of the Coastline
Coming in at number two, this 30-minute coastal helicopter tour takes you from Burbank out over the Santa Monica Mountains and down to the beaches of Venice, Santa Monica, and Pacific Palisades. It’s a longer flight that offers a panoramic view of LA’s most celebrated coastline, making it a favorite for travelers wanting to see both city and ocean in one trip.
This tour is unique because it includes close-up views of the Santa Monica Pier, the Venice Canals, and the Marina del Rey area. The price of $555 per person reflects its length and scope, but the experience justifies it for those looking for a comprehensive aerial tour. The pilot’s commentary helps you understand what you’re seeing, from historic landmarks to modern-day attractions.
While slightly pricier, this tour offers exceptional value for travelers interested in both beaches and mountains. It’s suited for those who want a mix of LA’s famous coastlines and scenic mountain vistas with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom line: For a more extensive aerial experience that covers LA’s iconic beaches and mountains, this tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for those wanting a balanced overview of LA’s natural beauty and urban charm.
3. Los Angeles: 20 Minutes Hollywood Celebrity Helicopter Tour
Number three on our list, the Hollywood Celebrity Helicopter Tour offers a VIP-style glimpse into the glitz and glamour of Hollywood from above. This 20-minute flight, priced at $499 per person, includes a spectacular view of Hollywood’s most famous neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and Bel Air, plus landmarks such as Universal Studios and the Hollywood Bowl.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on celebrity neighborhoods and Hollywood icons. During the flight, you’ll learn interesting facts about Hollywood celebrities and explore the Sunset Strip, Griffith Observatory, and Walk of Fame, all from a vantage point that’s not accessible by foot.
The tour is lively and engaging, providing a luxurious feel that appeals to travelers wanting a taste of the Hollywood high life.
The 40-minute duration gives a generous amount of time to soak in the sights, making it a good choice for anyone who wants a VIP experience with some Hollywood storytelling. Reviewers mention the beautiful aerial views and the sense of being on a movie set, with one writing, “It felt like we were in a movie.”
Bottom line: If Hollywood celebrities and exclusive neighborhoods are your thing, this tour offers a luxurious and memorable aerial experience.
How to Choose Your Helicopter Tour in Burbank
When selecting a helicopter tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and specific interests. If you’re new to LA and short on time, the Hollywood Sign flight is a quick way to tick the Hollywood box. For those wanting a broad look at LA’s coast—think beaches, mountains, and city sights—the 30-minute coastline tour offers great value.
And if celebrity culture and a sense of luxury are your priorities, the Hollywood VIP experience delivers that in spades.
Booking early, especially for the longer tours or sunset options, is recommended to secure your preferred time slot. Remember, many of these tours have specific pickup points and heighten their appeal when skies are clear, so plan your trip during LA’s dry months from spring to early fall.
Final Thoughts
Burbank offers a range of helicopter experiences that cater to different interests and schedules. Whether you want a quick glimpse of the Hollywood Sign, an expansive tour of LA’s beaches, or a VIP look at Hollywood’s elite neighborhoods, there’s a tour for you. For a quick, iconic shot of Hollywood, the 10-minute Sign tour is unbeatable for value.
If your focus is on the coast, the 30-minute coastline tour offers breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities. For those who want a touch of Hollywood glamour from the sky, the Hollywood VIP tour delivers a luxurious experience.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early and choosing clear days will ensure you get the best views. These aerial adventures are memorable highlights that give a fresh perspective on the city of stars—perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned Angelenos alike.