Explore Los Angeles from Above with a 20-Minute Helicopter Flight

The Los Angeles Surf to City Tour by Helicopter offers a stunning aerial journey through the city’s most iconic beaches and landmarks. Priced at $250.34 per person, this approximately 20-minute flight provides a quick but memorable glimpse of LA’s diverse scenery. Starting from 901 W Alondra Blvd, Compton, the tour is perfect for first-time visitors, photography enthusiasts, and adventure lovers eager to see Los Angeles from a fresh perspective.

This helicopter experience balances the thrill of skimming just 100 feet above El Porto Beach to catch surfers riding the waves with sweeping views of Hollywood studios, Dodgers Stadium, and the vibrant Downtown LA skyline. While the flight duration is brief, it packs in enough highlights to make it feel like a complete overview of LA’s coastal beauty and urban pulse. The tour includes bottled water and covers all fees like fuel surcharge, landing, and airport taxes, making it straightforward and convenient.

Key Points

20-minute helicopter tour showcasing LA’s beaches and city landmarks
Starts at $250.34 per person, including all fees
Skims just 100 feet above El Porto Beach, offering immersive coastal views
Passes by Hollywood studios, Dodgers Stadium, and Downtown Los Angeles
Limited to a maximum of 4 travelers for an intimate experience
Free cancellation available with a 24-hour notice

While in Los Angeles, here are other experiences we've covered

Starting Point and Group Size

This tour begins at 901 W Alondra Blvd, Compton, making it accessible for those nearby or easily reaching via public transportation. The maximum group size is 4 travelers, ensuring a personalized and less crowded experience. The small group setting allows for more comfortable viewing and photo opportunities, especially during the brief but scenic flight.

The Flight Over El Porto Beach and Surrounding Shores

The adventure kicks off with a skimming flight over El Porto Beach, where waves break against the shoreline and surfers catch the swell. Flying just 100 feet above the water, the helicopter provides an exhilarating view of golden sands and the Pacific Ocean. The proximity to the waves offers a unique perspective impossible from land, making this segment especially appealing for photography lovers.

Next, the helicopter continues along the beaches of Manhattan and Redondo, capturing the lively coastline, sparkling ocean, and bustling shorelines. These areas are known for their vibrant beach scenes and are a favorite for those wanting to see LA’s coastal life from above.

Flying Past Hollywood Studios and Movie Magic Locations

One of the highlights of the tour is a flyover of Columbia Pictures and Sony Studios. Here, viewers get a rare aerial glimpse of Hollywood’s movie-making heart, with the iconic Columbia Pictures’ revolving logo and the sprawling studio lots. This part of the flight offers a chance to see where many classic films and blockbusters were brought to life, all from a vantage point few get to experience.

Observing LA’s Sports and Entertainment Landmarks

The tour also includes a pass over Dodgers Stadium, home to the city’s legendary baseball team. From the air, the stadium’s distinctive shape and the adjacent sports complexes are clearly visible, showcasing LA’s love for sports and recreation. The contrast between the stadium, sports fields, and the surrounding urban landscape highlights the city’s diverse character.

For broader city exploration in Los Angeles, we've covered these other tours

Panoramic Views of Downtown Los Angeles

As the flight concludes, attention turns to Downtown LA, where skyscrapers, historic buildings, and bustling streets create a striking skyline. The aerial perspective reveals the density and vibrancy of the city’s core, providing a fitting finale to the surf-to-sky journey. The sweeping cityscape view helps visitors appreciate LA’s sprawling urban environment and architectural mix.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour includes fuel surcharge, landing, facility fees, and airport taxes, simplifying the purchase process. Bottled water is also provided, keeping guests refreshed during the experience. The activity is designed for most travelers, with most participants fitting within the weight limit of 254 lbs per person.

This experience requires good weather, and cancellations due to weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled. It’s important to note that most travelers can participate, but the tour is limited to 4 guests, making it ideal for those seeking a more intimate flight.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other LA Helicopter Rides

Unlike longer or more commercial helicopter tours, this 20-minute flight focuses sharply on the essentials—coastal views, Hollywood landmarks, and Downtown LA’s skyline. It offers a cost-effective way to experience key highlights without the time commitment of extended tours. The small group size and strategic stops make it feel more personal and exclusive.

The tour’s emphasis on skimming close to the coastline and flying over iconic landmarks offers a more immersive visual experience. The brief duration requires good planning but ensures that every moment is packed with scenic beauty and recognizable sights.

Suitable For First-Time Visitors and Photography Buffs

This helicopter trip is especially well-suited for first-time visitors who want a rundown of LA’s beaches and cityscape in a short period. The stunning views of the coastline, stadiums, and downtown buildings provide excellent photo opportunities. The 20-minute flight strikes a balance between excitement and practicality, making it a manageable yet memorable adventure.

Visitors should be prepared for the small group setting and brief flight time, but the highlights packed into this short trip make it a worthwhile addition to any LA itinerary. Its affordability, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes it one of the more accessible helicopter experiences in the area.

Final Thoughts on the Los Angeles Surf to City Tour by Helicopter

This quick, scenic helicopter ride offers an unbeatable way to see Los Angeles from above, blending the coast, Hollywood landmarks, and downtown in just 20 minutes. The skimming altitude over El Porto Beach and views of Dodgers Stadium and Hollywood studios are especially memorable.

While the limited duration might leave some wanting more, the intimate group size and the chance to capture stunning photos make this tour stand out. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a brief but impactful aerial experience of LA’s diverse sights. Just remember to check the weather and book at least 24 hours in advance for the best availability.

Ready to Book?

Los Angeles Surf to City Tour by Helicopter

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 20 minutes, offering a quick but rundown of LA’s beaches and landmarks.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $250.34, which includes all fees, fuel surcharge, and bottled water.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at 901 W Alondra Blvd, Compton.

What landmarks will I see during the tour?
You’ll fly over El Porto Beach, Manhattan and Redondo Beaches, Columbia Pictures and Sony Studios, Dodgers Stadium, and Downtown Los Angeles.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, with a weight limit of 254 lbs per person. The small group size makes it more comfortable for those who prefer a less crowded experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is provided.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, a minimum number of travelers is required for the tour to run, but typically, this activity is stable enough to operate without issues.

Are there any additional costs not included?
All necessary fees are included. Private transportation is not part of the package and would need to be arranged separately.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of coastal and urban views in just 20 minutes, along with a small group setting, creates an engaging and memorable LA experience.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
First-time visitors, photography fans, and those short on time will find this helicopter ride especially rewarding.