Burbank might be best known for its television and film studios, but it’s also a fantastic place to see Los Angeles from above. The city’s dramatic Hollywood Hills, famous landmarks, and coastal scenery are all within reach of a helicopter ride that offers a perspective unlike any other. Whether you’re interested in a quick glimpse of the Hollywood sign or a longer tour over Santa Monica and Venice Beach, Burbank’s helicopter tours deliver stunning views and unique experiences.
These tours stand out because they cover a variety of interests and time commitments. From a rapid 10-minute flight perfect for a quick thrill to a 40-minute coastline adventure that showcases LA’s beaches, there’s something for every traveler. To help you choose, we’ll walk through each of the top helicopter options, explaining what makes each one special.
1. 10-Minute Hollywood Sign Helicopter Tour
This short and sweet tour is perfect if you want a quick but memorable glimpse of the Hollywood sign. For just $159 per person, you’ll fly over Hollywood Hills, Griffith Park, and Universal Studios while listening to live commentary through your headset. The flight lasts about 10 minutes, but it’s packed with iconic sights and photo opportunities.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the Hollywood sign—you’re flying close enough to see it from a new perspective, something most visitors only see from afar or on the ground. You’ll also cruise over Mulholland Drive and Beverly Hills, catching glimpses of celebrity mansions from thousands of feet in the air—definitely a thrill for movie fans and selfie-takers alike.
Choosing the sunset option can make this experience even more special, as the setting sun bathes the city and the Pacific Ocean in warm light.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice if you want a quick, affordable helicopter experience with a focus on Hollywood’s most famous icon and city views. Perfect for first-timers or those short on time.
2. Los Angeles: 20 Minutes Hollywood Celebrity Helicopter Tour
Jumping to a longer experience, this 20-minute VIP helicopter ride offers a broader perspective of Hollywood’s glamour. For $499 per person, you’ll soar over landmarks like Universal Studios, Hollywood Bowl, Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This tour provides a well-rounded overview of LA’s most notable sights from the sky, making it a popular pick for travelers who want a richer experience.
The narrative accompanying the flight emphasizes Hollywood celebrities and their neighborhoods in Beverly Hills and Bel Air, adding a touch of the glamorous lifestyle many visitors dream about. The larger window of time allows for more leisurely flying and better photo opportunities, especially around sunset when the city’s skyline shines.
Reviews highlight that this tour offers a VIP feel, and most visitors find it worth the extra cost for the more comprehensive aerial tour. This is best suited for travelers eager to deepen their understanding of LA’s film and celebrity culture without spending an entire day.
Bottom Line: A good option for those wanting a detailed Hollywood overview with enough time to appreciate LA’s star-studded neighborhoods and iconic landmarks.
3. Los Angeles: 30 Minutes Helicopter Tour of the Coastline
For travelers wanting a coastal adventure, this 30-minute flight from Burbank offers sweeping views of the Santa Monica Mountains, beaches, and famous coastal spots. At $555 per person, it’s a higher price, but the scenery justifies it. You’ll see the Santa Monica Pier from above, cruise over Marina del Rey, and get close-up views of Venice Canals and Pacific Palisades, landmarks that are postcard-perfect.
This tour is particularly popular among those who love natural beauty and seaside sights. The panoramic views of the beaches and homes, combined with the chance to see Venice and Santa Monica from above, make this a memorable trip. If you’re into photography or simply want a broader LA experience, this is a fantastic choice.
Some reviews note the value in the up-close vistas of iconic beaches and the chance to see the coastline from a new angle. Since the tour departs from Burbank, it’s also convenient for travelers based there seeking a coast-hopping adventure.
Bottom Line: Best suited for seaside enthusiasts and those who want a longer, scenic helicopter ride that showcases LA’s stunning beaches and coastal homes.
How to Choose Your Perfect Helicopter Tour in Burbank
Choosing between these helicopter experiences depends on your time, budget, and interests. The 10-minute Hollywood Sign tour is great for a quick thrill and iconic photo ops, while the 20-minute Hollywood VIP experience offers a richer look at LA’s celebrity neighborhoods. For those who love coastal scenery, the 30-minute coastline tour delivers panoramic views of beaches and Malibu’s famous homes.
If your schedule is tight, the shorter option provides a memorable experience without a big time commitment. However, if you want a more comprehensive view of LA’s sights or are traveling with a group interested in photo opportunities, the longer tours might be worth the extra expense. Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best times and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Burbank’s helicopter tours offer a variety of ways to see Los Angeles from above, whether you’re after a quick glance of the Hollywood sign or a full coast-to-city adventure. The Hollywood Sign tour is perfect for a short, iconic experience, while the coastline flight appeals to those seeking spectacular beaches and homes. For visitors with a bit more time, the VIP Hollywood experience offers a well-rounded glimpse of LA’s glamour.
No matter which you choose, these tours provide a memorable way to see Los Angeles’ most famous sights and enjoy a view you’ll never forget. Make your reservation early, plan for good weather, and prepare for a truly spectacular perspective on the City of Angels.