Long Beach: Harbor Helicopter Tour

Jetting above Long Beach's waterfront, a helicopter tour unveils the city's iconic maritime attractions, leaving you eager to explore further.

The Long Beach Harbor Helicopter Tour offers a unique aerial perspective of the city’s renowned landmarks. Soaring above the vibrant waterfront, passengers can witness the iconic RMS Queen Mary and USS Iowa battleship up close. This 25-minute adventure promises breathtaking views, from the bustling downtown district to the serene Aquarium of the Pacific. With prices starting at $410 for up to two participants, the tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in Long Beach’s rich maritime heritage. The question remains – what other hidden gems await those who embark on this captivating journey?

Key Points

  • The 25-minute aerial tour showcases Long Beach’s iconic landmarks, including the Downtown skyline, Long Beach Lighthouse, Aquarium of the Pacific, RMS Queen Mary, and USS Iowa.
  • Priced from $410 per group (up to 2 participants), the tour is conducted in English and caters to marine and history enthusiasts.
  • Participants can capture picturesque aerial footage from a Robinson R44 helicopter, with the option to book private tours upon request.
  • The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and participants can reserve spots without any upfront cost.
  • The tour’s limited group size of 3 allows for shared experiences if reserving less than 3 seats, providing a personalized aerial adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Long Beach Harbor Helicopter Tour offers a thrilling 25-minute aerial adventure showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and scenic coastal views.

The Long Beach Harbor Helicopter Tour offers a thrilling 25-minute aerial adventure showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and scenic coastal views.

Priced from $410 per group (up to 2 participants), the small-group tour is limited to 3 people and conducted in English.

Passengers will soar over Downtown Long Beach, the harbor, the Long Beach Lighthouse, the Aquarium of the Pacific, the RMS Queen Mary, and the USS Iowa.

This experience is perfect for marine and history enthusiasts who want to capture picturesque aerial footage of the city’s highlights from the comfort of a Robinson R44 helicopter.

Booking Information

Booking the Long Beach Harbor Helicopter Tour is straightforward. Customers can:

  1. Cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

  2. Reserve their spot now and pay later, with no upfront cost.

  3. Check availability and starting times for the tour.

  4. Select from the limited group size of 3 participants.

If reserving less than 3 seats, the tour may be shared with other passengers.

Those seeking a private helicopter tour can also request one.

With these flexible booking options, customers can easily secure their unforgettable aerial adventure over Long Beach’s iconic landmarks.

Aerial Views of Iconic Landmarks

Soaring above Long Beach’s vibrant harbor, the helicopter tour provides breathtaking aerial views of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Passengers gaze down at the striking architecture of Downtown Long Beach and the historic RMS Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner now docked in the harbor.

The tour showcases the majestic Long Beach Lighthouse, a beacon guiding ships into the port.

Over the deep blue waters, the Aquarium of the Pacific comes into view, its distinctive design mirroring the waves.

Further south, the mighty USS Iowa battleship stands tall, a testament to the city’s rich naval history.

Downtown Long Beach and Harbor

Downtown Long Beach and its bustling harbor come into focus as the helicopter soars overhead.

The skyline is dominated by high-rise buildings, their gleaming facades reflected in the calm waters below. The bustling port is a hive of activity, with cargo ships unloading their goods and cranes moving containers with precision.

The iconic Long Beach Lighthouse stands tall, guiding vessels into the harbor, while the historic RMS Queen Mary is moored nearby, a testament to the city’s rich maritime heritage.

Below, the Aquarium of the Pacific draws visitors to its world-class exhibits.

More Great Tours Nearby

Long Beach Lighthouse

The Long Beach Lighthouse stands as a beacon of maritime history, guiding ships safely into the bustling harbor below.

This iconic structure, first lit in 1906, has weathered the elements for over a century. Its stark white tower and distinctive red roof are instantly recognizable, serving as an important landmark for both seafarers and aerial sightseers.

From the helicopter, visitors can admire the lighthouse’s stately presence and appreciate its role in the harbor’s rich nautical heritage.

The tour provides a unique aerial vantage point to witness this cherished coastal landmark against the backdrop of Long Beach’s vibrant waterfront.

Aquarium of the Pacific

One of Long Beach’s premier attractions, the Aquarium of the Pacific showcases the diverse marine life found along the California coast.

Visitors can:

  1. Explore the Aquarium’s impressive collection of over 11,000 animals, representing more than 500 different species.

  2. Marvel at the giant Pacific blue fin tuna, which can reach lengths of up to 10 feet, in the Shark Lagoon exhibit.

  3. Step into the Lorikeet Forest aviary and hand-feed the vibrant, nectar-drinking birds.

  4. Learn about ocean conservation efforts and the Aquarium’s role in marine research and education.

RMS Queen Mary

Docked permanently along Long Beach’s shoreline, the RMS Queen Mary stands as a relic of a bygone era. This iconic ocean liner, launched in 1936, once ferried passengers across the Atlantic.

Now a museum and hotel, the Queen Mary offers visitors a glimpse into the golden age of transatlantic travel. Guests can explore the ship’s meticulously preserved interiors, from the grand Art Deco lobbies to the opulent first-class suites.

Haunting tales of ghostly encounters add to the vessel’s mystique, drawing thrill-seekers and history buffs alike. A visit to the Queen Mary is a must for those exploring Long Beach’s rich maritime heritage.

USS Iowa

Towering over the Long Beach Harbor, the USS Iowa stands as a testament to American naval might. This majestic battleship, commissioned in 1943, played a crucial role in World War II and the Korean War.

Visitors can explore:

  1. The 16-inch guns, capable of firing projectiles over 20 miles.

  2. The officer’s quarters, offering a glimpse into the lives of the ship’s commanding officers.

  3. The bridge, where the captain directed the ship’s movements.

  4. The engine room, a marvel of engineering that powered the Iowa’s immense size.

The USS Iowa is a living museum, preserving the history and spirit of the United States Navy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Safe Are the Helicopters Used for the Tour?

The helicopters used for the tour are considered safe. They’re maintained to high safety standards and piloted by experienced professionals, ensuring a secure and enjoyable aerial experience for all passengers.

Can I Bring My Own Camera or Will One Be Provided?

Passengers can bring their own camera equipment on the tour to capture the scenic aerial views. No camera will be provided, but the helicopter’s large windows allow for excellent photo opportunities throughout the 25-minute flight.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Participants?

There’s a weight limit of 600 lbs total for the group. Passengers should weigh no more than 325 lbs each. If the group exceeds the limit, additional seats may need to be booked.

Can I Request a Specific Departure Time?

Customers can request a specific departure time for the helicopter tour, subject to availability. The tour company will try to accommodate the preferred start time, but it may need to be adjusted based on schedule constraints.

Is There Any Food or Drink Provided During the Tour?

No, there is no food or drink provided during the helicopter tour. The focus of the experience is on the aerial sightseeing and capturing scenic views, not on dining or refreshments.

The Sum Up

The Harbor Helicopter Tour in Long Beach offers a unique aerial perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks. Soaring over the vibrant harbor and coastline, passengers can capture breathtaking footage of Downtown Long Beach, the historic RMS Queen Mary, and the USS Iowa battleship. At just $410 for up to two participants, this 25-minute adventure is an unforgettable way to experience Long Beach’s rich maritime heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: