Los Angeles: Surf & Turf City Helicopter Tour

If you’re searching for a way to see Los Angeles that’s both thrilling and memorable, the Surf & Turf City Helicopter Tour offers just that. This 25-minute flight whisks you from Manhattan Beach over some of the most recognizable sights in Southern California – beaches, studios, stadiums, and skyscrapers – all from a perspective that makes the city’s sprawling beauty truly come alive. It’s a quick trip, but one packed with visual punch and authentic LA landmarks.

What we really like about this tour is its balance: you get the vibrant coastline views that define Southern California, alongside the urban highlights that make LA such a fascinating metropolis. Plus, the small group size means a more personal experience, and the live commentary from a professional pilot adds insight you might miss on a solo sightseeing drive. One thing to consider, however, is that, at only 25 minutes, this tour is more of a teaser than an exhaustive exploration. It’s best suited for those who want a taste of LA’s highlights without a long commitment — perfect for a quick, scenic adventure or a special occasion.

Who should consider this tour?

If you’re a first-time visitor eager to see a broad swath of LA in a short span, or a local looking for a unique perspective on familiar sights, this helicopter ride is a great pick. Families, couples, or friends who enjoy a bit of adventure will find it especially enjoyable. It’s also a strong option if you want an unforgettable photo op, with plenty of chances to capture the coast, the stadiums, and the city skyline from above.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Short but Spectacular: A 25-minute flight that covers coastlines, studios, and city highlights.
• Authentic Views: Fly low over Manhattan Beach, Marina Del Rey, and iconic LA landmarks.
• Expert Guides: The pilot provides live commentary, enriching the experience with insights.
• Small Group Comfort: Limited to just 3 participants, making it more personal.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later options add peace of mind.
• Quality Feedback: The only review so far is stellar, emphasizing friendly staff and amazing views.

The Experience in Detail

Starting at Manhattan Beach – The Surf’s Up View

The tour begins at Compton Airport, from where you immediately head westward toward Manhattan Beach. Just a few moments into the flight, you’ll find yourself soaring just 100 feet above El Porto Beach, giving you a totally new appreciation for the waves and sandy stretches. We loved the way the pilot described the coastline’s features, making the experience both scenic and informative.

Flying low over Manhattan Beach offers a vivid sense of the beach town’s lively vibe, with surfers and beachgoers still visible from above (if you’re lucky with the timing). The feeling of gliding just above the water makes it clear why this area is so beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Coastline Highlights – Marina del Rey to Dockweiler

From the beaches, your route takes you northward along the coast, passing over El Segundo Beach and Dockweiler Beach. These beaches are often less crowded than Manhattan but equally beautiful, with the vast Pacific stretching to the horizon. The views of the South Bay coastline are sensational, especially if you enjoy coastal scenery.

Expect to see the shimmering waters, beach parks, and perhaps even a few kite surfers or paddleboarders. The pilot’s commentary helps you understand how these beaches contribute to LA’s relaxed beach culture, contrasting sharply with the urban sprawl inland.

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Inland Hollywood – Studios and Landmarks

Next, the flight turns inland, soaring over Marina del Rey, known for its luxurious yachts and bustling marina. Then, your gaze shifts to the entertainment studios – Columbia Pictures and Sony Studios – where your view gives a sense of Hollywood’s production hub. These sights are particularly exciting for film buffs, as you see the sprawling studio lots from above.

The pilot’s insights add context: you’ll learn why Columbia Pictures has been a Hollywood staple for decades, and how Sony Studios continues to produce blockbuster films. It’s a quick glance, but packed with enough Hollywood glamour to satisfy any film lover.

The Final Stretch – Dodgers and Downtown LA

The last part of your trip takes you northward toward Dodger Stadium, where the iconic ballpark is a perfect circle from the sky. The views of the stadium, especially if the baseball game is on, become a highlight. Afterward, your flight concludes with a sweeping vista of Downtown Los Angeles’s towering skyscrapers—an impressive testament to LA’s modern urban development.

During this final leg, you’ll have ample opportunity for photos. The bright cityscape against the horizon makes a striking contrast with the beaches below. The pilot’s live commentary continues, pointing out noteworthy buildings and explaining LA’s growth.

What Does the Price Reflect? Is It Good Value?

At just 25 minutes, this helicopter tour is a short experience. But given the views, the expert guidance, and the chance to see both coast and city in one flight, many travelers will find it worth the cost. It’s a premium experience, but it offers a level of perspective and excitement that’s tough to match by other means.

The small group format ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, and the live commentary makes the flight more than just sightseeing — it becomes a mini-lesson in what makes LA special. If you’re after a quick, memorable adventure and impressive photo opportunities, this tour packs a lot of punch into a compact package.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

Based on reviews, people seem to really appreciate the knowledgeable pilot and friendly staff. They say the views are “stunning” and the overall experience is “really helpful” and enjoyable. This suggests that the tour successfully balances entertainment with education, making it more engaging than just a sightseeing flight.

The Itinerary and What to Expect at Each Point

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully arranged to maximize scenic variety. Starting over Manhattan Beach, you immediately get a sense of LA’s coastal charm. Moving along the coastline past El Segundo and Dockweiler, you get a panoramic view of beaches that aren’t always crowded but are quintessentially Californian.

The inland stretch over studios and the marina offers a glimpse of Hollywood’s production power and the affluent lifestyle associated with Marina del Rey. Seeing Columbia Pictures and Sony Studios from above offers a rare perspective that only a helicopter can provide.

The final focus on Dodger Stadium and Downtown LA caps off the experience with a dynamic cityscape—from the green outfield to towering skyscrapers, this part of the tour emphasizes LA’s multifaceted character.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This helicopter ride is ideal for:

• First-time visitors wanting an introduction to LA’s layout
• Photographers eager for spectacular aerial shots
• Families or couples seeking a memorable experience
• People short on time but wanting a comprehensive view of coast and city
• Fans of Hollywood and beaches who want to see their favorite landmarks from above

It’s also perfect if you want a fun, quick trip that combines scenic beauty with a touch of glamour.

The Sum Up: Is the Surf & Turf City Helicopter Tour Worth It?

For those looking to see Los Angeles from a perspective that combines the best of coast and city, this tour delivers a genuinely memorable experience. It’s not a long journey, but the views of Manhattan Beach, Marina del Rey, Hollywood studios, Dodger Stadium, and Downtown LA are breathtaking.

The small group setting and engaging pilot make the ride feel personal and informative—helping you understand what makes LA tick. The balance of scenic coastline and urban landmarks offers a well-rounded snapshot of this sprawling metropolis.

While it’s a relatively short trip, the aerial views and the opportunity to capture LA’s most iconic sights make it a worthwhile splurge. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a luxurious, photo-friendly, and informative experience without committing to a longer tour or drive.

If you’re after a unique perspective on LA that blends fun with insight, this helicopter tour is a solid choice—a memorable highlight of any California trip.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 25 minutes, giving you a quick but scenic overview of LA’s coast and landmarks.

What can I see during the tour?
You’ll fly over Manhattan Beach, El Porto Beach, Marina del Rey, Columbia Pictures, Sony Studios, Dodger Stadium, and Downtown LA, among other sights.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, families can enjoy this experience, especially since it offers a safe, guided flight with plenty of photo opportunities.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to just 3 participants, making it more intimate and allowing for personal attention from the pilot.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking options also include paying later, offering flexibility.

Is live commentary provided?
Absolutely. The pilot offers live commentary throughout the flight, making it both fun and educational.

How do I book or pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, which keeps your plans flexible. The tour is available on a first-come, first-served basis, depending on availability.

This helicopter ride offers a fantastic way to see LA’s greatest hits from above, perfect for a quick escape into a world of scenic beauty and urban excitement.

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