LOS ANGELES AIR TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Above the Hills and Over the Surf: A Helicopter Sweep from Hollywood to Malibu
A single flight that stitches Hollywood’s hills and Los Angeles’ coastline into one 50-minute sightseeing circuit—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Above the Hills and Over the Surf: A Helicopter Sweep from Hollywood to Malibu.
Adventure brief
Above the Hills and Over the Surf: A Helicopter Sweep from Hollywood to Malibu
Group 3 Aviation’s Hollywood & The Beach Helicopter Tour pairs the city’s emblematic highpoints with the Pacific coastline in one continuous outing, delivering aerial perspectives of the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Park, Malibu Pier and the Santa Monica shoreline as you fly above the Santa Monica Mountains and through the Cahuenga Pass.
Experience Los Angeles like never before with the Hollywood & The Beach Helicopter Tour offered by Group 3 Aviation. This guided helicopter tour combines stunning aerial views of Hollywood’s iconic landmarks with the relaxing beauty of California’s famous beaches. As you lift off, you'll soar above the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and the bustling streets of LA, capturing breathtaking photos from the sky. Then, glide over the pristine sands and surf-friendly coasts of Santa Monica, Malibu, and Venice Beach, enjoying a perspective that few get to see. The flight provides a perfect blend of cityscape and seaside scenery, making it ideal for both adventure seekers and sightseeing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to add a thrill to your trip, this exclusive helicopter experience offers personalized commentary and a safe, comfortable ride. The flexibility of the tour allows you to take in the sights at your own pace while creating unforgettable memories. With helpful tips from professional pilots and breathtaking vistas, this adventure is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Los Angeles from above and connect with the vibrant spirit of California’s coast and entertainment capital.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic & Key Stops
The tour follows a clear sequence from the operator’s base through mountain and coastal viewpoints and then over the city’s major landmarks.
Arrival at Group 3 Helicopters (Van Nuys)
Arrive at the operator’s facility to enter the lobby, check in at the front desk, present identification and sign release waivers before meeting the pilot.
Preflight: Safety Brief, Photos and Headsets
Meet your pilot, complete the safety briefing, take preflight photos and be fitted with headsets that allow conversation with the pilot and fellow passengers.
Mountain and Coastal Sweep
After departure the flight climbs above the Santa Monica Mountains and Topanga Canyon and follows the waterfront, passing Malibu Pier, Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach while the pilot points out points of interest.
City Loop: West L.A., Beverly Hills and Hollywood
The route continues over West Los Angeles landmarks including Getty Center, UCLA, Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Hills, with views of the Beverly Hills Hotel and notable residences.
Downtown, Stadiums and Studio Corridor
Fly around the Los Angeles skyline, over Crypto Arena/LA Live, Dodgers Stadium and the studio districts (Universal, Warner Bros., Disney), then return through Cahuenga Pass to Van Nuys.
Landing and Return to Vehicles
On return the pilot assists passengers exiting the helicopter and escorts you back to the car park, completing the tour.
Weight limitations apply and operator route or sightlines may vary with weather, airspace restrictions or pilot discretion.
What the day feels like
What the flight feels like
The combined Hollywood and California Coast itinerary is run as a continuous sightseeing loop: you check in at Group 3’s Van Nuys base, meet the pilot for a safety briefing, don headsets to converse during the flight, then climb above the Santa Monica Mountains for a coastal sweep before returning over Los Angeles landmarks and back to Van Nuys Airport.
THE LANDMARKS
Hollywood Sign, Griffith Park and Observatory
The route takes you over the Hollywood Hills and Griffith Park, giving direct aerial views of the world-famous Hollywood Sign, Griffith Park Observatory and Lake Hollywood—classic Los Angeles icons seen from above.
THE COAST
A Coastal Ribbon from Malibu Pier to Venice
The flight follows the waterfront, sweeping past Malibu’s beaches and pier, Santa Monica Pier and the lively shoreline of Venice Beach for a sustained coastal vantage that contrasts the cityscape of L.A.
THE CITYSCAPE
Downtown Los Angeles, Stadiums and Studio Districts
Beyond the hills and the surf, the tour also brings you over Downtown LA, Crypto Arena/LA Live, Dodgers Stadium and the studio corridors—an aerial survey of the city’s entertainment and urban centers.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this flight serves—and the constraints to check before you go.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The combined Hollywood & The Beach Helicopter Tour runs approximately 50 minutes.
Departures originate from Group 3 Aviation’s base at 16425 Hart Street, Van Nuys, CA 91406. Arrive early to complete check-in, present valid government ID and sign waivers.
Dress for current weather with layers; wear closed-toe shoes with rubber soles (sneakers), bring sunglasses and a charged camera or mobile device for photos.
Advance reservations are suggested; tours operate seven days a week based on customer demand and same-day bookings may be possible subject to space availability. For reservations you may book online or call the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Yes, advance reservations are suggested—however same day reservations are available on a space available basis.
How do I book a tour?
To book visit www.group3aviation.com and book online or call 818-994-9376, seven days a week from 9am–7pm; office staff can take your booking.
What information do I need to provide when booking?
You must provide choice of tour, date/time, number of passengers, passenger names, heights and weights for each passenger, and credit card details with billing information.
Where do tours depart from?
Tours depart from Group 3’s home base at Van Nuys Airport; for an additional surcharge the operator can arrange pickups from other airports in the L.A. Basin or neighboring cities by quote.
Are cameras allowed on the flight?
Yes—passengers are encouraged to take photos; the operator recommends wearing dark apparel to reduce reflections in photographs.
Do you guarantee seeing every point mentioned in the tour description?
No—points of interest are highlights that the pilot will endeavor to show you, but visibility can be affected by weather (rain, fog) and by airspace closures or temporary flight restrictions; the operator will strive to show you the best of L.A. within the allotted time.
Are there weight restrictions for passengers?
Yes—maximum individual weight must not exceed 285 lbs per seat and maximum group weight must not exceed a total of 575 lbs.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:05:50.901Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.