What is your favorite thing about parasailing? Most people don’t do it just for the adrenaline rush, but rather the adrenaline rush mixed with the gorgeous views you experience! If this sounds like you, San Diego is one place you definitely want to go parasailing.
Parasailing in San Diego is a unique experience since only one tour company operates directly out of the city. Why do I call it a unique experience? Because usually, you have multiple companies sharing the same waters and views. However, in San Diego and the surrounding areas, each company is in a vastly different area, allowing you to have a unique experience at each location.
Is Parasailing Popular in San Diego?
Yes! Parasailing is immensely popular in San Diego, as most watersports are in this perfect weather city. Nevertheless, the issue is that only one parasailing tour is located there.
However, other options are on the outskirts of San Diego and require you to drive or take a boat ride to get there.
What to Consider When Parasailing in San Diego?
Parasailing in San Diego is more of a challenge due to the lack of companies that work directly out of the city. But don’t fret! There are a couple of things you should keep in mind when you go to book your trip.
Booking in Advance
If you aren’t flexible on location and you want to parasail in San Diego, you will need to book with the tour company ahead of time to ensure that you have your time slot. Since they’re the only company in the area, they tend to fill up quickly, especially in the summer.
The Location
On the other hand, if you are flexible with the location, you will need transportation to get there. So, if you’re heading to Catalina Island, that could be a boat ride. Or, if you were thinking of heading over to New Port Beach, you should make sure that you have a car or some other mode of transportation.
5 Best Parasailing Tours When in San Diego
Are you overwhelmed yet? Don’t let it scare you from parasailing in San Diego. I listed the top 5 best parasailing locations around the San Diego area that you can book!
1. San Diego Parasailing Adventures (Only San Diego Option)
Location: 1842 Quivira Way San Diego, CA 92109
Age Restrictions: 6+
Weight Limit: 150 lbs. to 450 lbs. combined.
Duration: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Website: https://www.goparasailing.com/
One of the best parasailing adventures you can enjoy is with San Diego Parasailing Adventures. Well, they’re also the only actual company in San Diego that offers parasailing tours, and they’ve been doing it for over 30 years!
Their most popular experience is the 600 foot Cloudhopper flight which includes a 6 to 8 minute flight at 600 feet, where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the San Diego coastline! This trip takes just a little over an hour to complete.
However, they do have another tour which is the SkyRider. This choice offers an 8 to 10 minute flight at 800 feet. So, you’ll get two minutes of flight time, 200 more feet in the air. This also takes a little over an hour.
If you can book a bit ahead, you can catch some great last-minute deals! However, it’s best to book as soon as possible.
- Must have a waist no larger than 56″
- Must have a thigh size of no larger than 29″
- Maximum height of 7’2″
- All weight and size restrictions are at the captain’s discretion; please call if you have any questions.
- Book your flight 2 to 3 days in advance to guarantee your preferred departure time.
- This trip will have a maximum of 12 passengers per trip.
- People are discouraged from bringing their own cameras or phones as many people drop them in the water, and there’s no time to search for it. If you do bring anything, it is at your own risk.
Best Places To Stay Near San Diego, California
With so many different sights to see in San Diego, chances are you will check out a few of the activities in addition to your parasailing adventure. Below are some of the best places to stay while you’re there.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Diego Rancho Bernardo/Scripps Poway
If you’re looking for both convenience and comfort, you’ll want to stay at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott. This location is close to several of the activities in the area.
Additionally, each of the rooms are suited with extra sleeping space and a kitchenette. Plus, you get a nice hot breakfast every morning for free, so you can’t beat that!
Rancho Bernardo Inn
Rancho Bernardo Inn is close to several top-rated attractions in the city, including the Gaslamp Quarter and the San Diego Zoo.
So, if you want to truly get a feel for the area, this would be a great place to book a room for a few days. They also have the option to divide space within their suites making it suitable for families and larger groups.
Morgan Run Club & Resort
Book a room at this resort if you want to bask in some peace and tranquility after your parasailing journey! They have a pool, fitness center, and even their own spa.
Plus, you won’t need to go grab food as they have a delicious selection of top-rated cuisine at their onsite restaurant.
2. Dana Point Parasail- 1 Hour From San Diego
Location: 34675 Golden Lantern Dana Point CA 92629
Age Restrictions: 5+
Weight Limit: 190lbs combined to 500 lbs. combined.
Duration: 1 hour
Website: https://www.danapointparasail.com/
This location is run by Captain Christopher, who is the owner, and has been in the parasailing game for over 10 years. Dana Point Parasail is a family run business, so you know that when you join them on their excursions, you’re taken care of. They promise to do their best to make sure that everyone onboard, young and old, has an unforgettable experience.
From the time the boat leaves the dock and comes back is about an hour. So, expect to spend about that much time on the water! This is an excellent outing for anyone who wants a quick but fun trip.
- Any pregnant individuals are discouraged from parasailing.
- Please do not book this tour if you have back, neck, or heart problems.
- This includes a 10-minute flight.
- Bring your cameras at your own risk.
How To Get To Dana Point From San Diego, California
The best way to get to Dana Point from San Diego will be to drive or take the train. It is about 65 miles north of San Diego. It will take around an hour to drive by car, and if you decide to book a train ride, it will take around 2 hours to get there.
If you decide to book the train for the morning, you can get back to San Diego the same day. However, you may need to arrange overnight accommodation if not.
Best Places To Stay In Dana Point, California
If you must travel up to Dana Point, chances are, you won’t want to drive back to San Diego the same day. Below are some of the best places to stay in Dana Point.
Oceanfront Hacienda
This hotel is a great place to stay if you value convenience as each suite includes a full kitchen and separate bedrooms from the living area, making a great choice for those traveling in larger groups. Although, there are studios available for a lesser price if you don’t need the extra space.
Blue Lantern Inn, A Four Sisters Inn
To switch it up a bit why not stay in a B&B style inn, where you can enjoy the gorgeous ocean views in addition to the proximity of nearby attractions.
Each space includes modern-day amenities to ensure your comfort. This is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a more intimate accommodation, as there are only 29 guestrooms.
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa is the ideal spot to stay if you are focused more on staying in, than venturing out to the nearby attractions. However, you can do that too!
The resort has a full-service spa, and its own restaurant, as well as an outdoor space where you can sit and enjoy the delicious food from their onsite restaurant. That way, you can fuel up after your parasailing excursion.
3. Catalina Island – California Parasail (1-2 Hours From San Diego)
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Location: 105 Pebbly Beach Rd., Avalon, CA 90704
Age Restrictions: 5+
Weight Limit: 125 lbs. to 450 lbs. combined.
Duration: 1 hour
Website: https://californiaparasail.com/catalina-island/
If you’re looking to enjoy a day trip, this is the perfect company to book with! You have the option to take a cruise over to the island, where you will then get to go back out on a boat for some parasailing! Talk about a true island adventure, a trip to remember.
This location, of course, is located on Catalina Island as suggested in the tour name. Here, you can witness gorgeous views and the landmarks while flying 600 to 800 feet in the air!
You have the choice of dipping your toes into the ocean or landing directly back onto the vessel. It’s best if you wear swimsuit attire if you want to get wet, though! The staff will help you buckle your life jacket and harness one at a time. You will be instructed to make your way to the boat’s back deck to clip you in after they have deployed the chute.
If you have a fear of the water, don’t worry! You will take off and land straight on the boat without ever touching the sea. All you have to do is lift your legs in front of you to land on your feet, or your bottom. Easy as pie!
- This tour will have a maximum of 15 people.
- You can bring your cameras or purchase a photo package.
- Each photo package comes with eight photos.
- Not wheelchair accessible.
- Parasailing is not a clever idea if you have severe health conditions, including heart issues or back pain.
- Do not book this tour if you are pregnant.
How Do You Get To Catalina Island From San Diego, California?
You can get to Catalina Island by helicopter or ferry. However, most people choose to take the ferry. Four ports offer ferry service to the island, and these include:
- Newport Beach
- Long Beach
- Dana Point
- San Pedro
The Catalina Express departs from San Pedro and travels to Two Harbors. The Cyclone boat also makes seasonal trips between Avalon and Two Harbors. Additional options exist for private charter transportation and chartered services to Two Harbors and Emerald Bay.
If you prefer to go by helicopter, it will take about 15 minutes. The helicopter will land in Avalon after leaving one of its four departing locations, which include:
- Burbank Airport
- John Wayne Airport
- San Pedro
- Long Beach
How Do You Get Around Catalina Island?
While on the island, you can walk around Avalon. Or, if you don’t want to walk, golf carts and taxi services are available.
Best Place To Stay On Catalina Island, California
Since Catalina Island itself involves a little day trip from San Diego, it might be a better idea to stay at a hotel or resort on the island instead of rushing back and forth. Here are a few of the best places to stay on Catalina Island.
Aurora Hotel
Get a taste of true island hospitality when you stay at the Aurora Hotel! There are 15 different rooms including a master suite that you can choose from.
Additionally, each suite has a Tempurpedic mattress, and some even have a fireplace and private jacuzzi, for you to use at your leisure.
Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel
Stay at this top-notch boutique hotel on the island! If you’re looking for a more intimate accommodation, the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel has 17 different guest rooms that vary from standard to the more upscale, classy penthouses.
Regardless of what you choose, each guest can enjoy a free breakfast every morning!
Banning House Lodge
If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to stay at the Banning House Lodge, as it dates back to 1910 and was founded by the Banning brothers, who were pioneers.
The summer home was converted into a bed and breakfast and offers complimentary breakfast every morning for anyone who stays.
4.Newport Beach – California Parasail (1.5 hours from San Diego)
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Location: 600 East Bay Newport Beach, CA 92661
Age Restrictions: 5+
Weight Limit: 125 lbs to 450 lbs. combined.
Duration: 1 hour
Website: https://californiaparasail.com/newport-beach/
If you’re looking for a long parasail flight, look no further! Here, you’ll be able to enjoy a flight for up to 12 minutes at 800 feet, where you will witness some of the most beautiful views of Catalina Island and the surrounding waters.
California Parasail offers some of the best tours, providing their riders with a thrilling experience, in the safest environment. So, rest assured, kyou’ll be in good hands on this tour!
If you want something a bit more than 800 feet, there’s an option to soar 1,200 feet into the air! You can choose to fly solo, or have a partner or two, depending on the weight distribution. That way, you can enjoy the ride with someone!
- Not wheelchair accessible.
- Do not book if you have heart or back problems.
- Do not book this tour if you are pregnant.
- These rides go higher than others; however, you can let the captain know if you don’t want to reach maximum height.
How Do You Get To Newport Beach From San Diego, California?
The best way you can get from San Diego to Newport Beach will be by renting a car and driving, as it’s the quickest. Plus, you can decide when to return to San Diego and won’t have to adhere to someone else’s schedule.
However, if you don’t drive, plenty of bus and train services connect to both areas as well. Except, if you take a train, you may have to find overnight accommodation in Newport Beach, as it is not always guaranteed you can get back the same day unless you book your tickets in advance.
Best Places To Stay Near Newport Beach, California
Since Newport Beach is a little under two hours away from San Diego, you’ll most likely want to book a room for a night or two in the area. Below are a few of the places I suggest!
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
To get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, book a room at the Hyatt, as it sits on a large private property surrounded by palms and a beautiful courtyard. Moreover, there is a pool and golf course as well for you to enjoy.
Lido House, Autograph Collection
Stay in style at the Lido House, right on Newport Beach. Here, you have your choice between fully furnished guest rooms, cozy cottages, or classy suites. The hotel also has a pool, a full-service spa, and a rooftop bar you can use to help relax after your parasailing adventure.
Ramada by Wyndham Costa Mesa/Newport Beach
For a more budget-friendly stay, book a room at the Ramada! The rooms are a bit basic, but you still have everything you need, from free Wi-Fi to comfortable beds and an air conditioner to help keep you cool during those warm San Diego Summers.
Furthermore, there is a pool you can take a dip in, and some great eateries nearby you can reserve a table to fill your belly with delicious food.
5. Long Beach Parasail – California Parasail (1 hour 45 minutes from San Diego)
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Location: Long Beach CA
Age Restrictions: 5+
Weight Limit: 125 lbs to 450 lbs. combined.
Website: https://californiaparasail.com/long-beach/
Another great location to visit if you want to parasail near San Diego, is Long Beach! California Parasail has been in business for over 20 years and offers some of the best parasailing experiences to be had in the area. This is another one of their locations.
Once you hit your altitude, check out the coast! You’ll be able to see people riding their jet skis, as well as all the sunbathers dotted along the beach. You might even be able to spot a few sea turtles. This is an experience you won’t want to miss!
- You can bring your own cameras or purchase a photo package.
- Not wheelchair accessible.
- Parasailing is not a clever idea if you have severe health conditions, including heart issues or back pain.
- Do not book this tour if you are pregnant.
Best Places To Stay Near Long Beach, California
Long Beach has many different fun activities in the area, so you may want to take a few days to explore! Below are some of the best places to stay in Long Beach.
The Westin Long Beach
If you want to stay smack dab in the middle of downtown, book a room at the Westin! It is near the ferry for Catalina Island, as well as the Queen Mary. Furthermore, the hotel boasts some great amenities such as a fitness center, restaurant, and a heated outdoor pool.
Hotel Current Long Beach
If you aren’t looking to get out and about, aside from your parasailing trip, the staff at Hotel Current in Long Beach went out of their way to make their guest suites ideal for your comfort. Each suite includes a desk for working, a coffee maker, a fridge, and free Wi-Fi.
Anchor Pointe Inn
Anchor Pointe Inn offers 23 comfortable suites all stocked with amenities to fit your needs during your stay. Aside from the free Wi-Fi, blackout curtains, and air conditioners, there are barbeques and outdoor spaces you can utilize too!
What Related Water Activities are in San Diego?
Is parasailing not your thing? Or maybe you want to have a full day of water fun. Regardless of the circumstances, there are plenty of other water activities in the area! Below are some of the best that San Diego has to offer.
Action Sport Rentals
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Action Sport Rentals is a family business that has been in business for 22 years. They have seven separate locations. Some of the rentals they offer include:
- Fishing boats
- Sailboats
- Powerboats
- Single Kayak
- Tandem Kayak
- Funcat
- Standing Paddleboard
- Bodyboard
- Soft Surfboard
- Jet ski
Additionally, they offer sailing courses regardless of if you are a beginner or someone who needs a quick lesson, and for a reasonable price! The price changes, so check their site for updates.
Aqua Adventures
Aqua Adventures is another great company that offers rentals for anyone interested in exploring the nearby waters. The rentals are available in 90-minute increments; however, this can be adjusted at the time of rental. Here are some of what they offer:
- Single Hydrobike
- Tandem Hydrobike
- OC1
- Canoe
- Single Kayak
- Tandem Kayak
- Sea Kayak
- Pedal Kayak
- Surfski
- Stand-Up Paddleboard
- Megalodon Multiperson SUP
Additionally, they have some extraordinary events you can join, such as paddle boarding with your dog, sea kayak lessons, and a 4th of July paddle where you can head out on the water and watch the fireworks.
Offshore Blue Adventures
Before you shy away from booking this find day with Offshore Blue Adventures, know that this is not your typical whale watching tour! It’s worth your time. This is a 3 hour excursion where you’ll see plenty of whales and dolphins.
You won’t have to push through the crowds to be able to see what’s going on, as everything will get a great seat to be able to check out what’s going on! That’s what makes this ride so unique.
California Watersports
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California Watersports is a wonderful place to come for boat rentals! Whether you are looking for a solo boat ride or one for the whole family, they have you covered. Some of their rental options include:
- Two person speedboat
- Mini Boat Rental
- Runabout Rental
- Small Pontoon Rental
- Large Pontoon Rental
There are rental options for shelter too! That way, you can take a break from the sun, and some of the options include:
- ‘The Hut’ Private Rental
- Large Deck Rental
- Small Deck Rental
- Large Beach Area Rental
- Small Beach Area Rental
Some rental options include indoor space as well. Just make sure you check the details when booking your rental.
Oceanside Adventures
Oceanside Adventures has a wide variety of cruises from which you can choose. I went into some depth explaining each so you could see how excellent this company is:
Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Cruises
This two hour ride is great for those who want to spend some time on the water, enjoying the views of the wildlife and waters.
This tour is able to accommodate groups of all sizes, so whether you’re on a work trip, or maybe taking a family vacation with your extended family, there’s a seat for everyone.
Wine Sunset Cruise
To experience something a little more laid back, check out the wine sunset cruise, which includes a 90 minute ride around the Oceanside Harbor. You’ll enjoy some appetizers and three different wine samples.
If you watch close enough, you may be able to see some whales, and dolphins! Plus, you’ll learn a few fun facts about the area along the way.
Final Thoughts
There may not be many parasailing companies that work directly out of San Diego; however, there are other options not far away! Whether you take a helicopter or ferry to Catalina Island or a road trip to another nearby location, you’ll be able to reach any location in under two hours.
San Diego also has a wide variety of options when it comes to watersports, so if you’re feeling something different than parasailing, that’s okay too! There are so many companies in the area that you can do virtually anything!
From self-guided boat rides and memorial service charters to a jet ski or paddleboarding ride, you’re sure to find something that fits exactly what you’re looking for in the San Diego area!
Check out some other parasailing locations:
- 6 Best Parasailing Tours in Cabo San Lucas
- 3 Best Parasailing Tours in Key West
- 5 Best Parasailing Tours in Myrtle Beach
- 5 Best Parasailing Tours in Cancun
- 7 Low-Cost Parasailing Tours in Miami (Cheap Options)
When Heather is not participating in extreme sports you can find her working the events across the country, or writing about these amazing adrenaline rushes. She loves to go skydiving, snowboarding, parasailing, hang gliding, dirt boarding, off-roading and hiking.