Couple parasailing behind yellow boat
Couple parasailing behind yellow boat.

Best Parasailing Destinations in the World

An epic title, we know. We’re putting together this list of our favorite parasailing spots around the world in total recognition of the fact that there’s just no way we’re not also going to leave some of the best off of this list. But that’s ok because that way we’ll just be forced to keep updating our Waterhead blog with fresh content, and you’ll just have to stop by and say hi occasionally. Ok? So there, we’re all set.

An epic title, we know. We’re putting together this list of our favorite parasailing spots around the world in total recognition of the fact that there’s just no way we’re not also going to leave some of the best off of this list. But that’s ok because that way we’ll just be forced to keep updating our Waterhead blog with fresh content, and you’ll just have to stop by and say hi occasionally. Ok? So there, we’re all set.

Boat towing parasail across lake

So, here is our shortlist of the best parasailing destinations in the U.S. and beyond. Cue the drumroll…

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Mayan archeologic site of Tulum
Mayan archeologic site of Tulum.

We got a little crafty with this one, because choosing the Riviera Maya allows us to squeeze the Caribbean trifecta of Playa del Carmen, Cancun and Cozumel all under one heading! The Riviera Maya is located along the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula on the coast of the Caribbean Sea, boasting crystal blue waters and white sand beaches that go on for days. The clear waters make this an exceptional destination for spotting aquatic life from up in the air. You’ll find access to amazing parasailing at each of these incredible destinations within the Riviera Maya, as well as premiere scuba diving, sailing, deep sea fishing, and that’s only naming a few. If you make your way to the Riviera Maya and can drag yourself out of the water for long enough, it is more than worth a visit over to the ancient ruins of Tulum. Whether you’re visiting Cozumel, Cancun or Playa del Carmen, you’ll find plenty of diverse places to stay, from all-inclusive resorts and luxury hotels to homier beach house rentals and spa retreats.

Fiji

Beautiful Fiji Island
Beautiful Fiji Island

Parasailing in Fiji is something that may not be best described in words, but because we didn’t have time to compose an epic instrumental score for you for the purpose of this blog, words will have to do. Let’s start with one: WOW. I mean, you’re already in the middle of the South Pacific in one of the most remote vacation destinations on the globe, and then you go and pop 500 feet up in the air to capture some of the most stunning views you are certain to ever see in your life. Fiji is an archipelago of more than 300 islands, but most of the population, commerce and activities take place on the two main islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Although we’re highly recommending a parasailing adventure if you count yourself fortunate enough to be making the voyage to the paradise-like Fiji Islands, you really can’t go wrong with anything you choose to do. The incredibly clear lagoons, shimmering sea, palm-lined beaches, vivid coral reefs and sweeping beaches will capture your imagination and have you asking if it’s really worth the trouble to jump on a plane to go back home.

San Diego, California

Para-Sailing San Diego Style
Para-Sailing San Diego Style

We adore California for so many reasons, and San Diego is right up at the top of our list of favorite SoCal spots. The parasailing is unbelievable, not to mention the access to a world of other water activities, amazing beaches and parks, art galleries and museums, awesome restaurants and top-notch entertainment. The options for parasailing and other water sports are unlimited. Depending on where you’re staying, you might catch your crew at Coronado Central Beach, Imperial Beach or any one of the other inviting stops along the Silver Strand on the San Diego Bay. The warm climate and warm waters also make for an ideal parasailing destination. The deal is, if you do parasail in San Diego, you must go for the “take a dip” option before you return safely to your boat and group of cheering friends. It’s just the perfect topper to an already incomparable experience on the southern California coast.

Key West, Florida

Key West, Florida sign
Key West, Florida sign

Key West is another paradise-like destination where parasailing is just one of countless activities you can enjoy. It’s easy to get swept up in the sheer beauty of this small, one-by-four mile island- the southernmost city in the contiguous United States and the westernmost island in the archipelago known as the Florida Keys. Our insider tip is to make sure to take advantage of the many other attractions available to you in Key West, from the famed Duvall Street (the primary tourist strip on the island with loads of restaurants, shops and attractions), to Dry Tortugas National Park; the Ernest Hemingway Museum to the Key West Aquarium. There is something for people of all ages in Key West. It’s just as sweet a destination for honeymooners as it is for families with little ones looking to enjoy some fun in the Florida sun.  

Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai Island
Kauai Island

We just as easily could have put Oahu or Maui on the list, but Kauai takes the prize, first and foremost for its arresting, lush, rainforest-laden landscapes, crystal blue waters and pristine, unspoiled beaches. It stands to reason that this Hawaiian Island in the Central Pacific would be home to some of the best water sports and activities in the United States. The remoteness of the Hawaiian Islands and the clear blue waters make the vistas from 500 feet especially breathtaking and memorable. Lull away your days on the white sandy beaches and in the warm surf, take in some water sports as you please, and enjoy the vistas of this island paradise known as “the Garden Isle,” a reference to the tropical rainforest that comprises most of its topography. For those interested in vacation destinations that provide for complete tranquility, as well as access to a wide variety of fun activities, you can’t do much better than the shimmering shores of Kauai.

Paraglider lifting off
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