Parasailing in Hawaii
Soar above paradise and see the Hawaiian islands like the seabirds do
Written by a Local Expert
Jade KawanuiSoaring Above Paradise: Your High-Flying Adventure Awaits
There's a moment when everything goes quiet. The boat engine fades. Your worries drop away. All that's left is wind and an endless view that will blow your mind.
This is parasailing in Hawaii. It's more than just a thrill ride. It's a chance to see our islands like the seabirds do. Coastlines stretch like ancient maps. Volcanic peaks touch the clouds. Whether you're nervous about your first flight or you're ready for the ultimate view, this guide has everything you need to take flight in the Aloha State.
Can you go parasailing on Kauai? The straight answer is no - there are no commercial parasailing operators on Kauai right now. But don't worry! The heart of Hawaii's parasailing scene is just a short flight away on the neighbor islands.
What to Expect on Your First Parasail Adventure
If you've never been parasailing, the idea of being lifted hundreds of feet up can feel scary and exciting at the same time. But modern parasailing is surprisingly calm and safe. Here's what happens from check-in to touchdown.
✅ Check-in & Safety Briefing
Your journey starts on land with paperwork and a comprehensive safety briefing. A solid operator explains everything: harness, life jacket, hand signals, takeoff, and landing procedures.
🛥️ The Gentle Liftoff
Forget being yanked into the sky. Modern parasailing uses a smooth winch-boat system. You'll feel yourself lift off the deck and go up into the air gradually and peacefully.
☁️ Serenity at 1,000 Feet
Once you reach altitude, peace takes over. The boat engine noise fades. From up here, you see Diamond Head, Waikiki skyline, or the West Maui Mountains with 360-degree views.
💦 The Famous "Dip"
Near the end, the captain might offer a "dip" - the boat slows down so you descend until your feet briefly touch the warm ocean before you're lifted back up. It's optional but totally worth it!
Ready to Soar Above Paradise?
Discover the best parasailing locations, safety tips, and planning advice to make your Hawaiian flight unforgettable.
ℹ️ Quick Info
- Flight Duration: 6-11 minutes
- Total Trip: ~1 hour
- Price Range: $75-$136
- Min Age: 5-6 years
- Swimming: Not required
📏 Flight Heights
- 500-600 ft Entry level
- 800 ft Popular choice
- 1,000 ft Premium views
- 1,200 ft Ultimate experience
🏝️ Best Islands
Most options, year-round
May 16 - Dec 14 only
Year-round, volcanic views
Not available
Where to Fly: The Best Parasailing Islands
While Kauai is off limits for now, Hawaii's other major islands offer world-class parasailing. Each has its own unique scenery and trusted operators. Oahu gives you the most options and flies year-round. Maui offers dramatic seasonal flights. The Big Island shows you rugged volcanic views.
Oahu: Soaring Over Waikiki and Maunalua Bay
Oahu is Hawaii's parasailing headquarters. Most operators and year-round flights. Launching from busy harbors near Waikiki and calm Maunalua Bay waters, you'll see some of Hawaii's most famous landmarks.
| Operator | Location | Heights | Price Range | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xtreme Parasail | Kewalo Basin Harbor | 700, 850, 1000 ft | $75-$102 | Longest flight time (up to 11 mins) |
| Hawaiian Parasail | Ala Wai Boat Harbor | Up to 1000 ft | $85-$93 | Longest-running operator, great value |
| H2O Sports Hawaii | Maunalua Bay | 600, 800 ft | $90-$105 | Unique Koko Head views, combo packages |
Maui: Seasonal Thrills Off the Ka'anapali Coast
Parasailing on Maui is amazing with views of the West Maui Mountains and neighboring Lanai and Molokai islands. But you need to plan carefully because there's a mandatory seasonal closure to protect migrating humpback whales from December 15th to May 15th each year.
⚠️ CRITICAL: Maui parasailing is ONLY available May 16 - December 14 due to whale protection laws.
| Operator | Location | Heights | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| UFO Parasail | Ka'anapali Beach | 800, 1200 ft | $99-$136 |
| West Maui Parasail | Lahaina / Ka'anapali | 800, 1200 ft | ~$117 |
The Big Island: A Kona Coast Perspective
The calm, clear waters off the Kona coast make perfect parasailing conditions year-round. The massive volcanoes Mauna Loa and Hualālai shield this area from trade winds. The views here are unique, showing rugged beauty where ancient lava flows meet brilliant blue ocean.
| Operator | Location | Heights | Price Range | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UFO Parasail | Kailua Pier, Kona | 800, 1200 ft | $99-$136 | Year-round availability, great volcanic coast views |
A Bird's-Eye View: Marine Life You Might See
One of the most magical bonuses of parasailing in Hawaii is spotting incredible marine life from both the boat and the air. The high perspective gives you a unique view into clear waters below.
Spinner Dolphins
Playing in boat wakes
Green Sea Turtles
Surfacing for air
Humpback Whales
Winter months (distant)