Parasailing Flights over Santa Barbara with Santa Barbara Parasail - Los Angeles

Parasailing Flights over Santa Barbara with Santa Barbara Parasail

Los Angeleseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

15–20 minutes per flight

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; suitable for most ages and abilities

Overview

Lift off over Santa Barbara's stunning coastline with Santa Barbara Parasail. Discover the thrill of flying above the Pacific while enjoying sweeping views of beaches, mountains, and cityscape on their smooth, safe parasailing flights.

Details

Santa Barbara, located along California’s sun-soaked Central Coast, serves as a perfect launching point for an aerial adventure over the Pacific. Santa Barbara Parasail offers a unique opportunity to break free from the shoreline with their parasailing flights, giving travelers an expansive, bird’s-eye view of this coastal city’s iconic features. From atop their canopies, riders soak in the sweep of Santa Barbara’s white-sand beaches, the historic red-tile roofs downtown, and the gently rolling Santa Ynez Mountains framing the horizon.

What sets Santa Barbara Parasail apart in the region’s outdoor scene is its combination of professionalism and laid-back charm. Whether joining a public flight or booking a private experience, the crews captained by names like Nick, Oliver, and Simon emphasize safety without sacrificing fun. Their years of experience and personable approach help guests, from first-timers to seasoned thrill-seekers, feel calm and confident as they ascend. Multiple reviews highlight their attentive service—waiting patiently for late arrivals, capturing photos and videos, and even letting guests dip toes in the water for an extra rush.

Paragliding over the water here highlights the clarity of the Pacific and the abundant marine life beneath, with dolphins or seals occasionally spotted from above. The conditions along this stretch are almost always favorable thanks to gentle onshore winds and mild temperatures, but the crew stays vigilant to sea and sky for optimal flight safety.

Santa Barbara Parasail’s offerings are an adrenaline-friendly introduction to aerial adventure suited to families and solo adventurers alike. The flights, typically lasting roughly 10–15 minutes, provide a peaceful yet exhilarating perspective free from large crowds and long lines often found at larger beach resorts.

For visitors eager to add a memorable height to their California coastal trip, Santa Barbara Parasail offers a reliable, fun, and unforgettable way to see the city from a fresh angle.

Adventure Tips

Wear secure footwear

Choose shoes that won’t slip off during takeoff and landing on the boat deck.

Arrive early for parking

Parking near the launch site can be limited; arriving early helps avoid delays.

Bring sun protection

Sun exposure is strong at altitude, so apply sunscreen and wear a hat before your flight.

Listen carefully to safety briefings

Following the crew’s instructions ensures a smooth, secure parasailing experience.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Butterfly Grove in Ellwood Mesa
  • Less crowded Naples Beach to the west

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • California sea lions

History

Santa Barbara’s coastline has long been a hub for marine activities and was frequented by Chumash tribes for thousands of years.

Conservation

Santa Barbara Parasail promotes sustainable practices, minimizing disturbances to marine wildlife and encouraging ocean-friendly operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Above East Beach
  • Near the Santa Barbara Pier
  • Over the Channel Islands on clear days

What to Photograph

Ocean waves and whitecaps
Red-tile rooftops downtown
Santa Ynez Mountains backdrop

Recommended Gear

Waterproof phone case or GoPro

Protect your devices from ocean spray while capturing stunning aerial footage.

summer specific

Sunglasses

Essential

Protect your eyes from glare reflecting off the water and bright sunlight.

summer specific

Light jacket or windbreaker

Essential

Altitude and breeze can bring chill, even on warm days.

spring specific

Non-slip shoes

Essential

Ensures secure footing during boarding and landing on the boat.

Reviews