Manuel Antonio: Beach Parasailing & Pacific Ocean Landing

Summary

Soaring above Espadilla Beach with a splash landing below

You’ll start right on Espadilla Beach with friendly local guides fitting your harness and talking you through every step. Feel yourself lift off into the breeze for wild views over Manuel Antonio before drifting down for an easy splash landing in the Pacific. Whether you fly solo or with friends, it’s both thrilling and strangely calming — something you’ll remember long after your feet are back in the sand.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little jittery standing on Espadilla Beach in Manuel Antonio, watching the parachute fill up behind me. The air smelled salty and warm, sunscreen and grilled fish drifting from somewhere down the sand. One of the Aguas Azules crew — I think his name was Diego — grinned and tightened my harness, cracking a joke about how he’d never lost anyone yet (I laughed but double-checked my straps anyway). The whole setup felt casual but safe, you know? Like they’d done this a thousand times but still cared if you were nervous.

After a quick run-through (honestly, it’s just a few steps and then you’re off), I barely had time to overthink before my feet left the ground. Suddenly it was quiet except for wind in my ears and that distant thump of reggaeton from beach speakers below. The view — Manuel Antonio’s green hills, islands dotting the blue — looked unreal from up there. My hands were sweaty on the straps at first but after a minute I just let them dangle. It’s weirdly peaceful floating above everything like that. I waved at someone on the sand who might’ve been waving back or just shooing a seagull.

The landing was probably my favorite part, which surprised me. You don’t crash or anything — you just sort of drift down toward the Pacific until your toes skim water that’s cool even under all that sun. Two guys on jet skis zipped over to help me out of the harness, laughing when I splashed myself trying to look graceful (not possible). If you want, they’ll let you go solo or bring friends up too — I saw one family go up as a triple and come down grinning like they’d won something big.

I still think about that feeling right after landing — salt on my lips, legs shaky but happy. If you’re looking for something different to do in Manuel Antonio that’s not just lying on the sand all day (though honestly, that’s pretty great too), this beach parasailing thing is worth it. And yeah, bring photo ID — they’re strict about that part.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Parasailing at Espadilla Beach

• Receive parasailing overview
• Get fitted with harness and vest
• Hook up to parachute
• Follow flying instructions
• Walk on beach and float up
• Enjoy views of Manuel Antonio coast
• Land gently in Pacific Ocean
• Ride wave runner back to shore

Top questions

How long does beach parasailing in Manuel Antonio last?

You can choose between 15 or 30 minutes of flying time during your parasailing experience.

Is parasailing at Espadilla Beach suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed so everyone can do it and includes full instructions from local guides before takeoff.

Can I fly with someone else during parasailing?

Yes, options include flying solo, as a double (2 people), or triple (3 people) together.

Where does the parasailing activity start in Manuel Antonio?

The tour starts right at Aguas Azules’ location in the center of Espadilla Beach outside Manuel Antonio park.

Do I need to bring anything special for parasailing?

You must bring photo ID matching your reservation name; all safety equipment is provided by Aguas Azules.

Is beach parasailing accessible for people with limited mobility?

The activity is not recommended for those with vertigo or limited mobility; wheelchair access is available on site.

What’s included

Your day includes all safety equipment such as life jackets and harnesses plus step-by-step guidance from local staff before takeoff. You’ll be gently brought back to shore by wave runner after your Pacific Ocean landing. Flexible flight options allow solo or group flights with different durations available.