Waikiki: Parasailing Adventure Over Oahu & Boat Ride

Summary

Parasail high above waikiki with views of diamond head and ocean life

You’ll feel your heart race as you rise over Waikiki on this parasailing adventure with views of Diamond Head and maybe even dolphins below. With all equipment included and safety-minded guides on board, you can choose between a splashy or dry landing before heading back to shore—still grinning from that rush.

What’s the experience like?

I was already laughing before we even left the dock — my sandal slipped off and floated away, and our guide (I think his name was Kaleo?) just grinned and fished it out with a boat hook like it happened every day. The whole group was a mix of nerves and excitement, sunscreen everywhere, sunglasses slightly crooked. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so jittery just watching the parachute fill up behind us as we motored out from Waikiki. The water looked impossibly blue but also kind of choppy — Kaleo warned us it might be a bumpy ride, which made me grip the rail tighter.

Once we were harnessed in (the straps felt snug but safe), I kept glancing at Diamond Head in the distance, trying to act cool. But when they started reeling us out, my stomach did this weird flip — not scary exactly, just that feeling you get right before something big. Up in the air, though? It went quiet except for the wind whistling past my ears. I could see tiny surfers below and a patch of dolphins leaping way off near another boat. My friend tried to yell something about “look left!” but her voice got swallowed by the breeze. For about six minutes, everything felt both huge and small at once. I let my toes dangle; they offered a “water touch” landing but I chickened out and stayed dry.

The boat ride itself lasted maybe an hour — enough time for everyone to take turns flying, plus a little wildlife spotting (no whales for us that day). There was some joking around between flights; one couple tried to say “mahalo” properly and Kaleo just shook his head laughing. I still think about that weird calm up there above Oahu — like being outside your own life for a few minutes. If you’re looking for a day trip from Waikiki with some adrenaline but nothing too wild, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Parasailing over Waikiki and boat ride

• Board the boat for 1-hour ride
• Enjoy wildlife watching on water
• Parasail tandem or triple flight
• Soar up to 500 feet altitude
• Experience 5 to 8 minutes airtime
• Choose water touch or dry flight
• Return safely to the boat

Top questions

How long does each parasail flight last?

Each flight lasts approximately 5-8 minutes in the air.

Is pickup included from Waikiki hotels?

No, hotel pickup is not included; you meet at the departure point.

Can children participate in parasailing?

Children must be at least 5 years old; those under 15 must fly with a parent or guardian.

What’s the maximum weight allowed per flight?

The combined maximum weight per flight is 450 lbs (204 kg).

Is it possible to get wet during landing?

You can choose either a dry landing or opt for a water touch if conditions allow.

Are there health restrictions for this tour?

This activity isn’t recommended for people with mobility issues or serious health conditions.

How many people fly together?

Flights are always tandem or triple depending on weight and wind conditions; decided by the captain.

How long is the total boat ride?

The full boat ride lasts about one hour including all flights.

What’s included

Your experience includes all necessary parasailing equipment plus fuel surcharges, with expert crew guiding you through both harnessing up and flying over Oahu’s coastline—just show up ready in your swimsuit and closed-toe shoes, no extra gear needed.