Waikiki Parasailing: Soar Above Diamond Head and Honolulu’s South Shore
Rise above Waikiki for panoramic views of Diamond Head, the surf lines of the south shore, and Honolulu’s coastline. This guided parasail tour from Kewalo Harbor offers 600–1,000 foot flights, a professional crew, and a one-hour waterfront experience ideal for first-time flyers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive 30 minutes early
Check-in is required 30 minutes before departure; boarding begins five minutes prior. Missing the boat is nonrefundable, so give yourself extra time for traffic and parking.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply broad-spectrum, reef-safe sunscreen before you board to protect both skin and coral; reapply after the flight if needed.
Know the weight and age limits
Participants must be at least 5 years old and weigh a minimum of 50 lbs; parachute load max is 450 lbs — the crew will confirm during check-in.
Secure electronics and loose items
Bring a waterproof case or leave phones in a dry bag on the boat; loose items can be lost in the splash or wind.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look west on the boat ride for Magic Island and the calm lagoons that contrast Waikiki’s surf breaks.
- •Ask the crew about nearby sandbars and reef edges where spinner dolphins and turtles are often spotted early in the morning.
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spinner dolphins
Conservation Note
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching marine life, and follow crew instructions to minimize disturbance to coral and animals in the area.
Waikiki’s shoreline was once royal fishponds and surfing grounds; Diamond Head is a volcanic tuff cone formed in a violent eruption roughly 300,000 years ago.
Photographer's Notes
- • From 600–1,000 ft during flight for full coastline panoramas
- • Boat deck before ascent for framed shots of the chute against Diamond Head
- • Waikiki shoreline after landing for context shots with the city and crater
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local coral while you’re exposed on deck and in the air.
Polarized sunglasses with retainerEssential
Cuts glare off the water and keeps your eyes comfortable during the flight.
Waterproof phone case or dry bagEssential
Keeps valuables safe from spray and the occasional splash-on re-entry.
Light windbreaker
A thin layer helps on breezy mornings or if ocean spray cools the air after the flight.
Common Questions
How long is the parasail flight?
Individual flight time is typically 6–10 minutes; the full tour including briefing and boat ride lasts about one hour.
Where do I check in and what time should I arrive?
Check in at Kewalo Harbor (1025 Ala Moana Blvd, Slip F06) 30 minutes before your reservation; boarding begins five minutes prior to departure.
Are there age or weight restrictions?
Yes — participants must be at least 5 years old and weigh at least 50 pounds; the combined chute load is limited to 450 pounds.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips are weather-dependent and may be canceled for safety; cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are refundable, within 24 hours they are nonrefundable.
Is a photo package available?
Yes — an optional photo package is offered after your flight so you can get aerial shots without handling your own camera mid-air.
Can pregnant or intoxicated guests fly?
No — pregnant guests and anyone under the influence will be denied for safety reasons, and staff may refuse service at the captain’s discretion.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour (flight 6–10 minutes)
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
No special fitness required beyond the ability to sit upright and follow crew instructions; suitable for most travelers in light physical shape.
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