Parasailing On The Outer Banks
Parasailing is a popular recreational water sport where a boat heads into the water with riders in tow connected to a canopy called a parasail. The parasail catches the wind as the boat maneuvers the water and takes riders on a high-flying adventure with beautiful views of the coastline. The Outer Banks offer many options to try out parasailing.
Parasailing the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks offers lots of adventure sports on the water. From Nags Head to Kitty Hawk, Corolla to Duck and beyond, there are many options to choose from. Experience speed and altitude sailing high above the beautiful coastline and take in the views from above. The entire coastline will come into view during a high flying adventure. Parasailing with friends and family will create long lasting memories and doesn’t require special training. Individuals of up to three people can join a ride together to share in the experience. Riders find parasailing to be an affordable and exciting way to explore Outer Banks while flying (literally) from the seat of their pants. Find out where the best spots are and how to get started on your parasailing adventure. Get strapped in and prepared for launch.
Best Places to Parasail
Most parasailing adventures launch over the local sounds from Roanoke to Currituck, the boat ride will take you out over open waters to cruise around. The sound provides spectacular views of the villages and towns that make up the Outer Banks. Some of the best spots to parasail on the coast are right here in the Outer Banks.
Parasailing At Corolla Beach
Corolla offers beautiful parasailing sights on the Outer Banks. Check out the views of the Currituck Sound. From overhead you will get to see the shoreline and homes dotted along with spectacular views of the ocean. Experienced instructors are available to assist with any questions.
Parasailing At Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk is where the Wright Brothers made their historic flight south of town in Kill Devil Hills. Famous for ‘taking flight,’ it is a great place to parasail. The beach community offers seven public beach accesses with many options to enjoy parasailing. Nags Head including Duck and Manteo are jumping off points for Kitty Hawk Kites to offer the best views of Outer Banks while sailing over the sandy shoreline.
OBX Parasailing Companies
Check out some of the places offering parasailing options in and around the Outer Banks.
Nor’Banks Sailing & Watersports
Guests visiting or staying in Duck, NC can give Nor’Banks a try. Packages up to $89 are offered with video and photo packages available. Friends and family can come to observe for a small fee. Shop some gear and enjoy a great ride over the coastline. Stop by Village Table and Tavern for post-parasailing drinks and nibbles. 1314 Duck Rd., Duck, NC 27949, phone: (252) 261-2900
Corolla Parasail
Corolla Parasail is the only company on the Outer Banks that can take a large group (up to 24 passengers) at a time. Trips start at $65 with the option to add photos, video, and more. Observer spots are available for family and friends. Check out what makes the Currituck Sound so majestic from high in the air. 798 Sunset Blvd., $9501, Corolla NC 27927, phone: (252) 722-3669
Kitty Hawk Kites
Kitty Hawk Kites has been serving the Outer Banks with parasailing and water sport adventures for decades. With ten locations along OBX, there are many spots to launch for an adventure. Take a turn at parasailing with experienced professionals who know the coast inside and out. Trips start at $65 with single, double, and triple flights offered. Several locations in Duck, Nags Head, Manteo and more. Check out the website for more information.
Tips and Tricks for Parasailing
There are many things to consider when looking at parasailing options, companies, and locations. Keep in mind these tips and tricks when doing it for the first or 100th time:
Parasailing is a great opportunity to get beautiful photos but delicate electronics and saltwater are not fast friends. A waterproof or disposable camera is fine or ask to purchase photos as part of the parasailing trip and save your electronics from the depths of the ocean.
Bring waterproof sunscreen and apply in advance. Outer Banks has intense sun rays and open water makes it more important to wear sunscreen.
Wear waterproof clothing for the journey. This includes a pair of board shorts or comfortable bathing suit, tank top, and comfy shorts.
Drink plenty of water, electrolytes, and use the bathroom before the trip. They can last up to 2 hours from start to finish without any facilities nearby in the water.
Relax and enjoy the ride. It can be hard for first timers but resting into the harness helps the experience go more smoothly and enjoy the sensation of seeing Outer Banks from up high.
Apparel and proper gear can be purchased at some businesses the day of or nearby if you forget sunscreen or proper clothing for the ride.
Leave keys and other belongings in a safe place so they won’t get wet or lost.
Parasailing The Outer Banks F.A.Q.
The total trip out and back is likely to be about 90 minutes with about 15-20 minutes of actual air time included. Depending on the number of people going and the type of package purchased.
Companies vary on this number but young children generally must be accompanied by an adult under age 18. The age limit is usually 6 years old. To fly alone, you usually have to weigh over 100 lbs or team up with another person. No federal rules govern it so speak to operators and make sure to sign liability waivers for every person in the party going, including minors.
No swimming required since takeoff and landing are from the back of a boat. You won’t get wet but even if there is a boat issue, parasailers drift into the water wearing a life jacket and safety gear.
Parasailing is a water sport so expect to get a bit wet. Wear a bodysuit, swimsuit with good coverage that is comfortable (shorts, tank), rash guards if desired and the company will supply a life jacket. Everyone should wear sunscreen on all exposed skin. Don’t wear a hat as the wind will take it away.
As with anything, there are calculated risks but companies who provide parasailing follow safety protocols to make sure the number of people going on the boat, going up, and health and safety of all participants is kept at the front of mind. There is little risk or danger when using licensed companies offering parasailing adventures in the Outer Banks.
Local Resources
Causeway Watersports
Parasailing & Hang Gliding
7649 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, United States
Ocracoke Parasail
Parasailing & Hang Gliding
Kitty Hawk Kites Hang Gliding School
Parasailing & Hang Gliding