Panama City Beach Parasailing Guide

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Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Panama City Beach is consistently listed as one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines for its white sand and emerald green waters. But beyond the breathtaking views, this popular Florida destination is known for its endless entertainment options, including its vibrant culinary and bar scene, dolphin watching tours, and, famously its premier parasailing conditions.

There's nothing quite like the thrill of soaring above the crystal-clear waters of Panama City Beach while parasailing. With miles of pristine coastline and panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico, it's no wonder that PCB is known as the ultimate parasailing destination.

Come see for yourself why Panama City Beach is the best place to take to the skies and make unforgettable memories!

 

Why PCB is the Ultimate Parasailing Destination

Photo Credit: Mohammed Elius

Panama City Beach is the perfect destination for parasailing. Whether it's your first time or your hundredth, PCB parasail rides deliver panoramic views of the 27 mile beach stretch offering premium vistas over the Gulf of Mexico, St. Andrews Bay, and the Panama City Beach Pier from high.

Parasailing offers the best seat in the house to spot marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and maybe even a shark! Parasailers will even pass over Shell Island, an uninhabited island between the gulf and bay home to diverse wildlife.

This birds-eye view allows visitors to take in the full scope of what makes Panama City Beach special, from the beaches to the bay to the marine life.

 

PCB Parasailing Companies

Photo Credit: Lori Peterson Photography

Paradise Watersports

Paradise Watersports is a popular local company that offers two types of parasail rides: beach or Shell Island parasailing.

For beach parasailing, you’ll start your adventure on a banana boat ride to the parasail boat, where you’ll take off. Paradise Watersports offers two packages that vary in length and height of your parasail trip. They are $79 and $99 per person, respectively.

The Shell Island trip offers multiple packages ranging from $65 to $95 per person. On this ride, you’ll start at their marina location, where you’ll take off for a panoramic view of the uninhabited island.

 

Panama City Parasail

If you're looking for a thrilling adventure on your next trip to the beautiful Emerald Coast in Florida, a parasailing excursion with Captain Jimbo Holloway is the perfect choice! Captain Jimbo and his crew are known for showing parasailers an excellent time. You'll soar high above Shell Island and take in breathtaking views of the untouched beaches and bays of Panama City.

What's more, Captain Jimbo is the original owner and operator of Panama City Parasail, so you know you're in good hands. It's an experience you'll never forget and a great way to take in the natural beauty of this stunning region. Take note; prior reservations are required.

 

What to Know Before You Go

Check Local Weather Conditions

Parasailing is weather-dependent, so companies will avoid taking trips when the weather is too windy or rainy. Stay up to date with the local weather conditions ahead of your trip so that you know if you will be able to ride or not. Once you book with a local company, they will confirm your reserved ride based on the weather conditions.

Pack Appropriately for Your Ride

Parasailing trips include many different elements: sand, wind, and water! You want to make sure you pack appropriately so that you stay comfortable during your ride.

  • Swimsuit: Since parasailing involves dipping into the Emerald Green water of PCB, you will get wet. We recommend starting with a swimsuit as your base layer so that you stay comfortable while wet.
  • Quickdry Clothing: Opt for lightweight and quick-drying shorts and a top. Since you will be harnessed in a parasail, you want to make sure you protect your skin from irritation.
  • Water Shoes: For your feet, opt to go barefoot or wear water shoes. We do not recommend flip-flops or tennis shoes for your ride.
  • Sunscreen: Finally, make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and lather up before your trip!

Parasailing Safety

Once the parasailing group has made it to the take-off destination, you’ll get your life jackets and head to the parasail boat. If you choose the beach parasail trip from Paradise Watersports, you’ll take a banana boat ride to the parasail boat!

Before taking off, the parasailing crew will go over a safety briefing. During this briefing, you’ll learn how to properly wear your harness and be given helpful guidelines for take-off and landing.

The crew will help you get strapped into your harness at the beginning of the trip. Since a typical parasailing trip can hold up to 12 people, you’ll stay seated in your harness while you wait your turn to parasail. You can expect the entire trip to take around 1-2 hours, depending on the size of the group.

Photo Memories

Most companies offer picture and video packages of your parasailing ride, so be sure to check those out once you complete your trip.

 

Enjoy Your PCB Parasailing Experience

Parasailing offers visitors the ultimate way to take in the beauty of Panama City Beach. From the white-sand beaches to the crystal-clear water, parasailers get a birds-eye view of the breathtaking Gulf Coast from all angles.

Ready for the ultimate getaway? Book your Panama Beach vacation home rental today!