Best Skydiving Near Los Angeles
The first modern use of the parachute came about when a Frenchman used one to jump from a hot air balloon in the late 18th century. Of course, with the invention of the airplane came thrill seekers jumper from even higher altitudes. Today, skydiving enthusiasts participate in competitive, extreme, formation, tandem and skysurfing. Skydiving schools make the experience—first and foremost—safe, but also offer exhilarating views of the LA landscape from high above the ground. There are several schools in the Los Angeles area to check out when you are ready to take flight before taking the plunge.
Skydiving Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
(323) 473-3633
www.skydivinglosangelesca.com
Skydiving Los Angeles is one of the best instructional sky diving organizations in the area. After a 30 to 45 minute training and safety session in a classroom setting, sky divers receive the green light to fly. Divers suit up and harness to their certified instructor, then board the airplane to make the tandem jump from an altitude between 10,000 to 14,000 feet. Skydiving Los Angeles welcomes adults 18 years old and up. The initial freefall lasts about 30 to 60 seconds, and once the canopy is deployed, riders enjoy the view below of the beautiful landscape of Southern California for up to seven minutes.
Skydive Coastal California
375 Durley Ave
Camarillo, CA 93010
(805) 322-4763
www.skydivecoastalcalifornia.com
Take in the beautiful sights, including Catalina and the Channel Islands, with Skydive Coastal California. Following AA Federal Aviation Regulations, first timers are required to receive training and gear and harness fitting to ensure safety first, and are also encouraged to go tandem with a certified instructor through the entire skydive and parachute ride. Instructors are voluntary members of the United States Parachute Association (USPA) and report to a USPA Safety and Training Advisor on staff and on-site. Skydive Coastal operates out of the Camarillo Airport, which is tower controlled, and the company uses the Dual Hawk Strong Parachute Systems. Jumpers are required to be at least 18 years old, and under 200 pounds (weight exceptions must be discussed before booking). The flight begins with a scenic excursion over the Pacific Ocean, until it is time to prep the parachute and jump. Photo souvenirs are available.
Skydive Perris
2091 Goetz Road
Perris, CA 92570
(800) 832-8818
www.skydiveperris.com
Just ask Mila Kunis, Miley Cyrus, Sean Penn, Drew Barrymoore, Cameron Diaz and Zac Effron (if you ever run into them) what it feels like to jump from an airplane high in sky at an altitude of 12,500 feet for 60 seconds at a speed of 120 mph. These famous faces, along with thousands of Angelenos, have enjoyed the breathtaking views with Skydive Perris. If you aren't ready to take the actual plunge just yet, Skydive Perris offers an indoor skydiving simulator. This 96-foot tall simulator gives people of all ages, including children as young as 3 years old, the sensation of freefall without the airplane. In addition, there is a vertical wind tunnel that offers novice and advanced skydivers freefalling skills. A certified flight instructor guides simulator jumpers throughout the duration of the flight (various times are offered). Each flyer wears a safety flight suit, helmet, goggles and earplugs.
Tsunami Skydivers
480 Airport Road
Oceanside, CA 92058
(760) 390-5867
www.tsunamiskydivers.com
Located at the Oceanside Municipal Airport, Tsunami Skydivers take jumpers over the ocean, often catching the view of whales breaching off the shoreline. Downtown San Diego, Catalina Island, the Oceanside pier and harbor, as well as the local mountains, are among the picturesque So Cal sights. Tsunami utilizes PAC 750XL jump planes, which are designed specifically for skydiving. The 13,000 feet climb is quick and safe. Members of the United States Parachute Association Member Drop Zone, Tsunami operates its business to the highest safety standards and employs highly trained and certified instructors and pilots. Beginning skydivers jump and parachute with an experienced tandem instructor. Accelerated Free Fall training (AFF) is also available for more experienced jumpers. Video and photo packages are available.
