Drop Zones: Best Southern California Destinations For Skydivers

There's nothing quite like the thrill and adrenaline rush you get from jumping out of an airplane. At least that's what I hear. It takes a special kind of person - and stomach - to be able to go through with it. But, if you have an overwhelming desire to go skydiving, we've got your list of the best places to go.

Check out the USPA website for a complete listing, descriptions of aircraft and details about on-site services from its various group members.

What to Know

Make sure the company you're dealing with is indeed a skydiving company. There are many businesses advertising themselves as skydiving firms, but really they are essentially resellers earning commissions for directing customers to specific partners outside the city. You should deal directly with places that are group members of the United States Parachute Association (USPA), the governing agency for skydivers.

Starting from 10,000 feet up at about 120 miles per hour, you'll have less than a minute before landing. It's going to go by quick, and you'll want to relive it again and again later. Find out how much it costs to video your fall and in what format you'll get the media for later duplication or sharing with friends via the Internet.

You must be 18 years old or older to skydive, no exceptions. Parental or guardian permission won't release any liabilities regarding recreational sports, and hold harmless waivers are required by all skydivers. Bring your photo ID.

For tandem jumps, find out the company's weight limit. Typically clocking in on the scale at 200 to 240 pounds or more will disqualify you for a tandem jump. Also call ahead to discuss any medical conditions that might put your risk factors too high.

Aim to schedule your jump as early in the day as possible in case there are weather issues or other delays. After training, orientation and paperwork, expect get airborne at least an hour after getting started.

With many reservations during the summer months, you may find yourself stuck with either an early slot (around 7 a.m.) or near dusk (around 7 p.m.), with weekdays more open than weekends. Call ahead for availability and keep tabs on that day's weather forecast.

Pacific Coast Skydiving

6810 Curran St. / Brown Field
San Diego, CA 92154
619-661-0194
www.pacificcoastskydiving.com

Skydive Coastal California

375 Durley Ave. / Camarillo Airport
Camarillo, CA 93010
805-322-4763
www.skydivecoastalcalifornia.com