Oahu Skydiving

Skydiving on Oahu takes place on the North Shore, where small planes climb over Mokuleia and release jumpers high above the coast. Tandem jumps pair you with an experienced instructor who handles the parachute, so no training is needed beyond a short briefing. The freefall lasts about a minute, followed by a quiet canopy ride with views of mountains, beaches and ocean. It is among the most dramatic ways to see Hawaii and a bucket-list item for thrill seekers.

Dillingham Airfield on Oahu's northwestern tip is the home of the island's skydiving operations. The backdrop is spectacular: the Waianae Mountains rising to the south, the long curve of Mokuleia Beach and Kaena Point to the west, and the open Pacific in every direction. After a short briefing and equipment fitting, you board a small plane and climb to jump altitude, typically in the range of 10,000 to 14,000 feet depending on the package.

Your instructor is harnessed to you, so you do not need to know anything beforehand.\n\nThe freefall is fast and loud, followed by a smooth transition when the parachute opens. During the canopy ride, the world goes quiet and you can look around, take in the views and sometimes steer under instructor guidance. Landing is gentle, usually on your feet or sliding onto your seat. Many companies offer videos and photos for an extra fee.

Weight and age limits apply, and you need to be in reasonable health. Weather can delay or cancel jumps, so book early in your trip and keep your schedule flexible.\n\nPreparation is simple. Eat lightly, wear comfortable athletic clothes and closed-toe shoes, and arrive on time. Check cancellation policies in case of bad weather. Spectators can often watch from the airfield. Combine the jump with a North Shore day: beaches, Haleiwa lunch and sunset.

Remember that the drive from Waikiki takes about an hour. Skydiving carries inherent risk, and it is worth choosing an established operator with a good safety record and following all instructions. If you are traveling with non-jumpers, tell them the airfield is a pleasant place to wait, with views of the plane taking off and landing and the mountains behind. Ask the operator how far ahead to arrive and whether there is a backup day if the weather does not cooperate.