Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Go Parasailing
- Top Parasailing Experiences and Things to Do
- Practical Travel Information
- Nearby Attractions
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- General Tips for Parasailing Near Long Island
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Parasailing near Long Island blends big-sky coastal views with calm bays and ocean horizons. Whether you launch over the Great South Bay with Fire Island in the background or soar above the Hamptons’ cerulean coves, this is one of the most scenic ways to experience New York’s famed barrier beaches and East End harbors. This guide covers the best time to go, what to expect, costs, how to get there, and how to round out your day with classic Long Island food, culture, and nearby attractions.
History and Importance
Modern parasailing took off in the U.S. in the 1970s and quickly found a home along sheltered bays and beach towns. On Long Island, seasonal operators have favored protected waters such as the Great South Bay and Peconic/Gardiners Bays, where steady summer breezes and relatively flat water provide ideal launch conditions. Today, parasailing here is as much about sightseeing as thrills—think lighthouse fly-bys, dune-backed beaches, vineyard-dotted shorelines, and the iconic Montauk Point.
Best Time to Go Parasailing
- Season: Late May to late September is prime. Some operators run through October, weather permitting.
- Time of day: Mornings (8 a.m.–11 a.m.) usually offer the smoothest conditions with lighter winds and calmer seas.
- Weather sweet spot: Light to moderate winds and good visibility. Many operators won’t fly in sustained winds above ~20 mph or during thunderstorms/fog.
- Water temps: Warmest from July–September; shoulder months feel cooler on the boat, so bring a light layer.
- Crowds: Weekdays and shoulder season dates mean shorter wait times at popular launch harbors.
Top Parasailing Experiences and Things to Do
Expect a gentle, winch-assisted takeoff from the boat’s flight deck, a smooth ascent, optional seawater “dip,” and a controlled landing back on board. Typical flights last 8–12 minutes in the air, with total trip time around 60–90 minutes.
Popular Areas to Fly
- Great South Bay & Fire Island views: Launches near communities like Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue may offer vistas of Fire Island Lighthouse, Robert Moses beaches, and the barrier island.
- Hamptons & Peconic Bay: From harbors on the South Fork, look for calm bay water, sailboat-dotted horizons, and vineyard coastlines.
- Montauk/Gardiners Bay: On clear days, you may spot Montauk Point Lighthouse, surf breaks, and offshore fishing fleets.
- North Fork/Greenport area: Classic maritime scenery, ferries, and views toward Shelter Island.
Flight Formats
- Solo: For single flyers within weight limits.
- Tandem/Triple: Popular for couples, friends, and families, subject to combined-weight and wind conditions.
- Photo/GoPro packages: Some crews offer onboard photographers or rentable action cams.
- Sunrise/Sunset flights: Gorgeous light and generally calmer waters; book early.
Combine With
- Beach time at Jones Beach, Robert Moses, or Fire Island.
- Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the bays.
- Wine tasting on the North Fork or brewery stops in Riverhead and Patchogue.
Practical Travel Information
How to Reach Long Island
- By car: From NYC, take I-495 (Long Island Expressway) east. Allow 1–2 hours to western Suffolk County; 2–3+ hours to the Hamptons/Montauk on summer weekends.
- By train: The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) serves coastal hubs. Lines to Babylon (South Shore), Montauk (South Fork), and Greenport (North Fork) are useful for parasailing pick-up points; use local taxis/rideshares from stations.
- By air: Fly into JFK or LGA for most options; Long Island MacArthur (ISP) in Islip is convenient for the South Shore and central Suffolk.
- By ferry: To Fire Island from Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue (foot-passenger ferries); to Shelter Island/Greenport via North Fork car ferries from the North Fork or Sag Harbor.
Accommodation Options
- Montauk & Hamptons waterfront hotels/inns: Ideal for sunrise flights and beach access. Expect higher summer rates.
- Long Beach & South Shore: Good for day trips to Jones Beach/Robert Moses and bay launches.
- North Fork (Greenport, Southold): Boutique inns near wineries and calm bays.
- Riverhead & inland towns: Reliable chain hotels and better value, central for East End day trips.
- Vacation rentals: Popular in peak season; book months ahead for Hamptons/Fire Island.
Estimated Costs
- Parasail flight: Approximately $85–$130 per flyer, depending on day, length, and season.
- Observers on the boat: Often $25–$50 per person, if available.
- Photos/Video: $20–$60 depending on package and device rental.
- Parking/fees: Beach/park lots can charge $10–$20 in season.
- Hotels: Peak summer waterfront $300–$700+ per night; inland chains $140–$250; shoulder season often 20–40% less.
- Getting around: LIRR off-peak fares from NYC to Suffolk typically $12–$25 each way; rideshares vary by distance and demand.
Nearby Attractions
- Fire Island Lighthouse: Climb for sweeping views of the Atlantic and Great South Bay.
- Jones Beach & Robert Moses State Park: Classic boardwalks, wide beaches, and birdlife.
- Montauk Point State Park: The lighthouse, surf scene, and dramatic bluffs.
- North Fork Wine Country: Wineries, farm stands, and bayside villages like Greenport.
- Parrish Art Museum (Water Mill) & Pollock-Krasner House (Springs): Culture amid the East End’s art legacy.
- Long Island Aquarium (Riverhead): Family-friendly stop near Peconic Riverfront.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Food: Lobster rolls, clam strips, and local oysters at waterfront shacks; bagels and delis for morning fuel; farm-to-table dining in the Hamptons and North Fork.
- Drinks: North Fork wineries for tastings; craft breweries in Riverhead, Patchogue, and Montauk.
- Shopping: Hamptons boutiques, surf shops in Montauk, and outlet deals at Tanger Outlets Riverhead.
- Culture: Summer concert series on village greens, art shows, maritime history in Sag Harbor.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Check minimum age (often 5–7 years) and combined-weight rules before booking.
- Morning flights are smoother for kids; pack snacks and sun protection.
- Ask about observer spots if not everyone is flying.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Choose tandem at sunrise or sunset for the best light and photos.
- Pair with a winery lunch on the North Fork or a beach picnic in the Hamptons.
- Book a waterfront room to keep travel times short.
Friends/Groups
- Reserve consecutive flight slots; triple flights may be available within weight limits.
- Consider weekday dates for better pricing and less crowding.
- Plan post-flight beach time or a brewery crawl nearby.
General Tips for Parasailing Near Long Island
- Safety first: Choose operators with U.S. Coast Guard–licensed captains, maintained winch systems, and current insurance.
- Weight and weather: Typical combined-flight limits range roughly 150–450 lbs and vary with wind; final decisions are captain’s call.
- What to wear: Swimsuit or quick-dry clothing, secure sunglasses with retainer, and a light layer for boat breeze.
- Seasickness: If prone, take non-drowsy motion meds 30–60 minutes before boarding.
- Electronics: Confirm GoPro/phone policies; bring a floating strap or opt for the crew’s photo package.
- Parking and timing: Allow extra time for beach-lot parking and summer traffic; arrive 20–30 minutes before check-in.
- Cancellations: Weather calls are common; understand refund or reschedule policies before you go.
FAQs
Q: How high do you go when parasailing on Long Island?
A: Towlines are commonly 500–800 feet, translating to roughly 200–400 feet of altitude depending on wind and line angle. Ask your crew about exact line length options.
Q: Do I need to know how to swim?
A: No. Takeoff and landing happen on the boat’s deck, and you’ll wear a life jacket. You can request a “no dip” flight if you prefer to stay dry.
Q: What are the age and weight requirements?
A: Minimum ages often start around 5–7 with a parent onboard; weight limits vary by operator, equipment, and wind, typically with combined limits in the ~150–450 lb range. Always confirm when booking.
Q: When is the best time of day to fly?
A: Mornings usually bring calmer seas and gentler winds, ideal for smooth flights and clearer views.
Q: Can I parasail in the off-season?
A: Most operators are seasonal, running late spring through early fall. Off-season flights are uncommon due to weather and water conditions.
Conclusion
Parasailing near Long Island showcases the region’s barrier beaches, bays, and lighthouses from a unique vantage point. Plan for summer mornings, choose launch areas that match your itinerary, and budget for flight and photo packages. With beaches, wineries, and classic seafood nearby, it’s easy to build a full day—or a weekend—around an unforgettable flight.
