What to Expect
First-Time Skydiving on Oahu:
Your first tandem skydive is designed to introduce you to freefall with an experienced instructor handling the parachute system and guiding the process. This page explains how to prepare, what happens after check-in, and which requirements to review before booking.
It's normal to have questions
What happens on jump day
Arrival & Check-In
Arrive at your reserved time and check in with our front desk.
Waiver
Sign your waiver and watch the required waiver video (~30 min or more, depending on group size).
Briefing & Gear
Your instructor gives a ground briefing and helps you into your harness.
Aircraft Climb
Board the aircraft and climb to altitude, taking in the North Shore views.
Freefall
30–50 seconds of freefall, harnessed to your instructor the entire time.
Canopy Ride
A few calmer minutes gliding under the parachute together.
Landing
A controlled landing — most first-time jumpers land on their feet.
Wrap-Up
Debrief with your instructor, and pick up any photo/video package if ordered.
Age, weight & health guidance
Age & Weight
- Minimum age: 18
- Weight limit: 250 lbs or less
- Jumpers over 200 lbs: additional per-pound charge applies
- Weigh-ins are done on arrival
Health Guidance
Very few people are actually prevented from jumping. If you have a medical question, we recommend checking with your physician before booking, and our staff is happy to talk through any concerns.
What to wear and bring
Bring
- Photo ID
- Cash or card (checks not accepted)
- Comfortable athletic clothing
- Closed-toe sneakers — no sandals or flip-flops
- Water and a light snack
Leave Behind / Avoid
- Loose jewelry or dangling accessories
- Sandals, heels, or open-toe shoes
- Bulky or baggy outerwear
- Alcohol within 8 hours of your jump
Personal cameras & photo/video packages
Personal Cameras
Our Photo & Video Packages
Time commitment, groups & spectators
Time Commitment
Groups & Spectators
Weather, delays & rescheduling
If Conditions Change
Rescheduling
Where to go on jump day
69-415 Farrington Hwy, Honolulu, HI, 96791
First-timer questions
How old do I have to be to skydive?
18 is the minimum age for skydiving in the United States. This is federally regulated by the FAA.
How fast will I fall?
When you leave the aircraft, you are moving horizontally at the same speed as the aircraft, typically 90 mph. During the first 10 seconds or so, a skydiver accelerates up to roughly 115–130 mph straight down. A tandem jump pair uses a drogue chute to keep them from falling much faster than this.
Once under canopy, descent rates of 1,000 feet per minute are typical; however, the parachute is designed with steering controls and “brakes” to slow you down for a soft landing when the time arrives.
While falling at an accelerated rate, you’ll be able to see what skydiving is about with breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.
How hard is the landing?
The canopies used today bear little resemblance to the classic round canopies of years past. Today, nearly all jumpers and jump schools use “square” canopies for parachuting. These canopies are rectangular and, when they open, act like an airplane wing — more like a glider than an umbrella.
The aerodynamics of the square canopy provides exceptional maneuverability, allowing jumpers to land almost anywhere they wish. This wing shape also provides tip-toe soft landings for even the novice jumper, so the days of landing like a sandbag are history. In fact, you will likely land standing up, even on your first jump.
What should I bring to skydive?
Remember to bring your photo ID and cash or card for upgrades, wearables or additional charges. We do not accept checks.
For your jump, wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. Shorts or pants are recommended.
Bring snacks and water as it is important to eat and stay hydrated the day of your jump.
Spectator friends and family are welcome, and some groups bring tailgating supplies. Just remember that anyone expecting to skydive cannot jump if they appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs or the jump is within eight hours after the consumption of any alcoholic beverage. And remember to have a designated driver to get everyone home safely!
For a complete pre-jump checklist, clothing recommendations, and tips for first-time skydivers, visit our First-Time Skydiving Guide.
How do you accommodate larger groups?
Paradise Skydiving books jumps in one hour blocks, with a maximum of 4 jumpers per one hour block. Groups with more than 4 jumpers may book additional slots for more jumpers after booking your first slot. Just click the “Add Another Slot” button on the reservation confirmation screen before checking out. For best results, please choose adjacent slots (i.e. 7AM & 8AM), we will try to keep groups together whenever possible.
How much does tandem skydiving cost?
Prices vary depending on your jump package and any optional upgrades. View our current pricing, available packages, and optional add-ons on our Pricing & Packages page.
Do you provide professional demonstration jumps?
Yes. Paradise Skydiving provides professional demonstration jumps for events, promotions, and special occasions.