Adventures at Florida's Clearwater Beach

Parasailing and Jet Boating add Thrills to a Day at the Beach

Jan 21, 2009

For most, a vacation on Clearwater Beach is about sun, swimming and relaxing. But there's another side to the this top rated beach...an adventurers paradise.

While lolling about on a beach is a great way to unwind on a trip, let's face it, simply lying around hour after hour can get a bit boring. For the best of both worlds add some activity to beach days with a few well-chosen adventures easily accessible at Clearwater Beach.

Fishing, sailing and jet skiing outfitters can all be found along the shores of Clearwater Beach, but for something a little different try Sky Screamer Parasailing and spend the morning soaring above the crystal blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Larry, the outgoing, jovial owner, who could sell ice to an Eskimo, will convince even the most timid that the only way to experience the area is from 400 to 800 feet above his boat.

Once onboard the captain will sail out about 10 minutes into the Gulf before helping the parasailing participants suit up in a harness. A nice feature of Sky Screamer is the ability to parasail in tandem so a couple can experience the adventure together. Once all the safety features are in place, the parasailers simply sit on the winch boat’s back platform while the captain releases the line and they float upwards. There is no need to take a running start, and the acent is very smooth and controlled.

The views from above provide a panoramic perspective on the area. Parasailers will see Clearwater Beach, Honeymoon Island and Caladesi island along with the sparkling waters of the Gulf. Individuals can decide how high up to sail (up to 800 feet), choose to do a free fall and then sail back up and decide if a quick dip in the water should be part of the adventure. Flights last about ten to fifteen minutes and the sensation is likened to riding in a hot air balloon.

The Fastest Jet Boat on the Gulf

Package the parasailing with an afternoon ride on the Thriller powerboat. These rocket fast, but very smooth boats will give visitors a 22-mile tour on the Gulf of Mexico. (Most boat tours originating at Clearwater Beach are only three miles. )Originally used as a racing boat, the Thriller is modified for group tours and passengers can even take a turn steering the 1000 horsepower speed boat throughout the journey. The route takes the tour past the islands seen parasailing and celebrity homes belonging to Anna Kournikova, Lisa Marie Presley, and Hulk Hogan are pointed out along the coast.

To plan your aquatic adventures visit www.realthriller.com for details and a coupon. The booking booth is located near the famous Pier 60 on Clearwater beach. To be in the heart of the action on the beach, stay at the Hilton Clearwater Beach.

The copyright of the article Adventures at Florida's Clearwater Beach in Florida Travel is owned by Dena Braun. Permission to republish Adventures at Florida's Clearwater Beach in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.