Hang Gliding in Florida: Best Spots and Companies
With its year-round warm weather, flat terrain, and world-class facilities, Florida is a premier destination for hang gliding enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner looking to take your first tandem flight or an experienced pilot seeking thrilling aerial adventures, Florida’s skies offer something for everyone.
Top Hang Gliding Locations in Florida
Wallaby Ranch (Davenport, Florida)
Located near Orlando, Wallaby Ranch holds the distinction of being the world’s first aerotow flight park. This iconic destination offers tandem flights, beginner lessons, and advanced courses, making it suitable for all experience levels. With its expert instructors and state-of-the-art equipment, Wallaby Ranch is a must-visit for hang gliding enthusiasts.
Website: Wallaby Ranch
Quest Air Hang Gliding (Groveland, Florida)
Known for its flatland towing, Quest Air Hang Gliding provides an unforgettable experience for pilots of all skill levels. Nestled in the scenic Florida countryside, this location is perfect for beginners learning the ropes or experienced gliders seeking a peaceful flight.
Website: Quest Air Hang Gliding
Florida Ridge Air Sports Park (Clewiston, Florida)
Situated in South Florida, Florida Ridge Air Sports Park offers scenic flights over the lush Everglades. This park provides lessons, tandem flights, and equipment rentals, making it an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned pilots. Its unique location provides breathtaking views of Florida’s iconic wetlands.
Website: Florida Ridge Air Sports Park
Hang Gliding Companies in Florida
Aerolight International, LLC
- Website: www.aerolight.com
- Location: 15160 SW 136th St #3, Miami, FL 33196
- Details: Specializing in hang gliding and ultralight aircraft experiences, Aerolight offers services in the vibrant Miami area.
AJH Enterprises Inc.
- Location: 6604 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33625
- Details: AJH Enterprises provides hang gliding lessons and experiences, catering to a range of skill levels.
Florida Ridge Air Sports Park
- Website: www.thefloridaridge.com
- Location: 12671 East, FL-80, Clewiston, FL 33440
- Details: Florida Ridge Air Sports Park offers lessons, tandem flights, and scenic flights over the Everglades.
Graybird Airsports Inc.
**Update: Permanently closed.**
- Website: www.graybirdairsports.com
- Location: 14141 SE 51st Ave, Summerfield, FL 3449
- Details: Graybird Airsports offers hang gliding and other air sports services in central Florida, perfect for thrill-seekers.
Miami Hang Gliding
**Update: Permanently closed.**
- Location: 2550 S Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33133
- Details: Providing tandem flights and lessons, Miami Hang Gliding allows visitors to experience the beauty of South Florida from above.
Quest Air
**Update: Permanently closed.**
- Website: www.questairhanggliding.com
- Location: 6548 Groveland Airport Rd, Groveland, FL 34736
- Details: Quest Air offers flatland towing, lessons, and tandem flights for all experience levels.
Suncoast Sport Aircraft & Ultralight
- Location: Sarasota, Florida
- Details: This company offers ultralight and hang gliding experiences for those seeking a unique aerial adventure.
Wallaby Ranch
- Website: www.wallaby.com
- Location: 1805 Deen Still Rd, Davenport, FL 33897
- Details: Wallaby Ranch is one of the most famous hang gliding locations in the world, offering aerotow, lessons, and tandem flights.
Safety Tips and Best Time to Visit
To enjoy a safe and exhilarating hang gliding experience in Florida, keep these tips in mind:
- Respect Local Rules: Follow all regulations and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable flight.
- Best Time to Fly: The cooler months (fall and winter) are ideal for hang gliding in Florida, offering milder temperatures and stable weather conditions.
- Weather Checks: Always review weather forecasts and avoid flying during high winds or storms.
- Fly With Certified Instructors: Beginners should prioritize safety by flying with trained professionals.
- Inspect Equipment: Ensure all gear is in excellent condition before takeoff.
Conclusion
From the world-renowned aerotow facilities at Wallaby Ranch to the breathtaking views over the Everglades at Florida Ridge, Florida offers unmatched opportunities for hang gliding enthusiasts. Its warm climate, flat terrain, and wide variety of schools and parks make it an accessible and thrilling destination for both new and experienced gliders. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of flight or the serene beauty of the Sunshine State, Florida’s skies are ready to welcome you.
Hang Gliding in the United States: Choose a State
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming