Lewis HiceWhen you’ve lived in the city your whole life, it’s normal for things to feel a bit stagnant. You’ve visited all the museums and attractions, and you’re still looking for more.
You’re in luck because it’s time to awaken your nerves with the best skydiving spots in Jacksonville! I’ve gathered the top options in the city to guide you through the most thrilling experience of your life.
1. World Skydiving Center
– Media credit: World Skydiving Center, Jax, FL
Website: https://worldskydivingcenter.com/jacksonville/
Address: 9300 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19042505903
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Thurs: 9:00am – 12:00pm
- Fri–Sun: 8:00am – 4:00pm
Admission Costs:
- 30-second freefall: $199 per jumper
- 60-second freefall: $229
Fuel your energy at the drop zone of the World Skydiving Center that offers tandem jumps from 13,500 feet above the ground. If you still don’t have weekend plans, this isn’t a bad idea.
You’d find the 60-second freefall to be one of your most unforgettable experiences. After a minute, you slowly descend with a view of downtown, the Intracoastal Waterway, and surrounding coastlines, underlined by your parachute canopy.
The World Skydiving Center welcomes first-timers, too, so you can gather your friends for a weekend thrill. Their photo and video packages are optional but I suggest you book them for this moment.
| Pro tip: Bring a jug and keep yourself hydrated, especially if you’re feeling jittery. |
2. Skydive Amelia Island
– Media credit: kyle_rintoul
Website: https://skydiveameliaisland.com/
Address: Municipal Airport, 3243 Bailey Rd, Fernandina Beach
Contact Details: +19047184648
Operating Hours:
- Daily: 6:00am – 6:00pm
Admission Costs:
- $219 per person
- Online booking: Only $9.95 per jumper
Set your alarm for a day at Skydive Amelia Island where you can experience tandem skydiving, and even get your photos as proof! You’re in for a treat after just a short drive northeast of Jacksonville.
From their 13,500-foot jumps, you can witness beautiful ocean views like you’ve never seen before. Even if it’s your first time, you don’t have to worry because they have professional instructors who lead their tandem-only operations.
With the nearby beaches available, you can also combine the skydiving trip with a few hours at the beach for a full weekend experience. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
| Pro tip: You must be 18 years old or older to be able to skydive at Amelia Island, so make sure to pack your valid ID in your bag the night before. You wouldn’t want to miss your chance just because they’re strict about the age requirement. |
3. Skydive Palatka
– Media credit: Skydive Palatka
Website: https://www.skydivepalatka.com/tandem-skydiving-jacksonville
Address: 4015 Reid St Building E8, Palatka
Contact Details: +13863280606
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Wed: closed
- Thurs: 10:00am – 10:00pm
- Fri: 10:00am – 8:00pm
- Sat–Sun: 8:00am – 8:00pm
Admission Costs:
- Groups of 1–2: $220 per jumper
- Groups of 3–4: $210 per jumper
- Groups of 5+: $195 per jumper
- Additional services (video and photo): Starts at $70 per jumper
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you’d surely enjoy Skydive Palatka. They have both tandem and licensed jumper options, so it’s truly a haven for passionate thrill-seekers.
About 50 miles south of Jacksonville, you’ll discover this place with a friendly and local vibe. For first-timers, their well-established team will gladly guide you to the right direction when briefing you for the jump ahead.
They have group bookings and gift certificates available, too, so imagine the possibilities of bringing your friends over for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Bring the whole gang to make it a party!
| Pro tips: If you want your group to jump simultaneously, prepare to wait a little longer for them to accommodate your party. For those bringing a car, keep your valuables safe in your compartment as you’d have to leave some of your small items on the ground once you start your adventure. |
4. iFLY Jacksonville
– Media credit: ifly.jacksonville
Website: https://www.iflyworld.com/jacksonville
Address: 10579 Brightman Blvd, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19047123388
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 12:00pm – 8:00pm
- Sat: 10:00am – 8:00pm
- Sun: 10:00am – 7:00pm
Admission Costs:
- Starts at $79.99 per flyer
I know many of us may still be afraid of taking the big leap. The good news is there’s a fantastic option for people who aren’t quite ready yet, and where kids are also welcome!
iFLY Jacksonville is a vertical wind tunnel that simulates the feeling of freefall in a safe and controlled environment. Dive into a new adventure within safe parameters.
The center welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels, so it’s a great warmup for the real deal. It’s also an introduction to body flight techniques before trying out tandem skydiving outdoors.
iFLY offers flight packages, birthday parties, and group events, too, so you can make a whole event out of this exciting experience.
| Pro tips: Don’t worry about your glasses as they have larger goggles you can use together with your specs. You’re expected to leave in the locker all loose items such as jewelry, watches, and hair accessories, so it’s best not to bring anything valuable. |
