Parasailing
Parasailing involves a parachute towed behind a boat , sending the rider about 500 feet into the air . Feel the rush of the wind and enjoy the quiet peacefulness of the sky as you sail over the emerald waters around 30A . No experience necessary for this adrenaline rush .
Where to find it : Sky Pirates runs trips out of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort and off Miramar Beach . Hop on an inflatable banana boat to hitch a ride out to the parasailing boat and enjoy your adventure .
Off Roading
Throw together a rainy day and the vast amount of nature trails and back roads in the area and you have perfect conditions for off-roading ! The 15,400-acre Point Washington State Forest is crisscrossed with dirt and sand trails , popular with both off-roading motorists and bicyclists .
“ After a really heavy rain , splashing through the muddy trails of Point Washington Forest is simultaneously relaxing and exhilarating .” -Mike Ragsdale , The 30A Company
Where to find it : Find more information and maps of the Point Washington State Forest trails at 30a . com / point-washington-state-forest . The Longleaf Pine Trail system , which has 3.5- , 8- , and 10-mile loops , is great for off-road mountain biking as well .
Surfing
Although 30A ’ s Gulf waters are often as smooth as glass , on many days of the year , the waves are ideal for surfing ( particularly when there ’ s a tropical storm brewing somewhere down in the tropics ). Professional and amateur surfers alike patiently bide their time , waiting for red flag beach conditions or a tropical surge that might create the perfect moment .
“ Surfing is very different from all other board sports due to the fact that everything around you is moving and the ocean can be very unpredictable ,” said Chef Phil McDonald of Bud & Alley ’ s Pizza Bar .
“ The feeling you get from catching a really great wave is something I can ’ t quite describe . You are so focused on that exact moment and nothing else matters . I guess the best description of feeling while surfing would be freedom .”
Where to find it : Anywhere along the Gulf is a good place to start . If you haven ’ t been on a board and want to learn , 30A Surf Camp ‘ s experienced instructors can get anyone up on a wave with a few hours on the water . 30a . com
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