Ever wondered what the coast of NSW looks like from above? Are you a thrill seeker and a lover of the great outdoors? This comprehensive guide to paragliding in NSW has everything you need to experience the fun for yourself, including favourite locations, insider tips, and amazing places to stay.

What is paragliding, and why is it awesome?

Paragliding is a safe, exhilarating air sport, where you’re strapped into a lightweight harness beneath a specially designed glider. With a running start from a hilltop or launch site, the wind lifts you up and away for an unbeatable bird’s-eye view of the landscape.

It’s a thrilling yet surprisingly serene activity that’s accessible to a wide range of ages and fitness levels. After a quick briefing, you can simply sit back, relax, and let your pilot do the hard work for you.

If you’re chasing the rare mix of adrenaline and tranquillity, then paragliding is for you. Feel the rush as your feet leave the ground, before you drift gracefully across the sky – with the world unfolding beneath you like a moving canvas.

Paragliding vs parasailing: What’s the difference?

While it’s easy for newbies to get paragliding and parasailing confused, they’re actually very different.

Parasailing involves being towed by a boat over water. It’s easy, scenic, and your flight is controlled by the boat driver.

Paragliding involves running off a hill or cliff to soar through the sky on a free-flying hanger. It requires more extensive training, or the support of a practiced pilot to help steer your experience. Wind conditions will also greatly affect a paragliding experience.

While both are fun and exhilarating activities, parasailing is better for beginners, families, and anyone looking for some low-effort fun in the great outdoors.

Top spots to go paragliding in NSW

Paragliding in and near Sydney

For a spectacular experience you won’t forget, try paragliding near Sydney. While opportunities are a little more limited within the city itself, nearby coastal cliffs and national parks offer incredible launch points. With the right conditions, you’ll soar high above beaches, bushland, and ocean, with Sydney’s famous skyline visible in the distance.

Down the coast, Jervis Bay is another favourite. Known for its turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, it also makes a fantastic paragliding destination. The sweeping headlands create ideal thermals, and the aerial views are nothing short of breathtaking.

Keep an eye out for dolphins and migrating whales as you glide peacefully overhead, and watch as the sun glistens across the bay.

For those chasing a more inland adventure, head towards the Lake Macquarie region. The hills and cliffs around the lake offer ideal paragliding launch sites, with panoramic views across the water, nearby beaches, and surrounding towns.

How to get up there

• For an unforgettable experience, seek out operators like Adventure Plus Paragliding, who offer tandem flights and training from iconic launch sites such as Bald Hill (Stanwell Park) and Hill 60 near Port Kembla
• Alternatively, SkySurf Paragliding offers SAFA-approved tandem flights, courses, and gear in the Sydney–Wollongong region, including Bald Hill

Paragliding on the Coffs Coast of NSW

• Nambucca Heads
  Nambucca Heads is a top spot for paragliding, thanks to its coastal cliffs and elevated lookouts. From launch points above the beaches, you’ll glide over the sparkling estuary where the Nambucca River meets the sea, with sweeping views of both coastline and hinterland. It’s the perfect mix of ocean breezes and scenic tranquillity.
• Coffs Harbour
  Coffs Harbour is another gem for those seeking coastal mountain views. Glide over lush green countryside, sparkling ocean, and offshore islands, with the bustling marina and famous jetty just below. There are multiple beachside launch points, each with its own spectacular perspective.

Paragliding on the Mid North Coast of NSW

Port Stephens is another popular destination, with several local operators and stunning conditions for flying. From your vantage point in the sky, you’ll take in views of the endless sand dunes, glittering water, and headlands stretching out into the horizon.

Far North Coast paragliding

Byron Bay is equally iconic for paragliding. Launch from the surrounding hinterland and you’ll enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Cape Byron Lighthouse, the hinterland ridges, and Byron’s relaxed beaches. The area also offers both tandem paragliding and training flights, so there’s something for everyone.

South Coast

Further south, Merimbula on the Sapphire Coast is postcard-perfect. Gentle sea breezes and coastal headlands make for peaceful flights over lakes, beaches, and bays. It’s a relaxing way to take in the beauty of the region before heading back down to earth.

What to wear paragliding: Dress for sky-high success

When paragliding, comfort is key. Choose lightweight activewear that won’t restrict movement, and wear layers so you can adjust to cooler temperatures at altitude. A snug pair of sneakers or hiking shoes is best, as you’ll need to run a few steps for take-off and landing.

Avoid loose accessories like hats or sunglasses unless they’re firmly secured, and don’t forget sunscreen; you’ll be closer to the sun than usual! All safety equipment, including your harness and helmet, is provided by your operator.

Beginner tips for paragliding in NSW

Paragliding is safe, accessible, and unforgettable – but a few tips can help you feel more comfortable on your first flight:

• Book with a licensed, experienced operator – especially if you’re going tandem for the first time.
• Trust the process – take-off is a simple run, and your pilot handles everything else. If you’re feeling nervous, let them know; they’re pros at calming first-flight jitters.
• Capture the memory – many operators offer GoPro footage, or you can ask a friend to snap photos of your take-off and landing.

Why not make a weekend of paragliding?

If you’re planning to tick paragliding off your bucket list, why not turn it into a weekend escape?

Stay at Reflections Nambucca Heads, perched above the river and ocean with unbeatable views of the coastline you’ll just have flown over. The park offers a mix of cabins, villas, powered sites, and camping, all within walking distance to the headland and town.

Heading north? Book a stay at Reflections Byron Bay, where you can choose from cabins, villas, glamping tents, tiny homes, or rainforest-style camping.

For those paragliding in Port Stephens, Reflections Jimmys Beach is an easy, scenic drive away. With abundant wildlife, modern facilities, and a laid-back coastal vibe, it’s a great base for both adventure and relaxation.

Or if you’re gliding at Merimbula, Reflections Eden is just minutes away. With cabins, powered and unpowered campsites, a camp kitchen, playgrounds and communal lounge, it’s perfect for unwinding after a day in the air.

With over 40 Reflections Holidays' parks scattered across NSW, you’ll find the perfect base no matter where your paragliding adventure takes you. So pack your sense of adventure – because paragliding in NSW offers the ultimate combination of adrenaline, scenery, and serenity.