I Took the Leap at Skydive Key West on Route 1

The experience

While singing and rocking to Tom Petty’s “Free Falling” in the car, we are heading south on Route 1 to the Florida Keys, which is ranked in the top 10 places in the world to skydive. Now I am thinking, why would you want to jump out of a perfectly fine airplane?

They say that nothing can describe the rush of Free Falling and popping through those puffy white clouds and coming out the other side to shades of blue in the sky and sea. Heck, I’m fearless but jumping head first out of an airplane two and a half miles up and hurtling 130 mph? They say that nothing is better than sunshine on your face while cruising under the canopy of your parachute.   

As the door opens and the wind blows in, your heart starts pounding, and all of my Daredevil friends and my daughter jump.

The History

Skydive Key West has been around since the early 1980s when Key West was mostly off the radar and not the popular tourist destination it is today. Initially, it was just a dirt road, a runway, and a group of locals who enjoyed skydiving. By 1992, it became an official business focused on tandem jumps, where newcomers are paired with certified instructors.

The original shack, a simple setup from the early days, is still there as you drive up to the modern facility. Back in the 1990s, the owners would personally promote skydiving in local grocery stores, a strategy that worked surprisingly well. The site also gained some fame when it was featured in movies like “License to Kill” and “Drop Zone.”

Today, Skydive Key West is dedicated to providing a great experience for everyone who visits. They ensure there are no hidden fees and no delays beyond your reservation time. The place has a relaxed vibe, and friendly staff, and is all about making sure visitors have a memorable skydiving adventure.

Finishing the Day

Another spectacular day having the thrill of a lifetime, we all headed to a local Tiki Bar. While I don’t like heights, I will buy a round of tequila shots to toast them all for not throwing me out of the plane.

First-time jumper?Check their extensive FAQ on tandem jumping

Skydive Key West has an unblemished safety record with years of experience and reasonable prices. Have a blast!