Nothing compares to the feeling of free-falling, with adrenaline rushing through your body, until warm ocean water catches you and your body relaxes in relief. Cliff jumping is one of the most thrilling and addicting activities. Despite the fear of plummeting 50 feet from the sky into a body of water, people constantly find themselves inching towards the edge of the cliff, squeezing their eyes shut and succumbing to gravity’s pull. Whether you are looking to try cliff jumping for the first time or you are a cliff jumping expert, here are 4 beaches in the United States where you can experience that exhilarating feeling while enjoying scenic coastal views.
1.Waimea Bay, Hawaii
Located on Oahu, Hawaii, Waimea Bay is one of the most popular spots for cliff jumping in the world. The Waimea Bay rock, affectionately called “Da Big Rock” by locals, is 30 feet at its highest point, but there are lower spots to jump off as well. As such, the cliff is friendly to beginner jumpers but still offers a challenge to more experienced adventurers. Cliff jumping at Waimea Bay is only accessible during the summertime. You should not swim or jump off the cliff in the winter because of enormous waves at the Bay that reach up to 30 feet. Apart from cliff jumping, Waimea Bay offers other watersports activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing. Its pristine water and gorgeous white-sand beach are perfect for a restful family vacation or an exciting time with friends, which is why the Beach appeals to all types of visitors.
South Point or Ka Lae is the southernmost point of the United States and attracts cliff jumpers from all around the world. You can find this iconic location at the bottom tip of Hawaii’s Big Island, just outside the town of Na’alehu. South Point is not only known for cliff jumping, but it is also considered a national landmark with historical significance. It marks the coastline where Polynesian explorer from Tahiti first landed on in Hawaii at around 750 AD. South Point’s cliffs offer a plunge into the Pacific Ocean from more than 40 feet with stunning coastal views. There is a wooden platform on the cliff designated for jumpers to take off. After your jump, there is an iron ladder to help you climb out of the water safely. But be sure that you are strong enough to climb up a 40-foot ladder before you attempt the jump because there is no other way to get out of the water. While South Point is one of the most thrilling and scenic cliff jumping spots in the United States, it is also one of the most dangerous because the ocean currents are often strong and unpredictable; the area is known for powerful winds. Thus, it is essential to survey the state of the ocean before jumping. If the winds or water currents are too strong, do not make the jump.
The cliff jumping point is not exactly on a beach, but South Point is only a mile drive away from Big Island's famous Green Sand Beach and people typically visit the two on the same trip. The Papakolea Green Sand Beach is one of the world’s only 4 green sand beaches.
Regular cliff jumpers say that the jump at Shipwreck Beach is one you cannot miss. Shipwreck Beach is another one of Hawaii’s beaches located in Poipu on the island of Kauai. The beach got its name after its history of having sunk a dozen vessels. Needless to say, strong winds and ocean currents characterize Shipwreck Beach, making it dangerous for swimming and plunging into the water, but that has not stopped cliff jumpers from leaping down the 40-foot rock. One of those brave jumpers is Harrison Ford in the film Six Days/Seven Nights. This may be the opportunity to channel your inner Ford. Additionally, Shipwreck Beach is a prime location for whale-watching. Thousands of visitors have spotted humpback whales and turtles in the water.
4.Cliff Island, California
Last but not least, Cliff Island is a gorgeous rock formation between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach in California. The rocks are known for cliff jumping and their sunrise and sunset views. You can get to Cliff Island from either the City of Newport Beach or the City of Laguna Beach. If you are at either of the beaches, Cliff Island is definitely worth a visit.
Final Thoughts
The islands of Hawaii are certainly most popular and suitable for beach cliff jumping in the United States. Hawaiian islands and beaches offer a range of jumpable cliffs for people of different comfort and skill levels. As fun as cliff jumping is for many, it is critical to understand and take seriously the activity’s risks. Tens of people have died from cliff jumping. Before making a jump, remember to check the weather and intensity of the ocean waves. Be sure that the jump is safe given the water levels, water depth, and topography. When in doubt, look at the people around you. If no one is jumping into the ocean, then it’s probably not the best idea to jump that day or in that location. Finally, prioritize your safety and always stay on the safer side. With those risks in mind, happy cliff jumping to you all!
