It seems that one of life's great pleasures, and dreams, is flying high above the bluffs, beach, and ocean...at least at the Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla, CA. Humankind has dreamed of flying for hundreds, if not thousands of years. Indeed, we have the story of Icarus from Greek mythology, who fell to his death after getting too close to the sun and melting the wax holding his artificial wings together.

Wilbur and Orville Wright dreamed of taking flight...and did so at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

So flying in the sky, for many, is now commonplace and something we just take for granted.

Hangliding, or paragliding, is NOT quite the same (but that is based purely on my observation, as I have not yet ventured into the sky...but that's a distinct possibility). Powered by the wind, one is lifted high in the sky to float silently along the coast, much like the sea birds we see flying aimlessly in the breezes

The Torrey Pines Gliderport offers a variety of opportunities for folks to experience the thrill of flying, powered only by the wind. They offer tandem flying with an instructor, USHGA individual lessons to earn certification as a beginner, intermediate, or advanced pilot, or you can sign up for private lessons. You can also buy your own equipment - a new paraglider costs $2700 - $3400; chutes are $495 - $675; harnesses are between $250 and $800; and helmets are $170 - $265.

The on-site sport shop offers a range of equipment and gear, and there is a casual restaurant - one can enjoy being a spectator watching the pilots take off while enjoying a snack, and appreciate the fabulous views are up and down the Southern California coast for miles.

There is ample parking for folks to enjoy the spectacular scenery and the hangliders; or be venturous and take a hike down a rather treacherous path to the beach hundreds of feet below. The views are incredible.

Take note that there are restrictions on where you can fly - flying over the local mansions, estate properties or industrial/commercial buildings, as tempting as it might be, is forbidden and will result in loss of privileges (and no refund).

Whether you are ready to take flight, or simply want to enjoy a great outing with amazing coastal views, the Torrey Pines Gliderport is a great outing for an afternoon.