Sky’s The Limit Ballooning Adventures

We just finished a sunrise ride over Temecula, and it was beautiful. Our pilot, Jeff, was wonderful and very experienced. The ride lasted just over an hour and we finished with muffins and mimosas and a little history of ballooning. Great views of mountains, vineyards and sunrise. The ride was relaxing and peaceful, reaching max height of 5200 feet. I would definitely recommend Sky’s the Limit Adventure and will come back to them again.

If there were only more stars to give!!!
Recently my company booked a sunset flight to celebrate the quarter’s «wins» and despite some nervousness I went along for the ride. James and his team were nothing short of amazing!
First of all, if you are under the assumption that the pilot has zero control over the balloon, allow me to bust that myth for you. I was very impressed at the precision that James, our pilot, navigated and «steered» the balloon. James was a professional in every right!
Secondly, the flight was surprisingly informative as James shared local knowledge and tales from his experiences.
Lastly and most important: if you have ever thought about taking a hot air balloon ride — do so now! Due to urban sprawl and a boom in housing, in a few short months, San Diego county will no longer have the landing space for hot air balloons! MERP!
I had the chance to talk to James at length on the ride from the landing site to the pick up site and was impressed with this company all over again. Support your local businesses, book with this company.

Most fun you can have legally. You get so high and see so much. I’ve lived in the north county coastal for almost 30 years and have never seen the places I’ve seen today. Going over Rancho Santa Fe was magnificient. These guys are pros and the way they pilot, yes pilot, the balloon is something to behold. Do yourself a favor and mark off that bucket list line and ride this hot air balloon!

Amazing experience! Breathtaking views! Feels so peaceful and calm in the balloon. If you are afraid of heights like myself, don’t be concerned about riding a hot air balloon, it’s nothing to be afraid of! Great company! Book with them!

Amazing experience indeed … that was one very memorable things I have done ever. Our Ballon pilot Jeff was amazing and made the overall experience outstanding. I don’t drink and they had got me and my family non alcoholic drinks without requesting it. That’s speaks about how well experience they are to providing a great experience. I will definitely recommend anyone to do this.

My Sweet 16 present from my parents was a hot air balloon ride. Doing it with this company made it a great experience. The crew is very experienced and professional, making you feel very safe whether you are scared of heights or love thrills. The van is very nice, and they explain everything before you go up. The tour itself is breathtaking, especially at sunset. I would recommend going with this company because everything is worth the money.

We had a great time with sky’s the limit. The staff and pilot were fabulous. I would go again in a heartbeat. Thanks for the great time!

What a delightful experience! James is very informative throughout the process and makes sure you get the chance for some stellar photos.
We booked a Saturday sunset flight, but May-​Gray wouldn’t comply so we were able to get on a Temecula sunrise flight instead the following morning. Absolutely worth the early morning arrival time!
Few words of caution: they are not kidding with the heat – wear a hat! It is about 10 degrees hotter in there, with frequent bursts of heat. Also, make sure your closed toed shoes are good for walking around in the dusty roads. My closed toed ballet flats were letting all the dirt in to my shoes.

I had intended on buying this hot air balloon birthday trip for my SIL who has recently completed some arduous chapters in her life. It was something long on her «bucket list» to do. and even though it was a little pricey, the high reviews through Unilocal definitely attracted me to this particular business. After the experience, I am happy that we participated. It was definitely an experience to remember. and one that may not (unfortunately) be around much longer due to housing developments.
Our initial intended date was a few days before her birthday but — due to weather– the trip was cancelled the same day of intended flight. I learned that it’s difficult to predict when the launch will actually occur because winds and temperatures are difficult to predict in the context of a safe flight. In other words, even though the weather channel predicts the winds, weather, and temps. it does not translate into a viable flight day. On the day of our actual flight, the captain didn’t know until about 3:30PM. This was about an hour before the intended meet time. It did irk me a little as someone who is regimen about her calendar. but at the end of the day, it’s my safety he’s calculating… so it was appreciated.
You meet in the parking lot of a Whole Foods and the business is a small shack between the Medical Offices and Whole Foods. Lots of parking and our cars were still there at the end of the day. so not an issue. James and his crew were present to check folks in, sign off on the waiver of liability, and then wait for the rest of the group. Once they are ready, folks will load up into a giant cargo van pulling the balloon. In our group we had 11 folks aside from the crew. I thought it would be cramped, but it was actually not too bad.
We departed from alongside the 56 in an open dirt lot. One other balloon company joined us, but we had our balloon up in the air first. It really is a thrilling to see it blow up. It was a lot bigger than I imagined. If you read through the reviews and the instructions the company provides you. they are absolutely correct on wearing pants and being able to climb into the basket. It’s not ridiculous. but it’s a good couple steps up into the basket. It was neat watching the other balloon launch while we drifted upwards into the sky.
Anyways. the experience up in the sky was peaceful. It was fascinating to see the city I live in from a different perspective. Although it was a little cloudy, there were plenty of breaks in the sky to provide for a gorgeous view out to the ocean. the aerial outlook over the big baller houses I only can imagine owning. and just out 360 degrees from the balloon. James pointed out cool landmarks. provided some interesting tidbits about the different places beneath us. and always kept the balloon turning to give everyone a stellar view. It really was worth the experience. Most lingering thought during the whole trip: James really is knowledgeable in his craft and I felt safe in his care.
We had some fun landing. «crashed» through some trees, had the fellas chase us down for a bit in an attempt to land in a field. and it was like an awesome ride at an amusement park. No one got hurt or sick. it actually elicited laughter. The champagne and the story was a nice touch to end the day. we were pooped headed back and yes we caught the sunset across the open field.
I highly recommend the experience with Sky’s the Limit, James and his crew. From the woman who manages the phone answering (who was very patient with impatient me), James, the guys who launched up, etc. they provided STELLAR service. The costs were higher than other groupons but in the end I felt like I got my money’s worth and that it was fair. It is quite the experience. and I recommend partaking before all the housing developments take over since Del Mar may not serve as a launch site né more. A Five Star and unforgettable experience.

So amazing I am the biggest chicken when it comes to heights, but our pilot James was very nice and understanding. He involved us in the inflating of the balloon (with which I was so fascinated with) that it took my mind off the heights. If heights is your concern, the ride is so smooth, it was certainly a birthday to remember!

You have never experienced anything like a balloon ride, and signing up with Sky’s The Limit is a surefire way to guarantee an unforgettable journey.
Our flight was scheduled the day before Valentine’s Day this year. My wife and I, along with all of the other couples were very excited to go up in the air for such a romantic vacation. The check-​in process was seamless the drive from the office to the launch site was quick and easy. Once there, we noticed that none of the balloons were being prepped. The pilots were maintaining a careful eye on the weather, and they actually decided that it would not be safe to fly that day. (The wind was blowing towards the ocean rather than pointed inland.)
Never fear, for we were able to quickly reschedule for another time that worked for us. During our second visit (yesterday), we once again had no problems checking in and getting set up. The difference yesterday was that the weather was absolutely beautiful. They set up the balloons and before we knew it, we were up about 5,000 feet in the air.
The staff and pilot (Jeff) made us feel safe and comfortable. He fielded every single question and concern with calm honesty and made sure that everyone was enjoying their trip. The flight was smoother than I had ever imagined it would be and we were able to watch the sunset over the Pacific from a rare vantage point.
After we landed, we were treated to champagne as the crew took down the balloons and prepared to take us back to the office.
I never had any doubts during my time with this company that I was going to have a bad time, and now I can check «ballooning» off of the ol’ bucket list.
Such a wonderful experience!

It’s very good ride we had today Mike and Eric did great job and enjoyed to see beautiful San Diego beaches
they took care of pickup and drop off at the end with much care we had champagne celebrations after the successful ride :)

Awesome experience!!! We were on our honeymoon in Encinitas Ca. and booked a hot air ballon ride in Del Mar for our last day in town with another company named Skysurfer. We called in them at noon to check weather conditions (as instructed) and was disappointed to have them cancel the flight and try to reschedule for a later date because the weather was «IFFY». I explained that we were on our honeymoon and leaving the following day and today was the only day we could do it. She apologized and said the pilot did not feel it was safe to go up. I later found out that this is what they say when they do not have enough people to take up. I hate lying! Why not tell me the truth. This was not good. We had saved this special event to do on the last day so we could end our honeymoon with an amazing experience.
I was sitting on a beach… SUPER DISAPPOINTED and told my husband «this does not seem right the weather is beautiful and I don’t understand.» I decided to try my luck. I searched hot air ballon rides in Carlsbad and called the first to pop up. Renee from Sky’s the Limit answered and I explained that I was «trying my luck» to get in a flight because ours was canceled and wanted to know if they had one going up that afternoon. She quickly put me on hold and called the pilot to see if we would be able to get in on the flight they had scheduled in 25 minutes. She got back in the line and explained that I was lucky she caught the pilot just in time and he was at the place to pick up the ballon he was going to use and if we wanted to go we could, but needed to let her know NOW so he could get a bigger balloon. She explained If you can be there in twenty minutes and provide my info over the phone we would be able to get in on this flight. I agreed and had her give me directions to the meeting site. She took my credit card info over the phone and emailed me the confirmation. We made it just in time!!! We met the pilot and the others taking the ride at a little kiosk in a grocery store parking lot, signed the required info and was on our way to the launch site. James the pilot/​owner explained how things would work and they set the ballon up and even let people volunteer to help. Then we all jumped in the basket and were off! He was very informative and did a great job if pointing out interesting things on the ground. He made it fun and he was also a super nice guy. This team of people do a great job of making it a great experience and basically saved my honeymoon !! I would not go with any other company. I’m so glad we were able to do this and get amazing pictures and memories. These folks went above and beyond to squeeze us in and even took time to take our picture while the balloon was blown up for me when the ride was over. They offered champagne and cider and a story as to why we drink champagne afterwards and some history. When we arrived back at the kiosk we had the opportunity to buy a shirt and thanked the pilot with a tip. Best experience EVER! Thank you Sky’s the Limit!!!

So first off… of course I had a great time! It’s such an experience and I highly recommend going on a ride. The pilot was knowledgeable and told great stories. The management was courteous. The whole experience is definitely worth the money.
But, I’m giving this a 3 star review because I think there is much to be improved upon.
First of all, I think it would be helpful and make for a better experience if more information and guidelines are provided. You should bring water. You should wear a hat (because the fire from the burners is scalding!). You should make sure your camera, sunglasses, etc. has a strap or is secured. You should expect to be in a very crowded tight space with lots of people in close vicinity for up to an hour and a half in the air. You should be able to climb three-​four feet to get into the balloon.
Since we were not told any of this (in fact, they promised us water during the ride, which was not provided), I could see disaster happening! What if something fell out of the balloon? Potentially lethal results. What if someone passed out from heat? Totally possible. I witnessed one lady trying to get into the balloon and she wasn’t able to swing her leg around. Such an embarrassing situation could have been prevented!
Secondly, while the balloon has a capacity of 16 (plus the pilot), it’s really not very comfortable. You can’t even bend down to put your bag on the floor or turn around easily. Plus, to get to and from the launch site, all 16 are squeezed into one van. Not sure this is legal, and at the very least, not comfortable!
That being said, go, since it’s likely that they might not be able to operate much longer given the lack of launch/​landing spaces. But just take my advice above!

Well we were celebrating our first year of meeting /​being together. I decided this would be a great surprise. We both have been wanting to do it. It was a great experience. They were very professional. They checked the wind and explained what they were doing. They set off a balloon. And ruled out one area. We then went to another area where we got to experience several other balloons getting ready to be filled and take off. It was a great time. My girlfriend love it. They had a banner for our anniversary. The people in our basket were great. I got the cake and shared it with the group. Good cake. Julies favorite. White chocolate. So good. Suggest you get the cake. Great view and pics from here. Can’t wait to go again. The crew are amazing. Couldn’t ask for better. Great time.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! James (the Owner) and his team are just amazing! They are extremely SAFE and James does an awesome job at narrating the entire balloon tour. He pointed out and explained all the different neighborhoods, celebrity homes, landmarks, and history of the San Diego/​Del Mar area. You can tell that James is a pro!
James will not fly unless the weather is 100% safe. He told us that he rather cancel the flight and refund our money than risk the safety of his customers. Before our launch, a huge cloud cover came in unexpectedly, and James told us that even though other companies were taking off in front of us, he wanted to wait and test the wind before taking off (which was the right thing to do).
Tips:
— Wear tennis shoes
— People around 6 ft. tall should bring a hat (the heat from the flames is really really hot)
— The ride is not scary at all… it’s actually really quiet, peaceful and beautiful.
— TIP THE CREW! They work extremely hard to make sure everyone is taken cared of from the time you check-​in to the end of the tour.
THANKS JAMES!

My wife Margaret and I went on a hot air balloon ride to celebrate her birthday, which is in the month of January. It was an awesome time of the year to take a ride.
Margaret had ballooning listed as a «bucket list» must-​do. Check!
We enjoyed seeing all the people below waving at us and all the dogs barking and running around their yards trying to catch us.
We both found it very interesting to learn that it is not possible to entirely control where the balloon lands. It all depends on the winds. For that reason there is a van following on the road below. The van picks you up and drives you back to your car in Carlsbad.
We touched down in a gated community, where we enjoyed a nice picnic meal and waited for the the security guards from the gated community and the van driver to show up. Fun!
The views from the balloon were breathtakingly beautiful. We got to see the Pacific Ocean, various mountain ranges and the rolling hills of Rancho Santa Fe.
The box, which people stand in, holds 12 – 16 people packed into small compartments fitting 2 – 3 people each. This arrangement makes for a snug romantic ride.

Just got back from the most amazing flight… treated us like royalty. James made sure this was a flight to never forget. The crew was helpful and professional. The other balloon that took off at the same time from another company landed 30+ minutes before us. Will absolutely look up James for our next flight in Santa Barbara!!!

Wow. This was honestly one of the most special things I have ever done. There are really no words to explain it’s a MUST do and should be on everyone’s bucket list. We had a very knowledgable pilot named «mike» and the entire ride from beginning to end was simply amazing. We will definitely be back. We are in love with this company and would recommend it to anyone.

This was the best time of our lives by far!!! They took our safety very seriously during the entire time we were with the crew. As we were beginning our descent, the pilot who said he is the owner, predicted that another balloon from a different company would land off course and maybe hit a hill. Made us a little nervous as we floated over a highway just before landing but we landed safely and smoothly as opposed to the other balloon that slammed into the side of a hill. If you are in the southern Cali area we would highly recommend doing this!!! Thanks guys for a memorable trip!!!
If you are looking for some grinds before or after your balloon trip, stop by the mexican joint that is at the opposite end of the shopping center. The food was to die for!!! Not sure of the name of the place because we only had literally 6 minutes to eat and be at balloon office, but the food was the best!!!