Swim with dolphins in Florida
Where to swim with dolphins legally, and how to watch wild dolphins the right way.
Swimming with dolphins is on a lot of Florida bucket lists. The right way to do it is at a licensed facility with resident dolphins and trained staff. Wild dolphins are protected by federal law, so in the wild the best encounter is a dolphin-watching cruise that keeps its distance. Here is where to go and what to know.
Where can you swim with dolphins in Florida?
At licensed marine facilities with resident dolphins, such as Discovery Cove in Orlando and, in the Florida Keys, the Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key, Dolphins Plus in Key Largo and Theater of the Sea in Islamorada. Programs, age limits and availability change, so book directly with each facility.
Swimming with, feeding or touching wild dolphins is illegal under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act. NOAA asks people to stay at least 50 yards away. To see wild dolphins, take a dolphin-watching cruise; iOutdoors dolphin cruises are coming soon, along with more Florida eco tours.
Dolphin swim and encounter programs
| Facility | Where | Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Discovery Cove | Orlando | All-inclusive day with a dolphin swim |
| Dolphin Research Center | Grassy Key (Marathon) | Dolphin swims, encounters and research programs |
| Dolphins Plus | Key Largo | Structured and natural dolphin swims |
| Theater of the Sea | Islamorada | Dolphin swims and encounters |
Check age, height and swimming requirements before you book. More background on swimming with dolphins from Dolphin World.
Seeing wild dolphins the right way
Bottlenose dolphins live along every Florida coast and are often seen in the Indian River Lagoon, Tampa Bay, Clearwater, the Ten Thousand Islands, Destin and the Keys. On a cruise or your own boat:
- Stay at least 50 yards away and limit viewing to 30 minutes.
- Never feed, chase, touch or swim with wild dolphins.
- Put the engine in neutral if dolphins approach, and do not cut through a group.
Dolphin-watching cruises: coming soon
We are lining up licensed captains for small-group dolphin-watching cruises on Florida’s coasts. Tell us where and when, and we will let you know as soon as cruises open.
Get notified when trips open
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Swim with dolphins in Florida FAQ
Is it legal to swim with wild dolphins in Florida?
No. Swimming with, feeding or harassing wild dolphins is prohibited under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act. Swim programs are only offered at licensed facilities.
Where can I swim with dolphins near Orlando?
Discovery Cove in Orlando offers dolphin swim packages.
Where can I swim with dolphins in the Florida Keys?
Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key, Dolphins Plus in Key Largo and Theater of the Sea in Islamorada.
Can you kiss or touch a dolphin?
Only as part of a supervised program at a licensed facility, if the facility offers it. Never touch wild dolphins.
Does iOutdoors offer dolphin tours?
Dolphin-watching cruises are coming soon. Use the form above or call or text (407) 392-4593.