We love dolphins in St. Augustine- and we can’t say it enough.
Friendly, fun, and always full of life, the local dolphins really love all the attention. Fortunately, you have plenty of opportunities to give it to them. Below we cover the three best ways to see dolphins when staying at our St. Augustine vacation rentals.
Marineland
Marineland is the quintessential dolphin experience in St. Augustine.
Marineland is the world’s first oceanarium- not quite a rehabilitation clinic and not quite an aquarium, the attraction exists in the interesting in-between. Visitors will primarily see dolphins in massive tanks, visible from above and outdoors as well as inside down below. There is also a turtle tank upstairs where the focus is on rehabilitation, with some permanent residents.
The highlight is, of course, the chance to swim with dolphins in St Augustine. While guests can enter and see the dolphin for a standard entrance fee, the dolphin experience lets guests swim and play with the dazzling creatures. It is open to all ages. Guests will interact with the dolphins in shallow waters and play games with you and the family.
The Swim Adventure takes it to another level. Aside from playing, you will get the opportunity to grab onto their flippers and soar. The belly ride is a surefire way to win over the kids for life.
Finally, visitors can partake in the Royal Swim. Dolphins will go underwater, feel the sole of your feet, and fly you into the air.
Marineland offers the absolute best dolphin swimming experiences, including hand target games, handshakes, dorsal tow, and a good old-fashioned hug.
General admission is $22.95 for adults and $13.95 for children 5-11. Presentations are free, including the daily Turtle Talk at 1 p.m. and Shark Talk at 10:30 a.m. Dolphin experiences vary from around $99 for shallow water swim to $189 for the Royal Swim in the air.
Contact Marineland at (407) 563-4701 for up-to-date information about hours and event schedules. Input the address 9600 N Ocean Shore Blvd, to find your way. You won’t miss it hanging out beachside!
Dolphin Tours St. Augustine
Dolphin Tours St. Augustine is a very different kind of experience compared to Marineland. Here you have the opportunity to see dolphins in the wild and enjoy the St. Augustine weather. The main package is the Private Dolphin Tour- a two-hour excursion for up to six passengers to some of the area’s top dolphin spots.
Custom tours are available upon request. There are also eco tours available under specific circumstances, which may include an adventure via kayak or canoe. The trip is $75 per adult and $45 per child.
The tour provider is located at 117 Dockside Drive. The team is available for tours 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day.
Plan Your Vacation
Whether you are getting up close with dolphins or relaxing and taking in the sites, St. Augustine has something, everyone! Find the perfect Saint Augustine vacation rental for you and your family.
Florida Water Tours
Florida Water Tours is a mid-sized group excursion via a cruise boat. While private cruises are available for up to 12, the provider specializes in group parties for 90-minute runs to see the dolphins. These St. Augustine wildlife watches are illuminating, giving you a look at not just local dolphin, but rare birds, exotic foliage, turtles, manatee, and more. You will receive insight into what the animals are doing, including playing, hunting, attracting a mate, and even teaching their offspring.
Florida Water Tours offers a relaxing and informative experience. The crew also has sunset tours, kayak rentals, and wine tasting adventures with a bar on board. You can find them at 107 Yacht Club Dr A-19.
Choose from our St. Augustine beach rentals and come on down today! We have rentals right in the center of St. Augustine Beach, with options for one, two, and three bedrooms.
