Upper Keys Sea Lion Swim

Islamorada, Florida Keys

Sea Lion Fun Awaits in the Beautiful Florida Keys

Sea Lion swim in Islamorada

Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim Pricing

The Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim in Islamorada offers two seasonal rates, with an additional $10 per participant during the Christmas season. Your final price is based on the date of your scheduled dolphin swim.

Price Dates 2026 – 2027 Christmas Holiday
Low Season
$165 per participant
Plus tax/fee
Jan 6 – Feb 14, 2026
Feb 23 – March 7
April 21 – June 3
Aug 17 – Nov 21
Dec 1 – Dec 19
High Season
$175* per participant
Plus tax/fee
Feb 15 – Feb 22
March 8 – April 20
June 4 – Aug 16
Nov 22 – Nov 30
*Dec 20 – Jan 4 + $10pp
Add $20 per participant from Dec 20 to Jan 4 = $185pp

John the Dolphin Expert

John’s Insider Tip:
In Islamorada, sea lion programs have Low Season, High Season, and Christmas Season rates.I know this can be a little confusing, so here’s an easy tip when you’re booking.When you open the booking calendar, the date you want to reserve must be blue to book at that seasonal rate.If your date appears blank or white, simply go back and choose one of the other seasonal rate options.Blue date = available to select and book.

To Book Low Season Rate Click this Button…

Low Season Rate << Click

To Book High Season Rate Click this Button…

High Season Rate << Click

Swim with Sea Lions in the Florida Keys

Looking for a fun and unique animal experience in the Florida Keys? The Swim with Sea Lions in Islamorada program gives you the opportunity to get in the water with these playful, intelligent, and fascinating marine animals. Your 20 to 30-minute sea lion interaction takes place in a natural saltwater lagoon, where you can enjoy exciting trained behaviors that may include petting, cradling, and even a sea lion kiss. It is an up-close experience that creates plenty of memorable moments and great photo opportunities. Plan on spending approximately 3 to 4 hours at the marine park so you have time to enjoy your sea lion program, explore the beautiful tropical grounds, and watch the entertaining marine animal shows.Bring your swimsuit, get ready to have some fun, and make your Florida Keys vacation even more memorable with a one-of-a-kind sea lion experience in Islamorada.

Included with Your Florida Keys Sea Lion Program:

  • A 20 – 30 minute shallow water experience including touching, playing, kissing, cradling, kissing and playing with the sea lion.
  • A Free life jackets can be provided for use. Wet Suit Rental $10
  • Guests should bring their own bathing suits and towels.
  • Showers, and Changing rooms available.
  • Each Sealion session is unique, based upon the guests and animals.
  • This is a 3 – 4 hours of Activities, with Sea Lion Swim, and Shows, either 10am – 3pm or 1pm – 5pm.
  • Observer gets to watch the sea lion interaction & shows
  • All Participants must be 5 years old and up
  • Anyone within 5 – 7 years old, must have a paid age 15 or older participant in the water with them.
  • Any participant ages 8 to 17 must be accompanied by a paid adult observer or paid adult participant. An adult is anyone 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be able to understand directions given in English or have a paid family member or friend in the water to translate.
  • 6 participants maximum per sea lion session.
  • Open 365 Days a Year

Restrictions:

  • Participants must not have contact with any WILD marine mammal within 48hrs of participation to avoid disease transmission to the animals.
  • Must NOT BE PREGNANT
  • No jewelry may be worn in the animal interaction programs.
  • If you choose to wear them, only mineral based sunscreen (zinc or titanium dioxide) and environmentally
    friendly insect repellent are allowed.
  • Please inform us of any special requests, needs, and/or medical conditions so that we may prepare for your
    visit.

Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim

To Book Low Season Rate Click this Button…

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To Book High Season Rate Click this Button…

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Available:

The time slots available includes a guaranteed 20 minute sea lion program, dolphin shows, sea lion show, and parrot shows, and access to a lagoon-side beach, as well as a fish and reptile tour with tropical fish, sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, alligators, and crocodiles. This is a 1/2 day of activities.

Islamorada, FL Keys Location:

The Sea Lion Facility is in the Florida Keys and on Islamorada, which is one of the major island in the Upper Keys, next to Key Largo. You will get complete written directions with your online ticket.

  • Park Hours: 9:30am to 5pm.
  • Your animal interaction includes Dolphin Show, Sea Lion Show, Parrot Show, Animal Exhibits and Private Beach. You can spend 3 to 4 hours in the park.
  • Florida Keys Animal Show Schedule and Park Map
  • If your animal interaction is 3pm or after, you must come earlier to see animal shows and exhibits. The park closes sharply at 5pm.

You Need to Provide Your Own Transportation

  • Uber / Lyft, from Miami Beach to Islamorada approximately $100 to $125 each way. 4 persons
  • Private Taxi from Miami Beach to Islamorada approximately $200 to $225 each way. 4 persons.
  • Uber / Lyft from Ft Lauderdale Beach to Islamorada approximately $125 to $150 each way. 4 persons.
  • Private Taxi from Ft Lauderdale Beach to Islamorada approximately $260 to $300 each way. 4 persons.
  • Private Taxi from Key West to Islamorada approximately $70 to $100 each way. 4 persons.

MAP

Florida Keys Map Swim with Dolphins

Driving Times: These times are approximate from the location listed below to Key Largo area, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

  • Key West – 2 hours
  • Marathon – 40 minutes / 1 hour
  • Miami Beach & South Beach – 1 1/2 hours
  • Miami Cruise Ship Port – 1 1/2 hours
  • Miami Airport – 1 hour
  • Fort Lauderdale Area – 2 hours
  • Naples/Marco Island – 3 1/2 hours

Photography

  • Non-participating guests may observe and take photos of their party’s program poolside with general admission to the park/shows.
  • Photographers and videographers are limited at this time. If you would like photos taken of your experience, arrive early and ask to pre-purchase a photo package when you check in. This is on a first come first serve basis based on photographer availability.
  • Underwater cameras and regular cameras are allowed at the trainer’s discretion.

Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim

To Book Low Season Rate Click this Button…

Low Season Rate << Click

To Book High Season Rate Click this Button…

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Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is included in the Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim?

The Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim is a unique marine animal experience where you can get into the water with a playful and intelligent sea lion. During your approximately 20–30 minute interaction, professional trainers guide you through activities that may include touching, petting, cradling, and receiving a sea lion kiss. Your experience also includes access to the marine animal park in Islamorada, where you can enjoy animal shows, exhibits, and beautiful tropical surroundings.

2. Where can I swim with sea lions in the Florida Keys?

You can swim with sea lions in Islamorada, located in the Upper Florida Keys, approximately halfway between Miami and Key West. The experience takes place at a tropical marine animal park along the Overseas Highway. Islamorada is a popular destination for families visiting from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Key Largo, and other South Florida communities.

3. How long does the Islamorada Sea Lion Swim last?

The actual sea lion interaction lasts approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on the program and animal participation. However, your adventure doesn’t have to end there! Plan to spend approximately 3–4 hours at the marine animal park enjoying dolphin shows, sea lion presentations, tropical birds, marine exhibits, and the beautiful Florida Keys atmosphere.

4. Do I need to know how to swim to participate in the Sea Lion Swim?

Because the Sea Lion Swim is an in-water activity, participants should feel comfortable in the water and follow all instructions from the animal trainers. The interaction takes place in a natural saltwater lagoon. If you are uncertain about your swimming ability, contact Dolphin World before booking so our reservation team can help you determine whether this experience is appropriate for you.

5. Is the Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim safe for families and children?

The sea lion interaction is supervised by experienced marine animal trainers who explain the proper ways to approach, touch, and interact with the animals. Sea lions are intelligent, energetic, and sometimes playful, making this an exciting educational experience. Children must meet the program’s current age and participation requirements. Please review these requirements before purchasing tickets.

6. What should I bring to my Sea Lion Swim in Islamorada?

Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and a change of clothes for after your interaction. You may also want to bring a hat, sunglasses, and spending money for refreshments or souvenir photographs. Remove jewelry and other loose accessories before entering the water. Follow the trainers’ instructions regarding sunscreen and personal items that may affect the animals or their environment.

7. Can I take pictures during my Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim?

Photography opportunities may be available through the facility’s professional photo service. Photo packages and individual images may be offered for an additional charge. Personal camera restrictions may apply during animal interactions, so check the current photography policy before your visit. Professional photos can be a wonderful way to remember your sea lion kiss or other special moments!

8. What else can I see and do at the marine animal park in Islamorada?

Your visit offers much more than a sea lion interaction! The tropical marine animal park features entertaining dolphin shows, sea lion presentations, tropical bird shows, and marine life exhibits. Guests can explore the landscaped grounds, enjoy the Florida Keys scenery, and learn interesting facts about marine animals. Allow at least 3–4 hours to enjoy the attractions without feeling rushed.

9. What other animal swim and encounter activities can I book in Islamorada?

Islamorada offers several exciting marine animal experiences for families, couples, and adventurous travelers. In addition to the Sea Lion Swim, you can choose from these popular Florida Keys activities:

  • Islamorada Dolphin Swim: Enjoy an unforgettable in-water experience with bottlenose dolphins, including deep-water interactions.
  • Islamorada Dolphin Encounter: Meet and interact with dolphins in shallow water without needing to participate in a deep-water swim.
  • Islamorada Sea Lion Swim: Get close to an intelligent, playful sea lion during a guided in-water experience.
  • Islamorada Shark Swim: Swim and snorkel with docile sharks in a natural saltwater lagoon while observing tropical fish.
  • Islamorada Ray Swim: Feed, touch, and swim with gentle rays during a shallow- and deep-water experience in a tropical lagoon.

John’s Insider Tip: If you’re traveling with family or friends, consider booking different animal programs based on everyone’s interests and comfort levels. Some guests love swimming with dolphins, while others prefer the sea lions, sharks, or rays. It’s a wonderful way to make your Florida Keys vacation even more memorable!

10. How do I book the Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim, and should I reserve in advance?

We recommend booking your Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, spring break, and summer vacation. Animal interaction programs have limited participant spaces, and popular sessions can fill quickly.

You can review program information, check booking options, and reserve your experience through Dolphin World.

View Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim Details & Reservations »

Have questions before booking? Call Dolphin World at 800-667-5524. Our reservation team will be happy to help you plan your Islamorada marine animal adventure!

 

Refunds / Cancellations and Changes:

All cancellations must be received by Dolphin World / Keys Adventure Tours, Inc. in writing by email or regular mail.

  • A 10% service charge will apply per person for any cancellations prior 31 days of activity date.
  • A 50% service charge will apply per person for any cancellations within 30 – 15 day period prior activity date.
  • A 75% service charge will apply per person for any cancellations within 14 – 8 day period prior activity date.
  • Prior 8 days of your reservation date, you may change your reservation to a gift certificate, where you would not incur any penalties except the change fee. This gift certificate will be good for 1 year from the date of the certificate.
  • NO REFUND WILL BE GIVEN TO ANY ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS who cancel within the 7 day period, does not show up, are late for scheduled program(s). Once a reservation has a confirmation number and confirmed, a refund or change can only be made more than 7 days of the activity date and any change to the program date is subject to availability. Changes made to existing reservations are subject to a $25.00 per person change fee.
  • The Dolphin Swim goes on Rain or Shine.

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THE PURCHASE OF TRIP INSURANCE, which will cover your purchase 100% for any interruptions to your Dolphin World activities! We recommend TravelEx Insurance. Ask a Dolphin World Travel professional for advice on Travel Insurance.

 

Do you have a Frequently Asked Question Page with more information? Yes, click this link to see more on the facility, location, map, and hotel information. < FAQ PAGE CLICK HERE >

Does your program go on Rain or Shine? Yes, this program goes on Rain or Shine. The Sea Lion swim and shows, will go on most of the time. If there is thunder, there might be a delay before the program resumes again. The snorkel portion of the day could get postponed or canceled due to weather. If your snorkel trip does get canceled, you can reschedule or get a partial refund for that part of your day.

Must I know how to swim to participate? You should be comfortable in the water. The Sea Lion swim takes place in a 15 to 20 foot deep lagoon.

What does it mean to be an Observer? An Observer is a Participant’s friend or family member. Observers participate in all aspects of the program minus the in-water interaction. During the interaction you can cheer on the Participants and take photos. The Observers stay in the stands and have no contact with the Sea Lions. The fee includes complimentary admission to the dolphin park, so you can see the rest of the shows and exhibits. Observers under 10 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring? A bathing suit or swimming attire is required. You can rely on us to provide the following: Showers, lockers(refundable deposit), and wetsuits. Wetsuits can be rented. All jewelry must be removed prior to entering the water.

What about taking photographs with the Sea Lion during my session? Yes, there are professional staff photographers taking photographs or video of you and your Sea Lion session. You can purchase these photographs after your session. Prices ranges from $40 and up, depending on how many photographs you purchase. You can not take a regular camera into the water with you during your Sea Lion session. If you do have a family or a friend come with you as an observer, they can take photographs of you during your session. Hint: If you don’t have an observer in your group, you might ask another observer from another group to take a few photographs with your camera.

What kind of pools do the animals live in at the facility? The animals live in natural salt-water lagoons. The water is pumped in from the Atlantic Ocean.

How big is the lagoon? The lagoon is three acres in size with an average depth of 15 to 20 feet. The rest of the property is about 17 acres in size and rich with tropical foliage and orchids.

Do you have a restaurant on the property? A snack bar/grill is available and serves a variety of delicious foods at the facility.

Can I bring my own masks fins and snorkels? Yes, you can bring them for the private beach only. Water shoes may be worn instead of fins for parts of the ray and sea lion swim, but we do not provide these so bring your own.

Do we have to pay extra entrance and parking fees ? No. There are no extra entrance or parking fees for Sea Lion program.

Can handicapped individuals participate? While this Sea Lion program does accept handicapped individuals, this program is not a Therapy session. This program is primarily recreational. Those interested in a therapy program should consider other locations in the Florida Keys. Although accommodations for handicapped individuals can be arranged, they will not receive special treatments such as extended time or more interactions. If a handicapped individual is to participate, this circumstance will be handled on a case-by-case basis. The following questions will need to be addressed and may require prior management approval:

  • Does the individual meet the age requirement?
  • To what degree is the individual disabled?
  • Does the individual have full control of his/her body without required assistance?
  • Can the individual follow directions and understand English?
  • Can the individual stand on the in-water platform without the use of canes or braces?
  • Can the individual tread water/swim? If the individual cannot freely stand on the platform and must tread water to stay in place, an assistant will need to be in the water to help the individual stay on the platform. The assistant, he/she must pay the full regular price.
  • Is the individual capable of lifting his/her full weight out of the water? The facility does not have a ramp or crane available for assistance. In addition, no staff member will be permitted to or is capable of lifting anyone out of the water.

Can someone who is blind participate? Yes, this individual must be accompanied in the water by a paid assistant. The assistant, he/she must pay the full regular price.

Are glasses/contacts permitted in the water? Contact lenses can be worn. Prescription glasses with clear lenses will be permitted only if they are needed but they cannot be removed at anytime (including for pictures) during the session. Glasses with dark lenses are not permitted unless the individual is sensitive to sunlight, in which case a doctor’s letter will need to be necessary.

Can visitors swim with dolphins and other marine animals in Islamorada?

Yes! One of the biggest reasons families visit the Florida Keys is the opportunity to participate in memorable marine animal experiences.

The Dolphin Facility in Islamorada offers several interactive programs, including:

  • Florida Keys Dolphin Swim: Enjoy an exciting in-water experience with bottlenose dolphins, including deeper-water activities.
  • Florida Keys Dolphin Encounter: Meet and interact with dolphins in shallow water without needing to swim in deep water.
  • Florida Keys Sea Lion Swim: Participate in guided interactions with these playful marine mammals.
  • Florida Keys Shark Swim: Snorkel near docile sharks in a supervised saltwater lagoon.
  • Florida Keys Stingray Swim: Touch, feed, and observe rays during a guided shallow- and deeper-water experience.

Other animal encounters may be available depending on the schedule. Program prices, minimum ages, and participation requirements vary.

Bonus: Animal interaction reservations generally include admission to the marine animal park, allowing participants to enjoy the scheduled shows and attractions during their visit.

Dolphin World Gift Card – Give an Experience They’ll Never Forget

Looking for the perfect gift for someone who loves dolphins, animals, travel, or unforgettable experiences?

Instead of giving another gift that may be forgotten, give them the chance to create a memory they will talk about for years with a Dolphin World Gift Card.

A Dolphin World Gift Card is a great choice for birthdays, holidays, graduations, anniversaries, weddings, family vacations, and bucket-list surprises. The recipient can use the gift card toward participating Dolphin World experiences and choose the adventure that is right for them.

Whether they dream of swimming with dolphins, meeting dolphins in shallow water, or enjoying another amazing animal interaction, you are giving them something much more meaningful than a traditional gift—you are giving them an experience.

Not sure which dolphin program or location they would enjoy most? That is exactly why a gift card makes such a great present. Let them choose the experience that fits their family, vacation plans, and comfort level.


Click Here for a Dolphin World Gift Card <<<

Give the gift of dolphins. Give the gift of memories.

Share Your Dolphin World Experience – Leave a Review!

Did you and your family enjoy your dolphin swim, dolphin encounter, or another unforgettable animal interaction? We would love to hear about your experience!

At Dolphin World, we have spent over 30 years helping families create special memories with dolphins and other amazing marine animals. Your honest feedback helps us improve and also helps other families decide which experience is right for them.

Thinking About Swimming With Dolphins for the First Time?

If you are visiting our website for the first time and trying to decide whether a bucket-list experience is really worth it, don’t just take our word for it.

Take a few minutes to read what past guests have shared about their experiences on Google. Their reviews can help you understand what the experience is really like and whether it is the right choice for you and your family.

Read Dolphin World Reviews on Google << Click Here

Already Experienced Dolphin World? Please Leave Us a Review

If you have already booked an animal interaction through Dolphin World, we would really appreciate hearing about your experience. The only way we can continue improving is by listening to our guests.

Thank you for choosing Dolphin World! Your feedback means a great deal to us and helps future guests feel more confident about checking this unforgettable experience off their bucket list.

Save Money When You Book Your Dolphin Experience Online

Planning ahead can help you save money on your Florida Keys dolphin experience. To receive one of the online discounts below, you must enter the appropriate Online Discount Promotional Code in the discount box on the payment page when making your reservation.

Important: Promotional discounts must be applied when you make your online reservation. Discounts cannot be added to previous orders and cannot be combined with other discounts, promotions, or special offers.

Dolphin World Online Promotions

  • Book Less than 8 Days & Save 2.5%
    Promotional Code: flakeysbookingspecial
  • Book 8 Days or More in Advance & Save 5%
    Promotional Code: online5%off

Redemption & Check-In Instructions

After completing your reservation, you will receive a dolphin program confirmation number. When you arrive at the Dolphin Park in St. Augustine, proceed to the check-in window and provide your confirmation number or the last name associated with your reservation.

  • Your reservation confirmation number is required for entrance.
  • You do not need to print your confirmation or bring a paper voucher.
  • All participants are required to complete and sign the appropriate liability waiver before participating in the dolphin program.

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Prices from....
  • Adult Participant$165
  • Child Participant$165
  • Adult Observer$50
  • Child Observer$33
  • Add 7.5% Sales Tax
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More Information

Reservation Office Hours

  • Monday – Friday,
  • 8am – 5pm EST
  • Saturday,
  • 8am – 2pm EST
  • Sunday,
  • Closed

Online Reservations

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Love The Dolphins!

john the dolphin expert

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