Swim With Dolphins Near Daytona Beach Florida

If you’re staying in Daytona Beach and have always wanted to swim with dolphins, you only need to head north to St. Augustine. This is the dolphin experience I recommend to Daytona Beach visitors who want to add something truly special to their vacation. It’s an easy day-trip adventure and a great way to turn a Florida getaway into a memory for you, your family and your friends will be talking about for years.

Daytona Beach is famous as the “World Center of Racing” and home of NASCAR. It is also one of the country’s most popular destinations for Spring Break. But beyond the speedway, motorcycles, beaches, and boardwalk, you can also add a dolphin adventure to your Daytona Beach vacation by driving north along Florida’s beautiful coastline toward the St. Augustine area.

In St. Augustine, you can get up close with bottlenose dolphins and choose the experience that best fits you and your family, including the Dolphin Swim, includes the famous “belly ride”, Dolphin Encounter, shallow water only, or Dolphin Meet & Greet, poolside encounter. Whether you want to get in the water for a more hands-on dolphin experience or you’re looking for an easier option for younger children or non-swimmers, there is something for almost everyone. And if you don’t feel like reading through the entire webpage, just give me a Toll-Free call at (800) 667-5524 and I’ll be happy to help you figure out which dolphin program is right for you. Or, just keep reading and you can book online using the links below.

One of the reasons I recommend this trip is that you can make a full day out of it. After your dolphin experience, you can enjoy the Atlantic Ocean and the beaches around St. Augustine or continue north to historic St. Augustine, America’s oldest city.  The facility is located about 18 miles south of downtown St. Augustine, making it easy to combine your dolphin program with sightseeing, lunch, shopping, and a walk through America’s oldest city.

Maybe you are visiting Daytona Beach for a family vacation, NASCAR or the Daytona Beach Boardwalk. Whatever brings you here, swimming with dolphins near Daytona Beach can become one of the most memorable experiences of your trip.

CLICK TO VIEW ST AUGUSTINE DOLPHIN PROGRAMS

Where Can You Swim With Dolphins Near Daytona Beach?

If you are staying in Daytona Beach and looking for a place to swim with dolphins near Daytona Beach, the St Augustine Dolphin Adventure is one of the closest and best-known options. The facility is located along the Atlantic coast just south of St. Augustine, making it an easy day trip from Daytona Beach.

The St. Augustine facility has a long history in Florida and is known for its bottlenose dolphin programs. Today, visitors can choose from three different dolphin experiences. These include the Dolphin Swim, Dolphin Encounter, and Dolphin Meet and Greet. Each program offers a different level of interaction, so families, couples, younger children, and non-swimmers can choose the experience that works best for them.

From Daytona Beach, I recommend allowing about 1 hour of driving time, depending on traffic and where you are staying.  the facility is also close to historic St. Augustine. Many of my customers turn their dolphin experience into a full-day trip. After coming to the dolphin program, they continue north for sightseeing, lunch, shopping, or a walk through the historic district.

If your main goal is to enjoy a memorable Daytona Beach dolphin swim while you are on vacation, the St Augustine location gives you a convenient option without having to travel all the way to Orlando or South Florida.

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Choose Your Daytona Beach Dolphin Experience

If you’re visiting Daytona Beach and want to spend time with dolphins, you have three different dolphin programs to choose from in St. Augustine Beach. The best option depends on your age, swimming ability, and how much interaction you want with the dolphins. If you’re on the fence and not sure which program is right for you or your family, contact us. Dolphin World has been working with the St. Augustine Beach dolphin programs for more than 20 years, and we can help you make the best choice for your visit. You can also chat with me or another Dolphin World expert on WhatsApp at (954) 683-2773 and ask us about the programs, age requirements, swimming ability, or which experience may be the best fit for you.

Dolphin Swim – $210

Your Dolphin Swim is the most immersive dolphin experience and a great choice for guests who want to get in the water and really be part of the action. You’ll interact with bottlenose dolphins in both shallow and deeper water while working alongside the marine mammal trainers. Once you move into the deep water, the excitement really picks up—you’ll get at least one ride with a dolphin, including the famous Belly Ride, where you hold on as the dolphin carries you across the pool. It’s a fast, exciting rush and one of those dolphin experiences you’re not likely to forget.

Participants must be at least 48 inches tall. Children between 48 and 54 inches must participate with a paid adult age 18 or older. This program is popular with families and couples. It is also a great choice for birthdays, special occasions, and anyone who has always dreamed of swimming with dolphins.

Best for: Guests who want the fullest and most exciting dolphin experience.

See Dolphin Swim Details & Availability << Click Here

Dolphin Encounter – $175

During your Dolphin Encounter lets you get into the water with the dolphins without swimming in deep water. This is a shallow-water dolphin experience, so swimming is not required.

During the program, you can stand comfortably in the water while interacting with the dolphins up close. The Dolphin Encounter is available for children starting at age 3, making it a popular choice for families with younger children or guests who are not confident swimmers.

Best for: Families with younger children, non-swimmers, and guests who want an in-water dolphin experience without a full swim.

See Dolphin Encounter Details & Availability << Click Here

Dolphin Meet & Greet – $85

Without a doubt, the Dolphin Meet & Greet is the easiest and most affordable way to get close to a dolphin. This is a poolside experience, so you do not have to get into the water. You will have the opportunity to meet a dolphin, learn from the trainers, and enjoy a close-up interaction.

This option works especially well for families with very young children, grandparents, non-swimmers, or anyone who wants to meet a dolphin without participating in an in-water program.

Best for: Young children, non-swimmers, families on a budget, and guests looking for a shorter dolphin experience.

Check Dolphin Meet & Greet Prices & Availability << Click Here

John’s Tip: If swimming with a dolphin has always been on your bucket list, I recommend the Dolphin Swim. If you have younger children or someone in your group who does not want to swim, the Dolphin Encounter is usually the better choice. For a shorter and more affordable experience, the Dolphin Meet & Greet is a great option.

Prices and program details are subject to change. Always check current availability and requirements before making your reservation.

See What the Dolphin Experience Near Daytona Beach Is Like

How Far Is St Augustine Beach From Daytona Beach?

The St Augustine Dolphin Adventure is located north of Daytona Beach along Florida’s Atlantic coast, just south of historic St. Augustine. From most Daytona Beach hotels and attractions, you should plan on approximately 45 to 60 minutes of driving time, depending on traffic and exactly where you are starting.

The drive is fairly straightforward and takes you north along the coast toward South St Augustine Beach. Traffic can be heavier during busy weekends, NASCAR events, Bike Week, and spring break. I recommend giving yourself extra travel time during these periods.

You should also plan to arrive at the St Augustine location about one hour before your scheduled dolphin experience. That gives you enough time to park, check in, complete any required paperwork, change into your swimsuit if needed, and get ready for your program.

For the full visit, I recommend allowing approximately 2 to 2.5 hours at the dolphin park. If you are planning to continue into St. Augustine afterward, leave additional time for sightseeing, lunch, shopping, and parking in the historic district.

John’s Tip: I always recommend leaving Daytona Beach earlier than you think you need to. It is much better to arrive at the Dolphin Park with extra time than to miss part of your dolphin experience because of traffic. If your program is in the morning, you can also make a great full day out of it by visiting St. Augustine after your dolphin program.

Make It a Daytona Beach to St. Augustine Day Trip

If you are driving from Daytona Beach to South St Augustine Beach for your dolphin experience, I highly recommend turning the trip into a full Daytona Beach to St. Augustine day trip. The Dolphin Park is located just south of St. Augustine city, so after your dolphin program, you are already in a great position to continue north and enjoy one of Florida’s most historic cities.

A simple day trip starts by leaving Daytona Beach in the morning. Arrive at Dolphin Park with plenty of time before your scheduled program. After your dolphin experience, continue north to downtown St. Augustine for the rest of the day.

Suggested Daytona Beach to St. Augustine Itinerary

Morning: Leave Daytona Beach and drive north toward South St Augustine Beach. Give yourself extra time for traffic and plan to arrive about one hour before your scheduled dolphin program.

Late Morning or Early Afternoon: Enjoy your dolphin experience at Dolphin park. Depending on the program you choose, I recommend planning approximately 2 to 2.5 hours for your total visit.

Afternoon: After the Dolphin Park, continue north into historic St. Augustine City. You can walk through the historic district, explore St. George Street, visit the Plaza de la Constitución, enjoy lunch, or simply take in the history and architecture of the city.

Late Afternoon or Evening: Spend some additional time sightseeing, shopping, or enjoying the waterfront before driving back to Daytona Beach.

If you want help planning the St. Augustine portion of your day, take a look at my St. Augustine City Guide. I put it together to help visitors save time and make the most of their trip with practical ideas for hotels, restaurants, and getting around the city.

John’s Tip: If you can, I recommend booking a morning or early afternoon dolphin program. That gives you enough time afterward to enjoy St. Augustine without feeling rushed. The combination of swimming with dolphins and visiting the oldest city in the United States can make this one of the most memorable days of your Daytona Beach vacation.

What to Expect During Your Dolphin Experience

If this is your first time visiting the St Augustine Dolphin Park, knowing what to expect before you arrive can make your day much easier. Each dolphin program is a little different. I recommend planning ahead so you can relax and enjoy your experience once you arrive.

Check-In and Arrival

Plan to arrive at the Dolphin Park approximately one hour before your scheduled dolphin program. This gives you enough time to park, check in, complete any necessary paperwork, use the changing facilities, and get ready for your experience. Your scheduled program time is important, so I do not recommend arriving at the last minute, especially if you are driving from Daytona Beach.

In-Water or Poolside Dolphin Time

Your experience will depend on which dolphin program you choose. The Dolphin Swim includes both shallow-water and deeper-water participation for guests who meet the requirements. The Dolphin Encounter takes place in shallow water and is a great option for younger children and non-swimmers. The Dolphin Meet & Greet takes place poolside. It is ideal for guests who want to get close to a dolphin without entering the water.

The trainers will guide you throughout your program and explain how to interact safely with the dolphins. Part of what makes the experience special is not only getting close to a bottlenose dolphin, but also learning about the animals, their behaviors, and the care they receive.

Park Admission Is Included

Admission to St Augustine Dolphin Park is included with the dolphin programs, so your visit is more than just the scheduled dolphin interaction. Depending on the park schedule, you may also have time to see additional marine life and educational presentations before or after your program.

I recommend allowing approximately 2 to 2.5 hours for your total park visit. If you are continuing to St. Augustine afterward, you can easily make the dolphin experience the first part of a full day of sightseeing.

Changing Rooms and Showers

Changing areas and showers are available for guests participating in the dolphin programs. To save time, I usually recommend wearing your bathing suit underneath your clothes before you arrive. After your program, you can rinse off and change before continuing with the rest of your day.

What Should You Bring?

Keep it simple. Bring a swimsuit, towel, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and a change of clothes if you plan to continue into St. Augustine afterward. Towels are not something I would count on being provided, so bringing your own is important.

Also remember that jewelry, piercings, body dermals, cameras, hats, and other loose items cannot be worn during the dolphin program. It is much easier to leave unnecessary valuables at your hotel or safely stored before you participate.

John’s Tip: My best advice is to come already wearing your swimsuit, bring your own towel, and arrive early. If you are driving from Daytona Beach, give yourself extra travel time. You do not want traffic to make you late for an experience you may have been looking forward to for months. Once you are checked in and ready, forget about the clock, enjoy the dolphins, and take in the experience with your family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Swimming With Dolphins Near Daytona Beach

Is there a dolphin swim directly in Daytona Beach?

No. There is not currently a dolphin swim directly in Daytona Beach. The closest major dolphin program is at the St Augustine Dolphin Adventure near the Historic city, about a hour north of Daytona Beach, depending on traffic and where you are staying.

Where can I swim with dolphins near Daytona Beach?

You can swim with dolphins near Daytona Beach at St Augustine Dolphin Adventure, located just south of St. Augustine City. Guests can choose from the Dolphin Swim, Dolphin Encounter, or Dolphin Meet & Greet, depending on age, swimming ability, and how much interaction they want.

How far is St Augustine Dolphin Park from Daytona Beach?

The Dolphin Park is approximately 45 to 60 minutes by car from Daytona Beach. I recommend allowing extra travel time during weekends, Bike Week, NASCAR events, spring break, holidays, and other busy travel periods.

How much does it cost to swim with dolphins near Daytona Beach?

The current price for the Dolphin Swim is $210 per participant. The Dolphin Encounter is $175, and the Dolphin Meet & Greet is $85. Prices and program details can change, so I recommend checking the individual program page before making your reservation.

Can young children participate?

Yes, but the best program depends on the child’s age and height. For the Dolphin Swim, participants must be at least 48 inches tall.  The Dolphin Encounter is available for children age 3 and older. Younger and shorter children have additional adult participation requirements. The Dolphin Meet & Greet is a good choice for families with very young children who are not ready for an in-water dolphin program.

Is there a dolphin program for non-swimmers?

Yes. The Dolphin Encounter is a shallow-water experience, so you do not need to be a strong swimmer. If you prefer not to enter the water at all, the Dolphin Meet & Greet is a poolside option that still gives you the opportunity to get close to a bottlenose dolphin.

How long should I plan for the dolphin experience?

I recommend allowing approximately 2 to 2.5 hours for your total visit to the Dolphin Park. You should arrive about one hour before your scheduled program so you have enough time to park, check in, change if needed, and get ready for your dolphin experience.

How early should I reserve?

I recommend making your reservation at least 7 days in advance whenever possible. Dolphin programs can sell out during busy travel periods. Summer, spring break, holidays, NASCAR weekends, and Bike Week can be especially popular. If you have a specific date or time in mind, booking earlier gives you a better chance of getting the program you want.

Is St Augustine Dolphin Park a good day trip from Daytona Beach?

Yes. the St Augustine Beach Dolphin Park is an excellent day trip from Daytona Beach because you can combine your dolphin experience with a visit to historic St. Augustine. After your program, you can continue north to explore St. George Street, the historic district, the waterfront, restaurants, shops, and other attractions before returning to Daytona Beach.

John’s Tip: If you are planning a full day, I recommend choosing a morning or early afternoon dolphin program. That gives you plenty of time afterward to enjoy St. Augustine without feeling rushed.

What to Expect During Your Dolphin Experience

If this is your first time visiting at the Dolphin Park, knowing what to expect before you arrive can make your day much easier. Whether you choose the Dolphin Swim, Dolphin Encounter, or Dolphin Meet & Greet, I recommend planning ahead so you can relax and enjoy your time with the dolphins instead of worrying about what comes next.

Check-In and Arrival

Plan to arrive at the Dolphin Park approximately one hour before your scheduled dolphin program. This gives you enough time to park, check in, complete any necessary paperwork, use the changing facilities, and get ready for your experience. Your scheduled program time is important, so I do not recommend arriving at the last minute, especially if you are driving from Daytona Beach.

In-Water or Poolside Dolphin Time

Your experience will depend on which dolphin program you choose. The Dolphin Swim includes both shallow-water and deeper-water participation for guests who meet the requirements. The Dolphin Encounter takes place in shallow water and is a great option for younger children and non-swimmers. The Dolphin Meet & Greet is a poolside experience for guests who want to get close to a dolphin without getting into the water.

The trainers will guide you throughout your program and explain how to interact safely with the dolphins. Part of what makes the experience special is not only getting close to a bottlenose dolphin, but also learning about the animals, their behaviors, and the care they receive.

Park Admission Is Included

Admission to the St Augustine Dolphin park is included with the dolphin programs, so your visit is more than just the scheduled dolphin interaction. Depending on the park schedule, you may also have time to see additional marine life and educational presentations before or after your program.

I recommend allowing approximately 2 to 2.5 hours for your total visit. If you are continuing to St. Augustine afterward, you can easily make the dolphin experience the first part of a full day of sightseeing.

Changing Rooms and Showers

Changing areas and showers are available for guests participating in the dolphin programs. To save time, I usually recommend wearing your bathing suit underneath your clothes before you arrive. After your program, you can rinse off and change before continuing with the rest of your day.

What Should You Bring?

Keep it simple. Bring a swimsuit, towel, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and a change of clothes if you plan to continue into St. Augustine afterward. Towels are not something I would count on being provided, so bringing your own is important.

Also remember that jewelry, piercings, body dermals, cameras, hats, and other loose items cannot be worn during the dolphin program. It is much easier to leave unnecessary valuables at your hotel or safely stored before you participate.

John’s Tip: My best advice is to come already wearing your swimsuit, bring your own towel, and arrive early. If you are driving from Daytona Beach, give yourself extra travel time. You do not want traffic to make you late for an experience you may have been looking forward to for months. Once you are checked in and ready, forget about the clock, enjoy the dolphins, and take in the experience with your family.

Tips From John the Dolphin Expert

Hi, John the Dolphin Expert here. If you are planning a dolphin experience from Daytona Beach, a little preparation can make the day much easier.

If you are not sure whether the Dolphin Swim, Dolphin Encounter, or Dolphin Meet & Greet is right for your family, give me and the Dolphin World team a call. We can help you compare the programs and choose the best option for your ages, swimming ability, and vacation plans.

Call Dolphin World at 800-667-5524 to ask questions or reserve your dolphin experience.

I hope we can help make your Daytona Beach dolphin adventure one of the highlights of your Florida vacation.

— John the Dolphin Expert