Staying in Jacksonville Beach and looking for a place to swim with dolphins? The closest full dolphin interaction programs are offered at Marineland in the St. Augustine area, approximately one hour south of Jacksonville Beach. Guests can choose a deep-water Dolphin Swim, a shallow-water Dolphin Encounter or a dry-side Dolphin Meet and Greet.
Dolphin World can help you compare the programs, check availability and make a reservation. Book online or call a Dolphin Expert at 800-667-5524.
If you’ve never been to Jacksonville Beach, you’re in for a wonderful surprise. Located along Florida’s “First Coast,” Jacksonville Beach is known for its vast stretches of pristine beach, a newly redesigned golf course, famous fishing pier and a ton of fun water activities for you and your family can enjoy. There are also a lot of delicious eateries and great shopping destinations if your idea of thrills is a seafood lunch followed by bargain hunting.
One of the things Jacksonville Beach is known for are the dolphins that swim and frolic just outside the surf life. Visitors and native residents are charmed almost daily to witness these creatures play. But it’s a bit hard to swim with them when they are out beyond the surf line. But we know someplace where you can easily and safely swim with dolphins, and that’s at Marineland in St. Augustine, just a short drive away.
Keep reading to learn about the wonderful dolphin swim programs. We’ll also give you some suggestions on accommodations and other activities you and your family may enjoy.
What is it about dolphins that allows them to easily capture the hearts and imaginations of so many people? Is it their playfulness? Their acrobatic skills? Or maybe their high intelligence that makes us want to get close to them? Probably a combination of all of these traits.
I’ve had the opportunity (and privilege) to swim with dolphins St Augustine and interact with them, and I can tell you, they really are magical animals. If you think interacting with dogs and cats is a good time (and it is!), just WAIT until you get face-to-face with dolphins. They are incredibly smart – perhaps smarter than any person you know, and so funny. It’s like they are trying to make you laugh.
If you and your family want to experience the magic yourselves, then I encourage you to visit Marineland in St. Augustine. Just one hour south from Jacksonville Beach, the facility is easy to get to and makes the perfect daytrip.
Here are some of the programs you and your family can enjoy at the Marineland facility:
| Program | Starting Price | Requirement | Water Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dolphin Swim | $210 | Minimum height of 48 inches | Deep water | Stronger swimmers and adventurous guests |
| Dolphin Encounter | $175 | Ages 3 and older | Shallow water | Families and non-swimmers |
| Dolphin Meet and Greet | $85 | Most ages | No swimming | Young children and observers |
Prices and schedules are subject to change.
The St. Augustine Dolphin Swim is an exciting, interactive experience that gives you and your family the opportunity to meet dolphins up close. Your program begins with a brief educational orientation covering dolphin behavior, safety guidelines, and what to expect during your experience. You will also have time to ask the trainers questions before entering the water.
During the program, you will participate in trainer-led shallow- and deep-water interactions with the dolphins. Activities may include touching, hugging, and other memorable dolphin behaviors. Each interaction is designed to be fun, educational, and personal.
The Dolphin Swim costs approximately $210 per participant, and park admission is included. Participants must be at least 48 inches tall. Guests between 48 and 54 inches tall must participate with a paid adult who is at least 18 years old, while guests who are 54 inches or taller may participate without an adult in the water.
Plan to check in approximately one hour before your scheduled program time. Prices, schedules, and dolphin activities are subject to change.
The St. Augustine Dolphin Encounter is a wonderful option for families with younger children, non-swimmers, and anyone who prefers a comfortable shallow-water experience. The program is available for guests ages 3 and older and costs approximately $175 per participant.
During the experience, you will stand on a submerged underwater platform while a trainer guides you through several up-close dolphin interactions. You may have opportunities to touch, feed, and participate in memorable dolphin behaviors without needing to swim in deep water.
This program is especially suitable for younger children and guests who are not strong swimmers but still want a personal and exciting dolphin experience. Whichever program you choose, your family can look forward to a fun and unforgettable day with the dolphins.
Prices, schedules, and dolphin activities are subject to change.
The St. Augustine Dolphin Meet and Greet is a great choice for guests who want to meet a dolphin without entering the water. This dry-side program gives you the opportunity to interact with a dolphin from the pool’s edge while a trainer guides you through the experience.
At approximately $85 per participant, the Meet and Greet is ideal for younger children, families, and guests who prefer to stay dry while still enjoying an up-close dolphin interaction.
Prices and schedules are subject to change.
Marineland isn’t just a wildlife facility, it’s a rich part of Florida history. Not only has Marineland made significant contributions to marine science and conservatism, they, and their dolphins, have also appeared in many Hollywood films over the past 80 years.
This park has been around since 1938, so you could say these guys know what they’re doing! They quickly became known as the world’s very first oceanarium. While the facility was opened with the idea of providing Hollywood film-makers a place to shoot underwater footage for motion pictures, it quickly became a place where sea life was cared for and valued, and where people can learn about some of the world’s most amazing creatures.
Today, this modern 1.3 million-gallon facility continues to grow as a leader in marine conservation, animal care and community education.
While the dolphin interactive programs are some of the most popular, the facility also offers some other fun activities you may be interested in:
Planning a birthday celebration near Jacksonville city or Jacksonville Beach? Make the day unforgettable with a dolphin experience in St. Augustine, located about an hour south of Jacksonville City or Beach. Children, teenagers, adults, families, and small groups can choose from the Dolphin Swim, shallow-water Dolphin Encounter, or dry-side Dolphin Meet and Greet. A premade Happy Birthday buoy can also be delivered by a dolphin during the program for an additional $50 and includes one complimentary printed photo. Groups larger than 10 participants should call Dolphin World at 800-667-5524 so program space and supervision requirements can be coordinated.
Celebrating a wedding anniversary or planning a one-of-a-kind engagement? Surprise your loved one with a dolphin-delivered Happy Anniversary or Will You Marry Me? buoy during the experience. The buoy should be requested at least 24 hours in advance and is subject to availability. For proposals, present the engagement ring after the dolphin program on land because jewelry is not permitted in the dolphin interaction area. It is a memorable day-trip idea for Jacksonville couples looking for something more personal than a traditional dinner or beach outing.
Learn More About Dolphin Birthday, Anniversary and Engagement Celebrations
Marineland Dolphin Adventure is an easy day trip from Jacksonville Beach. Starting near the Jacksonville Beach Pier, visitors can choose a scenic coastal drive along A1A or a faster inland route using J. Turner Butler Boulevard and I-95. Drive times can vary with traffic, construction, weather, and busy beach weekends.
Marineland Dolphin Adventure is approximately 48 to 55 miles south of the Jacksonville Beach Pier, depending on the route you choose. Most visitors should plan for about one hour to one hour and 20 minutes of driving time.
For a more relaxing and scenic drive, follow State Road A1A south from Jacksonville Beach through Ponte Vedra Beach, Vilano Beach, St. Augustine Beach, Crescent Beach, and toward Marineland. This route offers coastal scenery and passes several beach communities, but it may take longer because of traffic lights, lower speed limits, pedestrians, and local beach traffic.
The A1A route is a good choice for families who want to make the drive part of their Jacksonville Beach vacation experience. Allow approximately one hour and 15 minutes to one hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Visitors who prefer the faster route can take J. Turner Butler Boulevard west from Jacksonville Beach to I-95 South. Continue south toward St. Augustine, then use the appropriate exit to connect with local roads leading east to A1A and Marineland.
Under normal traffic conditions, this route usually takes approximately one hour to one hour and 15 minutes. Although I-95 is often faster, travel times can increase during weekday rush hours, holiday weekends, accidents, or road construction.
Plan to leave Jacksonville Beach at least two hours before your scheduled dolphin program. This allows approximately one hour for driving, extra time for unexpected traffic, and the required early arrival at Marineland.
For example, if your dolphin program begins at 10:15 a.m., you should consider leaving the Jacksonville Beach Pier area by approximately 8:00 a.m. Leaving a little earlier is always better than risking a late arrival.
Marineland requires dolphin-program participants to arrive at least 60 minutes before their scheduled program time. This gives you time to park, check in, complete any required paperwork, change clothes, remove jewelry, and attend the educational and safety orientation.
Dolphin programs cannot be delayed for late arrivals, and guests who arrive late may not be allowed to participate. Be sure to confirm the exact check-in time shown on your reservation.
FREE Parking is available at Marineland Dolphin Adventure near the main entrance. After parking, bring your reservation information and follow the signs to the check-in area. The facility is located at:
Marineland Dolphin AdventureOn weekdays, allow extra time when leaving Jacksonville Beach during the morning commuting period. Traffic can become heavier on J. Turner Butler Boulevard, I-95, and roads around St. Augustine. Afternoon traffic may also increase when returning toward Jacksonville.
For morning dolphin programs, leaving before the busiest commuter traffic is usually the safest plan. Check current road conditions before departing and add at least 15 to 30 minutes to your expected drive.
Weekend traffic is often busiest during spring break, summer, holiday weekends, special events, and warm beach days. The A1A route may experience slower traffic near Ponte Vedra Beach, Vilano Beach, downtown St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, and Crescent Beach.
If you are traveling on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, leave Jacksonville Beach earlier than normal. A traffic delay should never cause you to miss the required check-in time for your dolphin experience.
Mileage and travel times are approximate and may change due to your starting point, traffic, construction, weather, and road conditions.
These carefully selected hotels provide convenient accommodations for families and couples planning to swim with dolphins at Marineland. The list begins with hotels near the Jacksonville Beach Pier and continues south through Ponte Vedra Beach and St. Augustine Beach. Drive times are approximate and can vary because of traffic, weather, construction, and seasonal beach activity.
Address: 11 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Hotel category: Mid-range, full-service beachfront hotel
Location: Oceanfront
Parking: On-site self-parking is available for an additional nightly fee. Parking rates are subject to change.
Approximate drive to Marineland: 55 to 70 minutes
Four Points by Sheraton is a convenient choice for visitors who want to stay close to the Jacksonville Beach Pier, restaurants, and local attractions. Its oceanfront setting works well for couples seeking a beach getaway, while the suite-style accommodations and central location make it practical for families taking a day trip to the St. Augustine dolphin programs.
Address: 465 North 1st Street, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Hotel category: Upper-mid-range, all-suite hotel
Location: Oceanfront
Parking: On-site parking is available for approximately $30 per night, with limited street parking nearby. Rates are subject to change.
Approximate drive to Marineland: 55 to 70 minutes
SpringHill Suites is especially suitable for families because its larger suite-style rooms provide additional space for relaxing after a full day at the beach or Marineland. Couples may also enjoy the oceanfront location, modern accommodations, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to Jacksonville Beach restaurants and entertainment.
Address: 715 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Hotel category: Upscale beach resort
Location: Oceanfront
Parking: Overnight parking is valet-only and requires an additional daily fee. Rates vary according to vehicle size and are subject to change.
Approximate drive to Marineland: 55 to 70 minutes
Margaritaville Beach Hotel is a fun choice for couples and families who want a lively resort atmosphere close to the Jacksonville Beach Pier. Guests can enjoy ocean views, direct beach access, dining, and a vacation-style setting while remaining within comfortable day-trip distance of the Marineland dolphin programs.
Address: 200 Ponte Vedra Boulevard, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Hotel category: Luxury oceanfront resort
Location: Oceanfront
Parking: Self-parking is included with the resort fee, and complimentary valet service may also be available. Confirm current terms when reserving.
Approximate drive to Marineland: 50 to 65 minutes
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is a strong choice for couples celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or engagement because it offers an upscale coastal setting, spa services, golf, dining, and beach access. Families can also enjoy the resort’s recreational amenities and spacious property before taking the scenic drive south to Marineland.
Address: 607 Ponte Vedra Boulevard, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Hotel category: Luxury boutique beach resort
Location: Oceanfront
Parking: Self-parking is included with the resort fee, and complimentary valet service may be offered. Guests should confirm current parking arrangements before arrival.
Approximate drive to Marineland: 45 to 60 minutes
The Lodge & Club offers a quieter and more intimate atmosphere than many larger resorts. It is particularly appealing to couples looking for a romantic oceanfront stay, but its pools, beach access, dining, and family-friendly recreation also make it suitable for parents traveling with children.
Address: 860 A1A Beach Boulevard, St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080
Hotel category: Mid-range beachfront resort
Location: Oceanfront
Parking: Complimentary on-site self-parking is available in front of and alongside the hotel. A parking pass is provided at check-in.
Approximate drive to Marineland: 20 to 30 minutes
Guy Harvey Resort is one of the most convenient choices for families visiting Marineland because it combines direct beach access, a swimming pool, casual dining, and a considerably shorter drive to the dolphin programs. Couples may also appreciate the relaxed beach atmosphere and convenient access to historic St. Augustine.
Address: 300 A1A Beach Boulevard, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Hotel category: Upscale, all-suite oceanfront resort
Location: Oceanfront
Parking: Valet parking is required and costs approximately $42 per night. Self-parking is not currently available, and rates are subject to change.
Approximate drive to Marineland: 25 to 35 minutes
Embassy Suites is an excellent option for families who value extra space, separate sleeping and living areas, complimentary breakfast, and convenient resort amenities. Couples can enjoy the oceanfront setting, pool area, and easy access to St. Augustine Beach, while the shorter trip to Marineland helps create a more relaxed dolphin-program day.
Hotel amenities, parking policies, fees, addresses, and travel times are subject to change. Contact the hotel directly before booking to confirm current information.
Jacksonville Beach and St. Augustine are both good places to stay when planning a dolphin experience at Marineland. The right choice depends on whether you want the dolphin program to be one enjoyable day trip during a Jacksonville vacation or the main attraction of your getaway.
Jacksonville Beach is a good choice when you want a traditional beach vacation with easy access to the restaurants, nightlife, shopping, sports, and attractions of the greater Jacksonville area. Marineland is close enough for a comfortable day trip, while Jacksonville Beach gives you plenty to enjoy during the rest of your vacation.
Jacksonville Beach offers a wide stretch of Atlantic shoreline for swimming, surfing, walking, and relaxing in the sun. The Jacksonville Beach Pier is also a popular place for fishing, sightseeing, and enjoying ocean views. Staying near the pier makes it easy to walk to restaurants, hotels, and entertainment.
A Jacksonville Beach hotel gives you convenient access to downtown Jacksonville, shopping areas, museums, sporting events, parks, waterways, and family attractions. This works well for visitors who want a beach vacation without being limited to activities along the ocean.
Jacksonville Beach has a lively dining and entertainment district near the pier. Visitors can enjoy seafood, casual restaurants, beach bars, live music, dancing, and late-night entertainment without traveling far from many oceanfront hotels.
Address: 200 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Surfer The Bar combines a casual surf-inspired atmosphere with live music, DJs, karaoke, dancing, and special events. Its location near the Jacksonville Beach Pier makes it convenient for visitors staying at nearby oceanfront hotels. Check the current event schedule and admission requirements before visiting.
Address: 514 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Lynch’s Irish Pub is a longtime Jacksonville Beach gathering place offering a full-service bar, pub-style food, and live entertainment. It is a good choice for visitors who prefer a casual night out with music instead of a formal nightclub atmosphere. The venue commonly stays open late, but entertainment schedules can vary.
Address: 185 3rd Avenue North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
The Ritz Lounge is a classic Jacksonville Beach nightlife spot that has served the local community since 1945. It offers a large cocktail selection, entertainment, and a lively late-night atmosphere. Guests must be at least 21 years old and present a valid government-issued ID to enter.
Hours, entertainment schedules, cover charges, and admission policies are subject to change. Contact each venue or check its official website before visiting. Please drink responsibly and use a designated driver or rideshare service.
Day trips are fun when the destination is not too far away, and Marineland is close enough to visit comfortably from Jacksonville Beach. Most visitors can reach the dolphin facility in approximately one hour to one hour and 20 minutes, depending on the route and traffic.
You can leave Jacksonville Beach in the morning, enjoy your dolphin program, have lunch near Marineland or St. Augustine, and return to your Jacksonville Beach hotel later in the day. Remember that participants should check in approximately one hour before their scheduled dolphin program, so leave extra time for traffic.
Staying near St. Augustine may be the better choice when swimming with dolphins is the main reason for your trip. A hotel in St. Augustine Beach, Crescent Beach, or near Marineland reduces your driving time and makes the morning of your dolphin experience more relaxing.
This option is especially helpful when the dolphin program is something you have wanted to do for a long time or when you may return for another dolphin activity during the same vacation. Staying nearby gives you more flexibility and reduces the chance that traffic will interfere with your scheduled check-in time.
St. Augustine was founded by the Spanish in 1565 and is recognized as the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental United States. Its historic district includes narrow streets, colonial buildings, museums, shops, restaurants, and waterfront views.
One of the city’s most important attractions is the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. This large Spanish fort overlooks Matanzas Bay and is the oldest surviving masonry fortification in the continental United States. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about the Spanish, British, and American periods of St. Augustine’s history.
A St. Augustine-area hotel is a practical choice when you reserve an early dolphin program. Instead of beginning your morning with a longer drive from Jacksonville Beach, you can enjoy a shorter trip to Marineland and arrive for check-in with less stress.
This schedule works particularly well for visitors who like to complete their main activities early. After the dolphin experience, you can have lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing at St. Augustine Beach, Crescent Beach, or another nearby coastal area.
Some travelers simply do not enjoy long drives while on vacation. Staying in St. Augustine Beach or farther south along A1A can reduce the trip to Marineland to approximately 20 to 35 minutes, depending on the hotel and traffic.
The shorter drive can be especially valuable for families with young children, guests with an early check-in time, and visitors who want the dolphin experience to be the most important part of their vacation day.
Choose Jacksonville Beach when you want a complete Jacksonville-area vacation with beaches, restaurants, nightlife, and the dolphin program as a fun day trip. Choose St. Augustine when swimming with dolphins is your top priority, you want a shorter drive, or you would like to combine the experience with historic attractions and a relaxing afternoon at the beach.
Whichever location you choose, reserve your dolphin program in advance and allow plenty of time to arrive for the required check-in.
The closest full dolphin interaction programs to Jacksonville Beach are offered at Marineland in the St. Augustine area. Guests can choose from the deep-water Dolphin Swim, the shallow-water Dolphin Encounter, or the dry-side Dolphin Meet and Greet.
Marineland is approximately 48 to 55 miles south of the Jacksonville Beach Pier, depending on the route. Most visitors should allow about one hour to one hour and 20 minutes of driving time, with additional time during busy weekends, holidays, and weekday traffic.
No, there is not currently a dolphin swim facility located directly in Jacksonville Beach. The nearest option is Marineland near St. Augustine, which makes it a comfortable day trip for families and couples staying in the Jacksonville Beach area.
The St. Augustine Dolphin Swim starts at approximately $210 per participant. The shallow-water Dolphin Encounter starts at approximately $175 per participant, while the dry-side Dolphin Meet and Greet starts at approximately $85 per participant.
Prices and schedules are subject to change.
The Dolphin Swim requires participants to be at least 48 inches tall. Guests between 48 and 54 inches tall must participate with a paid adult who is at least 18 years old. Guests who are 54 inches or taller may participate without an adult in the water.
The Dolphin Encounter is available for guests ages three and older. Younger children and guests below the required height may need to participate with a paid adult, depending on the current program rules.
Yes. The Dolphin Encounter is the best option for non-swimmers and guests who are not comfortable in deep water. Participants stand on a submerged platform in shallow water while enjoying trainer-guided dolphin interactions.
Guests who prefer not to enter the water can choose the Dolphin Meet and Greet, which takes place from the poolside area.
It is best to reserve at least one week in advance, especially during summer, spring break, holiday weekends, and school vacations. Dolphin programs have limited group sizes, and popular morning and midday times can sell out.
Same-day reservations may occasionally be available, but they should not be expected. Booking early gives you the best selection of dates and program times.
Yes. General park admission is included with the in-water dolphin programs. Guests can also enjoy the available marine-life exhibits and presentations during their visit. Confirm the current admission benefits shown on your reservation before arriving.
Yes. Family members and friends may purchase an observer admission when available. Observers can watch the dolphin program from the designated viewing area, but they do not enter the water or participate in the interactions.
Observer space may be limited, so it is best to add observer tickets when making your reservation.
Dolphin programs normally operate rain or shine. Light or moderate rain usually does not cancel the activity. If lightning or severe weather is nearby, the program may be delayed until conditions are safe.
If the facility closes or cancels the program because of unsafe weather, guests may be offered a reschedule or refund according to the facility’s current policy. Always check your email, text messages, and reservation details before leaving Jacksonville Beach.
Plan to spend approximately 2 to 2½ hours at Marineland for your complete dolphin experience. This includes your required early check-in, educational and safety orientation, the dolphin program itself, time to change before or after the activity, and some additional time to enjoy the park and marine-life exhibits. We recommend keeping your schedule flexible so you do not feel rushed, especially if you are driving from Jacksonville Beach.
My name is John the Dolphin Expert, and I have been involved in the marine-animal industry for more than 30 years. During that time, I have helped families, couples, and groups choose dolphin programs that fit their ages, swimming abilities, travel plans, and expectations.
I am a strong supporter of professionally managed marine-life facilities when the animals receive excellent care and the public is given meaningful education. I believe responsible dolphin care and public education can work together. When guests have the opportunity to see dolphins up close, learn about their behavior, and understand the challenges they face in the ocean, it can inspire greater respect for dolphins and stronger efforts to protect wild populations.
When you book through Dolphin World, you are not simply choosing an activity from a website. You have access to experienced help from people who understand the different programs, participation requirements, travel times, and reservation process. We can help you compare the Dolphin Swim, Dolphin Encounter, and Dolphin Meet and Greet so you can select the best experience for your family.
If you have any questions or need help planning your visit, please call or email us at Dolphin World. Thank you for considering us for your dolphin experience.
John the Dolphin Expert
Dolphin World
Phone: 800-667-5524
Email: dolphinworldresponse@gmail.com
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