Marineland Dolphin Adventure
Experience unforgettable dolphin encounters at Marineland, Florida's historic oceanarium, offering swims and interactions since 1938.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Marineland Dolphin Adventure
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience unforgettable dolphin encounters at Marineland, Florida's historic oceanarium, offering swims and interactions since 1938.
"A magical experience! The staff's attention is excellent and the dolphins are so lovely and well-trained."
🎯 Book Dolphin Swims Early
Popular dolphin swims sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
🌊 Ocean Water Tanks
Enjoy natural ocean water in the tanks, creating a realistic marine environment for the dolphins. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swim with Dolphins
Interaction Pools
Experience the thrill of swimming alongside these intelligent marine mammals in an unforgettable encounter.
Dolphin Encounter Program
Shallow Water Areas
Get up close and personal with dolphins, learning their behaviors and interacting in a shallow water setting.
Trainer For A Day
Behind-the-Scenes
Shadow marine mammal specialists and gain insight into the daily life of training and caring for dolphins.
Historic Oceanarium
Main Facility
Explore the rich history of this pioneering marine life attraction, open since 1938.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Dolphin Encounter in Advance
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Dolphin Swims Early
Popular dolphin swims sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot.
🌊 Ocean Water Tanks
Enjoy natural ocean water in the tanks, creating a realistic marine environment for the dolphins. :ocean:
📸 Capture the Memories
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos, but be mindful of where you can use them during interactions. :iphone:
⏳ Check Showtimes
Don't miss out on dolphin shows or training demonstrations; check the schedule upon arrival. :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Dolphin Swims Early
Popular dolphin swims sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot.
🌊 Ocean Water Tanks
Enjoy natural ocean water in the tanks, creating a realistic marine environment for the dolphins. :ocean:
📸 Capture the Memories
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos, but be mindful of where you can use them during interactions. :iphone:
⏳ Check Showtimes
Don't miss out on dolphin shows or training demonstrations; check the schedule upon arrival. :clock:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the park, so wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Marineland Dolphin Adventure as a magical and charming experience, highlighting the exceptional customer service and the apparent happiness and well-trained nature of the dolphins. Many appreciate the intimate, old Florida feel and the historical significance of the park, making it a highly recommended destination for dolphin encounters.
"A magical experience! From the very first call, the customer service team helped me book a last-minute birthday surprise for my son. The prices are very accessible compared to other places, and we’re even considering buying the annual pass. On top of that, the staff’s attention is excellent — so kind and attentive. And last but not least, the dolphins are so lovely, cute, and well-trained. This is a must-do experience for anyone in Florida who hasn’t swum with or encountered dolphins yet. Extremely, highly recommended!"
Alexa Monasterio
"We absolutely loved our visit. It's a charming, old Florida park with top notch dolphin encounters. It feels intimate and real. All the employees seem to love their jobs and the dolphins look happy and well cared for. (Note: it's ocean water in the tanks so it's very natural.) Excellent customer service. Watch your timing if you go late in the day; you don't want to miss the tour, nor dolphin show."
Oh hey Jude Strib
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a cool experience!
I did the dolphin encounter at Marineland and absolutely loved it! The dolphins were amazing, and the trainers were super friendly and knowledgeable. It’s a small, laid-back park but packed with charm and so much history. You can really tell it’s one of the oldest marine parks around, which just adds to the experience. Perfect little day trip if you’re in the St. Augustine area — I’d definitely recommend it, especially for animal lovers!"
Trisha Linenfelser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marineland Dolphin Adventure is located at 9600 N Ocean Shore Blvd, St. Augustine, FL. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Many visitors drive from nearby cities like St. Augustine or Jacksonville.
Yes, Marineland Dolphin Adventure is situated on the coast, a short drive north of historic St. Augustine, Florida. It's a popular day trip destination for those visiting the area.
Yes, there are several hotels near Marineland Dolphin Adventure, particularly in the St. Augustine area. Searching for 'hotels near Marineland Dolphin Adventure' will provide numerous options for various budgets.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally available in the St. Augustine area, and can be used to reach Marineland Dolphin Adventure. It's advisable to check availability in the specific location.
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Marineland Dolphin Adventure, especially if you're coming from St. Augustine or other parts of Florida. This allows for flexibility in your schedule.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Marineland Dolphin Adventure offers various programs with different price points, from general admission to interactive experiences like swimming with dolphins. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and package details.
Look for 'Marineland Dolphin Adventure coupon' or 'Marineland Dolphin Adventure discount' online. Sometimes, Florida resident discounts or special promotions are available. Booking in advance might also offer savings.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book the 'swim with dolphins' experience well in advance, as these popular programs often sell out.
The Dolphin Encounter typically includes shallow water interaction with a dolphin, where you can learn about their behavior and participate in simple training gestures.
While not always advertised, it's worth checking the Marineland Dolphin Adventure website or contacting them directly about potential 'Marineland Florida resident discount' offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can participate in dolphin encounters, swim with dolphins, learn about marine life, explore the historic oceanarium, and even shadow trainers.
Yes, Marineland offers experiences for various ages, from general admission to interactive programs. The Dolphin Encounter is suitable for most ages, while swimming programs may have age restrictions.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but there might be restrictions during specific interactive programs for safety and to ensure the animals' well-being. :iphone:
This immersive program allows you to spend several hours with trainers, assisting with daily tasks like feeding and cleaning, and participating in dolphin training sessions.
Visitors frequently comment on how happy and well-cared-for the dolphins appear, noting the strong bonds between trainers and animals. The use of ocean water also contributes to a natural environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Marineland Dolphin Adventure typically offers food and beverage options for visitors. It's advisable to check their website for current offerings or consider bringing your own snacks.
While specific policies can vary, many attractions allow guests to bring their own non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. It's best to confirm Marineland's policy before your visit.
Expect typical park fare such as sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. The focus is on providing convenient options for visitors during their day at the attraction.
Yes, Marineland Dolphin Adventure usually has a cafe or snack bar on-site where visitors can purchase refreshments and light meals.
Information on specific dietary options is best obtained directly from Marineland. Standard park offerings may include salads or fruit, but dedicated vegetarian/vegan meals might be limited.
📸 📸 Photography
The interaction pools with dolphins, the historic architecture of the oceanarium, and the oceanfront views offer great photo opportunities. Capture moments during your dolphin encounters!
Photography during the actual 'swim with dolphins' experience might be restricted to protect the animals and ensure participant safety. Check with staff for guidelines.
Professional photography equipment might require special permission. For personal use, standard cameras and smartphones are generally permitted in designated areas.
Marineland may have photographers available to capture your interaction moments, which you can often purchase afterward. This is a great option if you want to be fully present.
Most shared photos feature close-ups of dolphins, people interacting with them in the water, and scenic shots of the historic oceanarium and coastline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many families rave about the intimate feel of the park, making it less overwhelming than larger attractions. Consider booking a swim with dolphins experience for older children or teens who are strong swimmers and eager for a more adventurous encounter.
The park's historic charm and the visible care for the animals also provide educational opportunities about marine life and conservation. Remember to check age and height restrictions for specific programs when booking. 💰 Budget Travelers
General admission might be a more budget-friendly option if you want to see the dolphins and learn about them without participating in a paid interaction. Pack your own snacks and drinks to save on food costs, and focus on enjoying the historic atmosphere and observing the dolphins from designated viewing areas.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The historic setting of Marineland also provides a charming backdrop for a day trip, offering a blend of adventure and nostalgia. Consider booking a Dolphin Encounter for a shared, hands-on experience that fosters connection. Enjoy the scenic oceanfront location and the unique atmosphere of this historic attraction for a special outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Charm of Marineland
+1The park's longevity is a testament to its commitment to marine research and conservation. Walking through Marineland, you're not just visiting an attraction; you're stepping into a piece of history. This historical aspect adds a layer of depth to the experience, making it more than just a day of animal encounters. It's a chance to connect with the evolution of marine life exhibition and conservation efforts.
Visitors often remark on this unique atmosphere, noting how the park feels authentic and less commercialized than some other attractions. The blend of historical significance and engaging dolphin programs makes Marineland a distinctive destination for those seeking a meaningful and memorable experience.
Understanding Dolphin Interaction Programs
For a more immersive experience, the Swim with Dolphins program allows participants to enter deeper water and swim alongside these incredible animals. This is often described as a truly magical and unforgettable moment. It's crucial to book these programs in advance as they are highly sought after and have limited availability.
+1Beyond direct interaction, the Trainer For A Day program offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at marine mammal training and care. Participants get to shadow experienced trainers, assist with daily tasks, and gain a deeper understanding of the dedication involved in working with marine life. This program is ideal for aspiring marine biologists or anyone curious about the daily operations of a marine facility.
The Well-being of Marineland's Dolphins
The use of ocean water in the dolphin habitats is often highlighted as a key factor in creating a natural and healthy environment. This approach ensures that the dolphins are in conditions that closely mimic their natural marine surroundings, which is crucial for their health and behavior.
Many guests feel reassured by the visible care and attention the dolphins receive, noting that the animals seem engaged and responsive during interactions. This perception of ethical treatment and a commitment to animal welfare is a significant draw for visitors who prioritize responsible tourism.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit