Welcome to the Theater of the Sea FAQ! Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about planning your visit, participating in our unique animal interaction programs, and learning more about our marine and wildlife conservation efforts. Whether you’re looking to swim with dolphins, explore our lush tropical gardens, or enjoy exciting shows, this guide covers everything you need to make the most of your experience with us. Jump in to learn how to make your visit unforgettable!
What Makes the Swim with Dolphins at Theater of the Sea Unique?
The Swim with Dolphins experience combines interactive behaviors, such as dorsal tows, with snorkeling and diving underwater alongside dolphins. Visitors can also enjoy dolphin, sea lion, parrot, fish, and reptile shows, a bottomless boat ride, and access to a lagoon-side beach.
What Makes Theater of the Sea a Unique Marine Animal Facility?
Set within lush, tropical gardens and natural saltwater lagoons, Theater of the Sea is home to dolphins, sea lions, turtles, fish, alligators, and birds. It is a family-owned facility, founded in 1946, focuses on animal welfare and educational interactions, offering visitors up-close experiences with the resident animals.
What is Included in the Price of General Admission?
General admission includes access to dolphin, sea lion, and parrot shows, a fish and reptile tour, a bottomless boat ride, and the lagoon-side beach. Plan for 2-3 hours to enjoy all shows and activities. You can also shop at the unique gift store, dine at Papa’s Grill, and relax at the lagoon-side beach for sunbathing or snorkeling. Show Schedule
What is the Lagoon-Side Beach?
The lagoon-side beach, included with admission, offers a place to sunbathe, snorkel with tropical fish, and cool off. The area is equipped with lounges, showers, and changing rooms, and snacks and drinks are available for purchase.
Can I Bring My Pet?
Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome; however, please clean up after them. TOS does not provide kennels.
What Type of Pools Do the Animals Live In?
Our animals live in natural saltwater lagoons filled with water pumped directly from the Atlantic Ocean.
Is There Food and Drink Available Onsite?
Papa’s Grill serves a variety of foods, including pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and seafood, available from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. TOS does not serve alcohol, but vending machines with cold drinks are located throughout the property and at Papa’s Grill.
Are Outside Food and Drinks Allowed?
No outside food, drinks, or alcohol are permitted. Reusable water bottles are allowed but cannot be refilled onsite.
Is Theater of the Sea Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes, we are fully wheelchair accessible.
How Long Has Theater of the Sea Offered Animal Interaction Programs?
Theater of the Sea has been a pioneer in animal interaction programs since 1987, offering dolphin, sea lion, and stingray swims, as well as unique experiences like painting with dolphins and sea lions.
How Do I Sign Up for an Animal Interaction Program?
Reservations for animal interaction programs are a must and can be made online or by phone.
Are There Any Requirements for Animal Interaction Programs?
Please review our Animal Interaction Program Policies for specific age, and ability requirements. Go to our Florida Keys Swim with Dolphins page to see all the requirements.
Can Non-Participating Guests Watch the Programs?
Yes, non-participating guests can observe programs and take photos with general admission. However, only participants can interact with the animals.
Do You Offer Photo Services for Interactions?
Yes, our staff photographers are available to capture digital photos and videos during your interaction.
What Should I Bring for My Interaction Program?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and reef safe sunscreen. Additional gear like masks and fins may be available or can be brought with prior approval.
Are There Any Discounts Available?
5% Discounts are offered if you book early (more than 7 days in advance) either online with code:online5%off or call us (800) 667-5524.
What Are the Hours of Operation?
We are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Are Programs Affected by Weather?
Programs proceed in most weather conditions. In the event of lightning, activities are paused until the weather clears.
What Are the Animal Interaction Program Rules?
Please refer to the Animal Interaction Program Policies for detailed rules to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for both guests and animals.
How Do You Train the Animals?
Our animals are trained using positive reinforcement, and they participate voluntarily in programs. We do not use food deprivation or force in training.
We hope this FAQ has answered your questions and helped you feel ready for an amazing experience at Theater of the Sea. We look forward to welcoming you soon! If you have more questions, please call us at (800) 667-5524 or email dolphinworldresponse@gmail.com .
