Swim with Dolphins in Islamorada, Florida Keys
Dolphin Swim Age 8+
Make swimming with dolphins one of the highlights of your Florida Keys vacation. The Dolphin Swim in Islamorada includes a 20 to 30 minute interactive experience in a natural saltwater lagoon, with hands-on dolphin behaviors, swimming in deep water and a dolphin ride. Your visit also includes marine animal shows, exhibits, and private tropical beach where you can hand-feed colorful fish, giving you few hours to enjoy the park before or after your dolphin program.
Ready to swim with dolphins in Islamorada? Check your vacation dates before spaces fill.
BOOK NOW HIGH SEASON – FROM $255
February 15, 2026 to February 22, March 8 to April 20, June 4 to August 16, November 22 to November 30, December 20, 2026 to January 4, 2027
BOOK NOW LOW SEASON – FROM $235
January 6, 2026 to February 14, February 23 to March 7, April 21 to June 3, August 17 to November 21, December 1 to December 19, 2026
Islamorada Dolphin Swim: Experience Highlights
A Deep-Water Dolphin Swim Adventure:
-
- Enjoy exciting dolphin interactions, including a dorsal fin ride or foot push or belly ride.
- Approximately 20–30 minutes interacting with a dolphin.
- Perfect for confident swimmers looking for the full deep-water Dolphin Swim experience.
- Park shows, exhibits, and beach access during the same visit.
Want a shallow-water experience? Compare the Islamorada Dolphin Encounter
Pricing and Availability
Dolphin Swim Teenager (8 – 17 years old)$235**
Adult Observer (10 years +)$50*
Child Observer (3 – 9 years old)$33*
Baby Observer (0-2 years old) FREE
*All tickets include 7.5% sales tax & 3% Theater of the Sea Ticketing Fee. This fee is imposed by the park and can not be waived.
**HIGH SEASON RATE is from February 15, 2026 to February 22, March 8 to April 20, June 4 to August 16, November 22 to November 30, December 20, 2026 to January 4, 2027. These dates include a $20 per participant seasonal surcharge, except for December 20 through January 4, when the surcharge increases to $40 per participant.
Florida Keys – Upper Keys (Islamorada)
Important Advice for Dolphin Lovers: Our Dolphin Swim Islamorada program is a popular Florida Keys adventure, so book early to secure your preferred date and time! Advance reservations are required, and walk-ins are not accepted. For your convenience, we accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Bitcoin. Don’t miss your chance to swim with dolphins in paradise—reserve your spot today!
Details
Discover the excitement of our Florida Keys Dolphin Swim in beautiful Islamorada! This unforgettable half-day adventure brings you face-to-face with friendly bottlenose dolphins as you swim, play, and interact in a natural saltwater lagoon. Enjoy exciting dolphin activities, explore fascinating marine animal shows and exhibits, and soak up the tropical beauty of the Florida Keys. After your swim, relax and enjoy everything this beautiful 17-acre marine park has to offer. It’s the perfect adventure for creating lasting memories with your family and friends!
Inclusions:
- A 20 to 30 minute deep water (20 Feet / 6 meters) experience including touching, petting and doing tricks with a dolphin. You’ll also swim into deeper water for more interactions and will get a dolphin ride across the pool with a dorsal fin ride or a foot push with the dolphin(s). Plus, an unique chance to free swim and snorkel with them one on one.
- Fins on your feet are require while in the water with the dolphins. Fins will be provided at no cost (all sizes).
- You need to be able to swim with fins on in this program.
- A life jackets can be provided at no cost. Wet Suit Rental $10
- You must be comfortable treading in deep water without a life jacket while using fins. Life jackets may affect content of Deep Water Dolphin Swim.
- Guests should bring their own bathing suits and towels.
- Outdoor Showers and Changing rooms available.
- Each Dolphin session is unique, based upon the guests and dolphins.
- This is a 3 – 4 hours of Activities, with Dolphin Swim, and Animal Shows/Animal Exhibits/& Beach,
- Observer gets to watch the dolphin interaction & shows/exhibits/& beach use.
- All Participants must be 8 years old and up.
- Any Participant within 8 – 17 years old, must have a paid Adult observer or participant (An Adult is anyone 18 years 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 dolphin 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.
Available:
The time slots available includes a guaranteed 20 minute dolphin program, dolphin shows, sea lion show, and parrot shows, 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 can be a 1/2 day of activities.
High Season Dates:
These dates include a $20 per participant seasonal surcharge, except for December 20 through January 4, when the surcharge increases to $40 per participant.
- February 15, 2026 to February 22, March 8 to April 20, June 4 to August 16, November 22 to November 30, December 20, 2026 to January 4, 2027
Location:
The Dolphin 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. <Click Here for a Map of Area>
- Park Hours: 9:15am to 5pm.
- 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.
- Private tropical beach where guests can relax in the sun, cool off with a refreshing dip, swim and dive among colorful tropical fish, or enjoy a cold beer or glass of wine available for purchase at the Tiki Bar.
John’s Insider Tip:
One of the things I really like about the Islamorada marine animal park is that your experience doesn’t end when your animal interaction is over!
You can stay and enjoy the park, including the spectacular dolphin shows, fun and interactive sea lion shows, and the always-popular parrot show.
Whether you book a dolphin swim, sea lion swim, or another animal encounter, take advantage of your time at the park. You’re already there, so why
rush away?
My recommendation: Plan on spending at least 3 to 4 hours so you have plenty of time to enjoy your animal interaction, watch the shows, explore the park, and have some fun!
See Your Park Fun:
Note:
Driving Times: These times are approximate from the location listed below to Key Largo area, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Click the Map of the Area link above to get exact driving time from your hotel or residence. You need to provide your own transportation.
- 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
Need Transportation?
The best way to explore the Florida Keys is by car. The Keys stretch about 100 miles from Key Largo to Key West, with beautiful islands, bridges, beaches, restaurants, and attractions along the way. Having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to stop, explore, and enjoy the drive at your own pace.
Need a rental car from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Key West?
Click Here to Rent a Car for Any Budget.
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 are allowed at the trainer’s discretion.
Online Discounts
Save Money and make your reservation online. In order to get any of these discounts, you must type the Online Discount Promotional Code in the discount code box of the reservation form, the payment page. These online promotions can not be combined with any previous orders or discounts. These discounts are for online orders only and the discounts will NOT be offered or honored over the phone with a Dolphin World representative.
Dolphin World Online Promotions:
- Make your reservation online in advance and get 2.5% off each participant. CODE: flakeysbookingspecial
- Get 5% off if you make your reservation 7 days or more in advance, CODE: online5%off
Enjoy the Famous Florida Keys Dolphin Belly Ride Across the Water!
Redemption Instructions
Upon arrival, please proceed to check-in window, present your dolphin program confirmation number or your electronic voucher, which you will receive after making your reservation. You will get a an Email and Text Ticket sent to you once you make a reservation.
- Confirmation number is a must for entrance.
- You do not need to have a printed voucher.
- All customers/participants are required to sign liability waivers before participating in this activity.
Video:
Click this Video to Hear Sound:
Terms and Conditions
Florida Keys Dolphin Swim :
- All Participants must be 8 years old and up.
- Must be able to understand directions given in English or have a paid family member or friend in the water to translate.
- This program is not available to expectant mothers.
- If the participating adult is not the parent or legal guardian of the child, then a Child Care Authorization form needs to be filled out.
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 been made, a change to the scheduled program date is subject to availability. Changes made to existing reservations are subject to a $25.00 per person change fee.
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. < more information >
Frequently Asked Questions About the Islamorada Dolphin Swim
1. How long is the Dolphin Swim in Islamorada?
The in-water Dolphin Swim lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes. However, we recommend planning at least 3 to 4 hours at the marine animal park to enjoy your dolphin experience, animal shows, tropical exhibits, and private lagoon-side beach. Your admission includes access to these additional attractions.
2. Do I need to know how to swim with dolphins in Islamorada?
Yes. The Florida Keys Dolphin Swim includes activities in deep water, so participants must know how to swim and feel comfortable using swim fins. Fins are provided for your dolphin experience.
3. How deep is the dolphin swimming lagoon?
The Dolphin Swim takes place in a natural saltwater lagoon with water depths reaching approximately 15 to 20 feet in the deeper areas. Participants should be confident swimmers and comfortable participating in deep-water activities.
4. Does the Islamorada Dolphin Swim include a dolphin ride?
Yes! One of the exciting highlights of the Dolphin Swim is the opportunity to experience a dolphin ride, along with other interactive dolphin behaviors directed by professional trainers. The exact ride or interaction may vary depending on the dolphins’ willingness and behavior during your session.
5. How much does the Dolphin Swim in Islamorada cost?
The Florida Keys Dolphin Swim starts at $235 per person during low season and $255 per person during high season. Additional holiday surcharges may apply on select dates. We recommend checking the online booking calendar for current pricing and availability.
6. What is the minimum age to swim with dolphins in Islamorada?
Participants must be at least 8 years old to join the Dolphin Swim program. Guests ages 8 through 17 must be accompanied by at least one paid adult participant or observer who is 18 years of age or older.
7. What is the difference between the Dolphin Swim and Dolphin Encounter?
The Dolphin Swim includes deep-water swimming, interactive dolphin behaviors, and the opportunity for a dolphin ride. It is designed for guests who are comfortable swimming in deeper water.
The Florida Keys Dolphin Encounter takes place primarily in shallow water and does not include deep-water swimming or dolphin rides. It is an excellent alternative for non-swimmers and guests who prefer to stay in shallow water.
8. Does the Dolphin Swim operate rain or shine?
Yes. The Dolphin Swim and marine animal shows generally operate rain or shine. Thunderstorms or lightning may cause temporary delays until conditions are safe.
If an officially named tropical storm or hurricane affects your scheduled visit, you may reschedule for another date without a change fee or receive a gift certificate valid for two years, subject to the applicable reservation policies.
9. What is an Observer at the Dolphin Swim?
An Observer is a friend or family member who accompanies a Dolphin Swim participant but does not enter the water with the dolphins.
Observers can watch the dolphin interaction from designated viewing areas, cheer on participants, and take photographs when permitted. Observer admission also includes access to the park’s marine animal shows and exhibits. Observers under 10 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
10. What should I bring for my Dolphin Swim experience?
We recommend bringing a bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Outdoor showers and changing rooms are available for guests. Wetsuits may be rented if desired.
Important: All jewelry must be removed before entering the water to help protect both guests and dolphins.
11. Are lockers available for personal belongings?
No, individual lockers are not available. Guests may bring their personal belongings to a designated area near the dolphin interaction. We recommend keeping unnecessary valuables securely stored elsewhere during your visit.
12. Do the dolphins live in natural saltwater lagoons?
Yes! The dolphins live in natural saltwater lagoons supplied with seawater pumped from the nearby Atlantic Ocean. The lagoons are part of the marine animal facility’s tropical environment in Islamorada, Florida Keys.
13. How large is the dolphin lagoon and marine animal park?
The main dolphin lagoon covers approximately 3 acres, with water depths averaging approximately 10 to 20 feet. The entire marine animal park encompasses approximately 17 acres filled with tropical plants, beautiful orchids, lagoons, and marine animal exhibits.
14. Is food available at the dolphin facility?
Yes! A snack bar and grill offer a variety of food and refreshments for purchase. Guests can take a break between animal shows, dolphin interactions, and exhibits to enjoy a meal or snack during their visit.
15. Can I bring my own mask, fins, and snorkel?
Yes. Guests may bring their own snorkeling equipment to enjoy the designated swimming areas at the facility’s private tropical beach.
Water shoes may also be worn instead of fins during certain ray and sea lion swim activities. Guests must bring their own water shoes. Equipment used during animal interactions is subject to the trainers’ safety requirements.
16. Are park admission and parking included in my Dolphin Swim ticket?
Yes! Your Dolphin Swim reservation includes general admission to the marine animal park and complimentary parking. There is no additional entrance fee to enjoy the animal shows, exhibits, and designated beach areas included with your program.
17. Can guests with disabilities participate in the Dolphin Swim?
Guests with disabilities may be able to participate depending on their individual needs, swimming abilities, and the program’s safety requirements.
The Dolphin Swim is a recreational animal interaction rather than a dolphin-assisted therapy program. Accessibility accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. We recommend contacting our reservation team before booking to discuss individual needs and available assistance.
18. Can I wear prescription glasses or contact lenses during the Dolphin Swim?
Yes. Contact lenses are permitted during the dolphin interaction. Prescription glasses with clear lenses may also be allowed when necessary, but they must remain securely in place throughout the session, including photographs.
Dark-lens glasses are generally not permitted unless required because of sensitivity to sunlight. In those circumstances, a doctor’s letter may be required.
Make Your Florida Keys Dolphin Swim Reservation
Choose your date and reserve your Islamorada Dolphin Swim online before your preferred session fills.
Other Programs in the Florida Keys Area
- SWIM WITH THE SHARKS – Islamorada – A chance to spend 20 to 30 minutes with Nurse Sharks pet, play and snorkel with the sharks.
- SEA LION SWIM – Islamorada – Spend 20 to 30 minutes with the sea lion where you get to play, kiss and swim with the them in deep water. [ Learn More ]
- WILD DOLPHIN & SNORKEL TRIP – Key West Area – 3 Hour Wild Bottlenose Dolphins viewing and snorkel trip. [ Learn More ]
Not sure you want the deep-water swim? Compare the Dolphin Encounter in Islamorada for a shallow-water dolphin experience.
What Our Customers Say
Servicing the Key Largo and Islamorada Area
Isamorada Dolphin Encounter
You will spend 20 to 30 minutes in shallow water where you get to pet, play, kiss and do tricks with the dolphins, plus shows & exhibits….More Info
$210/$225
Islamorada Sea Lion Swim
You will spend 20 to 30 minutes in mostly shallow water where you get to pet, play, kiss and do many tricks, plus shows & exhibits…More Info
$165/$175
Key Largo Snorkel Trip
Enjoy a boat trip to John Pennekamp Coral Reef with 1.5 hours of snorkeling. Fins, mask, and life vest are included; snorkel rental is $15 extra…. More Info