Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome. Please clean up after them. Theater of the Sea does not provide kennels.

Swim with Dolphins Florida Keys FAQs

Planning to swim with dolphins in the Florida Keys? Our Swim with Dolphins Florida Keys FAQs will answer all your questions and help you prepare for an unforgettable experience.

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 .

What Our Customers Say

      
   Florida Keys Swim with Dolphin Tours and Tickets
   192 Google reviews 
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   Val Nakdimen 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From the moment we arrived, the staff greeted us with such warmth and genuine friendliness, immediately making us feel welcome and eager to explore. Their helpfulness was evident throughout the park, and we greatly appreciated their assistance. We also noted how remarkably clean and well-maintained the entire facility was, which certainly contributed to a very pleasant atmosphere. The layout of the park and the thoughtful staggering of the show times were particularly impressive. This allowed us to enjoy all the presentations at a relaxed pace, without ever feeling rushed. As someone who has recently undergone two knee replacements, I was pleasantly surprised and very grateful for how accessible and manageable the park was to navigate. It was not at all strenuous, which allowed me to fully immerse myself in the experience without any discomfort. One of the absolute highlights of our day was the "Swim with the Dolphins" experience in the deeper water. The staff overseeing this program were incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and continued to be just as friendly and accommodating as everyone else we encountered. Again, I found this activity to be perfectly manageable despite my recent surgeries, which speaks volumes about its thoughtful execution. Beyond the fantastic guest experience, what truly resonated with us was the palpable kindness and care shown towards all the animals. It is evident that the well-being of your residents is a top priority. Learning about your commitment to rescue and rehabilitation for animals that cannot care for themselves further solidified our appreciation for Theater of the Sea's mission. Thank you once again for providing such an unforgettable and enjoyable day. We certainly look forward to sharing our positive experience online with friends and on review websites, and we sincerely hope to have the opportunity to visit you again very soon
  
 
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   j s 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
  
 
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   Celeste Leap 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I visited Dolphin World last week with my husband. We had an amazing time.  The interaction and swimming with the dolphins was just so mesmerizing. I did not think twice, no hesitation at all.  The dolphin show was out of this world.  The trainers do an amazing job.  I'm my opinion the show surpassed Sea World. I came home and told my girlfriend all about and she wants to experience this also. I told her I do it again in a heartbeat.  Thank you so much for an amazing experience. Celeste Ferrell Virginia
  
 
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   Faith Scallion 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If I could give 50 stars I would. Every part of this experience was beyond amazing. I never thought I’d actually get to swim with dolphins! The trainers and the staff were exceptional. They went out of their way to make each and every person happy. This is something in your life you do not want to miss!
  
 
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   joshua droge 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mya and Indi were incredible dolphins. Greatest experience ever highly recommend.
  
 
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   Becky Leavell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exhilarating! Such a wild high!
  
 
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   Cristina Lo Sardo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My boyfriend and I drove 2 plus hrs for the dolphin deep swim experience and it was beyond worth it!!! We made such a great memory that will last a lifetime. I’ve swam with dolphins in the past and my experience in Florida definitely topped it! I recommend purchasing the pictures at the end of your visit:)
  
 
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   RABCAPT 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a cool experience for the family. Relaxed and fun staff!
  
 
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   Kemberle Griffin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I chose the Royal package and it was absolutely GREAT! I had a blast with the dolphins and trainers. The people who work there truly love these dolphins. I read a couple of reviews before I booked because I wanted to make sure it would be worth it, it is. I had seen where someone had mentioned the time they got to spend with the dolphins, I can only assume they chose a different package than I chose because, we had plenty of time with them and each person in the group got a chance with them. The only issue I had was the gift shop. I wanted to get a sticker with the dolphins that I got to swim with, but unfortunately they are the popular dolphins and no stickers were available. If anyone on staff sees this, I'd pay for these stickers when they come in if it would be possible to send them to me (I can provide the dates I was there if that would help). 😊 Overall a great experience. I would recommend this to anyone; Adults & Kids (age appropriate of course). Bucket List: ✅