A Day in Paradise: Swimming with Dolphins Near Robbie’s of Islamorada
Nestled in the heart of the Florida Keys, Robbie’s of Islamorada is more than just a pit stop on the Overseas Highway—it’s a full-on adventure haven. With rustic charm and a waterfront buzz, Robbie’s welcomes travelers looking to feed massive tarpon, browse unique island shops, enjoy fresh seafood, or launch into the Atlantic for fishing or snorkeling. But the real magic of this destination is how close it brings you to some of Florida’s most extraordinary marine life. One of the most unforgettable experiences just minutes away? Swimming with dolphins in the Florida Keys in Islamorada.
The Colorful Past of Robbie’s of Islamorada
The story of Robbie’s began several decades ago when Islamorada was still a quiet, undeveloped stretch of island coastline. The marina earned its reputation not from luxury or flash but from a simple act of kindness. The owners once rescued an injured tarpon from shallow waters and nursed it back to health. To everyone’s surprise, the tarpon returned after being released—and brought more tarpon with it. That touching moment sparked a daily tradition that still draws crowds today: feeding wild tarpon off the dock.
Robbie’s soon transformed from a modest marina into a thriving destination. The original family-run operation evolved naturally as more travelers discovered its charm. From a bait shack and boat slip, it blossomed into a one-of-a-kind complex that offers food, fun, fishing, and a heavy dose of Keys character. Now it’s considered a Florida Keys must-see, attracting everyone from road-tripping families to seasoned anglers and island explorers.
Why Robbie’s Is a Florida Keys Favorite
Robbie’s has become famous for its tarpon feeding experience. Dozens of silver giants, some over six feet long, hover beneath the dock, waiting for visitors to offer them fish by hand. The moment you lean over the railing with a baitfish, the water erupts in splashes as one of these sleek predators lunges from below. It’s exhilarating, messy, and unlike anything else in the Keys.
Beyond the fish frenzy, Robbie’s also boasts one of the best spots to grab an authentic Florida Keys meal. The Hungry Tarpon restaurant dishes out conch fritters, fish tacos, shrimp platters, and tropical drinks in a laid-back setting with waterfront views. It’s the perfect place to recharge after feeding the tarpon or before heading out on an excursion.
But Robbie’s isn’t just about food and fish—it’s a launchpad for ocean adventures. Visitors can rent boats, book deep sea fishing charters, snorkel at offshore reefs, paddle through mangrove tunnels, or soar high above the water while parasailing. If you’re not looking to get wet, the surrounding open-air market is filled with quirky shops selling art, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Things to Do at Robbie’s
What makes Robbie’s unique is the sheer variety of activities packed into one scenic location. You can start your morning sipping coffee as you walk the docks, watching the sun rise over the boats. If you’re into watersports, grab a kayak or paddleboard and cruise through nearby mangrove creeks. Want to get a closer look at the underwater world? Hop on a snorkeling trip to Alligator Reef or Cheeca Rocks.
Fishing lovers can book anything from backcountry charters to offshore sportfishing trips. The crew handles everything—you just show up ready to reel in mahi-mahi, snapper, or grouper. Prefer to stay on land? Relax at the dockside bar with a frozen drink and watch boats roll in.
Kids and adults alike will enjoy the excitement of getting up close to the wild tarpon. The small fee to access the dock and purchase a bucket of bait is well worth it for the photos and the thrill. And when hunger kicks in, you won’t need to leave—just walk over to the Hungry Tarpon and enjoy fresh-caught seafood with your toes in the sand.
Visitor Info for Robbie’s of Islamorada
Robbie’s is located at 77522 Overseas Highway in Islamorada, right off mile marker 77.5. It’s open every day from 7:00 AM until around 9:00 PM. The phone number for general information and reservations is (305) 664-8070. Entrance to the dock area is typically around $2.50 per person, and feeding buckets cost about $5. Parking is free, and walk-ins are always welcome, although some tours and rentals are better booked in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
Swimming with Dolphins at Theater of the Sea
While Robbie’s is packed with unforgettable experiences, one of the most magical activities nearby is swimming with dolphins in the Upper Keys. Just a 10-minute drive south, Theater of the Sea offers an incredible opportunity to meet these intelligent marine mammals in an interactive lagoon environment. This marine park, located in Islamorada, blends animal education with family-friendly fun, all set against the lush tropical backdrop of the Florida Keys.
Theater of the Sea has been welcoming guests since the 1940s, and it has remained one of the most respected marine parks in the region. Their dolphin swim programs are designed to give visitors an up-close and personal experience with dolphins while also promoting conservation and education.
During the standard dolphin swim, guests receive a briefing from experienced trainers and then head into a lagoon for an unforgettable encounter. You’ll get to touch, feed, kiss, and even swim beside the dolphins. The highlight is usually a dorsal tow, where the dolphin pulls you across the water—an exhilarating moment you won’t forget.
For those seeking something extra special, there’s also a premium swim option that offers more interaction time and takes place in a larger lagoon setting. Both experiences include admission to the rest of the park, so you can enjoy animal shows, beach access, and educational exhibits throughout the day.
More Information on Florida Keys Dolphin ProgramsOther Marine Animal Encounters at Theater of the Sea
Swimming with dolphins isn’t the only thing you can do at Theater of the Sea. The park also offers a variety of other animal experiences, allowing guests to interact with sea lions, sharks, stingrays, and more. One popular option is the shallow water dolphin encounter. This program is ideal for younger children, families, or anyone who prefers to stay in waist-deep water while still enjoying close interaction with dolphins.
The sea lion swim is another favorite. These playful animals are full of personality and love to show off their skills during the guided session. You’ll have a chance to hug, kiss, and even swim next to a sea lion—all under the watchful eye of a trained guide.
Adventurous guests can try the shark encounter, which allows you to enter the water with docile nurse sharks. This experience offers a safe yet thrilling look at some of the ocean’s most misunderstood creatures.
Throughout the day, Theater of the Sea also presents entertaining and informative animal shows featuring parrots, sea turtles, alligators, and tropical fish. These presentations are included with general admission and help educate visitors about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.
Park Information for Theater of the Sea
Theater of the Sea is located at 84721 Overseas Highway in Islamorada at mile marker 84.5. The park is open daily, usually from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission prices are around $49.95 for adults and $32.95 for children aged 3 to 10. Kids under 3 get in free. If you’re participating in an animal interaction program, that admission is included in your program fee.
The phone number for reservations or questions is (305) 664-2431. It’s a good idea to call ahead or book online, especially if you’re planning to swim with dolphins or do one of the more specialized encounters. Space is limited, and these programs tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons.
A Perfect Florida Keys Adventure
Combining a visit to Robbie’s of Islamorada with a trip to Theater of the Sea makes for an unforgettable day in the Florida Keys. You can start by feeding tarpon in the morning, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at the Hungry Tarpon, and then spend the afternoon swimming with dolphins in Islamorada or meeting sea lions. Whether you’re traveling with kids, a partner, or just exploring on your own, this kind of hands-on animal experience is something truly special.
Robbie’s offers the thrill of interacting with wild marine life in a rustic, open-air setting, while Theater of the Sea gives you a safe and educational opportunity to engage directly with trained dolphins, sea lions, and more. The combination of both destinations gives you the best of the Florida Keys: nature, adventure, local flavor, and family fun.
Swimming with Dolphins in the Florida Keys
There’s something magical about connecting with dolphins in their element—feeling their smooth skin, watching them glide effortlessly through the water, and hearing their playful clicks and whistles. Swimming with dolphins in the Florida Keys is more than just a fun activity; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bond with one of the ocean’s most intelligent and graceful creatures.
Whether you choose the deep-water swim, a shallow encounter, or prefer to watch from dry land, the memories you create during your visit to Theater of the Sea will stay with you long after the sun sets. And with Robbie’s just a few minutes away, you’ll have an entire day’s worth of exploration, relaxation, and discovery right at your fingertips.
Final Thoughts
If you’re heading to the Florida Keys, make sure to set aside a day for Robbie’s of Islamorada and Theater of the Sea. From wild tarpon feeding and fresh seafood to Florida Keys swimming with dolphins and discovering tropical marine life, these two locations deliver a blend of natural wonder, family fun, and authentic island experience. Whether it’s your first visit to the Keys or your tenth, this day trip will be one for the books—sun-soaked, salt-kissed, and filled with smiles.
Let the dolphins, the tarpon, and the turquoise waters of Islamorada show you what a real Florida Keys adventure looks like.
