Imagine yourself, your feet buried in the warm sand, the sweet scent of the ocean washing away your worries. The waves whisper secrets, and suddenly the surface of the water stirs. You listen, and there, a burst of joy emerges under the rays of the sun: a dolphin! Florida, with its idyllic beaches and stunning seascapes, is a true playground for these graceful creatures. But where are the best spots to observe them? Follow me on this fascinating journey through the Sunshine State’s five best beaches, where every dolphin sighting promises magic and unforgettable memories. Get your sunglasses and camera ready, because the adventure begins here!
Canaveral National Seashore #
Your passion for dolphins could well find its roots in the film A Dolphin Tale, which tells the story of a boy saving a baby dolphin named Winter. The real Winter was discovered at Mosquito Lagoon in the Canaveral National Seashore. It is estimated that around 1000 dolphins Big-nosed live all year round in this lagoon.
To observe them up close, opt for a kayak excursion in the shallow waters. You will have the opportunity to see them relaxing, sometimes moderately close, while fishing quietly. Apart from observing the dolphins, take advantage of the many other activities offered by this long stretch of wild coast.
Clearwater Beach #
Embark on a dolphin watching cruise at Clearwater Beach and enjoy one of the many, often successful, boat trips. One of the popular boats is the Little Toot, a tugboat designed to create impressive waves that the dolphins love to follow, jumping happily in the wake.
For a more leisurely experience, you can rent a transparent kayak and paddle through the feeding areas of the dolphins. Local residents also report regularly spotting dolphins from the mainland, as in Vinoy Park where they are often visible from the dike.
Daytona and New Smyrna Beaches #
Daytona Beach is not only known for its racetrack and vacationing students, but also for its dolphins. At Ponce Inlet, near the lighthouse, you can see them swimming from the Atlantic toward the Intracoastal Waterway. Try a paddleboard tour with Three Brothers Boards for an almost tactile encounter.
Further south, New Smyrna Beach attracts surfers and dolphins thanks to its perfect wave conditions. THE dolphins love to ride these waves alongside humans. If you’re not surfing, stay at the Black Dolphin Hotel and watch the dolphins pass.
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Sarasota #
In Sarasota, guided tours offered by the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium are highly recommended. These educational cruises are often gold medals for observing the dolphins and include stops to observe other marine species.
For a unique panoramic view, try a sunrise helicopter tour. You will not only see the dolphins frolicking in groups, but also manatees, rays and sharks below.
Sanibel Island #
Sanibel Island, near Fort Myers, is a favored hunting ground for dolphins. You can watch them from the beach most days or opt for a sunset cruise where the captains will present their dolphins favorites, identified by their dorsal fins.
For a more in-depth excursion, book a day with New Wave Eco Tours. You’ll go to Captiva Island, collect shells on pristine beaches, and snorkel with a marine biologist who will guide you through the underwater treasures.
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