Looking for the ultimate family adventure in the Florida Keys? From aquariums and coral reef snorkeling to kayaking, paddle-boarding, and fishing—there’s something for every age and interest.

One unforgettable highlight? Swimming with dolphins at Dolphins Plus in Key Largo. Surrounded by the beauty of the Florida Bay, this one-of-a-kind experience lets you interact with dolphins in their natural environment. Guided by expert trainers, your family will enjoy safe, meaningful moments with these intelligent marine mammals—creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you're traveling with young children or teens, expert trainers tailor each session to create a fun, educational, and unforgettable adventure for everyone. It’s the perfect mix of excitement, learning, and quality time—right in the heart of the Florida Keys.

Why Choose the Florida Keys for Your Dolphin Encounter

The Florida Keys are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From kayaking through quiet mangrove tunnels to snorkeling vibrant coral reefs or simply soaking in a stunning sunset over Florida Bay, the Keys offer unforgettable moments for every member of the family.

But beyond the beauty and recreation, the Keys are also a hub for marine wildlife conservation. From local sanctuaries like the Wild Bird Center and the Turtle Hospital to our very own Dolphins Plus, the region is home to organizations dedicated to protecting and educating about the animals that call these waters home.

At Dolphins Plus, we take pride in being more than just a dolphin swim facility. Our mission centers around education, conservation, and meaningful connection. Every encounter is designed to inspire a deeper understanding of dolphins and the ecosystems they rely on. Through guided, respectful interactions, guests learn not just about dolphins—but why protecting them matters.

During your visit, you’ll explore the challenges marine mammals face in the wild and discover simple ways to make a positive impact—from reducing plastic use to supporting ocean-friendly legislation. We believe that education paired with experience has the power to inspire real change.

Located on tranquil Tarpon Basin, Dolphins Plus offers a peaceful, scenic setting perfect for tropical photos and relaxing family moments. As a family-owned and operated facility since 1980, we’re passionate about creating unforgettable, meaningful experiences for families—experiences that foster curiosity, compassion, and connection with the ocean world.

What Makes Dolphins Plus Unique

At Dolphins Plus, our legacy is rooted in a deep commitment to marine conservation and environmental stewardship. From the moment you arrive, you'll see that everything we do—whether it’s animal care, education, or guest interactions—is guided by our unwavering dedication to animal welfare and ocean preservation.

What truly sets us apart is the intimate, meaningful nature of our programs. Each experience is thoughtfully designed to connect guests of all ages, interests, and abilities with our resident dolphins in a respectful and enriching way. We keep group sizes small to ensure personalized, high-quality interactions that create lasting memories.

Whether you’re seeking a fun family adventure or a more educational and conservation-focused experience, our knowledgeable team is here to help you choose the perfect program to match your goals and comfort level.

At Dolphins Plus, there’s truly something for everyone—and every visit supports a mission that protects dolphins and their ocean home for generations to come.

Meet Our Common Bottlenose Dolphin Stars

Before you dive into your dolphin experience at Dolphins Plus, take a moment to get to know the charismatic crew you'll be meeting in the water! Each of our six resident Common bottlenose dolphins has their own personality, quirks, and special talents—and getting to know them is part of the magic.

Bob is our vocal superstar—he’s known for his unforgettable, scream-like vocalizations that never fail to get a laugh.

Samantha, the matriarch of the group, is wise and calm. As our oldest dolphin, she takes on a leadership role and often looks out for the others.

Nyla may be the youngest, but she’s bursting with spunk and confidence. Her adventurous personality shines during interactions.

Luna is a quick learner who loves training sessions and never strays far from her favorite toy—her beloved ball.

Leo is our creative thinker. He loves a challenge and often invents brand-new behaviors all on his own.

Alfonz, tipping the scales at over 500 pounds, is a lovable goofball who adores cuddles, kisses, and attention from guests and trainers alike.

During your visit, you’ll meet these incredible animals face to face—and you’ll also learn fascinating dolphin facts in our educational briefing. For example, did you know:

• Dolphins use unique “signature whistles” to identify themselves—just like we use names?
• They live in dynamic, ever-changing social groups called fission-fusion societies, forming and reforming connections throughout the day?
• Dolphin mothers invest deeply in their young, nursing calves for an average of two years—and sometimes up to seven years!

Our goal is to make your encounter not just fun and memorable—but informative and inspiring, too. By the end of your experience, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for these amazing animals and the ocean they call home.

Top 3 Family-Friendly Dolphin Experiences at Dolphins Plus

With a variety of experiences designed for every age and comfort level, our dolphin encounters offer a perfect blend of education, adventure, and unforgettable memories. To help you choose the right option, here are our top three family-friendly dolphin experiences:

  1. Exclusive Family Encounter

Looking for a truly private and personalized adventure? This VIP experience is ideal for families of 4- 8 participants and wanting to make the most of their time with the dolphins—without sharing the space with other guests.

What’s included:

• • A private educational briefing tailored to your family
  • Behind-the-scenes tour of the facility
  • Multi-dolphin interactions across different lagoons
  • A mix of shallow and deep-water activities, customized by age and ability
  • A professional photo package to remember your day
  • A keepsake towel or rashguard for each participant

For groups of 4 to 8 people, this relaxed, all-inclusive session ensures each family member gets quality time with the dolphins in a safe and serene environment.

  2. Shallow Water Encounter

This gentle, hands-on experience is perfect for younger kids (ages 3+) or anyone who prefers to stay in shallower water. It’s an excellent first introduction to dolphin interactions!

Why families love it:

• • Designed for comfort and confidence—no swimming required
  • Guided by expert trainers who match each interaction to your comfort level
  • Participate in behaviors like handshakes, rubs, hugs, and kisses
  • Up-close, personal interactions that are calm, fun, and memorable

This encounter is ideal for families with little ones or multi-generational groups looking for a low-pressure, high-reward experience with our dolphin stars.

  3. Signature Swim

Ready to turn up the excitement? The Signature Swim is a dynamic encounter that begins in the shallow water and transitions into deeper areas for thrilling, fast-paced dolphin behaviors.

Experience highlights:

• • Start with personal, shallow water interactions—like rubs and kisses
  • Move into deep water for high-energy activities like foot pushes and dorsal tows
  • A great mix of education, interaction, and action

This swim is best suited for strong swimmers aged 7 and up who are comfortable in deeper water and ready for a more adventurous dolphin experience!

Which Experience is Right for You?

No matter which program you choose, every encounter at Dolphins Plus is designed to be safe, family-friendly, and rooted in respect for the animals. Plus, every visit supports our ongoing mission in marine conservation and education.

Still unsure? Our team is happy to help you choose the perfect program for your family’s interests, age range, and comfort level.

What to Expect During Your Day at Dolphins Plus

We’re so excited to welcome you to Dolphins Plus, where natural beauty, education, and unforgettable moments come together in the heart of the Florida Keys. To help your family feel prepared and at ease, here’s a look at what you can expect on the day of your visit:

1. Check-in & Welcome: When you arrive, our warm and friendly team will greet you and take time to get to know your family. We’ll make sure your experience is tailored to your group’s needs, comfort levels, and interests—whether you’re here for fun, learning, or both!

2. Educational briefing: Before your dolphin interaction begins, you'll take part in a brief but engaging orientation. You'll learn about the individual dolphins you’ll be meeting, the incredible ecosystem of the Florida Keys, and the conservation efforts that help protect marine life. Our team will also explain the behaviors you'll see and offer tips for making the most of your interaction.

3. Interactive session: Now comes the highlight—your time with the dolphins! Whether you’ve chosen a shallow water encounter, a Signature Swim, or a private family session, this is when you’ll connect with our dolphins in a safe, respectful, and exciting way. Each encounter is guided by our experienced trainers and designed to reflect the comfort and abilities of your group.

4. After Your Swim: Once your dolphin experience is complete, feel free to freshen up using our showers and changing areas before heading off to your next Florida Keys adventure. Don’t forget to stop by for your photo package and take home memories you’ll treasure!

At Dolphins Plus, we run on ‘Keys Time’. Our programs are behavior-based, not time-based, meaning we focus on the richness of your experience—not the stopwatch. Every interaction is thoughtfully paced so your family can relax, enjoy, and truly connect.

It’s also important to know that our dolphins have the freedom to choose. Their participation in every program is entirely voluntary, and they may respond differently depending on their mood, interests, and their connection with your group. This respectful approach ensures that your experience is as authentic as it is memorable—for both you and the dolphins.

Tips for Planning Your Dolphin Encounter

Ready to plan your family’s unforgettable dolphin experience? Here are a few helpful tips to guide you through booking and preparing for your visit to Dolphins Plus.

  1. Choose the Right Encounter

Start by reviewing the different program options to find the best fit for your family. Consider everyone’s swimming ability and comfort in the water. Our friendly guest services team is always here to help—just give us a call at 305-451-1993.

Please note: Pregnant guests cannot participate in our in-water programs but are welcome to join one of our dockside encounters for an equally memorable experience.

  2. Book Early

Booking in advance gives you the best chance at securing your preferred date and time especially for our Exclusive Family Encounter, which is fully private and very popular. Programs often fill quickly during peak seasons, so don’t wait too long!

  3. Pack Smart

To make the most of your day, we recommend bringing the following essentials:

• • Swimwear
  • Mineral-based sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Towel
  • Your sense of adventure!

What You’ll Learn About Conservation During Your Visit

At Dolphins Plus, conservation isn’t just a message—it’s a mission woven into every experience we offer. For decades, we’ve remained dedicated to marine conservation and environmental stewardship, evolving our programs to better connect with guests of all ages and backgrounds.

From the moment you arrive, education is a central part of your journey. Each dolphin encounter begins with an engaging briefing where you’ll learn about the delicate marine ecosystems our dolphins rely upon, the real-world challenges wild dolphins face, and the simple but meaningful ways you can help protect ocean life.

Your in-water or dockside interaction is more than just fun—it’s hands-on, immersive learning. We design our programs to spark curiosity and create emotional connections that inspire action. After your experience, we encourage you to stay and chat with our animal care professionals. Their passion for marine life is contagious, and they love sharing their knowledge with guests who are just as enthusiastic.

Our resident dolphins serve as powerful ambassadors for the wild. It’s our hope that the bond you build with them will inspire conservation-minded choices in your everyday life—long after your visit ends.

Taking Your Memories Home with Keepsakes and Add-ons

For lasting memories and mementos of your life-changing experience at Dolphins Plus, you can add-on a digital photo package or take home dolphin art when you complete a dolphin painting session.

You’ll witness the dolphins’ creativity as they wield the brush in their mouth for a unique creation.

Book Your Family-Friendly Dolphin Experience

Your family-friendly dolphin experience at Dolphins Plus is more than a thrilling vacation activity. It’s a chance to connect with nature as you learn together and make unforgettable memories as a family.

Whether this is your first time meeting a dolphin or the first time you’re sharing the experience with loved ones, you’ll experience a personal, enriching day when you visit Dolphins Plus.

Book your family’s dolphin encounter now as you prepare to make a splash and enjoy the smiles on everyone’s faces while exploring what the Florida Keys have to offer.