See how we give back
Dolphins Plus plays a vital role in our community, offering education programs, summer camps, and marine wildlife conservation initiatives. Explore how we support Florida through community events and partnerships.
Local Artisans Market
Join us on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from September to May for the Key Largo Artisans Market at Dolphins Plus! This vibrant community event features a diverse selection of local artisans, crafters, and vendors, offering unique handmade goods and treasures.
Each month, we spotlight a different local non-profit organization, such as food banks, animal shelters, and other community causes. By showcasing their mission and efforts, we help raise awareness and support for these important initiatives.
Come shop, connect, and support both local businesses and meaningful causes!
If you would like to be considered as one of our highlighted organizations, or in becoming a vendor at the market, please click the button below:
Our Upcoming Events, Holidays, and Celebrations!
New Year’s Day
The Dolphins facility will observe modified hours of 12:00 - 5:00pm in celebration of the New Year!
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
At Dolphins Plus, we are proud to have a predominantly female team of marine mammal specialists! On this special day, we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science and encourage young girls everywhere to pursue their dreams—the sky (and the sea!) is the limit! Established by the United Nations in 2015, this day recognizes the vital contributions of women and girls in scientific research and aims to inspire future generations of female scientists.
Let’s continue to support and empower women in science, ensuring a future of discovery, innovation, and conservation!
Local Artisans Market
On the second Tuesday of each month from September through May, Dolphins Plus hosts the Key Largo Artisans Market.
World Whale Day – Third Sunday of February
Originally established in Hawaii in 1980 to honor Humpback whales, World Whale Day has grown into a global celebration of all whale species. These majestic marine mammals play a crucial role as keystone species, helping to maintain the balance of ocean ecosystems.
However, whales face increasing threats due to human activities, including pollution, climate change, and overfishing.
How You Can Help:
- Reduce your use of plastic bottles, straws, and other single-use items.
- Support organizations that promote sustainable fishing practices.
- Volunteer locally to aid marine conservation efforts.
- Donate to nonprofits dedicated to protecting whales and their habitats.
- Urge your legislators to advocate for stronger whale protections.
- Sign petitions supporting conservation efforts, such as right whale protections. By taking small actions, we can make a big impact on preserving these incredible creatures for future generations.
Dolphin Awareness Month
Dolphin Awareness Month is a global campaign dedicated to celebrating and spreading awareness about these intelligent and charismatic marine mammals. Sadly, dolphin populations face increasing threats, including:
Habitat destruction & ship strikes
Climate change
Noise & physical pollution
How You Can Help:
Keep them wild – Observe dolphins from a distance; never feed, chase, swim with, or interact with wild dolphins.
Support conservation – Visit accredited zoos and aquariums to learn more about dolphins and contribute to critical protection efforts.
By respecting and protecting dolphins, we can help ensure their survival for generations to come!
World Wildlife Day
On this day in 1973, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was signed, marking a major step in protecting wildlife. In 2013, the United Nations officially designated March 3rd as World Wildlife Day (WWD)—a global celebration of Earth’s incredible biodiversity and a call to action to protect it. At Dolphins Plus, we honor this day by encouraging everyone to make sustainable choices that help safeguard our planet’s wildlife.
How You Can Help:
Raise awareness about the importance of protecting plants and animals.
Live sustainably – Reduce waste, conserve energy, and make eco-friendly choices.
Support conservation efforts – Donate, volunteer, or advocate for wildlife protection.
Every action counts in preserving the natural world for future generations!
Local Artisans Market
On the second Tuesday of each month from September through May, Dolphins Plus hosts the Key Largo Artisans Market.
National Dolphin Day
At Dolphins Plus, we celebrate dolphins every day—but did you know there’s a special day just for them? April 14th is National Dolphin Day! With 42 different species, dolphins are a symbol of biodiversity, intelligence, and ocean health. This day is dedicated to learning more about these incredible marine mammals and raising awareness of the human-made threats they face, including habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change.
How You Can Celebrate:
Visit your local zoo or aquarium to learn about dolphins and support conservation efforts.
Educate yourself and others about dolphins, their habitats, and the challenges they face.
Spread the word! Share what you’ve learned and encourage others to protect marine life.
Join us in celebrating these amazing creatures and working toward a future where dolphins thrive!
Earth Day
What started as a U.S. demonstration in 1970 has grown into a global movement, with 190 countries participating in Earth Day every year! This day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting our planet and taking action for a more sustainable future. At Dolphins Plus, we proudly take part in Earth Day and encourage you to get involved too!
How You Can Help:
Reduce, reuse, recycle – Cut down on waste and choose sustainable products.
Conserve energy and water – Small changes at home can have a big impact.
Protect marine life – Reduce plastic use and support ocean conservation efforts.
Raise awareness – Share Earth Day’s message and inspire others to take action. Want to learn more? Visit NOAA’s Earth Day page for simple steps to help our planet!
Local Artisans Market
On the second Tuesday of each month from September through May, Dolphins Plus hosts the Key Largo Artisans Market.
Endangered Species Day
First celebrated in 2006, Endangered Species Day is a global event dedicated to learning about, celebrating, and taking action to protect threatened and endangered species.
Why It Matters:
Conservation works! The U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA)—passed in 1973—has been 99% effective in preventing listed species from going extinct.
Success stories remind us that protection and restoration efforts make a difference!
Established by Congress with leadership from the National Wildlife Federation, this day highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and encourages us all to take part.
How You Can Help:
Learn about endangered species and the efforts to protect them.
Support conservation organizations working to save wildlife.
Advocate for strong environmental policies like the ESA.
Celebrate success stories of species brought back from the brink of extinction.
Join us in celebrating progress and continuing the fight to protect wildlife for future generations!
World Turtle Day
World Turtle Day is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about turtles and tortoises and the conservation challenges they face.
Why It Matters: Many species are threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, illegal pet trade, and climate change.
This day encourages education, advocacy, and action to help protect these incredible reptiles. How You Can Help:
Learn about turtles and tortoises, their habitats, and the threats they face.
Support conservation initiatives working to protect them.
Reduce single-use plastics to keep their environments clean.
Advocate for stronger wildlife protection policies. By making small changes, we can make a big difference in protecting turtles for generations to come!
National Ocean Month
First proposed at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiroour shared ocean is a global celebration of our shared ocean and a reminder of the critical role it plays in our lives. Why the Ocean Matters:
Covers 75% of Earth’s surface and holds 97% of its water.
Represents 99% of the living space on the planet by volume.
Threatened by pollution & eutrophication, with 20% of large marine ecosystems expected to face worsening conditions by 2050 (UN).
How You Can Help:
Reduce plastic waste – Keep our oceans clean.
Support conservation efforts – Protect marine life.
Raise awareness – Share the importance of ocean health. The ocean connects us all—let’s work together to protect it!
World Reef Awareness Day
World Reef Awareness Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of coral reefs and inspiring action to protect them. Why Reefs Matter:
The Florida Keys is home to the third-largest coral reef in the world!
Coral reefs are the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, providing habitat, nurseries, breeding, and feeding grounds for thousands of marine species.
Reefs offer economic and recreational benefits, supporting fisheries, protecting coastlines from erosion, and reducing wave energy by up to 90%. ⚠ Over 75% of the world’s reefs are already threatened by human activities (NOAA). How You Can Help Protect Coral Reefs:
Choose reef-safe sunscreen (like Stream2Sea) to prevent harmful chemicals from damaging corals.
Make climate-conscious choices to reduce carbon emissions.
Reduce, reuse, recycle to keep plastic and waste out of the ocean.
Practice responsible recreation – Take only pictures, leave only bubbles, and use mooring balls instead of anchoring on reefs. Small actions lead to big impacts—let’s work together to protect these vital ecosystems!
World Oceans Day
June is all about celebrating and protecting our ocean, which covers over 70% of Earth’s surface—earning our planet the nickname “the blue planet.” The ocean is essential to life, regulating climate, supporting marine ecosystems, and providing resources like food, minerals, energy, and even medicine!
Why It Matters:
Home to incredible marine life
Regulates climate and weather patterns
Provides food and essential resources
Source of medical discoveries How You Can Celebrate:
Reduce plastic waste to keep our oceans clean
Support marine conservation efforts
Spread awareness about ocean protection
Learn more through NOAA’s resources Let’s come together to protect our ocean—our planet depends on it!
World Sea Turtle Day
World Sea Turtle Day is a day to celebrate and raise awareness about these ancient marine reptiles and the challenges they face.
Why Sea Turtles Matter:
Over 100 million years old – Sea turtles have been around since the time of dinosaurs!
7 species – Green, Hawksbill, Kemp’s Ridley, Leatherback, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, and Flatback.
Long journeys – Some sea turtles travel over 1,000 miles to return to their nesting sites.
Lifespan of 50-100 years – Making them one of the longest-living marine species.
The Threats They Face:
6 of 7 species are threatened or endangered due to:
- Entanglement in marine debris
- Habitat destruction
- Poaching for meat and eggs
How You Can Help:
Reduce plastic waste – Protect their ocean home.
Respect nesting sites – Keep beaches clean and dark.
Support conservation efforts – Advocate for stronger protections. Let’s work together to protect these incredible creatures!
International Shark Awareness Day
International Shark Awareness Day is dedicated to raising awareness about sharks, their crucial role in marine ecosystems, and the urgent need for their conservation.
Why Sharks Matter:
Over 400 million years old – Sharks have been around since before dinosaurs!
Apex predators – Sharks help maintain the balance of ocean ecosystems by regulating prey populations.
1/3 of shark species are threatened with extinction, largely due to overfishing, habitat loss, and human misconceptions.
Shark decline affects the entire food web, leading to imbalances in marine ecosystems. How You Can Help:
Educate yourself and others – Dispel myths and misconceptions about sharks.
Support shark conservation efforts – Advocate for stronger protections and sustainable practices.
Reduce plastic waste – Help keep oceans clean and safe for marine life.
Visit sharkstewards.org to learn more and take action! Sharks are not villains—they’re vital! Let’s protect these magnificent creatures and the oceans they call home.
World Nature Conservation Day
World Nature Conservation Day is a day to reflect on our relationship with nature and take action to protect the environment for future generations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of conserving natural resources like air, water, soil, and minerals while also celebrating success stories in conservation.
How You Can Help:
Plant trees to prevent soil erosion and support biodiversity.
Reduce, reuse, recycle to minimize waste.
Carpool or use public transportation to lower carbon emissions.
Save energy by turning off lights and using energy-efficient appliances.
Go digital to reduce paper waste.
Volunteer for community cleanups and conservation projects.
Choose non-toxic products to reduce pollution.
Compost to enrich soil and reduce landfill waste. Every action counts toward a more sustainable future—let’s protect our planet together!
National Parks Day
Happy Birthday to the National Park System! On August 25, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the National Park Service Act, officially creating the National Park Service (NPS).
Why It Matters:
Started with 35 management areas, now over 400 protect diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and historical landmarks.
National Parks preserve natural beauty and provide vital habitats for countless species.
Everglades National Park, right in Dolphins Plus’ backyard, is one of the largest wetlands in the world—a biodiversity hotspot supporting manatees, wading birds, the Florida panther, and the only place where alligators and crocodiles coexist!
How You Can Celebrate:
Visit a National Park to experience nature’s beauty firsthand.
Learn about conservation efforts that protect these incredible places.
Support park preservation through donations or volunteer work. Let’s honor the legacy of conservation and celebrate the natural wonders protected by the National Park Service!
International Manatee Awareness Day
Every year, International Manatee Awareness Day recognizes the vital conservation, education, and research efforts worldwide to protect all species and subspecies of manatees and the ecosystems they depend on.
Meet the Manatee:
Slow-moving herbivores that inhabit rivers, canals, saltwater bays, estuaries, and coastal areas.
Known as gentle giants—peaceful and curious creatures with no natural predators.
Vulnerable species—threatened by boating collisions, habitat destruction, and pollution.
Florida’s official state marine mammal and an iconic symbol of conservation.
How You Can Help:
Boat responsibly—follow speed limits in manatee zones.
Protect their habitats—reduce pollution and support clean waterways.
Raise awareness—educate others about manatee conservation.
Support organizations like savethemanatee.org. Let’s work together to protect these incredible marine mammals for future generations!
Local Artisans Market
On the second Tuesday of each month from September through May, Dolphins Plus hosts the Key Largo Artisans Market.
World Dolphin Day
World Dolphin Day is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about dolphins and promoting their conservation. This day serves as a call to action, inspiring people to appreciate and protect these intelligent marine mammals.
Threats Dolphins Face:
Habitat loss – Coastal development and pollution degrade their environments.
Pollution – Plastics and toxins in the ocean harm dolphins and their food sources.
Entanglement in fishing gear – Bycatch is a major threat to many dolphin species.
How You Can Help:
Learn about dolphins and their role in marine ecosystems.
Support zoos, aquariums, and conservation organizations working to protect them.
Spread the word – Raise awareness about dolphin conservation.
Practice responsible viewing – Follow ethical guidelines when observing dolphins in the wild. (Learn more at NOAA’s guidelines) Let’s work toward a future where dolphins thrive in their natural habitats!
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer has touched so many lives, and at Dolphins Plus, we have felt its impact profoundly—not once, but twice. Honoring Oma’s Legacy Anne Marie Borguss, lovingly known as “Oma”, was the heart of Dolphins Plus. As a founding member of our marine mammal facility, she welcomed every guest with warmth and laughter. Sadly, in 2009, Oma lost her courageous six-year battle with breast cancer.
In her memory, we created the “Oma Program”, offering complimentary dolphin encounters to guests battling cancer—providing a stress-free moment of joy away from hospitals and treatments. Visit www.dolphinsplus.com for more details. Remembering Wono, Our Brave Sea Lion
In 2015, Wono, our beloved sea lion and the heartthrob of Dolphins Plus, lost her own battle with breast cancer. As the founder of our sea lion interactive program, she touched the lives of guests from around the world.
At 25 years old, Wono faced cancer with courage, undergoing:
X-rays & biopsies
Surgical tumor removal
Oral & IV chemotherapy
Unfortunately, as her quality of life declined, our animal care team made the heart-wrenching decision to assist Wono in a dignified end-of-life transition. A Legacy of Inspiration & Learning Wono’s participation in advanced medical treatments has inspired human cancer patients and provided invaluable knowledge that will benefit future generations of sea lions. Both Oma and Wono remind us of the importance of hope, resilience, and the power of community. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we honor their courageous spirits and continue to support those fighting this disease.
Local Artisans Market
On the second Tuesday of each month from September through May, Dolphins Plus hosts the Key Largo Artisans Market.
Marine Mammal Protection Act Birthday
Happy Birthday to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)! On October 21, 1972, Congress passed the Marine Mammal Protection Act in response to growing concerns that certain marine mammal species were depleted or at risk of extinction due to human activities.
Why It Matters:
First law of its kind—providing comprehensive protection for all marine mammals in U.S. waters.
No marine mammal species have gone extinct in U.S. waters since its enactment!
Success in conservation—MMPA has stopped population declines and helped some species recover.
This landmark law remains a crucial tool in marine conservation. Let’s celebrate its success and continue advocating for strong protections for marine mammals! November – Manatee Awareness Month November is Manatee Awareness Month, a time to celebrate Florida’s beloved state marine mammal and raise awareness about the threats these gentle giants face. Join us in spreading knowledge and inspiring positive change to protect manatees and their aquatic habitats!
Why Manatees Need Our Help:
Vulnerable species – Facing threats from boat collisions, habitat destruction, and pollution.
Essential to ecosystems – Manatees help maintain healthy seagrass beds and waterways.
Florida’s State Marine Mammal – A symbol of conservation efforts in the region.
How You Can Make a Difference:
Follow boating speed limits in manatee zones.
Reduce pollution to keep their habitats clean.
Raise awareness by sharing facts and conservation efforts.
Support organizations like Save the Manatee Club. Let’s work together to protect manatees and ensure they thrive for generations to come!
Local Artisans Market
On the second Tuesday of each month from September through May, Dolphins Plus hosts the Key Largo Artisans Market.
National Recycling Day
Today is National Recycling Day! A day dedicated to promoting recycling and raising awareness about its importance in protecting our planet. Since marine debris is a major threat to our oceans and marine life, Dolphins Plus encourages YOU to take action!
How You Can Help:
Reduce, reuse, recycle – Practice responsible recycling at home.
Choose wisely – Buy products made from recycled materials.
Spread the word – Encourage friends and family to recycle.
Think sustainability – Every action, no matter how small, makes a difference! Recycling protects wildlife, reduces pollution, and conserves natural resources—let’s do our part to make a positive impact!
Happy Birthday, Everglades National Park!
On December 6, 1947, Everglades National Park was officially established—making history as the first national park created to protect a threatened ecological system, rather than just a scenic landscape or historical site. This vast wilderness is right in our backyard, and we at Dolphins Plus are proud to celebrate its incredible biodiversity and conservation legacy!
Why the Everglades Matter:
A 5,000-year-old ecosystem once flowing from Orlando to Florida Bay.
Home to sawgrass marshes, freshwater sloughs, mangrove swamps, pine rocklands, and hardwood hammocks.
Supports diverse wildlife, including manatees, wading birds, the Florida panther, alligators, and crocodiles—the only place on Earth where both coexist!
Now 1.5 million acres of protected land, though only a fraction of its original size. Why Protect It? The Everglades National Park was established to conserve its unique landscape and prevent further degradation of its land, plants, and wildlife. As one of the largest wetlands in the world, it plays a critical role in water storage, flood control, and biodiversity conservation. Let’s celebrate Everglades National Park’s legacy and continue to support efforts to protect this irreplaceable treasure!
Local Artisans Market
On the second Tuesday of each month from September through May, Dolphins Plus hosts the Key Largo Artisans Market.
Closed Christmas Day
Happy Holidays!
Animals under professional care require daily husbandry and enrichment, even on holidays. While we may be closed to guests today, our dedicated team of animal care professionals will spend the day at work surrounded by their loved ones (both human and flippered) enjoying good food and holiday fun. From festive dolphin cuddles to dress-up days and everything in between our staff members find a way to spread holiday cheer on Christmas Day.
Anniversary of the Endangered Species Act
On December 28, 1973, the Endangered Species Act (ESA) was signed into law—one of the strongest legal protections for biodiversity in the world. For 50+ years, it has played a critical role in safeguarding our most vulnerable plants and animals, helping 99% of listed species avoid extinction!
Why the ESA Matters:
Protects endangered and threatened species from extinction.
Conserves critical habitats both in the U.S. and internationally.
One of two main U.S. laws protecting marine mammals.
Ensures recovery efforts for species at risk.
ESA Success Stories:
Manatees, bald eagles, sea turtles, and gray wolves have all made incredible recoveries thanks to ESA protections!
How You Can Help:
Raise awareness about the ESA and its importance.
Support conservation programs working to protect species and habitats.
Advocate for strong environmental policies that safeguard biodiversity. Learn more with these great infographics and help protect wildlife for future generations!
Certifications and Accreditations
International Marine Animal Trainers Association
IMATA’s accreditation recognizes facilities that have exceptional systems for training animal caregivers in the science and art of animal training while using positive reinforcement techniques.
Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums
An international association and the accrediting body for marine parks, aquariums, zoos and research facilities, the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA) recognizes facilities that provide the gold standard in marine mammal care. Member institutions reach millions of guests each year and create extraordinary experiences and connections to the natural world that inspire people to take action for marine mammals and our oceans. To become an accredited member of the Alliance, organizations must meet or exceed rigorous standards.
PADI – Professional Association of Diving Instructors
PADI teaches divers around the world to safely enjoy the undersea world without disrupting its delicate balance. Dolphins Plus adheres to PADI diving standards and helps promote eco-friendly recreational diving. Four of our staff members are certified PADI Dive Masters, one is an Assistant Instructor, and our founder is a Master Scuba Diver Trainer.
