Last Updated on March 31, 2024
Embarking on one of the best dolphin tours in Daytona Beach will give you the amazing opportunity to see Florida’s wildlife up close.
These tours offer the chance to see these playful and intelligent creatures in their natural Florida habitat, surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Each of the tours is led by an experienced guide that will bring you out into the water and give you the best chance to see dolphins, manatees, tropical fish, and other marine life.
Dolphins are one of the most majestic sea creatures out there, and seeing them in the wild is something special that you’ll remember forever!
Taking one of these great Daytona Beach dolphin tours is a great way to add a new and unique experience to your Florida vacation!
Top Choice √ Best Dolphin Cruise In Daytona Beach
Guided Wildlife Eco Kayak Tour In New Daytona Beach
Best Dolphin Tours In Daytona Beach!
Photo Credit- Daytona Beach Kayaking
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 60 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2 hours
Hop aboard a kayak and head out into the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, in search of the ocean’s most majestic and beloved creatures; dolphins.
On this kayaking eco tour, your guide will lead you into the Indian River Lagoon, which has lots of biodiversities and is very important to Florida’s ecosystem.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to search for marine life, such as tropical birds or bald eagles, crabs, and fish.
You’ll paddle your way through mangrove tunnels and waterways and allow the guides to walk you through the local history of the area and what animals live here.
And of course, be on the lookout for the wildlife that you’re really here for- the dolphins!
You may also spot Florida manatees on your journey through the lagoon, as they also call this place home.
Dolphins are very playful creatures, so they may even wander alongside your kayak and you’ll get to see them up close and personal, which is quite an unforgettable experience!
Included in this tour:
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Kayak and paddle
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Life jacket
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Guided tour
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Terry was an incredible guide. Exceptionally knowledgeable and informative. She really made the experience one of a kind! We saw crabs in trees and even a dolphin jumping out of the water. She has a great eye. I definitely would not have seen the wildlife without her. Book your tour with Wildlife Eco Kayak tour!”
Heidi_D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Three Brothers Board
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 1450 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2 to 3 hours
If you’re looking for a truly unique way to experience the playful and intelligent dolphins of Daytona Beach, this tour allows you to get on the water on a stand-up paddleboard and see them for yourself!
Rather than sitting on a boat or on shore, you can really enjoy the playfulness of the resident bottlenose dolphins as you paddle through the water just off Daytona Beach.
Your guide will lead you along the shore, where you’ll pass under several bridges and a yacht club.
Plus, you’ll make your way through dozens of small islands and shallow canals, which are some of the best locations to spot marine life.
As you make your way along the coastline, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the dolphins in their natural habitat, swimming and playing alongside your paddleboard.
You may also spot the gentle manatees as they float through the water.
You’ll be on the water for around 2 hours, but if your group is enjoying your time with the marine life, the guides will stay with you on the water for a short time longer!
Plus, the guides take into consideration the best starting times for the tours to see lots of dolphins, which is in the morning when they are most active.
So the chances of spotting the wild animals are higher than it is on some of the other tours!
Included in this tour:
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Paddleboard and paddle
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Life jacket
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Tour guide
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“An amazing spur of the moment activity. We were first timers and the tour guy, Ryan, was excellent with teaching us and showing us a great time; especially in windy conditions. A must do! They’ve totally encouraged a new activity into lives. Thank you.“
Brenda_V ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Paddle Pub Daytona Beach
This company is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 50 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 1 Hour and 30 minutes
This Paddle Pub dolphin tour in Daytona Beach is not just any old boat tour – it’s a unique and lively experience that combines sightseeing, socializing, and paddling all in one!
Hop aboard this unique and comfortable pontoon boat and get ready to paddle to power the boat.
While you do have to put in some work, all of your hard efforts will be worth it once you spot the amazing bottlenose dolphins in the water!
As you and your group pedal your way through the calm and scenic Intracoastal Waterway (Halifax River) which flows right through Ponce Inlet, enjoy the beautiful scenery.
You’ll have the opportunity to spot some of the area’s most fascinating wildlife – including the playful and friendly dolphins that call these waters home.
You also might spot sea turtles or tropical fish as you paddle along.
You’ll even pass by some of the best attractions on Daytona Beach, including listening to the live music from several of the beach bars and restaurants.
Another of the best parts of this tour is that you’re able to bring your own alcoholic or nonalcoholic drinks to enjoy on your tour!
There are coolers available to keep your drinks cold, and you don’t have to worry about purchasing expensive drinks.
Party lights and music play as you stroll through the water, in search of wild dolphins, and as you socialize with the others on the boat!
Included in this tour:
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Time aboard the paddle boat
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Tour guide
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On-board restroom
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Capt Caleb and Maxwell first mate were awesome, accommodating and fun! A great group activity. The views were beautiful and we got to see dolphins. It was a beautiful day and fellow boaters were friendly. Stress free and if you get tired no worries.”
Deborah_K ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Turtle Mound Tours
Tour length- Approximately 2 Hours
If you want to experience seeing the Sunshine State’s amazing marine life, like dolphins and manatees, then a few hours spent on this boat tour by Turtle Mound Tours will make your Florida trip unforgettable!
Pack up your favorite snacks and drinks and board the large pontoon boat with your friends and family as you embark on the water on a private boat tour.
No one else besides your group joins in, so you’ll get to enjoy the tour all by yourselves!
Sit back and relax as your captain drives your boat through the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for marine life!
Dolphins, manatees, turtles, and tropical fish are all often spotted on this tour through New Smyrna Beach.
As you cruise through the pristine waters of the Indian River, your guides will be able to help you watch out for the telltale signs of dolphin activity- from their majestic jumps through the air to their fins popping up above the surface of the water.
Dolphins are such playful and social creatures that they might just swim right up next to your boat!
And because there won’t be anyone else aboard besides your group and the captains, you can enjoy everything even more!
From family photo opportunities to listening to your favorite music as you cruise, this personalized tour is a must-do!
Included in this tour:
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Private boat ride
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Life jackets
Daytona Beach Dolphin Tours – FAQs
Can You See Dolphins In Daytona Beach?
Yes, dolphins are often spotted along the shoreline in Daytona Beach.
But the best way to see these magical creatures is to take a tour, such as this kayaking dolphin tour in Daytona Beach.
On the tour, you’ll get up close and personal with the bottlenose dolphins, as well as other marine life.
What Time Of Day Is Best To See Dolphins At Daytona Beach?
Wild dolphins in Daytona Beach are most active during the morning hours.
They spend time feeding in the morning, and you can often see them jumping through the water.
On this dolphin-watching tour, you’ll head out during the morning to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
What Is The Best Time For Dolphin Tours?
Late spring to the end of summer is the best time to take a dolphin tour in Daytona Beach, as this is when the creatures are the most active.
But, dolphins are able to be seen year-round in Florida, thanks to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Taking your tour in the morning allows you the best chance to see them.
How Much Is A Dolphin Sunset Cruise?
Depending on which tour you take, dolphin tours can range between $40 to $100 per person in Florida.
Most dolphin-watching tours in Florida take place in the morning, so it is less likely to book a sunset cruise since dolphins are most active in the morning.
What Should I Bring On The Daytona Beach Dolphin Tour?
Never hit the water without your sunscreen. You’ll want at least SPF 30 to protect from the Florida sun.
Sun Bum Sun Screen
If you’re planning a boat cruise, quick drying beach towels are an essential item to pack. Unlike regular towels, quick drying beach towels are made from materials that dry quickly, meaning you won’t have to worry about them getting wet and heavy as the day goes on.
Quick Drying Beach Towel
Keep your phone dry and take beautiful pictures under water with a waterproof phone case.
Waterproof Phone Case
Wrap-Up: Dolphin Tours In Daytona Beach
Spotting dolphins while visiting Florida is one of the most memorable parts of many people’s trips to the Sunshine State.
And when visiting the east coast of the state, you can take dolphin tours in Daytona Beach that allow you to get up close and personal with the magical ocean creatures!
From seeing them splash through the water to watching them cruise alongside your boat or kayak, you’ll never forget your time spent with dolphins in Florida!
You may be interested in these related posts:
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7 Best St. Pete Sunset Cruises & Boat Tours!
9 Best Places To Stay In Clearwater, Florida
5 Best Clearwater Beach Sunset Cruises & Boat Tours
15 Best Beaches In Tampa, Florida! (2023)
15 Memorable Day Trips From Tampa
27 Best Things To Do In Clearwater Beach, Florida
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Booking a last-minute trip to Daytona Beach?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended hotels and accommodations!
Top Hotels In Daytona Beach
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Daytona Beach – (High-Rated Hotel Near Airport)
Hardrock Hotel Daytona Beach – (Top Rated Beach Nearby Hotel)
The Daytona, Autograph Collection – (Modern Design Hotel With Top Location)
Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort – (4-Star Hotel With Beachfront View)
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