AquariumFlorida, US

Marineland of Florida

Marineland Dolphin Adventure is the world's first oceanarium, inviting visitors to connect deeply with marine life on Florida's picturesque coast.

Official website Open in Maps

About

Marineland Dolphin Adventure is the world's first oceanarium, inviting visitors to connect deeply with marine life on Florida's picturesque coast. Established in 1938, it has evolved from an underwater film studio into a renowned facility dedicated to education, conservation, and interactive experiences with its beloved marine residents. It provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with fascinating creatures, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants.

The facility showcases a variety of marine animals, with a particular focus on its bottlenose dolphins. Visitors can enjoy interactive programs like Dolphin Encounters, Swim Adventures, and even a "Trainer for a Day" experience, allowing for close-up interactions. Beyond dolphins, Marineland features the Sea to Shore Aquarium, home to native and tropical fish species, moray eels, and invertebrates, as well as Ambassador Park, where sea turtles and red-footed tortoises reside. Daily educational talks and demonstrations further enrich the experience, covering topics from sea turtles to sharks and rays.

A visit to Marineland Dolphin Adventure offers more than just observation; it's an opportunity for hands-on learning and emotional connection with the marine world. Its commitment to conservation, research, and rehabilitation, accredited by organizations like the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, makes it a memorable and inspiring destination for those seeking to understand and protect ocean wildlife. The beautiful oceanfront setting adds to the allure, creating an engaging and educational outing for all ages. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.

Marineland was initially conceived by W. Douglas Burden, Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney, Sherman Pratt, and Ilya Andreyevich Tolstoy (grandson of Leo Tolstoy) as an oceanarium for filming marine life. Opening on June 23, 1938, under the name "Marine Studios," it was designed as the world's first underwater film studio and rapidly became a major tourist attraction in Florida. The facility was unique for allowing the public to observe various marine species swimming together in large tanks, a novel concept at the time. The venue soon gained fame for its "educated porpoise" shows, a term used for dolphins, which became a significant draw, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually by the mid-1970s. Over the decades, Marineland has undergone transformations, including a significant renovation after hurricanes in the early 2000s, reopening in 2006 with a renewed focus on interactive experiences and conservation. In 2011, the Georgia Aquarium acquired the park, and as of 2019, it is owned and operated by The Dolphin Company, continuing its legacy of connecting people with marine life and promoting ocean conservation.

What to do here

Dolphin Interactive Programs: Engage in shallow or deep-water interactions with dolphins (additional fee, reservations recommended).

* **Sea to Shore Aquarium Tour:** Explore tanks showcasing native and tropical fish species, moray eels, and other marine life.

* **Animal Talks and Demonstrations:** Attend scheduled presentations on dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, and rays throughout the day.

* **Ambassador Park: ** Observe loggerhead and Kemp's Ridley sea turtles, and red-footed tortoises.

* **Shark and Ray Feed/Talk: ** Witness feeding sessions and learn about these fascinating creatures.

Seasonal info

As an outdoor facility, visitors should be prepared for varying weather conditions. Programs generally take place rain or shine, but may be postponed for lightning within a 5-mile radius. During colder months, neoprene jackets may be provided for in-water programs if requested.

Accessibility

Marineland aims to be accessible to people with disabilities. Visitors with special needs are encouraged to contact the facility in advance for appropriate accommodations.

Don't miss

The primary highlight is the opportunity for interactive programs with **bottlenose dolphins**, including Dolphin Encounters and Swim Adventures. Other key areas include the **Sea to Shore Aquarium** with its diverse fish and invertebrates, and **Ambassador Park** featuring **sea turtles** and **red-footed tortoises**.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Gaillardia

Brown Anole

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Book Interactive Programs in Advance

Dolphin encounters and other special programs often fill up quickly, so it's highly recommended to book your tickets and chosen time slots online ahead of your visit.

Arrive Early for Programs

If you have an interactive program scheduled, plan to arrive at least 60 minutes before your program's start time to allow for check-in and preparation.

Bring a Towel and Wear Swimwear

For in-water dolphin programs, come prepared in your swimwear and bring your own towel. Lockers are available for personal belongings.

Photography Restrictions for Interactions: While general photography is permitted in public areas, personal cameras and phones are not allowed in dolphin program areas during interactive experiences. Professional photographers are often on-site to capture these moments.

Attend Animal Talks

Make sure to check the daily schedule and attend the various animal talks and demonstrations throughout the day for educational insights into the residents, including dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, and rays.

Combine with Nearby Attractions

Consider visiting nearby attractions like the River to Sea Preserve for nature trails or the historic sites of St. Augustine to make a full day trip, as Marineland itself can be explored in a few hours.

Frequently asked questions

: At Marineland Dolphin Adventure, you can encounter bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead and Kemp's Ridley sea turtles, red-footed tortoises, nurse sharks, cownose rays, moray eels, and various native and tropical fish species in the Sea to Shore Aquarium.
: Yes, Marineland offers several interactive programs where visitors can get up close with dolphins, including Dolphin Encounters, Swim Adventures (which allow deep-water interaction), and even a "Trainer for a Day" program for a more immersive experience.
: Yes, food and beverages may be brought in and consumed in appropriate areas. Marineland also has a food truck on-site, along with snacks and drinks available in the Gift Shop. However, drinking straws are not allowed.