The clear waters around St. Augustine provide excellent dolphin-watching opportunities just minutes from the historic district. Several local outfitters offer memorable experiences on the water, from peaceful paddleboarding tours to guided kayak excursions.
I love the Standup Pedal-boarding Tour for its eco-friendly approach – the silent gliding means you’ll get incredibly close to dolphins in their natural habitat. The Dolphin and Manatee Paddle Tour at Anastasia State Park is another favorite, offering a perfect blend of wildlife spotting and coastal scenery.
For those seeking comfort, the Scenic Dolphin/Sunset Boat Tour provides stable viewing platforms and covered seating. The St. Johns River Airboat Safari delivers an exciting change of pace, though wildlife sightings are less predictable.
Let’s explore our recommended tours for getting up close with St. Augustine’s playful dolphins.
Key Points
- The Standup Pedal-boarding Dolphin Tour offers a unique silent gliding experience for better wildlife observation with a small group size.
- The Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour provides a guided 2-hour adventure in the scenic Anastasia State Park with knowledgeable guides.
- The Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure focuses on close encounters with friendly dolphins, emphasizing eco-tourism and responsible wildlife viewing.
- The Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour offers a 1.5-hour small-group adventure with up-close encounters with dolphins and other wildlife.
- Alternative options, such as the St. Johns River Airboat Safari and the Scenic Dolphin/Sunset Boat Tour, cater to different preferences and budgets.
St. Augustine: Standup Pedal-boarding Dolphin Tour
Standup pedal-boarding provides an exhilarating way to spot dolphins in the tranquil waters around St. Augustine. This 1.5-hour tour allows visitors to glide silently over the waves while searching for these majestic creatures.
The small group size ensures an intimate experience, with a maximum of 6 participants per guide.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 51 reviewers, the St. Johns River Airboat Safari with a Guide offers a thrilling alternative for wildlife enthusiasts. This 1.5-hour adventure takes participants deep into the heart of the river’s ecosystem, where they can spot a variety of birds, reptiles, and, of course, dolphins.
For a more relaxed dolphin-viewing experience, the Dolphin/Sunset Boat and Nights of Lights Tour provides the perfect balance. Lasting 1 hour, this popular tour combines a scenic boat ride with the opportunity to witness the stunning Nights of Lights display, all while keeping an eye out for dolphins.
Read our full review: St. Augustine: Standup Pedal-boarding Dolphin Tour Review
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St. Augustine: Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour
For those seeking a more immersive dolphin-viewing experience in St. Augustine, the Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour is a fantastic option. Lasting 2 hours, this guided tour allows visitors to explore the waterways by either stand-up paddle board or kayak, offering the chance to observe dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and crabs up close.
The tour departs from 442 Ocean Vista Ave and takes guests through the scenic Anastasia State Park, with its stunning sand dunes providing a picturesque backdrop. Priced at $65 per person, the tour is suitable for all skill levels and includes a safety briefing and necessary equipment.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides, Joseph and Spence, as well as the high-quality equipment, which enhances the overall experience.
Reservations can be made online, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This tour provides an immersive and memorable way to witness the marine life thriving in the waters around St. Augustine.
Read our full review: St. Augustine: Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour Review
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St. Augustine: Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure
Another popular option in St. Augustine for wildlife enthusiasts is the Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure. This unique tour allows visitors to get up close and personal with the friendly dolphins that inhabit the local waterways.
Participants will paddle on a stable stand-up paddleboard, guided by an experienced instructor, as they search for dolphins in their natural habitat. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, with ample opportunities to observe the dolphins’ behavior and capture stunning photos.
The tour typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, providing plenty of time to soak in the tranquil surroundings and appreciate the beauty of these magnificent marine mammals.
With its emphasis on eco-tourism and responsible wildlife viewing, the Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure is an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable and educational outdoor experience in the historic city of St. Augustine, Florida.
Read our full review: St. Augustine: Paddle Board Dolphin Adventure Review
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St. Augustine: Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour
Visitors seeking a more immersive dolphin-watching experience can embark on the Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour in St. Augustine. This 1.5-hour tour offers a small-group adventure, allowing participants to paddle along the picturesque waterways in search of the area’s resident dolphins.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 51 reviews, the tour boasts a highly knowledgeable guide who provides insights into the marine life and ecosystem.
At $79.95 per person, the St. Johns River Airboat Safari with a Guide provides an alternative option for those interested in a more thrilling dolphin-viewing experience.
Lasting 1.5 hours, this tour promises an up-close encounter with dolphins as well as the opportunity to spot other wildlife in their natural habitat.
With its high rating and rave reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an adventurous and educational dolphin-watching adventure in St. Augustine.
Read our full review: St. Augustine: Deluxe Dolphin-Watching Kayak Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tours?
The minimum age requirement for the tours varies, but many operators typically allow children as young as 3 or 4 years old to participate, providing they are accompanied by an adult.
Are the Tours Suitable for Individuals With Limited Mobility?
The tours are generally suitable for individuals with limited mobility, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the specific accessibility accommodations they provide meet the needs of the individual.
Do the Tours Offer Any Educational Information About Dolphins?
The tours typically offer educational information about dolphins, including their behavior, habitat, and conservation. They provide an opportunity for visitors to learn about these fascinating marine mammals while enjoying the scenic boat ride.
Can the Tours Accommodate Larger Groups or Families?
The tours can generally accommodate larger groups and families. Many offer group discounts, and some even have larger boats to handle bigger parties. Guests should inquire about group sizes and options when booking their dolphin watching adventure.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tours?
Most dolphin watching tours in St. Augustine allow guests to take photos throughout the excursion. However, there may be restrictions on the use of flash photography to avoid disturbing the dolphins. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific guidelines.
Recap
St. Augustine offers a variety of exceptional dolphin-watching tours. Whether you prefer standup pedal-boarding, paddling a kayak or canoe, or exploring on a paddleboard, there are ample opportunities to spot these captivating marine mammals in their natural habitat. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable equipment, and scenic waterways, visitors can enjoy an unforgettable experience observing dolphins in the beautiful coastal waters of St. Augustine, Florida.