The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is the only place you are guaranteed to see a dolphin on your visit. Yet, there is nothing more exciting on any beach trip than seeing a dolphin in its natural habitat. These playful and adorable creatures bring a smile to almost any face. Although dolphins are often spotted in the Gulf of Mexico, these four locations are where we have the most luck spotting these playful creatures.
4) John's Pass / Madeira Beach
John’s Pass / Madeira Beach has some of the strongest currents in the Tampa region. These currents make for great fishing… for both people and dolphins!
3) Weedon Island Preserve
The Weedon Island Preserve is located just off the Gandy Bridge in St. Petersburg. This location gives you a unique chance to get up close with the wild dolphins on any of the kayak tours offered by ECOmersion Kayak Tours. The Dolphins sometimes even swim along side the kayaks. Just be sure not to interact with, approach, or touch the seemingly playful creatures, as it is illegal to get too close.
2) Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is the place to go if you want to view dolphins from your relaxing spot on the beach. Not only does Anna Maria have beautiful white sand beaches, but it also gives you a great chance to see them jumping through the water right in front of you as you relax and soak up the sun.
1) Shell Key Preserve / Fort DeSoto
The calm waters and many mangrove islands found in the Shell Key Preserve are home to numerous pods of dolphins. The dolphins love to feed on the countless schools of fish that nest near the mangrove islands. Shell Key Preserve is unique and our number 1 ranked place to view dolphins because this location gives you the chance to see these animals from kayak, a boat or the beach.
