St. Augustine, Florida, offers some of the best waters for spotting dolphins thanks to its calm bays, historic waterways, and abundant marine life. Unlike many coastal spots, St. Augustine provides a mix of scenic vistas, historic sites, and wildlife encounters, making dolphin watching more than just a fleeting moment — it’s an integral part of exploring the city by water. We particularly enjoy tours that combine education with fun, such as the Sunset Boat Tour with Dolphin Spotting, which not only promises the chance to see dolphins but also to soak in the stunning colors of the setting sun as you glide past landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos.
What makes St. Augustine stand out is the variety of options available, from relaxing harbor cruises to active paddleboard tours, satisfying different interests and energy levels. The city’s waterways are a natural habitat for dolphins and manatees, making every trip a potential wildlife sighting. Whether you’re after a scenic sunset, an active paddle, or a cozy harbor cruise with drinks, you’ll find something that fits your style.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a range of dolphin watching experiences in St. Augustine, from sunset boat tours to paddle and kayak trips. We’ve included options that focus on wildlife and scenic beauty, like the Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour and the Harbor Dolphin Watching Tour with Drinks. Each offers a unique way to enjoy marine life and the historic waters of this charming city.
Below, you’ll find detailed insights into each tour, helping you choose the best option based on your interests, budget, and schedule.
1. St. Augustine: Sunset Boat Tour with Dolphin Spotting
At number one, this one-hour sunset cruise combines the thrill of dolphin sightings with the beauty of a vibrant evening sky. It’s a family-friendly adventure that makes the most of St. Augustine’s scenic waterways, sailing under the iconic Bridge of Lions and along the A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway.
What sets this tour apart is the timing — during sunset, the waters glow with golden light, creating a magical backdrop for dolphin watching. The tour is run with a focus on both fun and education, providing insights into the local ecosystem and history. Guests often comment on how relaxing it is to feel the breeze while watching bottlenose dolphins frolic in the waves, especially as the sky shifts into shades of orange and pink.
The boat is designed to be family-friendly, making it suitable for kids and older travelers alike. While the price is reasonable at $40 per person, the value lies in the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat with the added bonus of picturesque sunset views.
Bottom Line: A perfect option for those who want a quick, scenic, and memorable dolphin viewing experience at sunset.
2. St. Augustine: Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour
For around $65, the Dolphin and Manatee Paddle or Kayak Tour offers an active, up-close encounter with wildlife. Spanning approximately two hours, this tour invites you to explore the waterways of St. Augustine on a stand-up paddleboard or kayak, guided by experts who know where to find the most wildlife.
This experience is unique because it puts you directly in the water, giving you an intimate view of dolphins, manatees, and other marine life like sea turtles and crabs. The waters surrounding Anastasia State Park, with its sandy dunes and lush shoreline, add to the scenic appeal. The tour is designed for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned paddlers, and the guides provide safety tips and instruction.
Many guests love the chance to see dolphins swimming just a few feet away and to learn about the local ecosystem firsthand from naturalist guides. The active nature of paddling makes it a good choice for travelers wanting more than just a boat ride. Some may find the physical effort challenging in the heat or wind, but overall, the tour offers great value for wildlife lovers.
Bottom Line: An engaging, hands-on wildlife adventure ideal for active travelers and those wanting an immersive experience.
3. St. Augustine: Dolphin Watching Harbor Tour with Drinks
This Harbor Dolphin Watching Tour with Drinks provides a relaxed 1.5-hour cruise aboard the Fury, a spacious 65-foot sailing catamaran. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of wildlife viewing with the option to sip on complimentary drinks while watching dolphins play near Vilano Beach.
Sailing on a large open-air deck, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the historic St. Augustine skyline and the waterfront. The boat’s size and stability make it comfortable for larger groups and those who prefer a leisurely experience. The crew is attentive, and guests appreciate the chance to relax with sodas, water, beer, wine, and snacks as they scan the waters for bottlenose dolphins.
Reviews note that the dolphins are active, often feeding or frolicking close to the boat, making for memorable sightings. This tour is well-suited for couples, small groups, or families wanting a laid-back outing that combines wildlife, scenic views, and a social vibe. The slightly higher price reflects the inclusion of drinks and a more spacious vessel.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a combination of wildlife viewing and a laid-back, social atmosphere.
4. St. Augustine: Dolphin and Wildlife Historical Boat Tour
For just $29, the Dolphin and Wildlife Historical Boat Tour offers a quick, one-hour journey through Matanzas Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway. This tour combines wildlife spotting with views of iconic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions.
This ride is ideal for those who want a brief but scenic wildlife encounter. The boat cruise is designed to maximize the chances of seeing dolphins, and the captain shares stories about the city’s history and architecture along the way. It’s a straightforward option for travelers who want to combine wildlife with a bit of local culture.
Guests often note how close the dolphins come to the boat, and the view of the St. Augustine Lighthouse from the water makes it a photo-worthy experience. The affordable price makes it a good choice for budget-conscious visitors, and the 1-hour duration fits well into busy schedules.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, inexpensive dolphin spotting tour that combines wildlife and sightseeing.
5. St. Augustine: Expert-Led Dolphin & Wildlife Eco Adventure
At 90 minutes and priced at $29, this Eco Adventure is led by a marine naturalist, offering an educational and wildlife-rich experience. It’s tailored for eco-conscious travelers eager to learn about the local wetlands, marshes, and coastal habitats.
During the trip, naturalist guides help you spot dolphins, manatees, turtles, and various bird species. The boat is equipped with a bar, so you can enjoy drinks while absorbing insights about the region’s ecology. The focus on education makes this tour particularly suitable for families, students, or anyone with an interest in marine biology.
Guests appreciate the knowledgeable commentary, with one noting, “The naturalist was incredibly passionate and made the wildlife come alive.” The longer duration allows for a more relaxed pace and richer wildlife encounters, although some may prefer a shorter trip for a quick look.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those interested in ecological education and wildlife in a relaxed setting.
How to Choose the Right Dolphin Tour in St. Augustine
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities: budget, activity level, and what kind of experience you seek. If a beautiful sunset is your goal, the Sunset Boat Tour offers stunning visuals along with dolphin sightings. For a more active day, the Paddle or Kayak Tour provides hands-on wildlife viewing. If you prefer a social, relaxed cruise with drinks, the Harbor Tour with Drinks is excellent. Those on a budget or with limited time should consider the Wildlife Historical Tour, while eco-minded travelers will enjoy the Expert-Led Eco Adventure.
Booking early is always advised, especially in peak seasons (spring and summer), to secure your preferred date and time. Consider the physical effort you’re comfortable with, and whether you want a quick overview or a more immersive experience. Most tours run year-round, but wildlife sightings are best during the warmer months when animals are more active.
St. Augustine’s waters provide a wonderful mix of wildlife and history, making dolphin watching there a memorable part of any trip. With this variety of tours, you’re sure to find an option that suits your style and enhances your visit to this charming Florida city. Whether you choose a sunset cruise or a paddleboard adventure, early booking will ensure your spot on the water — so don’t wait too long.