Nuevo Vallarta stands out as a prime spot for dolphin watching thanks to its sheltered bays, abundant marine life, and proximity to both calm waters and open ocean. Whether you want to get up close with dolphins in a controlled environment or witness their natural behavior in the wild, this area offers a variety of options. Personally, I find the Swim with dolphins at Aquaventuras Park particularly appealing because it combines interaction with dolphins alongside other family-friendly activities. It’s a good choice if you want a safe, fun, and educational experience. But for those who prefer observing dolphins in their natural habitat, the Wild Dolphin Paddle Board tour offers an authentic, contact-free encounter that’s equally memorable.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the three best dolphin watching tours in Nuevo Vallarta, highlighting what makes each stand out. Whether you’re seeking an interactive experience, a thrilling adventure, or a peaceful boat ride in the wild, you’ll find options here to match your interests and budget.
1. Puerto Vallarta: Dolphin Swimming and Aquaventuras Park
At number one, this tour combines dolphin swimming with access to Aquaventuras Park’s other attractions. For $159 per person, you get two hours of fun that include an opportunity to play with dolphins, shake fins, and even get a dolphin peck on the cheek—a highlight for many visitors. The package also includes admission to the park, so you can enjoy rides like zip lines and climbing walls, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting a full day of entertainment.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its balanced mix of interactive dolphin encounters and thrill-seeking activities. The dolphin swim is supervised by knowledgeable trainers, ensuring safety and a genuine experience. The inclusion of a “Swimmer’s Menu” with a tasty dish and soft drink adds a nice touch, making it a good value for the price. With a 4.6-star rating from 17 reviews, most visitors praise the friendly staff and the combination of activities.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a hands-on dolphin experience combined with amusement park fun. It’s a solid choice for families and water lovers who want to maximize their time with dolphins and enjoy other attractions.
2. Puerto Vallarta: Dolphin Royal Swim at Aquaventuras Park
For around $183 per person, the Dolphin Royal Swim is the most premium experience on our list. It offers a 60-minute interaction with dolphins, designed to deliver a more in-depth, engaging encounter. This includes thrilling activities like free dives, dorsal fin rides, and other fun tricks, all under the supervision of trained professionals. Like the first tour, it’s held at Aquaventuras Park, meaning you can also enjoy the water park’s slides and attractions.
What sets this apart is the focus on a more personalized and intense dolphin experience. It’s geared toward those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime moment with dolphins and willing to spend a bit more for that. While reviews are not available, the clear emphasis on a longer, more interactive swim promises a deeper connection with marine mammals. The package also includes park access, so you can extend your day with additional water fun.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for travelers eager for a comprehensive and memorable dolphin encounter, especially if they’re comfortable with paying a premium for a more exclusive experience.
$183 per person
3. Puerto Vallarta: Swim and Paddle Board with Wild Dolphins
At a different level of adventure, the Wild Dolphin Experience is a group tour for up to 10 people that costs $626 and lasts about four hours. This tour focuses on living the wild dolphin experience—you’ll paddleboard and ride towable boards alongside pods of free-ranging dolphins. The emphasis is on non-intrusive observation and interaction, allowing dolphins to approach naturally.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity to observe and interact with dolphins in their natural environment without any need to tame or contain them. The dolphins recognize whistles and voices, and their friendly behavior makes for incredible photo opportunities. Because it’s a group experience, prices are higher, but you gain a truly authentic encounter. Reviews highlight the respectful approach and the thrill of riding alongside pods of wild dolphins. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to witness dolphins in the wild without the constraints of a swimming pool.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an authentic and respectful wild dolphin experience, and don’t mind a longer, more active outing, this tour offers a memorable connection with nature.
$626 per group up to 10
How to Choose Your Perfect Dolphin Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, what kind of experience you want, and how much time you’re willing to spend. For a family-friendly, fun-filled day with dolphin swimming and park access, the Dolphin Swimming and Aquaventuras Park is ideal. If you’re seeking a more immersive, high-energy encounter, the Dolphin Royal Swim is worth the extra cost. For travelers who prefer natural encounters and active water sports, the Wild Dolphin Paddle Board offers a respectful, wild experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability. Think about your travel style—whether you want a relaxed, educational experience or an adrenaline-packed adventure—and choose accordingly.
In summary, Nuevo Vallarta offers diverse dolphin experiences—from controlled swims in parks to authentic wild encounters. For most travelers, the choice hinges on budget, time, and how close you want to be with dolphins. No matter which tour you pick, you’ll have a chance to see these intelligent mammals in their element—something that should never be overlooked. Consider your interests carefully, book your tour early, and prepare for a truly memorable marine adventure.