WE ARE THE MANATEE EXPERTS!

Discover the Dolphins of Key Largo

Wild, playful, and incredibly intelligent — dolphins are one of the most awe-inspiring marine mammals in the Florida Keys. Learn about their behavior, where to spot them on our eco tours, and how Captain Sterling’s helps protect these ocean icons in their natural habitat.
BOOK NOW
Colorful gradient

Dolphin Behavior in the Wild

Bottlenose dolphins are highly social and curious animals. In the waters around Key Largo, they’re often seen leaping, hunting, or riding the waves created by boats — offering an unforgettable experience on our eco tours.

Where to Spot Dolphins in Key Largo

The warm, shallow waters of the Florida Bay and Atlantic side make Key Largo a prime spot for dolphin sightings. Our guided routes take you through known dolphin habitats, giving you the best chance to witness them in their natural environment.

Protecting Dolphins & Marine Life

At Captain Sterling’s, we follow responsible wildlife viewing practices that keep dolphins safe and undisturbed. By avoiding loud motors, feeding, or chasing behaviors, we help preserve the beauty of Key Largo’s marine life for future generations.
BOOK NOW
Credit card mockups
Things To Do

Dolphins Plus Bayside: Where Marine Magic Meets Eco Adventure

Located in the heart of Key Largo, Dolphins Plus Bayside is a premier marine mammal facility offering unforgettable dolphin experiences—and it’s also where all Captain Sterling’s Everglades Tours begin and end. Dive into the magic of this one-of-a-kind location.

"Where else can you meet a dolphin face-to-face and then set off on an Everglades eco tour—all from the same dock?"

Captain Sterling
April 25, 2025
•
5 min read

Dolphin Behavior in the Wild

Bottlenose dolphins are highly social and curious animals. In the waters around Key Largo, they’re often seen leaping, hunting, or riding the waves created by boats — offering an unforgettable experience on our eco tours.

Social Creatures of the Sea

Dolphins live in tight-knit pods and communicate through a mix of clicks, whistles, and body language. On our eco tours, it’s not uncommon to see them swimming side-by-side, playing, or working together to hunt — a true display of their intelligence and teamwork.

Playful and Curious by Nature

These amazing mammals are naturally inquisitive and often approach boats out of curiosity. While we always maintain respectful distances, it’s not unusual for dolphins to ride our wake, leap from the water, or swim alongside the vessel.

Feeding and Hunting Techniques

Dolphins use clever strategies to catch fish — from herding schools into tight groups to stunning prey with tail slaps. Our tours offer a chance to witness this fascinating behavior, especially in the shallow waters around Key Largo where fish activity is high.

Where to Spot Dolphins in Key Largo

The warm, shallow waters of the Florida Bay and Atlantic side make Key Largo a prime spot for dolphin sightings. Our guided routes take you through known dolphin habitats, giving you the best chance to witness them in their natural environment.

Best Time of Year for Dolphin Sightings

Dolphins can be seen in Key Largo year-round, thanks to the region’s warm, shallow waters. While sightings are possible any day, calmer seas in the spring and fall offer better visibility and increase your chances of a close encounter.

Top Dolphin Hotspots in Key Largo

Captain Sterling’s eco tours explore prime dolphin-viewing areas like the Florida Bay, Card Sound, and Atlantic-side inlets. These open, protected waters are popular with local dolphin pods and perfect for peaceful observation.

How Our Tours Help You Spot Them

Our guides know the waters — and the wildlife — better than anyone. By navigating dolphin-rich routes and reading the signs of nearby pods, we maximize your chances of seeing wild dolphins without disrupting their natural behavior.
BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY
Credit card mockups

Protecting Dolphins & Marine Life

At Captain Sterling’s, we follow responsible wildlife viewing practices that keep dolphins safe and undisturbed. By avoiding loud motors, feeding, or chasing behaviors, we help preserve the beauty of Key Largo’s marine life for future generations.

Respectful Wildlife Encounters

At Captain Sterling’s, we never chase or crowd dolphins. We follow NOAA wildlife viewing guidelines to ensure every encounter is safe for both dolphins and guests, allowing these intelligent animals to interact on their own terms.

Quiet, Eco-Friendly Touring

Our eco tours use quiet motors and slow cruising speeds to reduce underwater noise and disturbance. This protects dolphins’ natural communication and ensures a peaceful environment for all marine life.

Educating for Conservation

Every tour is an opportunity to teach. We share insights about dolphin behavior, threats to marine ecosystems, and what you can do to help — from reducing ocean plastics to supporting marine sanctuaries in the Florida Keys.

Partnering with Local Protection Efforts

We actively support and promote marine conservation initiatives in Key Largo and the greater Everglades region. By choosing Captain Sterling’s, you’re directly contributing to the preservation of South Florida’s vibrant marine ecosystems.
BOOKE YOUR TOUR TODAY!
Captain Sterling's FAQ's

Dolphin Tour FAQs

Have questions about seeing dolphins in Key Largo? From the best times to spot them to what to expect on tour, we’ve got you covered. Get answers to the most common questions about our dolphin eco tours and how we ensure a safe, respectful experience for both you and the wildlife.
Can I see dolphins in Key Largo year-round?
Yes! Dolphins are residents of the waters around Key Largo all year long. Our eco tours operate in areas where dolphin pods are frequently seen, making sightings possible no matter the season.
Are the dolphins wild or part of a show?
The dolphins you’ll see on our tours are 100% wild, living freely in their natural environment. Captain Sterling’s offers ethical, educational experiences — no performances, no enclosures, just nature at its best.
When is the best time of day to spot dolphins?
Dolphins can be active any time, but early mornings and late afternoons usually offer the calmest conditions for spotting them. Our guides plan each route with ideal timing and weather in mind to boost your chances.
What areas around Key Largo are best for dolphin sightings?
We explore locations like Florida Bay, Card Sound, and ocean-side mangrove channels — all known hotspots for dolphin activity. Our custom routes adapt to the day’s conditions and dolphin movement patterns.
Are dolphin eco tours safe for kids and seniors?
Definitely! Our dolphin tours are family-friendly and senior-accessible. The experience is calm, relaxing, and educational, making it perfect for multi-generational groups exploring the Florida Keys.
What should I bring on a dolphin tour?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), a camera, a light jacket for ocean breezes, and a sense of adventure. We handle the navigation — you just enjoy the ride and watch the dolphins play.

Book Your Dolphin Adventure Today!

Ready to experience the magic of seeing wild dolphins in the crystal-clear waters of Key Largo? Join Captain Sterling’s for an unforgettable eco tour where every moment brings you closer to nature. Book your dolphin tour today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
See Available Tours
HOME
OUR TOURS
OUR CAPTAINS
BOOK NOW
© 2025 Everglades Eco-Tours