Naples, Florida, is one of the prime spots along the Gulf Coast for dolphin watching. Its calm, shallow waters, thriving mangroves, and proximity to the Ten Thousand Islands make it ideal for close encounters with dolphins, manatees, and a variety of coastal wildlife. Unlike busier tourist spots, Naples offers personalized, small-group excursions that let you really get into the action—whether you’re on a boat, paddleboard, or even a jetski. Plus, with access to remote barrier islands and protected wildlife refuges, you’ll see more than just dolphins; you’ll experience Florida’s natural beauty firsthand. If you’re keen on shelling, birding, or eco-tourism, some tours combine wildlife with scenic beaches and educational commentary, adding depth to your day on the water.
In this guide, you’ll find a diverse list of the 15 best dolphin watching tours in Naples. From budget-friendly group trips to private charters and high-adrenaline jet ski adventures, there’s something to suit every type of wildlife enthusiast and every budget. Whether you want a quick 2-hour tour or a full-day eco-expedition, these tours highlight the best ways to see dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying the stunning scenery of southwestern Florida.
1. Dolphin and Shelling Cruise for up to 12 people
At number 1, this small-group cruise offers a personalized way to experience Florida’s wildlife, departing from Marco Island and exploring the Ten Thousand Islands. For about $109 per person, you’ll spend approximately 2.5 hours searching for dolphins, manatees, and other marine animals. The tour focuses on visiting an isolated barrier island accessible only by boat, perfect for shelling, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The handful of reviews consistently praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, and the small size makes for an intimate experience. Expect to see dolphins playing in your wake and hear insightful commentary about the surrounding ecosystem. The tour is suitable for all ages, making it an excellent choice for families or those wanting a relaxed, educational adventure.
Bottom Line: This tour balances wildlife with shelling in a small-group setting, offering a relaxed yet engaging experience for nature lovers.
2. Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour
Number 2 on our list, the Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour is a 2-hour adventure with a local captain-guide, priced at $99 per person. It’s a popular option for dolphin sightings in the Ten Thousand Islands. The tour emphasizes education, with commentary on the ecosystem of the mangroves, along with birdwatching opportunities. The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who can recognize individual dolphins and share fascinating facts. This trip is ideal for those wanting a quick, engaging look at wildlife in action, with many guests noting multiple dolphin sightings, including playful babies. Its shorter duration makes it suitable for families with tight schedules or travelers who want a concise wildlife fix without sacrificing quality.
Bottom Line: With guaranteed dolphin sightings and expert guides, this tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife and environmental education, perfect for a short but memorable outing.
3. Marco Island 2 hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling tour
Number 3, this tour combines dolphins, birdwatching, and shelling into a 2-hour naturalist-guided adventure. Starting at $99.95 per person, it’s a versatile choice for families or anyone wanting a comprehensive Florida wildlife experience. Led by a naturalist, the tour explores the Ten Thousand Islands, where you’ll observe dolphins, pelicans, spoonbills, manatees, and sea turtles. After cruising the islands, guests disembark at an uninhabited barrier island for shelling, collecting some of the region’s best shells. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see a variety of animals up close. This tour stands out for its educational focus and the chance to combine wildlife viewing with shelling on pristine beaches.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour suited for nature enthusiasts wanting to mix dolphin sightings, birding, and shell collecting in a small-group setting.
4. Avi’s Premium Dolphin Tour by Jet Ski
For those craving adventure, number 4 is Avi’s Jet Ski Dolphin Tour, priced at $295 for a group of up to two people. This 2-hour tour takes you through the mangroves of Cape Romano and the 10,000 Islands, where you’ll encounter dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and a variety of birds. The thrill of zipping across the water on jetski makes this a unique way to interact with wildlife. The tour provides bottled water and windbreakers, with a focus on exploring the marine environment at high speed. Since each jetski accommodates two riders, it’s perfect for couples or friends wanting an active, fun-filled day. Note that riders born after Jan 1, 1988, need a boat test, which adds a small extra step.
Bottom Line: A high-energy, hands-on experience for active travelers who want to see dolphins while enjoying the exhilaration of jetskiing.
5. Half Day Private Shelling Dolphin EcoTour in 10 000 Island Marco
Number 5 offers a private, half-day experience for up to 6 people at $675. This custom tour employs a shelling boat designed for shallow waters, giving access to the best waterfronts of Kice Island, Dickmans, and Cape Romano. The guide is a local with insider knowledge, and the trip includes dolphins and other marine wildlife viewing, along with shelling on remote beaches. The private nature allows flexibility and personalized attention, making it ideal for families or groups seeking a tailored experience. The reviews highlight the guide’s ability to find shells and dolphins, making the trip especially memorable.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a flexible, private tour that combines wildlife viewing with shelling on pristine, uncrowded beaches.
6. Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Naples with Florida History
Number 6 is a budget-friendly, 2-hour paddleboard or kayak excursion for $65, perfect for active travelers. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour focuses on wildlife sightings—including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and bald eagles—around Naples’ coastline. Reviews mention the high likelihood of dolphin encounters and the guide’s engaging storytelling about Florida’s natural environment. The tour is suited for those who enjoy physical activity and want an intimate, up-close experience with wildlife amid scenic surroundings. Its focus on paddling makes it accessible to all skill levels, provided you’re comfortable on water.
Bottom Line: An affordable and engaging way to see dolphins and other wildlife from a kayak or paddleboard, ideal for outdoorsy travelers.
7. 10,000 Islands Boat Excursion – 3.5-Hour Dolphins & Shelling Tour
Number 7, this eco tour costs $169.95 and lasts about 3.5 hours. It visits Cape Romano and explores the abandoned dome houses, with plenty of wildlife spotting, including dolphins and seabirds. The tour combines shelling on a remote island with educational commentary about the ecosystems. The reviews mention excellent wildlife sightings and shells, as well as the guide’s expertise. It’s especially suitable for families and those wanting a longer, more comprehensive experience with nature and history.
Bottom Line: A longer, educational eco tour with opportunities for shelling, wildlife viewing, and seeing Cape Romano’s famous dome homes.
8. Island Paradise: Dolphin, Shelling, Birding Eco Boat Tour
Number 8 is a private, 2.5-hour tour at $125 per person, led by a Florida Master Naturalist. It explores the Rookery Bay Preserve and Ten Thousand Islands, offering wildlife sightings, shelling, and birdwatching. The tour includes a beverage cooler, shelling gear, and personalized attention. Guests can expect to see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and a variety of birds, making it ideal for nature lovers wanting a customized experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, educational, and relaxed eco adventure tailored to their interests.
9. Guided Dolphin Eco Tour by Kayak & SUP – Fort Myers Beach, FL
Number 9, at $50 per person, is a budget-friendly, 2.5-hour kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour. It takes you through the Big Hickory Island Preserve with a knowledgeable guide. The reviews mention the chance to see dolphins and manatees, with some noting dolphin playfulness—especially in the mornings. This tour suits active travelers wanting to combine wildlife viewing with exercise, and its small group size enhances the experience.
Bottom Line: An affordable, active way to encounter dolphins and manatees while exploring Florida’s mangrove channels.
10. Manatee, Dolphin, and 10,000 Islands Eco Beach Tour by Boat
Number 10 offers a 3-hour eco-tour for $127.18 per person, starting at the Port of the Islands. The route includes Everglades and 10,000 Islands exploration, with chances to see manatees, dolphins, alligators, and more. The boat is covered and stable, suitable for families, with polarized sunglasses and cameras provided. Reviewers mention excellent wildlife sightings and the scenic beauty of the environment.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded eco experience combining wildlife, scenic views, and beach time, good for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
11. Dolphin and Manatee Tour of Marco Island by Kayak or SUP
Number 11, priced at $65, is an active, 2-hour kayak/SUP tour focused on dolphin and manatee sightings. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the reviews rave about spotting dolphins swimming behind the boat and the guide’s expertise. This tour is best for travelers who enjoy paddling and want a personal, hands-on wildlife experience. It’s perfect for those seeking an up-close encounter in a tranquil environment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want an intimate look at dolphins and manatees in a peaceful setting.
12. 10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour
Number 12, this small-group boat tour costs $159.95 for about 3.5 hours, combining shelling and wildlife in the Ten Thousand Islands. Led by a naturalist, it emphasizes hands-on shelling and eco-awareness, with multiple opportunities to see dolphins, sea turtles, and birds. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge, shells found, and wildlife sightings.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, educational experience perfect for families and shell collectors wanting more time on the water.
13. Private 2 Hour Dolphin & Eco Tour Marco Island, FL
Number 13 offers a personalized 2-hour trip for up to six people at $400. Your private guide will take you through the 10,000 Islands to spot dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife. Reviews highlight the flexibility, personalized service, and dolphins racing the boat. It’s suited for travelers who prefer exclusivity and tailored experiences with a knowledgeable captain.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a private, customizable wildlife tour with the opportunity for close encounters.
14. Manatee, Dolphin and 10,000 Islands Sunset Cruise!
Number 14 is a 3-hour sunset cruise at $127.19 per person. It combines marine wildlife sightings with the magic of sunset views over the Gulf. Reviewers note the chance to see dolphins, manatees, and alligators, plus the tranquility of the evening. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine wildlife with scenic beauty and enjoy a peaceful end to the day.
Bottom Line: Offers a scenic, relaxing way to see dolphins and manatees in a more romantic or tranquil setting.
15. Private Island Paradise: Dolphin, Shelling, Birding Eco Boat Tour
Number 15, the priciest at $500 for up to 6 people, is a comprehensive wildlife adventure. This private tour explores Ten Thousand Islands, focusing on dolphins, bird species, and pristine beaches. The reviews mention diverse wildlife, including playful dolphins, and beautiful shells, all in a quiet, private setting.
Bottom Line: The ultimate in exclusivity, perfect for families or groups seeking a private, in-depth exploration of Florida’s coastal ecosystems.
How to Choose Your Perfect Dolphin Watching Tour
Selecting the right tour depends on your priorities: budget, activity level, group size, and interests matter. For a budget-friendly, family-oriented experience, the Dolphin and Manatee Tour of Naples offers great value. If you want more active, hands-on wildlife encounters, consider the Guided Dolphin Eco Tour by Kayak & SUP, or the Jet Ski Dolphin Tour. For those seeking private, tailored experiences, the Half Day Private Shelling Dolphin EcoTour or the Private Island Paradise Eco Boat Tour are excellent options.
Timing is also key; many tours operate year-round, but early mornings often yield better wildlife sightings. Booking ahead is recommended, especially for private or popular small-group trips—these tend to fill quickly during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Naples offers a wide array of dolphin watching and wildlife tours that suit all preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer a relaxed small-group cruise, a private eco-tour, or an adrenaline-fueled jet ski adventure, the options are plentiful. For families, tours like the Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour or the 10,000 Islands Boat Excursion provide engaging, educational experiences with plenty of wildlife. Active travelers might enjoy the thrill of Avi’s Jet Ski Tour, while those seeking privacy and flexibility should consider the Private Dolphin Eco Tour.
No matter your choice, early booking and planning around the best times of year will ensure you maximize your chances of seeing dolphins, manatees, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. These tours showcase the true beauty of Naples’ coastal waters, making for unforgettable memories on your Florida trip.