Cocoa Beach isn’t just about catching waves or soaking up the sun—its waterways offer some of the best dolphin watching in Florida. Thanks to its location along the Indian River Lagoon and Banana River, you can see dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birdlife in their natural habitat. Many tours are designed to be informative and relaxed, making it easy to spot these marine animals in the wild. Whether you prefer a boat ride, a kayak adventure, or a paddleboarding experience, Cocoa Beach has a variety of options that put you close to nature without needing a PhD in marine biology. Plus, most tours are family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and designed for all ages.
If you’re after a quick, fun dolphin cruise, you might enjoy a 2-hour boat tour, while those seeking a more intimate experience can opt for a guided kayak or paddleboard trip through mangroves and tunnels. For the night owls, the bioluminescent tours reveal glowing comb jellies and dolphins under the stars. To help you choose, below is a quick overview of some of the top dolphin watching tours on offer.
Quick Overview
The list below includes eco tours on boats like the Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours on the Banana River, kayaking adventures such as the Thousand Island Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour, and sunset tours like the Sunset Bioluminescent Comb Jelly & Dolphin Tour. There are also small-group options, family-friendly expeditions, and even luxury pontoon cruises. Whether you want a half-day outing, an evening adventure, or a quiet paddle through mangroves, you’ll find a tour suited to your style and budget.
1. Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours on the Banana River
At number 1, the Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours on the Banana River offers a standout eco experience with 5.0/5 stars from over 900 reviews. During this 2-hour journey, a certified naturalist narrates as you glide through the Cocoa Beach Thousand Islands Estuary, a habitat teeming with dolphins, manatees, seabirds, and lush mangroves. This tour is particularly praised for its laid-back atmosphere, restrooms on board, and accessibility for wheelchairs and families. Reviewers mention seeing dolphins from the start, along with manatees, fish, and birds, making it a hit for wildlife lovers.
This eco tour’s strength is its informative narration combined with close-up wildlife sightings. The naturalist guides go out of their way to ensure everyone gets good photo opportunities. The price of $47.50 per person offers excellent value for a relaxed, wildlife-rich excursion. Perfect for families, seniors, or anyone wanting a gentle cruise with plenty of animal encounters.
Bottom Line: If you want a calm, educational, and accessible dolphin tour with high reviews, this is your pick.
2. Thousand Island Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour w/Cocoa Kayaking
Number 2 on the list is the Thousand Island Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour, equally rated 5.0/5 from over 840 reviews. For around $52, you’ll paddle through the mangrove tunnels, getting intimately close to wildlife like dolphins and manatees. This 2.5-hour guided kayak tour is perfect for those who want to combine physical activity with wildlife viewing. The guides snap photos and provide all necessary equipment, making it easy even for beginners.
What makes this tour special is its small-group format, which ensures more attention from your guide. Reviewers love how easy and fun it is, with many mentioning dolphin sightings and encounters with manatees, all within a tranquil environment. The experience is educational and interactive, with guides sharing insights into the ecology of the area.
Bottom Line: For active travelers eager to get close to nature on paddling routes filled with wildlife, this tour offers excellent value and a personal touch.
3. Mangrove Tunnels, Dolphins, Manatee Tour #1 Rated in Cocoa Beach
Coming in at number 3, the Mangrove Tunnels, Dolphins, Manatee Tour is the highest-rated kayaking trip with 805 reviews. For $59, you’ll explore calm waterways by kayak, paddling through mangrove tunnels in search of dolphins and manatees. This 2-hour tour is ideal for first-time paddlers and those wanting an in-depth nature experience.
Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guide Gaby who shares stories about the local ecosystem. The tour includes all equipment and instruction, and offers the option for single or tandem kayaks. Reviewers highlight sightings of dolphins from the start and an engaging learning experience about the flora and fauna.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an accessible, educational, and wildlife-rich experience, perfect for those new to kayaking or nature lovers seeking a fun, guided adventure.
4. Brevard County Tours, dolphin and manatee tours in Palm Bay, FL
Number 4 is the Brevard County Tours, rated 5.0/5 from 98 reviews. For just $40, you’ll enjoy a relaxed 2-hour boat tour along the Indian River Lagoon. The luxury pontoon boat makes it a comfortable ride, with the captain and crew providing informative commentary about local wildlife and hidden gems like nearby islands.
Reviewers love how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are, frequently spotting dolphins, manatees, and turtles. Many mention that it’s a very relaxing experience suitable for families and all ages. The tour’s affordability combined with its wildlife encounters makes it a popular choice.
Bottom Line: For a budget-friendly, family-oriented wildlife cruise, this tour delivers a calm and informative experience with ample animal sightings.
5. Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour
At number 5, the Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour offers a 2-hour journey led by a naturalist/biologist. For $50, you’ll paddle through the Thousand Island Conservation area, with the chance to see dolphins, manatees, and other marine life. This trip is great for nature and animal lovers who want an educational experience.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to learn about local habitats. Many reviews mention dolphins swimming close to the kayaks and manatees surfacing nearby. The tour suits all skill levels, with equipment provided.
Bottom Line: If you seek an educational, wildlife-focused tour with expert guides, this small-group kayak trip ticks all the boxes.
6. 2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida
Number 6 is a relaxed 2-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour aboard a tiki-themed boat. For $45, the tour explores the Indian River Lagoon, with dolphins often swimming close to the boat. The crew offers informative commentary, pointing out birdlife, alligators, and even a rocket launch if timed right.
This tour is praised for its casual atmosphere, family-friendly vibe, and good wildlife sightings. Reviewers appreciate the friendly crew and the chance to see dolphins and manatees in a comfortable setting.
Bottom Line: For a laid-back, scenic boat cruise with solid wildlife sightings, this tour offers great value.
7. Indian River Clear Bottom Kayak or Paddleboarding Manatee and Dolphin Tour
Number 7 is the Indian River Clear Bottom Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour. For $50, you can choose kayaking or paddleboarding in the Indian River Lagoon, using a glass-bottom mode to view marine life directly beneath you. Led by guides with 25+ years of birding experience, you’re likely to see dolphins, manatees, and crabs over 1.5 hours.
Guests love how educational and fun the guides are, often mentioning dolphins swimming nearby. The tour suits all skill levels and offers a unique perspective thanks to the clear-bottom mode.
Bottom Line: For a hands-on, eco-focused experience with excellent wildlife chances, this tour is ideal.
8. Sunset Bioluminescent Comb Jelly & Dolphin Tour
Number 8 is the magical Sunset Bioluminescent Comb Jelly & Dolphin Tour. For $79, you’ll paddle or kayak in a quiet lagoon as bioluminescent comb jellies create glowing trails in the water. The tour departs from a protected dolphin mating ground, with dolphins often swimming alongside.
Guests rave about the phenomenal glow and dolphin sightings at sunset. The small-group setting makes for an intimate experience. The highlight is the bioluminescence, especially in summer months, which creates a truly unforgettable scene.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a romantic, otherworldly experience, this tour’s bioluminescence and wildlife make it stand out.
9. Dolphin and Manatee Clear Kayak or Paddleboard Tour
Number 9 is the Dolphin and Manatee Clear Kayak or Paddleboard Tour. For $75, you get 2 hours of island-hopping on the Indian River Lagoon with guided kayaking or paddleboarding. The glass-bottom mode offers a fantastic view of marine life, and guides are biologists who share deep knowledge about the habitat.
Reviews mention seeing dolphins close up and swimming with manatees. The tour is suited for all skill levels and offers a relaxed, educational experience.
Bottom Line: For those who want a high-contact, wildlife-rich adventure with expert insight, this tour is a top contender.
10. Sunset kayaking tour at Manatee Cove with Manatee & Dolphin sightings
Number 10 features the Sunset Kayaking Tour at Manatee Cove, costing $55 for 1.5 hours. Paddle through Manatee Cove during sunset, with chances to see dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife. Reviewers love the spectacular sunset views and the friendly guides who make it easy to spot animals.
The tour suits those wanting an evening paddle in a peaceful refuge, with the bonus of learning about local ecosystems.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset seekers wanting an intimate, wildlife-filled paddle with breathtaking views.
11. Dolphin/Manatee Pontoon Boat Tour with Local Expert
The Dolphin/Manatee Pontoon Boat Tour is a 2-hour narrated experience rated 5.0/5 from 21 reviews. For $55, you’ll cruise the Indian River Lagoon in a luxury pontoon, with dolphins, manatees, and many bird species often seen. The guide shares local recommendations and insights into the area’s hidden treasures.
Guests highlight the personalized experience, with many mentioning dolphin and manatee sightings right from the boat. It’s a comfortable, informative option that suits those who prefer a relaxed, guided tour.
Bottom Line: For a luxury, narrated cruise, this pontoon trip combines wildlife viewing with local tips, making it perfect for a leisurely exploration.
12. Wildlife Refuge Sunset Dolphin, Manatee & Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour!
Number 12 offers a small-group sunset adventure for about $61.75. Paddle or kayak through a Cocoa Beach wildlife refuge, with dolphin and manatee sightings common during sunset. The tour includes dry bags to keep your belongings safe and offers a quiet, scenic setting.
Reviewed as gorgeous with dolphins swimming alongside, it’s a favorite for nature lovers wanting a peaceful, intimate experience in a pristine environment.
Bottom Line: For a serene, sunset wildlife experience, this tour provides both beautiful scenery and wildlife encounters.
13. Wildlife Refuge Dolphin, Manatee & Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour!
This number 13 tour is a 1.5-hour guided small-group trip in Cocoa Beach’s wildlife refuge, costing $50. You can choose kayak or paddleboard to explore the mangroves, with frequent dolphin and manatee sightings. Guides are highly knowledgeable, often pointing out birds and other marine creatures.
Reviewers note lots of wildlife and beautiful sunset views. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: For an educational, wildlife-focused paddle, this tour is a reliable choice, especially at a reasonable price.
14. Cocoa Beach: Dolphin and Manatee Kayak or Paddle Tour
Our final pick, the Cocoa Beach Kayak or Paddle Tour, offers a 2-hour guided experience for $65. It features dolphin, manatee, sea turtles, and conch sightings. The tour’s scenic waterways are perfect for spotting marine life and appreciating the lush mangroves.
Guests praise the informative guides and the up-close encounters with dolphins. It’s well-suited for those wanting a comprehensive, wildlife-centered tour in a beautiful environment.
Bottom Line: For a full-spectrum wildlife experience, this tour provides value and educational insights in a scenic setting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Dolphin Watching Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, physical activity level, and interest in education versus relaxation. If you prefer a laid-back cruise, the eco boat tours or pontoon cruises are ideal. For a more hands-on experience, kayaking or paddleboarding tours, like the Mangrove Tunnels or the Indian River Clear Bottom Kayak, are perfect.
Thinking about wildlife sightings? Tours rated highly for dolphins and manatees tend to be the Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours and the Small-Group Kayak Tours. For evening or sunset adventures, the Bioluminescent Tours and Sunset Kayak Tour add a magical touch.
Booking early is recommended during peak seasons, especially for popular tours like the bioluminescent trips, which can fill quickly in summer.
Final Thoughts
Cocoa Beach offers a range of dolphin watching experiences that suit every style, from eco cruises to active kayaking and sunset paddles. If you’re looking for a family-friendly, informative excursion, the Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours on the Banana River is a top choice. For those who want more interaction with wildlife, the small-group kayak tours shine, especially the Mangrove Tunnels.
If you’re craving something special, like the bioluminescent glow or sunset views, the evening tours are unforgettable. Whichever you choose, booking in advance is wise to ensure you don’t miss out on these spectacular wildlife encounters in Cocoa Beach.
Happy dolphin spotting!