St Augustine, Florida, stands out not just for its historic charm but also for its vibrant marine life. The city’s proximity to estuaries, salt marshes, and protected waterways makes it an ideal place for dolphin watching tours. Here, you’re likely to see playful dolphins, graceful manatees, and curious sea turtles in their natural habitat. Many tours also weave in local history and ecological insights, offering a richer experience than just spotting marine animals. Whether you prefer a relaxed boat cruise or an active kayak adventure, St Augustine’s diverse options ensure you’ll find a tour that suits your interests and energy level.
If you want to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings while soaking in the scenic beauty of the area, planning ahead is key. Tours tend to fill quickly, especially in peak spring and summer months when these creatures are most active. The following guide introduces the best dolphin watching tours in St Augustine, each with its own unique angle: some focus on ecotourism, others combine history with wildlife, and a few offer budget-friendly options. Let’s explore each in detail, to help you choose the perfect outing.
1. Dolphin, Manatee and SeaTurtle SUP Adventure Tour of St Augustine
For a hands-on experience that combines wildlife viewing with physical activity, the Dolphin, Manatee and SeaTurtle SUP Adventure Tour is a standout. Priced at $65 per person, this 2-hour tour lets you choose between kayaking or paddleboarding—making it perfect for those who want to get closer to nature while staying active. The tour departs from Anastasia State Park, where you paddle past the iconic St. Augustine Lighthouse and along the shoreline dotted with wildlife.
The tour is especially praised for its personalized approach. Guides are knowledgeable and eager to point out wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and West Indian manatees, which are rarer and more elusive. Many reviews highlight how close the dolphins swim around paddlers, creating a magical moment. The tour also explores Anastasia State Park’s dunes and marshes, adding a scenic element to the wildlife spotting.
What makes this tour unique is the option to paddleboard or kayak, catering to all skill levels, and the chance to search for the West Indian manatee—a species restricted to specific regions. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed yet active wildlife adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos and peaceful moments. The only down side? If you don’t see dolphins or manatees, guides will do their best to ensure it’s still a fun and educational trip.
Bottom Line: This is a great choice for active travelers, families, or anyone who wants to combine wildlife watching with a bodily activity.
2. Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure of St. Augustine
At number 2, the Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure offers a relaxing cruise ideal for those who prefer less exertion but still want a close-up look at marine life. For $39, this 1.5-hour pontoon boat tour explores the Intracoastal Waterway, passing landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. The live commentary from the naturalist guide enriches the experience, explaining the ecology and history of the area.
This tour boasts consistent sightings of dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles, with reviews noting how friendly and knowledgeable the crew is. Passengers enjoy unobstructed views and a laid-back atmosphere—perfect for families, couples, or those who appreciate informative storytelling combined with wildlife observation. Plus, you’ll see birdlife like pelicans, osprey, and spoonbills, adding to the natural spectacle.
A standout feature is the combination of historic site views and wildlife sightings in one trip. The trip’s affordable price point makes it accessible for many, and the Bar on board lets you relax with drinks while watching for dolphins. If you’re interested in a combination of sightseeing, education, and wildlife, this tour hits all the marks.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a calm, informative cruise with multiple wildlife and landmark sightings, especially those on a budget.
3. Guided Tour for Dolphin & Sea Turtle Observation in Saint Augustine, Florida
This Guided Kayaking Tour combines ecology education with personalized wildlife viewing. At $50, the 2-hour trip takes you through Matanzas River and Moses Creek—prime habitats for dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Led by a guide with a deep knowledge of the local environment, you’ll paddle through calmer waters, making it suitable for beginners or those looking for a more intimate experience.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on learning about the area’s ecology while spotting wildlife. The guide teaches about local flora and fauna, making it a good pick for nature enthusiasts. Many reviews praise the guide’s passion and knowledge, noting that even if you don’t see every dolphin, the educational component makes it worthwhile.
The tour includes kayak rental and lifejackets, so your only concern is paddling and keeping your eyes peeled. It’s best suited for active travelers willing to get into the water and those interested in learning as they explore. The tour’s reviews highlight the passion of guides and the peaceful environment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in a small-group, educational wildlife tour where you can learn about the ecosystem while spotting dolphins and turtles.
4. Adventure Boat Tours – One Hour Dolphin/Eco/History/Sightseeing Boat Tour
At number 4, the Adventure Boat Tours offers a quick yet comprehensive way to see St Augustine from the water. For about $38, this one-hour eco and history tour departs from Vilano Pier and combines dolphin watching with insights into the area’s past. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time or those wanting a family-friendly outing.
This tour is notable for its informative approach, with guides sharing stories about local landmarks like the famous fort and Fountain of Youth while keeping a lookout for dolphins. Many reviewers mention how friendly and engaging the crew is, and how the views of the city skyline and historic sites are especially striking at sunset.
While the trip doesn’t promise dolphin sightings, the casual atmosphere makes it a solid option, especially if you’re keen on a short, scenic ride that blends history and wildlife. The value for money is high, given the duration and inclusiveness of the experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families or visitors short on time who want a quick, scenic, and educational tour combining history and wildlife.
5. Dolphin Watch & Harbor Tour in Historical St. Augustine
The Dolphin Watch & Harbor Tour offers a 1.5-hour cruise on a luxurious 65-foot sailing catamaran. Priced at $42.55, it’s well worth the relaxing ride through historic harbors near Vilano Beach. This tour specializes in dolphin sightings, often featuring bottle-nose dolphins engaging in natural behaviors right from the deck.
What makes this tour stand out is the panoramic 360-degree views from the spacious deck, providing unobstructed photo opportunities of the city skyline and historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos. Many reviews mention how friendly and helpful the crew is, with some highlighting the complimentary snacks and beverages and shade options for comfort.
This tour caters to those who want a relaxing, scenic experience with wildlife sightings woven into a luxury cruise. It’s perfect for a romantic outing or anyone wanting to enjoy water-based sightseeing without the physical effort of paddling. The value is good considering the comfort and scenic views provided.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a luxurious, scenic dolphin experience with stunning views of historic St Augustine.
6. Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle Kayak Adventure
For those seeking a private, immersive wildlife experience, the Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle Kayak Adventure offers an exclusive way to explore St Augustine’s waterways. At $65 per person for 2 hours, it’s a bit of an investment, but the personalized guidance and up-close wildlife encounters often make it worthwhile.
Led by an expert guide, you paddle through quieter off-the-beaten-path areas, increasing your chances of seeing dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Many reviews mention the beautiful, peaceful environment and the knowledgeable guides’ passion for nature. The tour includes stops on beaches for relaxing and observing additional wildlife like conchs and starfish.
This tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized attention and are comfortable with kayaking. It offers a more intimate view of wildlife and nature than larger group tours. Some reviewers note that while not everyone always sees dolphins, the wildlife sightings and educational talk make it a valuable experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want an up-close, private wildlife adventure focusing on ecology and wildlife photography.
7. Dolphins and Wildlife Ecotour
Our final pick, the Dolphins and Wildlife Ecotour, is a short, 1.5-hour trip priced at $75, with a focus on ecotourism. It’s especially popular in spring and summer when migration brings bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees into view. Paddlers often describe it as a breathtaking experience, particularly when viewing migratory birds like the Least Terns.
This tour is notable for its small group size and immersive approach, making it ideal for nature lovers with a sense of adventure. The focus on wildlife observation combined with the chance to learn about local ecosystems makes it stand out. While the price is higher, many reviews mention the quality of the experience, especially when dolphins are spotted nearby.
This tour is best suited for those who want a more curated, eco-focused outing and are prepared for a shorter experience that emphasizes quality wildlife sightings over a lengthy cruise. It’s a must-do for travelers who prioritize ecology and birdwatching.
Bottom Line: Great for eco-conscious travelers seeking a small group, wildlife-rich experience with expert guides.
How to Choose the Right Dolphin Watching Tour in St Augustine
Deciding between these options depends on your interests, budget, and activity level. If you’re eager to actively paddle and love being in the water, Dolphin, Manatee and SeaTurtle SUP Adventure Tour offers a hands-on wildlife experience. For those wanting a laid-back cruise with history and wildlife, the Adventure Boat Tours provides a quick, scenic option.
Budget travelers might prefer the Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure or Dolphin Watch & Harbor Tour, both offering excellent value and memorable wildlife sightings. If you’re passionate about ecology, the Dolphins and Wildlife Ecotour delivers a focused, expert-guided experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak months, and consider the duration—some tours are just an hour, while others stretch to two hours or more. Think about your fitness level (kayaking versus boat cruise) and whether you want a relaxed or active adventure.
Final Thoughts
From interactive kayak adventures to luxury sailing cruises, St Augustine offers a range of dolphin watching tours tailored to different tastes and ages. For active explorers, the paddling tours like SUP Adventure promise an intimate wildlife experience. Those seeking a more relaxed outing might prefer the ecotours or boat cruises, which combine sightseeing with wildlife observation.
In all cases, early booking is wise, especially during peak seasons. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a tour that fits your schedule and interests, making your trip to St Augustine truly memorable.