Virginia’s coastal waters are a prime spot for wildlife watching, particularly for dolphins and wild ponies. The state’s accessible waterways, combined with extensive marshlands and coastal estuaries, make it a standout location for observing marine mammals and birdlife in their natural habitat. Unlike some destinations that rely heavily on large boats, Virginia offers options that emphasize personalized experiences and close-up encounters, making your wildlife spotting more intimate and memorable. Whether you’re paddling quietly in a kayak or cruising on a boat, these tours provide a genuine connection to the area’s rich ecosystem. For those eager to see dolphins up close, Virginia’s variety of tours cater to different interests and schedules.
Below, we highlight two of the best dolphin watching tours in Virginia. Both are highly rated, with distinct approaches—one offers a small-group kayak adventure, and the other a boat trip focusing solely on dolphin sightings. Read on to find out which suits your style and how to make the most of your coastal wildlife experience.
1. Guided Kayak Tour to see ponies, birds, dolphins and more
This guided kayak tour provides a personalized, up-close experience with the wildlife of Assateague, including ponies, dolphins, and a variety of bird species. The tour is perfect for small groups—only a handful of kayaks—ensuring an intimate connection with nature and plenty of opportunities for photos. The experience begins on Chincoteague Island, where you’ll glide through coves, channels, and creeks, getting a close look at the coastal waterway’s diverse ecosystem.
This tour stands out because it combines wildlife viewing with the physical activity of kayaking, making it ideal for those who want a more active and immersive experience. The guide, Bailey, is praised for his knowledge and friendly demeanor, enhancing the experience with insightful commentary about the local environment. The $75 price point is quite reasonable given the duration—about 2 hours—and the small group setting. Reviews highlight how guests frequently see dolphins and ponies up close—a rare treat, especially when the marine mammals are often elusive. Because the tour fills up fast, booking in advance is recommended.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a personalized, nature-focused adventure and don’t mind getting a little wet. Ideal for those who enjoy kayaking and wildlife photography.
2. Chincoteague Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
For those who prefer to sit back and let an expert do the work, the Chincoteague Dolphin Watching Boat Tour from Assateague Tours is a top pick. Led by Captain John, who brings 50 years of experience to the waterways, this tour is dedicated solely to finding dolphins in their natural environment. The boat departs from Chincoteague and takes you into the more remote areas of the coast, where dolphins are most likely to be seen.
This approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes trip is designed for dolphin enthusiasts—there’s no focus on other wildlife. Instead, the focus is on finding and observing dolphins in the wild, with the chance to see these majestic creatures swimming freely. Reviews praise Captain John’s expertise and his ability to locate dolphins, even on less active days. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a dedicated dolphin encounter without other distractions. The $88 per person fee is competitive considering the personalized experience and the specialized focus. Since the tour is relatively short, it’s perfect for those with limited time or who prefer a quick, targeted wildlife outing.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for dolphin lovers who want a focused, expert-led experience, especially if you prefer being on a boat rather than paddling yourself.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between a guided kayak tour and a dolphin watching boat tour, consider your interests, fitness level, and schedule. The kayak tour offers a more personal, hands-on experience and allows closer encounters with wildlife, but it requires some physical activity and comfort in the water. Meanwhile, the boat tour provides a relaxed, guided trip focused exclusively on dolphin sightings, suitable for those who prefer sitting and observing.
Price and duration are also factors—if you want a longer, more adventurous outing and enjoy paddling, the kayak tour is a great choice. But if you prioritize a higher chance of dolphin sightings in a shorter time, the boat tour might be better. Booking early is wise since both tours are popular, especially during peak wildlife seasons from spring through fall.
Final Thoughts
Virginia offers a range of excellent options for dolphin watching, from small-group kayak adventures to expert-led boat trips. For travelers seeking an active, personalized experience, the Guided Kayak Tour shines with its close encounters and flexible itinerary. If your goal is to maximize dolphin sightings with minimal effort, the Chincoteague Dolphin Watching Boat Tour delivers direct, expert-led observation.
Both tours are great choices, depending on your interests and comfort level. To ensure your spot, especially in busy season, booking well in advance is always a good idea. No matter which you select, you’re in for an authentic wildlife experience that highlights the natural beauty of Virginia’s coast.