Florida Keys: Dolphin Research Center Day Tour With Lunch

Explore the wonders of the Florida Keys with a day tour that immerses you in the captivating world of marine life. At the Dolphin Research Center, you’ll observe playful dolphins, sea lions, and parrots, while learning about their conservation from knowledgeable guides. Savor a delightful lunch amidst the breathtaking surroundings, and capture unforgettable moments with endless photo opportunities. This tour offers a personalized experience, making it an ideal outing for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Discover the magic that awaits in the Florida Keys.

Key Points

• The Dolphin Research Center offers an up-close experience to observe dolphins, sea lions, and parrots, with knowledgeable guides providing insights into marine animal conservation.
• Guests can witness playful dolphin behaviors and unique communication methods, as well as participate in training sessions with the dolphins.
• Bahia Honda State Park provides opportunities to dip in the Gulf of Mexico’s crystal-clear waters, walk along the historic railroad bridge, and explore the park’s wildlife and ecology.
• The National Key Deer Refuge is home to the endangered Key deer, with chances to observe migratory birds, the Florida panther, and learn about conservation efforts.
• The Overseas Highway offers a scenic drive with breathtaking views of lush mangroves and turquoise waters, including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge and Overseas Heritage Trail.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Dolphin Research Center

As visitors arrive at the Dolphin Research Center, they’ll be captivated by the opportunity to observe the resident dolphins, sea lions, and parrots up close.

Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the center’s mission to study and protect these remarkable marine animals. Guests can watch the dolphins as they engage in playful behaviors, learn about their unique communication methods, and even witness training sessions.

The up-close encounters create a profound appreciation for the center’s vital conservation efforts. With plenty of photo opportunities, this experience offers a memorable glimpse into the world of dolphins and other coastal creatures.

Discovering Bahia Honda State Park

After their visit to the Dolphin Research Center, the tour group heads to Bahia Honda State Park.

They’ll explore this beautiful paradise, dipping their toes in the Gulf of Mexico’s crystal-clear waters.

The group walks along the historic railroad bridge, taking in the stunning scenery.

Traversing the historic railroad bridge, the group marvels at the captivating vistas surrounding them.

This serene state park is home to an array of wildlife, including endangered Key deer.

The tour guide shares insights about the park’s ecology and history, providing a deeper appreciation for this natural wonder.

With its white-sand beaches and lush tropical vegetation, Bahia Honda State Park is a true highlight of the Florida Keys adventure.

Encountering the Key Deer at National Key Deer Refuge

The tour group then departs Bahia Honda State Park and heads to the National Key Deer Refuge. This protected habitat is home to the endangered Key deer, a subspecies of white-tailed deer found only in the Florida Keys.

Visitors can:

• Spot the diminutive Key deer, standing just 24-30 inches tall, grazing in the brush

• Explore the Blue Hole, a natural sinkhole with crystal-clear freshwater

• Observe unique flora and fauna, including migratory birds and the rarely-seen Florida panther

• Learn about conservation efforts to protect this fragile ecosystem from the knowledgeable guide

The tour provides an up-close encounter with the Keys’ most iconic wildlife.

Scenic Drive on the Overseas Highway

After departing Bahia Honda State Park, the tour group embarks on the scenic Overseas Highway, a 113-mile stretch of road connecting the Florida Keys. Winding through lush mangroves and over sparkling blue waters, the drive offers breathtaking views. Participants can’t help but marvel at the engineering feat that is the Overseas Highway, with its numerous bridges and causeways spanning the Gulf of Mexico.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Length | 113 miles |

| Construction | Completed in 1938 |

| Highlights | Seven Mile Bridge, Overseas Heritage Trail |

| Scenery | Mangroves, turquoise waters, coral reefs |

| Experience | Scenic, historic, awe-inspiring |

The Overseas Highway is a true highlight of the Florida Keys tour, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

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Highlights of the Tour Itinerary

The first stop on the Florida Keys Dolphin Research Center Day Tour is the Dolphin Research Center itself. Here, visitors get up close with dolphins, sea lions, and parrots.

Next, the tour heads to Bahia Honda State Park, where guests can dip in the Gulf of Mexico and walk the historic railroad bridge.

The journey continues to the National Key Deer Refuge, home to the endangered Key Deer. Visitors photograph these small deer and explore the Blue Hole, a natural sinkhole.

Throughout the tour, the local expert shares insights into the Florida Keys’ history, culture, and ecology.

• Dolphin Research Center

• Bahia Honda State Park

• National Key Deer Refuge

• Blue Hole

What’s Included in the Tour

When booking the Florida Keys Dolphin Research Center Day Tour, travelers can expect a comprehensive package that covers all the essential elements of the experience.

The tour includes a picnic lunch of sandwiches and chips, ensuring participants stay energized throughout the day. All entry fees for the attractions visited, such as the Dolphin Research Center and Bahia Honda State Park, are covered.

Filtered water is provided to keep travelers hydrated. The tour also offers scenic views, allowing guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.

With these inclusions, the tour provides a well-rounded and hassle-free experience.

Preparing for the Tour: What to Bring and Restrictions

To prepare for the Florida Keys Dolphin Research Center Day Tour, travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and water.

The tour explores the great outdoors, so these items will ensure comfort and allow participants to fully enjoy the experience. Plus, smoking and bringing alcoholic drinks on the vehicle aren’t permitted.

The tour may not be suitable for children under 9 years old, so families should consider this when booking. Following these guidelines will help make the tour a memorable and stress-free adventure in the beautiful Florida Keys.

• Comfortable shoes

• Hat

• Camera

• Sunscreen

Tour Duration, Pricing, and Logistics

The Florida Keys Dolphin Research Center Day Tour lasts 6 hours and costs from $160.18 per person.

The group size is limited to 11 participants, and the tour is conducted in English. Cancellations are eligible for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup is available from hotels or vacation rentals in Key West or the surrounding area.

The scenic drive on the Overseas Highway covers 58 miles from Key West to the tour’s destinations, including the Dolphin Research Center, Bahia Honda State Park, and the National Key Deer Refuge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour includes a picnic lunch with sandwiches and chips. Alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour duration is fixed at 6 hours and can’t be extended. However, travelers can inquire about adding optional activities or extending their stay in the Florida Keys on their own after the tour concludes.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t explicitly offer senior or student discounts. However, some tour operators may provide discounts for these groups upon request. It’s best to check with the tour company directly for any available special pricing.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional activities. Customers can speak with the tour operator to discuss their interests and preferences, and the itinerary can be adjusted accordingly for an additional fee.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. If you need to reschedule, you can do so without penalty as long as it’s before the 24-hour window prior to the tour.

The Sum Up

The Florida Keys: Dolphin Research Center Day Tour with Lunch offers an immersive wildlife experience. Guests can observe dolphins, sea lions, and parrots, while learning about marine conservation. With a delightful lunch, photo opportunities, and a personalized group size, this 6-hour adventure is an ideal outing for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. It’s a chance to explore the natural wonders of the Florida Keys.

You can check availability for your dates here: