Top Places to See Manatees & Dolphins in Daytona Beach

Nothing compares to the thrill of spotting sea creatures in their natural habitat! Here in the Daytona Beach area, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and see amazing marine life up close. What are the area’s two biggest wildlife stars? Well, the answer is the playful dolphins and gentle manatees.

One of Florida’s most beloved locals, the West Indian manatee calls the Daytona Beach area home. These gentle “sea cows” love warm waters, which makes Florida’s sunny coast the perfect place to spot them year-round, especially during the cooler winter months.  As a migratory species, manatees drift between slow-moving bays, rivers, and estuaries of all kinds — freshwater, saltwater, and even brackish!

Keep your eyes on the surface as manatees typically rise for air every 3–4 minutes while swimming and can rest submerged for about 15 minutes. With such frequent surfacing, chances are good, you’ll spot one during your visit.

Dolphins are another crowd favorite in Daytona Beach! You’ll often see them leaping, fishing, or playing along the shoreline and inland waterways. While dolphins can stay underwater for up to 10 minutes, they usually surface much more often so don’t be surprised if you catch them popping up again and again to say hello.

Whether it’s the gentle grace of the manatee or the playful energy of dolphins, these encounters make Daytona Beach a truly unforgettable destination for wildlife lovers!

Dolphin and Manatee Eco Boat Tours

Ponce Inlet Watersports 

Climb aboard for a scenic cruise through protected wetlands and mangrove shores of Ponce Inlet. Along the way, you’ll likely spot dolphins, turtles, manatees, and native birds —all while expert guides share fascinating insights about the area’s natural treasures.

World Famous Boat Tours

Discover the Halifax River on a 75-minute narrated journey. Knowledgeable guides will introduce you to playful dolphins, many with names and stories of their own, while highlighting the vibrant ecosystem that makes this waterway so unique.

Whether you’re after manatees, dolphins, or just a peaceful ride through paradise, these tours bring the wild side of Daytona Beach to life!

Watch video: Head to Daytona Beach for endless eco-adventures! 

State Parks

Blue Spring State Park

Blue Spring State Park is located in nearby Orange City and is a quick 45-minute drive from downtown Daytona Beach. This state park is one of the best viewing spots in the state of Florida to view manatees every year, especially between November and March.

With a natural spring, Blue Spring State Park is like a magnet for manatees. It’s the largest spring on the St. Johns River and Blue Spring is crystal clear and 72 degrees. It is a designated Manatee Refuge and the winter home to a growing population of West Indian Manatees.

Blue Spring State Park frequently reaches capacity during the winter months, so visitors are encouraged to visit the park early.

Tomoka State Park

The rivers, creeks, and tributaries surrounding Tomoka State Park are alive with beauty — perfect for spotting the fascinating marine creatures that call this place home. For a closer look, rent a canoe or kayak from The Tomoka Outpost and paddle through breathtaking waterways. Or enjoy their guided pontoon boat tour and learn about the marine life and habitats from Captain Scott Cornelius, aka Capt. Corn.  Either way, keep your eyes open — you may even glimpse an endangered West Indian manatee gliding peacefully through the water or perhaps a playful dolphin!

Whether you’re paddling, hiking, or simply soaking in the scenery, these parks showcase the best of Florida’s wildlife and waterways!

Tips to Remember as You Encounter Nature

Manatees are a federally listed endangered species and are protected by federal and state laws. There are strict rules about human interaction with them, but you certainly can still have a memorable experience. Look, but don’t touch! Keeping your distance and passive observation are the best ways to view manatees and dolphins. Be sure to do your part to protect our mild-mannered friends and keep Daytona Beach wild!

All sorts of outdoor adventures await in Daytona Beach! Check out the area’s long list of eco-tours and wildlife exploration opportunities — and start planning your trip today!