Where to See Dolphins in Georgia
Watch for them from the shore, take a dolphin cruise or head to these spots to see the magical creatures up close!
Dolphins have always captured our hearts and imaginations, and seeing one gliding through the water is a thrill not to be missed. Nearly 40 species of dolphins swim in the world’s waters, and these highly intelligent and social creatures seem to be as curious about humans as we are about them.
The bottlenose dolphin show at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta showcases the mammal’s intelligence and is the best place in Georgia to get up-close and personal with the animals. The aquarium even offers a small group dolphin encounter where guests can meet, touch and feed these gregarious creatures.
Bottlenose dolphins also can be found in the wild along the Georgia coast. Sometimes they can be spotted from the beaches, but it’s more likely to find them on a dolphin tour.
Georgia has several different tours that fit any taste, including group outings, intimate charter boat tours and even kayak tours that get visitors closer to the water. Here are our picks based on the closest Georgia beach.
Savannah/Tybee Island
Capt. Derek’s Dolphin Adventure: Ever seen a dolphin surfing? Captain Derek can show you. In addition to dolphins, this adventure includes lighthouses, Fort Pulaski National Monument and all kinds of wildlife.
Sundial Charters: Naturalist and wildlife artist Rene Heidt runs this eco-adventure tour out of Tybee Island. Ask for a low tide tour for a chance to see the dolphins muddling, or heaving themselves on the banks to eat.
Bull River Cruises Eco Tours: Learn the stories of the waterways while hunting for dolphin on either a 17- or 42-passenger vessel.
Savannah Coastal Ecotours: Take a kayak tour through the marshes and waterways for a truly up-close and personal view of dolphins in nature.
From A-J’s Dockside: Grab a bite to eat at this waterside restaurant, and then rent a kayak or paddleboard to go in search of dolphin.
Golden Isles
Southeast Adventure Outfitters: These veteran tour leaders take visitors through the marshes and out into the ocean where dolphins play.
Jekyll Island Dolphin Tours: Groups from six to 49 can enjoy a day on the water searching for dolphins along the Georgia coast. This tour leaves from the dock at the wharf near the Historic Jekyll Island Club Hotel.
Coastal Expeditions Charter Fishing and Dolphin Tours: Take a private charter into the ocean with Captain Moody. He offers one and a half and three-hour tours. If time permits, take the three-hour tour to view and learn about the many smaller, sparsely populated islands on the Georgia coast.
St. Marys
Up the Creek Xpeditions: Up the Creek is the perfect choice for families that would like a guided tour to see dolphins playing.
