Adventure brief
Paint With Dolphins
Dive into a one-of-a-kind art adventure with Dolphins Plus in Key Largo, where you team up with dolphins to create stunning marine-inspired paintings. Witness intelligent marine mammals up close in this memorable interactive experience.
In the heart of the Florida Keys, Key Largo stands out as a beacon for marine adventures, its turquoise waters teeming with diverse sea life and vibrant coral reefs. Among the many ways to connect with the local aquatic environment, Dolphins Plus offers an extraordinary opportunity: Paint With Dolphins. This unique interactive experience goes beyond conventional wildlife encounters, inviting visitors to work alongside highly intelligent dolphins as they create colorful paintings right before your eyes.
Set in a controlled yet naturalistic marine environment, Dolphins Plus combines interactive art with marine biology, delivering a hands-on encounter suitable for all ages starting at three years old. Guests choose from a palette of safe, vibrant colors while positioned comfortably atop a floating platform in the water. Under the guidance of trained professionals, you assist a dolphin in applying brush strokes to canvas – a tangible demonstration of the species' curiosity, dexterity, and problem-solving skills.
This isn’t just about the painting; it’s about fostering a connection with these remarkable mammals in a setting enriched by the natural beauty of Key Largo’s warm, clear waters. The locale itself is renowned for its expansive coral reefs, including portions of the Florida Reef Tract, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S., offering vital ecological context for your artistic collaboration. Dolphins Plus has established itself as a standout destination within the Florida Keys outdoor scene, blending education, conservation awareness, and immersive engagement.
Whether it’s a family outing or a solo journey, this experience reshapes how visitors perceive dolphin intelligence and highlights the importance of marine preservation. The opportunity to witness dolphin creativity serves as a memorable reminder that these environments demand protection, making your participation in Paint With Dolphins both entertaining and ethically resonant.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Prepare for Water Interactioninfo
Expect to spend time on a floating platform in the water—wear swimwear or quick-drying clothes suitable for light splashes.
- 02Book Ahead for Peak Seasonsessential
Slots fill quickly during holidays and weekends; secure your spot in advance to guarantee participation.
- 03Follow Trainer Instructions Closelyessential
Safety and animal welfare depend on following all guidelines provided by professional trainers during the painting session.
- 04Consider Spectator Options for Kidsinfo
Participants aged 3-17 require a paid adult spectator, so plan accordingly if visiting with children.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Swimsuit
Wear suitable swimwear for comfort and ease during water interaction.
summerEssentialWater shoes
Protect your feet from slippery surfaces and potential rocky areas nearby.
summerSunblock
Apply to exposed skin to prevent sunburn during outdoor water sessions.
springEssentialQuick-dry towel
Useful for drying off quickly post-activity.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Harry Harris Park snorkeling area, Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
Local fauna
Bottlenose dolphins, Tropical fish species around the coral reef
Historic heritage
Key Largo is part of the Florida Keys, historically a hub for conch fishermen and coral harvesting since the early 20th century.
Mindful exploration
Dolphins Plus emphasizes sustainable marine mammal care and environmental education to support reef preservation efforts.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Floating platform near the dolphin pool, Shoreline observation areas, Underwater viewing windows if available
- Subjects
- Dolphins in action, Painted canvases, Interaction moments with trainers and participants
- Best times
- Morning light, Late afternoon, Overcast conditions for softer colors
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 3 years old to join the Paint With Dolphins experience.
Are there any health restrictions?
Pregnant women are welcome to participate, but if you have any medical conditions, consult with your doctor first.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Swimming ability is not required since you remain on a floating platform during the activity.
Can children under 18 participate unaccompanied?
Children aged 3 to 17 must be accompanied by a paid adult spectator.
How long does the session last?
The activity typically lasts between one and two hours.
What safety measures are in place?
Professional trainers guide the sessions following strict animal welfare and participant safety protocols.