I want to swim with dolphins. Has anyone done it? If so, where?

[WindRavenX]

I keep seeing this ad for "Discovery Cove" in Orlando,FL, and I just die a little inside I see it because I've always wanted to swim with dolphins and rays :(

[Beausoir]

1. My kids did it in Costa Maya, Mexico.

They adored the experience.

We're doing it again on St Maarten in a month.

Be prepared for flames on this. People get really riled up about stuff like this.

[KamaAina]

2. I've done it several times.

Swum with dolphins, that is. :P

Both free and captive swim programs are available in Hawai'i. They live all around us, you see. On O'ahu, dolphin boats tour the Wai'anae (Leeward) Coast, with ocean swim opportunities, plus there's Dolphin Quest at the Kahala Mandarin (another is at Waikoloa on the Big Island), and Sea Life Park in Waimanalo.

You won't be disappointed. (click click squeak squeak)

[ThatsMyBarack]

3. Dolphins Plus, Key Largo, FL

I was there in October 2002. What an amazing experience! The dolphins are friendly, gorgeous creatures who live in a natural environment (sea water, not in a chlorinated swimming pool!), and are treated very well.

[ThingsGottaChange]

4. I went to Discovery Cove about 5-6 years ago

I have a crappy memory so, bear with me. We did "swim" with the dolphins. They take groups of about 5-6 out and have a trained dolphin come over and you get to do tricks with it and hug it & stuff. And of course there's a photographer taking pics the whole time - that you can buy later.

I went by myself into the ray pool. It's about knee deep and they are just swimming all around you. You can touch them. They felt, well, warty! But, it was so awesome (I am in love with all sea creatures)to just be there with them!

I don't remember if you can actually "swim" with dolphins or rays. That part may just be their hype. But, it you want to get up close & personal with them, it was definitely worth it! They also have a very cool aviary where you can feed the birds from your hand. And that's about all I remember because thanks to the moran I went with, it was the worst vacation of my life. But, I did get to see my fishies!!!

[redwitch]

5. I petted one once.

He was slippery and smooth. He rolled over so I could pet his tummy too. Dolphins are so wonderful. I hope you get to swim with them someday soon.