Dolphin Cove

Dolphin swim and interaction

The star attraction: programs to swim, touch and play with dolphins in a natural Caribbean cove.

The great draw of Dolphin Cove is its dolphin interaction programs, offered at different levels depending on the degree of contact and the depth of the water. The most basic options, like the 'Dolphin Encounter' (in shallow water), let you pet and feed the dolphins from a platform, ideal for children and for those who don't want to swim out into the deep. The more complete programs, of the 'Swim Adventure' or 'Royal Swim' (with two dolphins) type, include swimming in deeper water, being pushed by the dolphins (the classic 'foot push'), receiving a 'kiss' and taking part in several behaviors guided by the trainers. The encounters are done in small groups, with assigned turns and times, and always accompanied by a trainer who gives safety instructions and explains how to interact with the animals. It is an experience much sought after by families and by those who never had close contact with dolphins, and it is usually the strongest memory of the visit. Bear in mind that these programs are booked separately from general admission and have limited spots, so it's advisable to book in advance, especially on cruise days. As at all parks that keep cetaceans in captivity, there is a global debate about animal welfare in this type of activity; it is something each traveler weighs in their own way before deciding. Best time: the first morning turns are usually less crowded.

ℹ️ Distance: Inside the park, in Ocho Rios, next to Dunn's River Falls · Best time: Early morning and days with fewer cruises · Admission: US$ 99-149 depending on the program (Dolphin Encounter to Royal Swim); online booking with a discount (2025, verify on visiting) · Duration: Depending on the program (from about 30 minutes to 1 hour of interaction)

Jungle Trail

A walk through the park's tropical vegetation, with iguanas, snakes, birds and other animals.

The Jungle Trail is the land trail of Dolphin Cove, a walk through the tropical vegetation surrounding the cove, designed to get to know some of the fauna and flora of the Caribbean without leaving the park. It is included in general admission, so it is a good way to make the most of the visit beyond the water. Along the way, park guides present different animals and explain their characteristics. Among the animals you can see and, in some cases, touch under supervision, are iguanas, snakes (like boas, non-venomous), parrots and other exotic birds, plus fauna typical of the region. For many families it is one of the most entertaining moments, because it lets children have close, guided contact with animals they wouldn't see elsewhere. The trail is short and low-difficulty, suitable for almost all ages, and combines well with some time in the natural pools and the park beach. Best time: any time of day, though early there are fewer people and the animals are more active. Tips: bring repellent, water and sunscreen; the tropical heat and humidity are felt even in the shade of the jungle.

ℹ️ Distance: Inside the Dolphin Cove park, Ocho Rios · Best time: Any time; early there are fewer people · Admission: Included in general admission (US$ 49 adults / US$ 45 children, 2025) · Duration: 30 to 45 minutes

Stingray Encounter

Snorkeling and interaction with stingrays in a protected area of the cove, a gentle and very photogenic experience.

The stingray encounter is one of the calmest and at the same time most memorable water activities at Dolphin Cove. In a protected area of the cove known as the Stingray Sandbar, visitors enter the water with the guidance of the park's instructors to swim among stingrays accustomed to human contact, gently touch them and, in some cases, feed them. The feeling of the rays' velvety skin and their elegant movement in the water usually surprises those who try it for the first time. The activity is done with a life vest and/or snorkeling gear, and always with clear instructions on how to approach the animals without hurting or scaring them. It is suitable for beginner swimmers and, with supervision, also for children, which makes it a good complement to the dolphin swim. Depending on the ticket or package booked, the stingray encounter may be included or charged separately. It's best to confirm when buying the ticket. Best time: when the sea is calmer, usually in the morning. Tips: use biodegradable sunscreen (better for the marine ecosystem), don't touch the animals with your nails and always follow the guides' instructions.

ℹ️ Distance: In the park's cove, Ocho Rios · Best time: Morning, with a calm sea · Admission: US$ 45-65 per person (2025, depending on package; verify on visiting) · Duration: 30 to 45 minutes

Shark Encounter

A guided swim alongside nurse sharks in a controlled enclosure, for the more daring.

The Shark Encounter is one of the boldest activities in the park: it lets you get in the water alongside nurse sharks (a gentle, bottom-dwelling species, no danger to people) in a controlled enclosure within the cove. With the guidance of instructors, visitors can approach, touch and even briefly hold these animals, learning about their biology and demystifying the usual fear of sharks. It is an experience designed for those seeking a bit more adrenaline than the dolphin swim, though in practice it is a calm and very safe activity, since nurse sharks are docile in behavior. It is done in small groups with assigned turns. Getting there: inside the park, in a specific section of the cove. Best time: any day, though it's advisable to book ahead in cruise season. Tips: combine it with the stingray encounter for a full day of interaction with marine wildlife; it is paid separately from general admission.

ℹ️ Distance: Inside the park, in a controlled enclosure of the cove · Best time: Any day; book ahead in high season · Admission: US$ 45-70 per person (2025, verify on visiting) · Duration: 20 to 30 minutes

Natural pools and park beach

Swimming areas in protected turquoise waters of the cove, with kayaks, boards and areas to relax by the sea.

Beyond the animal activities, Dolphin Cove offers swimming and relaxation areas by the sea included in general admission. The natural cove, of turquoise, protected waters, lets you swim, snorkel freely and enjoy the Caribbean in a safe setting. There are sun loungers, shade and rest areas, which makes it a good place to spend several hours as a family. The park usually provides kayaks, boards and other items for fun in the water, plus complementary activities depending on the season. General admission includes the use of these facilities, while the interactions with dolphins, stingrays or sharks are paid separately. It is an ideal option for those who want the Caribbean water experience without going far from the center of Ocho Rios or from Dunn's River Falls, which are right next door. Best time: the early hours, before the cruise groups arrive. Tips: bring a towel, swimsuit, sunscreen and some cash for the bar and shop; rent or bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to explore the cove at your leisure.

ℹ️ Distance: In the cove of Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios · Best time: Early morning; days with fewer cruises · Admission: Included in general admission (US$ 49 adults / US$ 45 children, 2025) · Duration: 1 to 2 hours or more

Exotic bird show and demonstrations

Demonstrations with parrots and tropical birds, another of the included attractions for families.

Dolphin Cove complements its water offering with shows and demonstrations of exotic birds, usually parrots and other trained tropical species, which perform small routines and allow close-up photos. It is a brief but very popular activity among families with children, and it is usually included in the general park tour along with the Jungle Trail. These shows are presented at fixed times throughout the day, so it's best to check the schedule on entering so you don't miss them. It is a good moment of rest between the water activities, and one more chance to get close to the fauna the park is home to. Getting there: within the general park tour. Best time: any day; check the show times on arrival. Tips: bring your camera, as there are usually photo opportunities with the birds at the end of the demonstration.

ℹ️ Distance: Inside the park, in the bird area · Best time: Check show times on entering · Admission: Included in general admission · Duration: 15 to 20 minutes per show