Dolphins are among the most popular wildlife attractions in Southwest Florida and can often be seen throughout the region's coastal waters, bays, and island areas.
One of the best ways to see dolphins is on a boat tour. Many excursions travel through Cape Coral's waterways, the Caloosahatchee River, and the Gulf waters where dolphins are frequently spotted.
The waters surrounding Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are among the region's top locations for dolphin watching. Visitors often see dolphins during boat trips or even from the shoreline.
Dolphins are also regularly spotted off the coast of Fort Myers Beach. Early morning and late afternoon are often excellent times to watch these animals in their natural habitat.
Because dolphins are wild animals, sightings can never be guaranteed. However, Southwest Florida is considered one of the best places in Florida to observe dolphins in the wild.