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Dolphin Cove

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Landmark
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Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)

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Dolphin Cove is a premier marine attraction located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, offering visitors the opportunity to interact with Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins in a natural coastal lagoon. Spanning approximately five acres along the northern coast, the park opened in 2001 with a focus on promoting eco-tourism and marine education. In addition to dolphin encounters, guests can swim with stingrays and nurse sharks under the guidance of professional handlers. The facility is uniquely integrated into the coastline, utilizing a natural lagoon that allows for continuous water exchange with the Caribbean Sea. Beyond the water, a jungle trail through the surrounding tropical forest provides sightings of exotic birds, iguanas, and snakes, making it a comprehensive wildlife experience. Dolphin Cove is actively involved in conservation efforts and environmental awareness, hosting educational programs for local schools. Its strategic location adjacent to Dunn’s River Falls makes it a cornerstone of the St. Ann tourism sector. The park represents a blend of interactive marine experiences and the preservation of Jamaica's rich terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252526262727282828282726
Rain mm473039511361259412215119311958

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Dolphin Cove is an interactive marine park where visitors can swim with dolphins. The park features pools and tropical gardens that are free to explore.
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Typical hours
The park typically opens late morning and closes in the afternoon daily, but exact times vary. Check the official website or call ahead for current hours.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas, but special permission may be needed during dolphin interactions. Use a waterproof camera for the best underwater shots.
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Time needed
Allow about three to four hours to experience all activities and shows. Those who want to stay longer can also enjoy the gardens and on-site restaurant.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with other Ocho Rios attractions like Dunn’s River Falls. A trip to nearby Turtle Beach also makes a great addition.
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Getting there
Dolphin Cove is located on the main road in Ocho Rios, easily reached by taxi or rental car. Many cruise passengers use the short transfer from the port.
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Insider tip
Book the dolphin swim session in advance as it often sells out. Arrive at opening time to avoid queues and enjoy the animals more calmly.

Geography

Coordinates
18.42000, -77.15000

Facts

  • Established in 2001 as the island's first major marine park.
  • Spans approximately 5 acres of beachfront and tropical forest.
  • Dolphins reside in a natural cove with direct access to seawater.
  • Features a shark encounter program with docile Nurse Sharks.
  • Consistently ranked as a top Caribbean attraction by World Travel Awards.
  • Home to a diverse collection of Macaws, Parrots, and Iguanas.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Dunn's River FallsDunn's River Falls<1 km · NExplore →
Fort HaldaneFort Haldane3 km · NEExplore →
Mystic MountainMystic Mountain4 km · NExplore →
Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica)Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica)6 km · NWExplore →
St. Ann HillsSt. Ann Hills6 km · SWExplore →
Seville la Nueva RuinsSeville la Nueva Ruins7 km · SExplore →
Mount DiaboloMount Diabolo8 km · NWExplore →
Seville Heritage ParkSeville Heritage Park9 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Dolphin Cove (2)

Dunn's River Falls📍 landmark

Waterfall in Ocho Rios, cascading over limestone terraces into the sea.

Dolphin Cove Jamaica📍 landmark

Marine park in Ocho Rios featuring dolphin encounters and other attractions.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is Dolphin Cove open?
The park is open daily for visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How much is the entrance fee?
Prices vary by package but typically start around 60-70 USD per person.
Is photography allowed in the park?
Personal photos are allowed, though professional photographers often handle animal interaction sessions.
Is the facility wheelchair accessible?
Most paths are paved, but some beach areas may be difficult to access with a wheelchair.
How much time should I plan for the visit?
Plan for about 3 to 4 hours to enjoy the shows and activities comfortably.
Dolphin Cove: where is it located?
Dolphin Cove is located in Jamaica.
Dolphin Cove: what is there to see?
Highlights include Dunn's River Falls, Dolphin Cove Jamaica.
Dolphin Cove: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Dolphin Cove: why is it worth visiting?
Dolphin Cove is a premier marine attraction located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, offering visitors the opportunity to interact with Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins in a natural coastal lagoon.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
North America
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in North America
More places in Jamaica →

Nearby cities

Kingston — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Kingston
The capital and largest city of Jamaica.
Montego Bay — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Montego Bay
A major cruise ship pier and popular beach destination.
Port Antonio — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Port Antonio
Coastal town known as the gateway to nearby jungles.
Ocho Rios — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Ocho Rios
A town on the northern coast known for rainforests and waterfalls.
Runaway Bay — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Runaway Bay
A scenic coastal resort area known for its beautiful coral reefs and historical Green Grotto Caves.
Lucea — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Lucea
A charming coastal town with a historic fort and a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere.
Negril — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Negril
A resort town known for its white sandy beaches.
Bluefields — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Bluefields
One of Jamaica's oldest settlements, offering peaceful beaches, fishing villages, and rich biodiversity.
Hellshire Beach — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Hellshire Beach
A popular beach near Kingston famous for its fried fish, festival, and vibrant local Jamaican culture.
Long Bay — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Long Bay
A quiet beach area in Portland, Jamaica, known for its turquoise waters and bohemian, laid-back atmosphere.

History & landmarks

Dunn&#39;s River Falls — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Dunn's River Falls
Famous waterfalls in Ocho Rios that empty into the Caribbean Sea.
Mystic Mountain — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Mystic Mountain
Adventure park offering bobsled rides through the rainforest.
🗺️
Blue Hole
Stunning natural turquoise pools in the hills of Ocho Rios.
Bob Marley Museum — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Bob Marley Museum
The former home of the legendary reggae musician Bob Marley.
Pelican Bar — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Pelican Bar
A unique rustic bar built on a sandbar in the middle of the sea.
Frenchman&#39;s Cove — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Frenchman's Cove
A famous beach where a river meets the sea.
Doctor&#39;s Cave Beach — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Doctor's Cave Beach
One of the most famous beaches in Montego Bay, known for its clear waters.
Reach Falls — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Reach Falls
A beautiful natural waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.

Nature

Martha Brae River — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Martha Brae River
A tranquil river popular for bamboo rafting trips.
Black River — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Black River
Home to crocodiles and unique wetland ecosystems.
Rio Grande — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Rio Grande
Famous for bamboo rafting through tropical scenery.

More places

Seville Heritage Park — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Seville Heritage Park
Historic site marking the encounter of diverse cultures.
Green Grotto Caves — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Green Grotto Caves
Large limestone caves with a rich historical background.
Spanish Town Square — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Spanish Town Square
Features impressive colonial architecture from the British era.
Port Royal — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Port Royal
Port Royal was once known as the 'wickedest city on earth' before a devastating earthquake in 1692.
Fort Charles — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Fort Charles
The first fort built in Port Royal to protect the harbor.
Devon House — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Devon House
A prominent national heritage site and mansion in Kingston.
Cockpit Country — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Cockpit Country
Unique limestone landscape with diverse biodiversity.
Hollywell National Park — Dolphin Cove (Jamaica)
Hollywell National Park
Refreshing mountain retreat in the Blue Mountains.