Picture this: you’re floating in warm, open waters, surrounded by nothing but the vast ocean. As you’re enjoying the water, a group of curious, playful dolphins come to say hello. Swimming with dolphins in the wild is truly a bucket-list experience. If you’re ready to find out where you can make this dream a reality, here are a few places to look into.
The Azores, Portugal
Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores Archipelago is one of the premier destinations for swimming with wild dolphins. The crystal-clear waters surrounding these volcanic islands are teeming with life. You can spot several dolphin species, including the common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, and Atlantic spotted dolphin.
The Red Sea, Egypt
The Red Sea is famous for its spectacular coral reefs and diverse marine life. One of the best places in the Red Sea to encounter these creatures is Samadai Reef. The reef is a protected area and home to a large pod of spinner dolphins that are known for their acrobatic spins and friendly nature.
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is home to a variety of dolphin species, including the playful bottlenose dolphins. Local regulations allow small groups to swim with dolphins with a guide to instruct you.