I knew going in that they had the advantage. I was out of my element. They were bigger, stronger and faster than me. Still, I slapped the water to call them closer. The dark, nine foot shadows darted past me and despite my best efforts, I hesitated. Suddenly, the beast broke the surface and rose up above my head. What now?

So I started to dance. Round in circles and side to side. Sunny the Dolphin danced with me almost laughing. I was clumsy he was not. Water was his medium. This gentle giant played with me and I was hooked.

Marineland just south of  St. Augustine, Florida is the World’s first Oceanarium built in 1938. It was designed to allow filming of sea creatures in a natural habitat. Time started to pass them by in recent years as new attractions to the south beckoned the tourists. Despite its amazing history, Marineland fell on hard times. It needed to reinvent the experience.

What has emerged is a research and conservation facility dedicated to dolphins and all marine life. Here the programs go from mild to wild. Stand on the edge, swim with the pod or become a trainer. Your choice. My daughter and I tried the Dolphin Discovery Program and after a brief educational talk we stood up to our waists in the dolphin pool and followed the trainer’s instructions. We petted, rubbed, kissed, danced, fed and splashed for 20 minutes with these amazing animals. It was thrilling. Now we want to go back and do more. The staff is outstanding here.

Marineland is a small, intimate facility on a beautiful stretch of beach. It’s not flashy or crowded. Be prepared to purchase photos of your experience and peruse the gift shop. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the grounds or head 5 minutes North past Summer Haven to the Matanzas Inlet for fun in the sun. This stretch of highway A1A is beautiful so take your time and bring what you need.

What a great way to relax and meet the oceans ambassadors. If you’re anywhere near St. Augustine, Florida and want a simple, historic, unique and exciting adventure this is your place. Turn off the cell phone, stare at the ocean and escape. 

More Photos Here.

Sponsored by Trusted Tours & Attractions.
www.TrustedTours.com

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