The three programs
Cabo Adventures sells three levels. The Cabo Dolphin Encounter is the gentlest: a 30-minute session in shallow water, about 20 minutes of it with the dolphins, open to children from age one and to people who can't swim. The Family Cabo Dolphin Experience runs 40 minutes with 30 in the water and a minimum age of four. The Signature Cabo Dolphin Swim is the longest, about 50 minutes with 40 minutes of interaction, including more time learning the trainers' hand signals.
In all three you stand or float in a life jacket while the dolphins come to you for kisses, hugs and fins. You don't swim freely with them in open water.
- Dolphin Encounter: 30 min, age 1+, shallow water
- Family Dolphin Experience: 40 min, age 4+
- Signature Dolphin Swim: 50 min, age 4+
Prices and rules
Online prices are heavily discounted from the list price. On September 29, 2026 Cabo Adventures showed USD 83 for the Encounter (list USD 139), USD 107 for the Family Experience (list USD 179) and USD 125 for the Signature Swim (list USD 209). Hotel transport is USD 15 per person extra; from Villa 1 you can simply walk or take a short taxi to the marina.
Children aged 4 to 9 need a paying adult aged 16 or over with them in the water, one adult per child, and from age 10 children pay the adult rate. Sunscreen and jewelry are not allowed in the water, and personal cameras stay in the observation area; staff photographers sell photos afterwards, which is where the bill tends to grow. Life jackets, towels and lockers are provided, plus wetsuits in winter.
The welfare debate
Cabo Adventures says its dolphin program is certified by IMATA (the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association), the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and American Humane. Animal welfare organizations, including World Animal Protection, campaign against swim-with-dolphin attractions in general, arguing that captivity can't meet the needs of an animal that ranges widely in the wild.
We don't book dolphin programs for guests unless asked, and we'd point anyone curious toward wild dolphins first. Pods of common and bottlenose dolphins are often seen on whale watching trips and sunset cruises, and from December to April the humpbacks steal the show anyway. If you do go, read the rules, don't pressure small children who are nervous, and decide for yourself.
Getting there from Villa 1
The Cabo San Lucas center is on Boulevard Paseo de la Marina, on the marina about a mile from Hacienda Beach Club. Walk along Médano Beach and the waterfront in 15 to 20 minutes, or take a taxi. There is also a second location in San José del Cabo, which is only worth it if you are staying out that way. Arrive a little early for the briefing and the lockers. For other ideas with children, see our family activities page and the Cabo with kids guide.
