Theater of the Sea in Islamorada is an Entertaining Marine Animal Park

Located in Islamorada in the Florida Keys, Theater of the Sea is a small marine animal park that features shows, educational programs, and swim with the dolphins' adventures. Situated just off U.S. Route 1, it is much smaller than other similar parks in Florida but provides a more personal experience than many.

The highlight of the park is the "swim with'' adventures, which allows patrons to get close to dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays. Swimming programs are located in a 10 to 15 foot-deep natural lagoon, fashioned back in the 1940s from a quarry, and include hands-on experiences with the animals. Advance reservations are required and certain age and health restrictions apply. Unlike many similar facilities, Theater of the Sea allows children as young as five years old to participate in the swims. Children as young as three may take part in the Wade with the Dolphins program, which happens in a 3 - 4 foot pool, perfect for little ones or non-swimmers. The Meet the Dolphin and Meet the Sea Lion programs are also ideal for younger visitors and involve interaction with the animal out of the water.

Theater of the Sea's Adventure and Snorkel Cruise is a 4-hour boat tour that explores 13 miles of nearby waters on the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay. Experts in area history and nature, captains educate guests as to the particulars of the area and take visitors to Indian Key and Lignumvitae State Parks as well as Robbie's Marina in Islamorada, where passengers can feed giant tarpon. The trip also includes plenty of time for snorkeling near the Florida Keys' excellent coral reef formations. Guests can bring their own snorkeling equipment or may rent what's needed from Theater of the Sea.

General admission to the park does not include special programs or tours but does include dolphin, sea lion, and parrot shows, a guided tour of marine life exhibits, admission to a lagoon-side beach, and the bottomless boat ride. It takes about two-and-a-half hours to see all that Theater of the Sea has to offer - more if visitors want to take advantage of the hands-on adventures or cruises. There is also a restaurant onsite that serves snacks and light fare.

Theater of the Sun welcomes group tours and provides space for those who wish to hold birthday parties at the facility. Parties include participation in dolphin and sea lion shows as well as lunch in a decorated party area with cake and gifts for the birthday child. Theater of the Sea also welcomes the chance to host unique weddings, with special shows for the bridal party and guests and an opportunity to have the facility's marine animals participate in the ceremony. The Starlight Terrace, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, is available for receptions.