Dolphin Encounter at Sea Life Park

Every day, I have to remind myself that even with the insane traffic and high cost of living, my family and I are so lucky to live in Hawaii.  Not only do we have beautiful beaches and scenic views, but we can play with dolphins too!

Sea Life Park Hawaii, a marine mammal park, bird sanctuary and aquarium located in east Oahu, offers dolphin encounters and other programs that are perfect for families. 

I was very excited to take my 4 year old son and 8 year old daughter to this amazing experience.  Because we stood on a waist deep platform, I had to carry my son, but my daughter was fine standing in the water on her own.  Our dolphin trainer, Lizzy Sonoda, taught us all about dolphins and had our dolphin, Laka, show us some of her high energy behaviors. 

The lesson was interactive and my daughter was really engaged with asking and answering questions.  My son was a little intimidated by Laka and didn't want to kiss or dance with her, but he loved touching her smooth skin.  This was truly an unforgettable and fascinating experience.  I couldn't stop smiling while I was in the water with Laka! 

All participants are fitted with a life jacket.  Make sure to bring towels and a change of clothes!

 

The platform is waist deep so small children will need to be carried.

It was an extraordinary experience to touch Laka, the dolphin, upclose.

Cade loved feeding Laka a small fish.

Laka gave me an unforgettable kiss! 

Lauren loved the Dolphin Encounter with Laka!



Feeding the sea turtles is always enjoyable.



The view from Sea Life Park is beautiful.
 

Included with the cost of the encounter is admission to Sea Life Park and there is so much to do!  Kids will enjoy a full-day of educational and unique experiences!  Our family favorite is feeding the hungry sea turtles and the kids could stay at the playground all day.  New to the park is the bird sanctuary where you can feed the birds and Pink's where you can feed yourself a famous Hollywood hotdog.  Be aware the new eatery closes at 3:30pm. 

Thank you to Sea Life Park Hawaii for hosting our amazing adventure!  All opinions are entirely my own.  Photo credits: Sea Life Park Staff Photographer Shaun Kalipo Harvest.

Sea Life Park,  41-202 Kalanianaole Hwy #7, Waimanalo, Hawaii
808-259-2500
Open daily from 9:30am to 5:30pm