Dolphin Island: Day Trips and Tours from Side

The magnetism of the Mediterranean is undeniable and the warm crystal clear waters of southern Turkey beckon adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Take a day trip to Dolphin Island from Side to spend the day soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the marvelous coastal scenery that makes this region so special.

Here's all you need to know about Dolphin Island, one of the most exciting day trips from Side.

How to get to Dolphin Island from Side?

Dolphin Island is a remote island off the coast of Side and you can't reach it without booking a tour.

Guided tour to Dolphin Island from Side

The only way to reach Dolphin Island is with a guided tour from Side. These cruises are loaded with fun and excitement, offering you a full day of adventure including a visit to this unspoiled islet.

What is the typical itinerary?

Your day of fun and adventure at sea starts with pickup from your hotel at 8:30 AM. Your day tour to Dolphin Island begins from the bustling Manavgat River port where an impressive sailboat waits to guide you through the sparkling Turkish waters.

Embark on a cruise along the enchanting Manavgat River until you reach the river mouth. Here you will make your first stop where you can take a refreshing plunge into the inviting waters. Choose your adventure by either wading in the shallows of the cool river or darting towards the Mediterranean in search of sea turtles.

You will be lured back onboard by the smell of the freshly prepared lunch waiting. Your captain will set sail for Dolphin Island while you tuck into the hearty food on offer.

Once you reach Dolphin Island you can take another swimming break to enjoy the pristine oasis or sunbathe on the sandy shore. Allow the island's tranquil ambiance to invigorate your senses, leaving you refreshed and revitalized.

The party is not over and the journey back to Side is marked by a foam party with a DJ that keeps the good times rolling. You will return to Manavgat River port where your hotel transportation will be waiting.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Dolphin Island?

Guided island boat tours to Dolphin Island from Side

Dolphin Island is a remote islet and can only be reached with a guided group day cruise from Side. These tours offer tons of activities on board and also include lunch and hotel pick-up and drop-off. They are comprehensive and offer excellent value for money, keeping you for as long as 9 hours at sea.

How much does a day trip to Dolphin Island from Side cost?

A day tour to Dolphin Island costs between US$15 and US$25 per adult and between US$10 and US$20 for children under 12. Infants are allowed to join the cruise for free but the age of infants varies between tour operators. Some allow children as old as 5 to sail for free while others only extend the promotion to children under the age of 3.

A day trip to Dolphin Island is a comprehensive experience and starts with pick-up from your hotel in Side. You will be served a hot lunch of your choice on board and you will enjoy multiple stops for swimming in the sea. Your ticket also covers insurance, live entertainment on board and complimentary WiFi.

The only exclusion in your Dolphin Island day tour ticket is beverages. They will be available for purchase onboard. You can also purchase photos from the experience at the end of the trip.

What will you see and do?

A Dolphin Island day tour is a 9-hour adventure serving non-stop entertainment. From the moment you step on board, you will be enchanted by the beauty of your surroundings while being treated to an endless array of activities.

A dedicated crew will keep kids entertained with pirate-themed activities while other passengers enjoy some time sunbathing on deck. There are multiple swimming stops where you can jump overboard into the glistening Turkish Mediterranean.

The first stop is at the Manavgat River mouth where you can cool down in the clear river water or plunge into the Mediterranean. You might even be greeted by some sea turtles as they call the warm waters of this cove home.

The main event is when you drop anchor at Dolphin Island. Here you can swim in the azure waters or find your own little spot in paradise as you sunbathe on the beach. Look out for dolphins who frequent this corner of the sea, lending their name to the island.

On the way back to Side you will be treated to a foam party, a boisterous ending to an already fun-filled day.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Some day tours to Dolphin Island are wheelchair accessible. It is important to note that wheelchair users won’t be able to access all areas of the boat and should stay onboard during the swimming stops.

Contact your tour operator before booking to ensure that the hotel pick-up and drop-off transportation is wheelchair friendly too.

When is the best time to visit Dolphin Island?

The best time to visit Dolphin Island is in the summer, when the weather is hot and sunny. This is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and having fun on board the boat! While it may be peak tourist season, a day cruise offers a break from the crowds and will take you to more secluded areas.

What other day trips can you do from Side?

• Koprulu Canyon day trips from Side
• Antalya day trips from Side
• Alanya day trips from Side
• Green Lake day trips from Side
• Taurus Mountains day trips from Side

Travel tips

• Remember to pack a swimsuit and towel if you're planning on going swimming. It's also a good idea to pack a clean and dry set of clothes for after the foam party!
• Wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for protection from the sun, as you will be outdoors and exposed for much of the day.
• Food and drinks will be provided on board. Inform your tour operator beforehand if you have any specific dietary requirements.
• Take a camera to capture images from your epic day out.