The waters surrounding St. Augustine are home to a diverse array of marine life and coastal wildlife. When you venture out on a boat tour along Florida’s oldest city’s coastline, you’re not just exploring historic landmarks—you’re entering a coastal ecosystem where you may encounter dolphins, seabirds, and seasonal visitors like manatees. Understanding what you might see and when to look for it can enhance your experience on the water.
Bottlenose Dolphins: Frequent Coastal Residents
Bottlenose dolphins are among the most sought-after sightings on St. Augustine boat tours. These intelligent mammals inhabit the coastal waters year-round, and while sightings are common, they’re never guaranteed, as these are wild animals following their natural patterns.
When dolphins are present, you may observe them swimming in the distance, traveling in pods, or feeding in the area. Their behaviors vary based on their activities and the time of day. The warmer months from late spring through early fall often bring increased dolphin activity, though St. Augustine’s resident population means they may be spotted year-round. Morning and late afternoon are sometimes better times for viewing dolphins when they are actively feeding.
Seabirds and Coastal Avians
St. Augustine’s waterways attract diverse bird species that thrive in this coastal habitat. Brown pelicans are a common sight, diving into the water to catch fish. These large seabirds with their distinctive pouch-billed bills are frequently observed along the Atlantic coast.
Great blue herons can often be seen standing in shallow waters, patiently hunting for prey. Ospreys circle overhead and occasionally dive to catch fish. Depending on the season, you might spot roseate spoonbills with their striking pink plumage, or various species of egrets wading through marshlands. Gulls, terns, and cormorants are also part of the coastal bird population, each contributing to the area’s natural diversity.
Seasonal Visitors: Manatees and Sea Turtles
West Indian manatees visit St. Augustine’s waters seasonally, particularly during cooler months when they seek warmer water sources. These gentle marine mammals, often called sea cows, move slowly through the waterways and surface periodically to breathe. Manatee sightings are special when they occur, as these endangered animals represent ongoing conservation efforts in Florida’s waters.
Sea turtles, including loggerheads, greens, and occasionally leatherbacks, inhabit the Atlantic waters off St. Augustine. Summer months bring nesting season when females come ashore to lay eggs on local beaches. While spotting sea turtles from boats is less common and requires favorable conditions, their presence reflects the biodiversity of these coastal waters.
Fish, Rays, and Other Marine Creatures
Beneath the surface, you may observe additional marine life. Schools of mullet create ripples across calm waters, sometimes attracting feeding dolphins and birds. Stingrays occasionally glide through shallow areas, their wing-like fins propelling them gracefully. During certain times of year, you might see schools of baitfish creating patterns just below the surface.
Jellyfish drift with the currents, their translucent bodies visible in the water. While some species can sting, observing them from the safety of your vessel allows you to appreciate their unique appearance. Occasionally, observers spot juvenile sharks in the shallows or witness fish scattering as predators approach.
Best Seasons for Marine Life Viewing
Spring and summer generally offer active marine life viewing conditions. Warmer water temperatures can bring increased dolphin activity, nesting sea turtles, and abundant fish populations. Fall maintains good viewing conditions with slightly cooler weather, making time on the water more comfortable. Winter brings manatees seeking warmer waters and continues to offer potential dolphin sightings, though some species become less active.
Each season presents different opportunities, and wildlife sightings vary based on weather, water conditions, and natural animal behavior patterns.
Responsible Wildlife Viewing: Fury’s Commitment
At Fury St. Augustine, we’re committed to responsible wildlife viewing that protects the marine environment. Our knowledgeable crew understands marine life behavior and maintains respectful distances that keep animals safe and unstressed. We follow all federal and state guidelines for wildlife viewing, ensuring our tours minimize impact on the ecosystem.
We never feed wildlife, as this disrupts natural behaviors and can harm animals. We educate guests about the importance of observation without interference. Our USCG-inspected vessels operate with environmental consciousness, minimizing disturbance to sensitive habitats. When you choose Fury St. Augustine, you’re supporting responsible tourism that prioritizes marine conservation.
Discover St. Augustine’s Marine Environment with Fury
Experience the coastal waters of St. Augustine with knowledgeable guides who understand the local marine environment. Contact Fury St. Augustine today to book your unforgettable water adventure and discover the natural wonders thriving along Florida’s historic coast.
Sources: [1] https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines
