Gulfport Sandbar & Dolphin Cruises by Coastal Cruises - St. Petersburg

Gulfport Sandbar & Dolphin Cruises by Coastal Cruises

St. Petersburgeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; no strenuous activity required

Overview

Coastal Cruises in Gulfport, FL, offers laid-back Sandbar Parties and dolphin watching trips that reveal the Gulf Coast’s vibrant marine life and stunning sunsets. Discover a unique way to enjoy Florida’s waters with local expert guides.

Details

Gulfport, Florida, sits on the edge of Tampa Bay, where calm waters meet a lively coastal vibe. Coastal Cruises offers a blend of maritime fun with their Sandbar Party and Dolphin Watching & Island Sunset trips—capturing the essence of the Gulf Coast in a uniquely social and scenic way. These boat-based experiences unlock access to some of the Gulfport area's most engaging outdoor water activities without requiring technical skills or intense exertion.

The Sandbar Party is more than just a boat ride; it's a floating beach meet-up on a natural sandbar that appears only at low tide. Here, passengers anchor their vessels to sip drinks, swim, and soak in the sun on a stretch of sand that feels miles away from city life. The vibe is casual and festive, perfect for groups looking to unwind and connect with Florida’s Gulf waters in a laid-back, vibrant atmosphere.

For wildlife lovers, the Dolphin Watching & Island Sunset cruises offer an unforgettable chance to see Atlantic bottlenose dolphins cutting through the waves near Boca Ciega Bay. The cruises navigate gently past coastal islands, delivering views of native shorebirds and mangroves, while the sun dips low over the water, painting the sky with warm hues. This pairing of wildlife observation with stunning dusk scenery creates a memorable outdoor adventure that’s both relaxing and invigorating.

Coastal Cruises fills a unique niche in Gulfport’s outdoor scene, blending local culture, nature, and social boating. With these trips, visitors experience the coastal ecosystem firsthand—sandbars, mangrove-lined waterways, and abundant marine life—without the hassle of self-navigation or equipment rental. Their cruises serve as an accessible entry point into Florida’s coastal waters and highlight the region’s dedication to conserving these waters for future enjoyment.

Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of spotting dolphins or the allure of a sandbar gathering, Coastal Cruises offers a refreshing outdoor escape amid Gulfport’s scenic coastline and lively community.

Adventure Tips

Book in advance

Trips can fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so reserving ahead ensures your spot.

Bring sun protection

Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay comfortable under Florida’s intense sun.

Dress for water

Prepare to get wet—bring swimwear or quick-dry clothing for sandbar stops and dolphin waves.

Mind the tides

Sandbar accessibility depends on low tide timing, so check tide schedules when planning your trip.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Nearby Boca Ciega Bay quiet coves
  • Less crowded mangrove trails on Egmont Key

Wildlife

  • Atlantic bottlenose dolphins
  • Brown pelicans

History

Gulfport’s waterfront has a rich history as a fishing and recreation hub dating back to the early 1900s.

Conservation

Coastal Cruises supports sustainable boating practices to protect the delicate marine ecosystem of Tampa Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour (sunset)
Early morning light
Midday for wildlife clarity

Best Viewpoints

  • From the sandbar's edge
  • Onboard the cruising vessel
  • Near mangrove-lined islands

What to Photograph

Dolphins breaching
Sunset reflections on water
Colorful coastal birds

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from intense sun exposure during daytime cruises.

summer specific

Swimsuit

Essential

Allows easy transition for swimming at the sandbar stops.

summer|spring|fall specific

Light jacket

Provides warmth against cooler breeze on open-water cruises.

winter|fall specific

Waterproof camera or phone case

Protects electronics from spray and allows you to capture wildlife moments.