Embark on a private sunset tour in Holmes Beach and enjoy a personalized boat cruise over the Gulf of Mexico. Witness stunning views, spot local wildlife, and experience the peaceful beauty of a Florida sunset from the water.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no strenuous activity required
Wildlife
History
Holmes Beach has a rich maritime history, originally serving as a fishing community largely dependent on local waters for livelihood.
Conservation
Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours supports local conservation efforts to protect marine life and preserve the area's natural beauty.
Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours
Embark on a private sunset tour in Holmes Beach and enjoy a personalized boat cruise over the Gulf of Mexico. Witness stunning views, spot local wildlife, and experience the peaceful beauty of a Florida sunset from the water.
Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours is a Holmes Beach, Florida-based marine tour operator that offers a broad range of guided boat experiences around Anna Maria Island and nearby Gulf waters. The company runs both public and private options including dolphin and wildlife tours, sunset cruises, sandbar excursions, pontoon rentals, jet ski rentals, and a 30-foot Tiki slide party boat. Tours operate in the Gulf of Mexico, local back bays, grass flats, and visit well-known spots such as Jewfish Key and Egmont Key.
Guests can expect family-friendly itineraries focused on wildlife viewing, snorkeling, shelling, and coastal exploration. Experienced guides lead snorkeling stops, highlight shelling opportunities, and point out seasonal wildlife including playful dolphins, occasional manatees, and sea turtles. Private charters allow customized routes, extended time for celebrations, and small-group privacy. Public departures provide shared, cost-effective options including two-hour dolphin tours, 90-minute jet ski adventures, and 1.5- to 2.5-hour sunset and excursion itineraries aboard vessels such as the Salty Dolphin.
The fleet includes pontoon boats available for half- or full-day rental, a floating Tiki party boat with a water slide and Bluetooth sound system, and smaller vessels for intimate wildlife excursions. Launching from Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island makes the company accessible to visitors staying on the island and nearby beaches. Guest photos and feedback frequently highlight close dolphin encounters, sandbar snorkeling, and vibrant sunset views.
Location
Holmes Beach, FL
Launching from Anna Maria Island
Tours Offered
10 Experiences
Private and public boat trips
Private & Public
Flexible Options
Custom charters and shared departures
Trip Lengths
90–150 min
Short to extended tour choices
Reserve a public seat or private charter from Holmes Beach—dolphin encounters, sandbar snorkeling, and sunset cruises available.
Arrive early for the best sunset views
Getting to the marina 15-20 minutes before the scheduled departure ensures you find a good spot and settle in comfortably.
Dress comfortably and bring layers
Evening temperatures can vary; dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable during the cruise.
Bring your camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning sunset and wildlife displays with a fully charged device.
Use sunscreen and wear hats
Protection from UV rays is recommended, even during late afternoon hours.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays during the sunny outdoor cruise.
summer
Light jacket or cover-up
Keep warm if the evening gets cool or windy.
spring|fall|winter
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing, especially for distant birds and marine animals.
Waterproof phone case
Protect your devices against splashes or sudden rain.