Pattaya Dolphinarium is a dedicated venue for dolphin and seal performances on the outskirts of Pattaya. The site runs multiple daily shows (typically 11:00, 14:00 and 17:00, with the facility closed on Wednesdays) and offers paid add-ons such as swimming sessions, photo opportunities and trainer programs.
What Pattaya Dolphinarium is and its background
Pattaya Dolphinarium is an entertainment facility in Chonburi Province focused on live marine-animal presentations. The venue presents choreographed routines featuring bottlenose dolphins and fur seals under the direction of professional trainers. The complex normally opens from 10:00 to 19:00 and schedules three performances a day, with each show running for about 50 minutes.
The dolphinarium combines spectator shows with interactive options. In addition to standard seats, visitors can buy closer seating or separate experiences such as short swims in a temperature-controlled pool, photo sessions with the animals, or multi-module training courses for a deeper look at how handlers work with the animals.
Key features and highlights
Live performances are the main draw: dolphins perform leaps, target work, ball play and simple synchronised moves alongside seals. The program rotates through multiple acts so audience members typically see a mix of acrobatic elements and lighter, audience-focused segments such as tricks and posed photographs.
Extra activities extend the visit beyond the show. Typical offerings include a swim session in the same pool used for performances, a short photo shoot with dolphins or seals, and a “become a trainer” package made up of theoretical and practical modules and a final on-stage demonstration. There are also event packages for private celebrations such as birthday parties.
- Typical show times: 11:00, 14:00 and 17:00 (closed Wednesdays)
- Opening hours: roughly 10:00–19:00
- Show length: around 50 minutes
- Swim session: short, supervised swims in a temperature-maintained pool
Practical tips for visiting
The dolphinarium is located at 555/5 Moo 1, Nong Prue Sub-district, Banglamung, Chonburi Province (Pattaya 20150), close to the Bangkok–Pattaya toll motorway (Highway 7). From central Pattaya the drive is typically under ten minutes; because no regular public transport stops at the venue, a taxi or private car is the most straightforward option.
Visitors report the venue enforces a series of safety and hygiene rules for interactive options. Before any water-based activity you will usually be asked to remove jewelry, glasses and hats and to shower—avoid applying sunscreen, deodorant or heavy cosmetics before swimming. Pregnant visitors are not permitted to take part in swim programs.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before show time to collect tickets and find seats
- Bring a small towel if you plan to swim; ponchos are provided for front-row seats likely to get splashed
- Follow staff instructions closely during hands-on activities; do not touch animals without permission
- Flash photography and large luggage are not permitted in the performance area
Cultural and welfare context
Marine-animal venues are part of a wider leisure sector in Thailand and across Southeast Asia. The dolphinarium operates a mix of public entertainment and paid, supervised interactions. Reports and promotional materials suggest the facility maintains routine care and training for its animals, and it schedules regular rest days (the site is typically closed one day per week) to reduce stress on the animals.
Some research and advocates discuss potential therapeutic benefits from controlled contact with dolphins; however, opinions differ and evidence varies by study. Visitors who are concerned about animal welfare or therapeutic claims should seek independent information and ask staff about husbandry, veterinary care and enrichment practices before booking hands-on programs.
Who this attraction suits
The dolphinarium attracts families with children, animal enthusiasts, and visitors looking for a short indoor entertainment option away from beach activities. Swimming or trainer programs are generally popular with older children and adults; the venue recommends swims for guests aged six and above, with younger children needing adult supervision.
If you are planning a compact Thailand trip and want to add a marine-animal experience alongside other highlights, consider how it fits with your schedule and transport. For those building short itineraries, this can slot into a day in Pattaya or into broader Thailand plans — for example, check a short Thailand itinerary if you need to coordinate several destinations in limited time.
Comparisons and alternatives
If you are weighing Pattaya Dolphinarium against other night or animal shows in Thailand, consider format and focus: the dolphinarium centres on animal acts and hands-on options, while some larger entertainment venues emphasise theatrical production, costumes and human performers. If you want to compare different evening productions when planning your trip, reviews of regional performances can help set expectations for scale and style; a useful related read is a guide to evening shows in Phuket.
For travellers who prioritise ethical considerations, alternatives include wildlife sanctuaries or rescue centres that do not offer rides or staged performances. Always ask specific questions about how animals are kept and whether visits directly support conservation or rescue work.
Ticket and extras comparison
| Ticket type | Child price (80–120 cm) | Adult price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular seats | 480 THB | 600 THB | Standard viewing; children under 80 cm enter free without a seat |
| Deluxe seats | 640 THB | 800 THB | Closer to the pool, better sightlines |
| VIP (first row) | 880 THB | 1,100 THB | Front-row experience; expect to get wet |
Additional services are available at set prices: swimming with dolphins (about 3,500 THB), a gift certificate option (around 1,500 THB), the basic trainer program (from 7,000 THB), birthday packages (from 7,400 THB) and on-site photo sessions (usually about 400 THB per camera for up to four people). These figures reflect standard listed rates; confirm current prices with the venue before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the show times and opening hours?
Shows are typically scheduled at 11:00, 14:00 and 17:00, and the facility generally opens from 10:00 to 19:00. The dolphinarium is usually closed one day per week (commonly Wednesday) to allow animal rest and maintenance.
Can I swim with the dolphins and what are the rules?
Yes — supervised swim sessions are offered as an extra activity. Participants are asked to shower beforehand, remove jewelry and avoid applying creams or perfumes. Swimming is generally recommended for guests aged six and above, and pregnant visitors are not permitted to join swim programs.
How do I get to Pattaya Dolphinarium?
The venue sits close to the Bangkok–Pattaya toll motorway (Highway 7), a short drive from central Pattaya. Because no scheduled public transport serves the site directly, most visitors arrive by taxi or private car; travel times vary with traffic.
Are there age or height restrictions for tickets?
Children between 80 and 120 cm are charged the child ticket rate. Guests under 80 cm may enter free if seated with an adult, but interactive options may have minimum age or weight limits — always check specific program rules before booking.
Is photography allowed during the show?
Photography without flash is generally permitted for spectators, but flash use and large camera equipment may be restricted. Photo sessions with dolphins or seals are organised separately and usually have a set time limit and fee.