Complete Guide to Swim with Bali Dolphins 2026
Of the many choices of tourist activities in Bali, swim with Bali Dolphins is still very consistent to be included in the experience that is much sought-after. Many tourists also recommend trying these different tourist activities. You can interact directly with dolphins in a fun and memorable way.
In Bali, one of the locations that offers this experience is Bali Exotic Marine Park or also known as Bali Exotic Marine Park. This is one of the official marine institutions that provides the largest dolphin lagoon facility in Indonesia.
What is Swim with Bali Dolphins Activity?
Swim with Dolphins is a program to interact directly between visitors and tame dolphins. The participants can touch, play, and even feel the experience of swimming with dolphins under the supervision of the trainers.
The island of Bali is the right location to experience this experience. Apart from mature tourism infrastructure, Bali also has BEMP which offers the largest dolphin lagoon facility in Indonesia with a seawater habitat capacity of around 2,506,000 liters. BEMP is located on Jl. Bali Eksotik No.8, Pedungan, South Denpasar and is only 10 minutes away from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
Bali Dolphin Marine Park has been established since 2017 and has been fully operational since 2019. Until now, BEMP has become an education and marine conservation destination that has been officially recognized by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia.
Read More: Tips for Choosing a Dolphin Interaction in Bali Package: Discovery vs Encounter
4 Best Programs for a Swim with Bali Dolphins Experience
One of the advantages offered by BEMP is freedom in the selection of its programs. There are four programs that can be adapted to your age, swimming ability, and budget.
The most popular BEMP program is Dolphin Discovery. Participants can enter the pool and interact directly with dolphins for about 40 minutes. Sessions are filled with playing, touching, feeding, and taking pictures with dolphins. During the program, participants will be guided by professional instructors who are suitable for teenagers and adults who have good swimming skills.
An exclusive version of the Discovery program designed specifically for families or small groups that can accommodate up to 6 people. Four sessions are available every day with a total duration of about 40 minutes. This will be the best option if you want a more private moment. Usually, tourists choose this program for anniversaries, birthdays, and special family vacations.
If participants cannot swim, the Dolphin Encounter makes it possible to interact with dolphins from the edge of the pool. Participants can feed, touch, and take pictures without having to go into the water. This program is perfect for young children, the elderly, and anyone who wants a more optimal experience.
This program is designed specifically for education. So, participants are free to move around the pond, watch dolphin shows, or study diet and migration from a closer perspective. This option is perfect for young research students or visitors who don’t want to get wet.
| Programs | Water Entry | Duration | Suitable for |
| Discovery | Yes | ~40 minutes | Teens & Adults |
| Discovery+ | Yes | ~40 minutes | Family/Private Group |
| Encounter | No | ~30 minutes | Young Children & Elderly |
| Explorer | No | Free | Education & Spectacle |
The Benefits of Trying Dolphin Swimming in Bali
Many visitors come to have fun, but come home with something profound. Here are the benefits of being able to participate in an interaction session with dolphins:
- Physical benefits. Moving in the water can lightly train balance, coordination, and muscles. This is excellent for children as well as adults.
- Psychological Benefits. Proximity to dolphins at Bali Dolphin Marine Park can trigger the release of endorphins and serotonin hormones. Happiness hormones that naturally reduce stress, anxiety, and even depression. Many visitors report feeling much calmer and happier after the session ends.
- Dolphin Assisted Therapy (DAT). BEMP also runs a dolphin-based therapy program for children with special needs. Interaction with dolphins has been shown to help improve communication skills, motor coordination, attention focus, and confidence.
- Educational value. Each session includes an explanation of marine ecosystems, dolphins’ diets, and the importance of conservation. Visitors go home not only with photos, but also a new perspective on marine life.
Guide Before Coming to Bali Dolphin Marine Park
To make your visit to Bali Dolphin Marine Park smooth, pay attention to the following important things.
Preparation before entering the pool:
- Do not use sunscreen or oil before entering the water. Sunscreens that use chemicals can harm dolphins’ sensitive skin.
- Remove all jewelry (rings, bracelets, earrings) that could potentially injure the animal.
- Use a comfortable and appropriate swimsuit.
Participant requirements
- Participants in the Discovery program are advised to have good basic swimming skills.
- Children aged 0–4 years are required to sign a special statement letter related to insurance.
- Pregnant women and guests with certain medical conditions are advised to consult before registering.
Session schedule
BEMP operates 4 sessions per day. The first session starts at 11.00 WITA and the last session at 16.20 WITA. Park operating hours: 10.30–18.00 WITA.
How to book tickets
Due to high demand and limited number of dolphins, we recommend making reservations at least 1 week before the visit. Orders can be made directly through the official BEMP website or contacted via WhatsApp. Booking tickets online is usually more economical than buying on the spot.
Location & How to get to Bali Dolphin Marine Park
Address: Jl. Bali Exotik No.8, Pedungan, South Denpasar, Denpasar City, Bali 80222.
BEMP is located in a very strategic location in the middle of Denpasar. Estimated travel time from various main tourist spots in Bali:
- Sanur: ~15 minutes
- Kuta & Airport: ~10–30 minutes
- Nusa Dua & Seminyak: ~40 minutes
You can also use (Grab/Gojek), rent a vehicle, or take advantage of the hotel shuttle service that can be arranged through BEMP. The total duration of the tour from pickup to return to the hotel ranges from 3-4 hours depending on the location.
Ethical Tourism: BEMP’s Commitment to Conservation
A frequent question: is it safe to interact with dolphins in Bali?
BEMP answers this question with full transparency. As an official conservation institution licensed by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia, BEMP is committed to implementing strict animal welfare standards. The application of this standard is very different from places that simply exploit dolphins for profit.
Some tangible forms of this commitment include: a high-tech seawater filtration system, a limit on the number of interactions per day so that dolphins do not exhaust, a strict ban on touching animals unsupervised, and a donation program to animal rescue foundations and free therapy for people with disabilities.
BEMP is also aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and targets to become a leader in marine ecosystem conservation in Southeast Asia by 2030. Choosing BEMP not only means that you get an extraordinary experience but also contributes to ocean conservation.
Tips for Getting the Best Experience
Come to the morning session. The early session (around 11:00 a.m.) is usually quieter, the lighting is good for photos, and dolphins tend to be more active.
- Make use of BEMP’s professional photographers. The team of photographers will capture more than 150 photos during your session using a professional DSLR camera.
- Book the program well in advance, especially during the holiday season. Slots are very limited because BEMP limits the number of participants for the comfort of animals and visitors.
- Combine it with other Denpasar tours. BEMP’s strategic location makes it easy for you to put together a full-day itinerary.
FAQ
- Do you have to be able to swim?
For the Discovery and Discovery+ programs, basic swimming skills are required. For Encounter and Explorer, there is no need to enter the water at all.
- How long is the duration of a swim with Bali Dolphins?
The interaction session in the water lasted about 40 minutes. The total visit includes briefings, changing clothes, and photo selection for about 2–3 hours.
- What is the difference between Discovery and Discovery+?
Discovery is a regular program with other visitors, while Discovery+ is private for groups of up to 6 people.
- Is it safe for children?
Yes, with full supervision from the instructor. Children under 4 years old require special approval. Encounter is the safest program for young children.
Swim with Bali dolphins at Bali Dolphin Marine Park is not just a tourist attraction. It is a blend of adventure, education, and a real contribution to marine conservation. From children getting their first taste of dolphins up close, to families looking for unforgettable moments together, BEMP offers an experience that is unmatched anywhere in Bali.
Ready to feel the sensation? Book your tickets now at balidolphinmarinepark.com and make sure your slot is secured before arriving in Bali.