Side-Turkey.

A dolphin show day out is one of those excursions that lights up a child's whole holiday — and the optional "swim with dolphins" programme takes it a step further. If you're staying around Side and wondering whether this is right for your family, here's an honest, practical rundown of how the day works near the Side–Manavgat–Alanya coast, what's typically included, and which details you should always confirm when you book rather than assume from a glossy photo.

What the day actually involves

The centrepiece is a show at a marine park, where dolphins — and usually sea lions — perform alongside their trainers in a large pool, with tiered seating for spectators. It's squarely aimed at families with children, so the atmosphere is relaxed and easy. Many parks also run an optional, separately paid "swim with dolphins" programme, and some have extra pools or an aquapark area to fill out the visit. The exact mix of animals, the show schedule and whether the swim option is running on your chosen day all vary by park, so treat these as confirmed at booking rather than fixed.

The swim programme: read the fine print

If swimming with dolphins is the reason you're going, ask about it specifically before paying. It is a separate paid add-on, capacity is limited, and parks set their own rules on minimum age, basic swimming ability, health conditions and supervision. None of that is something we'd quote you off the cuff — we confirm the current rules directly with the park for your date so there are no surprises at the gate.

Getting there and planning around it

Hotel transfer is usually arranged, which spares you the hassle of finding the park yourself. Pick-up times depend on the park's show schedule and where you're staying, so they're confirmed when you book. Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection and a little cash for snacks or photos. If your heart is set on the swim, book early — the slots are the first thing to sell out in peak season.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Varies by park, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Marine park entry & dolphin show; hotel transfer (as arranged)
• Excludes: Optional swim-with-dolphins programme, photos/videos, food & drinks, personal extras
• Family Friendly: Yes — designed for families with children
• Best Season: Spring to autumn; year-round availability varies by park
• Difficulty: Easy — spectator-friendly; swim programme has its own park requirements

Related Excursions

• Things to do around Side
• Antalya excursions
• Alanya day trips
• Belek tours
• Kemer activities
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the dolphin show suitable for young children?

Yes — the show is built for families with children and is comfortable to watch from the spectator seating. The separate swim programme has its own age and ability rules, confirmed at booking.

Is swimming with the dolphins included automatically?

No. The swim is an optional, separately paid programme that not every park runs every day. Tell us in advance and we'll confirm availability and rules for your date.

Do I need to know how to swim?

For the spectator show, no. For the swim programme, parks typically expect basic swimming ability and may apply age or health conditions — these are confirmed at booking.

Is hotel transfer provided?

Transfer is usually arranged from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts. Your pick-up time depends on the park's schedule and is confirmed when you book.

What should we bring?

Swimwear, a towel, sun protection and some cash for snacks or photos. If you plan to do the swim, bring a change of clothes too.

How long does the day take?

This varies by park and is confirmed at booking, so we'll give you the exact timing for your chosen date and pick-up point.

Can we take our own photos?

You can generally photograph the show from your seat; official photo/video packages during the swim are usually an extra cost at the park.

Why book direct with you?

Booking direct with the Murat Atalay team cuts out agency and OTA commission, so you deal with a local operator who knows the parks — backed by our best-price guarantee.

Ready to plan a dolphin day the whole family will remember? Message the Murat Atalay team on WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com. Book DIRECT with us — no middleman, no agency mark-up, and our best-price guarantee on every excursion.