Riccione Dolphinarium

Address: Viale Ascoli Piceno, 6, 47849 Riccione (RN)
Maps Location: Open navigator
Phone: 0541 4271
By car: A14 Motorway, Riccione exit
By train: Riccione Railway Station + Bus line 58
Parking: Yes, paid

The Riccione Dolphinarium, one of the first in Europe, was inaugurated in 1972 and was originally located just steps from the beach, along Viale Gramsci. The facility included a main pool 25 metres in diameter and five smaller tanks for observing fish typical of the Adriatic Sea. After various management changes, the facility closed in 2003, and the dolphins and the dolphinarium were transferred to Oltremare Park.

What awaits you: Beyond the simple jump

The Lagoon is the beating heart of Oltremare, and all activities revolve around the wellbeing of this wonderful family of bottlenose dolphins. Here are the key moments of the visit:

The show of nature: Don't simply call it a "show". The daily sessions at the Lagoon are designed to showcase the agility, intelligence and deep bond of trust between the dolphins and their trainers (or rather, biologists and keepers). You will discover how they communicate, how they play and how they live, through a narrative that moves you and inspires reflection on the importance of protecting our oceans.

Meet the family: You will learn to recognise the various members of the group, from Ulysses (the undisputed star and historic mascot of the park) to the youngest dolphins born right here in this lagoon. Each one has its own personality: you will quickly notice who is the most curious, who is the most playful and who loves to show off.

The underwater viewing area: This is a gem you absolutely cannot miss. By heading down to the lower level, huge panoramic windows allow you to observe the dolphins underwater. Watching them swim just centimetres from your face, in an almost surreal silence, is an immersive and almost meditative experience.

💡 "Pro" tips to enjoy the Lagoon

As the park's main attraction, a little strategy goes a long way to enjoy it comfortably:

1. Timing is everything: The stands are enormous and can seat thousands, but the best spots (the central ones) fill up fast. Arrive at least 20–30 minutes before the main session starts. The wait won't be boring: you can relax watching the dolphins swim and play freely in the pool.

2. Beware of the "Splash Zone": If you choose to sit in the very front rows at the bottom, be prepared for the very likely possibility of getting splashed! It's great fun for children on hot summer days, but perhaps less so for your camera. If you want a perfect view while staying dry, aim for the central section at mid-height.

3. The window trick: The underwater windows get mobbed right after the shows end. The secret? Go when there are no events taking place at the Lagoon. The dolphins often come up to the glass out of curiosity and you will have all the time and space to take unforgettable photos without jostling for position.

Practical Information

Cost: Access to the Lagoon and all educational sessions is fully included in the standard Oltremare Park admission ticket. There are no extras to pay.

Programme: Session times at the Lagoon vary depending on the season. Check the information boards at the entrance or scan the QR codes around the park as soon as you enter, so you can plan your day.

Golden rules: We are guests in their home. During the biologists' talks, silence and attention are essential. It is strictly forbidden to tap on the underwater glass (sound is amplified underwater and greatly disturbs the dolphins) and the use of flash is strongly discouraged.

Get ready to leave a piece of your heart at this Lagoon. It is practically impossible to leave without falling at least a little bit in love with these extraordinary ocean dwellers!