The Atlantic Spotted Dolphin
Meet The Social Stars of Our Caribbean Sea
Here along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, the Atlantic Spotted Dolphin (Stenella frontalis) is one of the most exciting and interactive marine animals to see. These dolphins are often found swimming near Cahuita, Manzanillo, and Puerto Viejo, moving gracefully in tight groups that can include dozens of individuals.
They are easy to recognize by the light spots that cover their gray bodies. Calves are born plain gray, and their spots appear gradually as they grow, giving every dolphin a unique pattern. When the sea is calm, it is common to see them racing beside boats or leaping through the waves in perfect rhythm.
Key Facts
Scientific Name: Stenella frontalis
Average Size: 2 to 2.5 meters (6 to 8 feet)
Weight: 120 to 140 kilograms (260 to 310 pounds)
Diet: Fish, squid, and small crustaceans
Lifespan: 30 to 40 years
Habitat: Warm tropical waters near coral reefs and open coastal shelves
Activity: Social and fast-moving, often traveling in large pods
Appearance
Atlantic Spotted Dolphins are smaller and slimmer than Bottlenose Dolphins. Their bodies are gray with scattered white spots that become denser and brighter with age. Their long beaks and dark backs help them glide efficiently through the water, while their lighter bellies act as camouflage from predators below. No two dolphins have the same pattern of spots, which makes each one identifiable to researchers who study them in this region.
Habitat and Behavior
These dolphins prefer deep coastal waters where fish are abundant. Along our coastline, they are most often seen in the open ocean near Cahuita and Manzanillo. They live in large pods that can include up to fifty individuals and sometimes travel with Bottlenose Dolphins, forming mixed groups.
Atlantic Spotted Dolphins are highly social animals that spend most of their lives interacting, communicating, and playing. They use clicks and whistles to talk to each other and coordinate their movements when hunting. They often leap together, slap their tails, and surf in the wake of passing boats. Their energy and curiosity make them one of the most impressive marine animals to observe here on the Caribbean coast.
They are fast swimmers, capable of reaching speeds close to forty kilometers per hour, and can dive for up to ten minutes when chasing fish or squid. Watching a large pod moving across the sea is one of the most spectacular wildlife moments Costa Rica has to offer.
Interesting and Lesser-Known Facts
Their spot patterns act like fingerprints, and no two dolphins have the same markings.
They can dive up to sixty meters deep when hunting for food.
They sometimes care for calves that are not their own, showing strong cooperation within the pod.
They have excellent eyesight both underwater and above the surface.
Their social behavior is so advanced that they occasionally share hunting grounds with Bottlenose Dolphins without conflict.
Where to See Atlantic Spotted Dolphins in Costa Rica
Atlantic Spotted Dolphins can be seen throughout the year on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast. The best sightings happen on calm mornings when the sea is still and visibility is high. These tours offer the best chances to see them in their natural environment:
Cahuita National Park Snorkel Tour
Join our guided boat and snorkel tour through Cahuita’s coral reef. Spotted Dolphins are sometimes seen near the reef hunting small fish before guests jump in to explore the underwater world filled with colorful coral and tropical fish.Dolphins, Snorkeling, and Organic Farm Visit
This full-day adventure explores the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, one of the best areas to see Atlantic Spotted Dolphins offshore. The tour includes dolphin watching, snorkeling through vibrant coral gardens, and a visit to a local organic farm for fresh fruit and a look into sustainable coastal living…with lunch and transportation included!
Bucket List Puerto Viejo Package: Cahuita and Manzanillo
Experience both dolphin habitats in one incredible day. This combo package includes dolphin watching in Cahuita and Manzanillo, snorkeling, beach time, and a taste of Caribbean culture. It is the perfect choice for travelers who want to experience the very best of our coast.
All of our tours follow responsible wildlife guidelines to protect the dolphins and their environment. We maintain safe distances and limit noise so that every encounter remains respectful and sustainable.
