Dolphin Discovery Centre

Star 4.4 (1893 Google reviews)

The Dolphin Discovery Centre is Australia's premier wild dolphin experience and the most ecologically aware. The organisation is not-for-profit and is committed to tourism, research, education and conservation. An essential stop for any visitor to the South West region. The centre has a multitude of facilities that will ensure that your visit is both effortless and enjoyable including beautiful ocean views.
The Interpretive Centre showcases a range of themed fish and coral aquariums and the amazing 360-degree Digital Dolphinarium, as well as interpretation of the Koombana Bay environment and its history – geological, indigenous, marine and contemporary. It is an immersive experience, with activity centres, interactive displays, feeding programs and tours that appeal to all age groups. The aquariums tell the story of the region from the freshwater river to the offshore reef and feature the marine plants and animals of the temperate zone. The centre provides a unique experience that uses embedded technology along with natural displays to create a memorable experience for visitors.

With so many dolphins living along the coast, Bunbury and Koombana Bay offer the perfect opportunity for dolphins and humans to meet and interact. The Interaction Zone has been designated as a special dolphin protection area for this very purpose. Under strict license conditions set out by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (BDCA), the Centre has been able to offer a unique interactive experience on the beach right in front of the Centre since 1989. Dolphin Volunteers have been trained to ensure the interaction guidelines are followed and they will always be present on the beach to answer your questions and manage the interaction should dolphins visit the Zone. Naturally, being a wild animal there is no set time, however, the most common visit times are in the mornings of the warmer months between 8 am – 12 noon!

The Dolphin Eco Cruise runs for 90 minutes within Koombana Bay. The vessel provides an excellent viewing platform designed to get you as close as possible to the dolphins – without getting your feet wet! The team will introduce you to the local Bottlenose Dolphins as they interact in their natural environment. Many of the Dolphins seen on the cruise call Koombana Bay their home. They can be seen frolicking, playing, sleeping and feeding during the cruise. The informative commentary from the skipper will keep you updated throughout. Available Thursday - Sunday, bookings essential with 7 days notice.

Amenities

Location

Dolphin Discovery Centre

Anchorage Cove, off Koombana Dr, Bunbury WA 6230, Australia

Reviews

Star 4.4 (1893 Google reviews)
Jayden 14 November 2023

Would highly recommend the dolphin swim experience. Every part of it was amazing from the tour hosts to the dolphins themselves. This was the highlight of my 3 week trip to Australia as I got to see roughly 20 dolphins and gliding through the water. This includes seeing calves, being in the water with them and learning everything there is to know about dolphins

Mondo Quinn 10 September 2023

A perfect setting and a fascinating experience for visitors. Plenty to see do and discover. There are no actual dolphins like Sea World etc. They belong out in the wild. But there are a lot of displays about dolphins and marine life..and some very impressive aquariums. The 360degree undersea experience is worth seeing as well High quality souvenirs and an excellent Cafe will make your visit even more enjoyable.

liu yijie 08 June 2023

So much to learn and experience here. Wonderful write-up about marine life, the Leuwinn currents and the good work done by the rescue team. Experience pool is an excellent 💯 spot to touch the sea stars ⭐ and learn more about the species and their features. The main marine tank is helpful for marvelling at the various exotic species of fish 🐠, eels and rays. Don't miss out the octopus tank and the turtle 🐢 pool. Highly inquisitive creatures that are sure to melt your heart ❤️ too. Even toddlers and young at heart are not left out. There is a colouring corner to colour in and scan your artwork into an AR screen. Make time for the feeding times if possible. The staff here are ℹ️ informative and happy to share their knowledge and passion for the ocean 🪸.

Flurin _ 17 November 2023

You can see dolphins at the beach for free! There is a board behind the discovery center with the times of the last few days, usually between 8-10 am. The center is very informative and has some cute turtles they rescued. All in all worth a half-day trip.

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