One of the most enjoyable activities on a visit to the Florida Keys is to get close to the friendly dolphins, which abound in the area. At the Dolphin Research Center visitors can enjoy half-day education programmes, walking tours and a 'dolphin encounter', spending 20 minutes of structured swimming with the resident Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.

Address: 58901 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key

E-mail: drc@dolphins.org

Website: www.dolphins.org

Telephone: (305) 289 1121

Opening times: Daily 9am-4:30pm. Narrated sessions and educational presentations take place about every half hour.

Admission: $20 (adults); $15 (children 4-12); Other concessions are available. Dolphin interactions have separate fees.