Planning a visit to the Dolphin Research Center in the Florida Keys? One of the first questions travelers ask is: where should I stay? The DRC sits on Grassy Key at Mile Marker 59 — a stretch of the Keys where your lodging choice determines how much you get out of your trip.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the Dolphin Research Center and why Sea Dell Motel in Marathon, FL is the ideal base camp for your visit — close enough for a quick morning drive, centrally located for everything else the Keys have to offer, and priced right for families and couples alike.
About the Dolphin Research Center
The Dolphin Research Center (DRC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit marine mammal facility located at 58901 Overseas Highway on Grassy Key, just north of Marathon. Founded in 1984, the DRC spans 90,000 square feet of saltwater lagoons and is home to 27 dolphins — including bottlenose and Atlantic spotted dolphins — as well as California sea lions, parrots, and tortoises.
This isn’t a typical marine park. The DRC’s focus is on research, rescue, education, and conservation. Visitors can watch narrated behavior sessions throughout the day, observe real research in progress, and participate in interactive programs that go far beyond the standard tourist experience.
Popular programs include:
- Dolphin Encounter — swim and interact with dolphins in the water
- Family Dolphin Splash — a shallower, family-friendly interaction experience
- Ultimate Trainer for a Day — shadow trainers and participate in sessions
- Researcher Experience — go behind the scenes with DRC scientists
- Sunset Soiree — an after-hours evening experience with champagne and dolphin enrichment
- General Admission — watch behavior sessions, sea lion demos, and educational presentations all day
Hours: Open daily 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (closed Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas). Allow at least 1.5–2 hours for your visit, more if you’re doing an interactive program.
Phone: (305) 289-0002 | Website: dolphins.org
Why Sea Dell Motel Is the Best Place to Stay Near the DRC
Sea Dell Motel is located at 5000 Overseas Highway in Marathon, FL — just 9 miles south of the Dolphin Research Center, roughly a 10–12 minute drive down US-1. It’s close enough that you can be at the DRC gates when they open at 9 a.m. and still have plenty of time to explore the rest of Marathon afterward.
Here’s what makes Sea Dell the right call:
Newly Remodeled Rooms at a Fair Price
Sea Dell is a family-owned, recently remodeled motel that offers Single Queen, Double, and King rooms— all equipped with plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and microwaves. You get the comfort you need without the resort price tag, which means more budget left for DRC programs, fishing charters, and great meals.
Pet-Friendly — Bring the Dog
If you’re traveling with a pet, Sea Dell has you covered. The motel is pet-friendly with a $25/night pet fee— no size restrictions, no complicated policies. Given how difficult it can be to find pet-friendly accommodations in the Keys, this alone puts Sea Dell at the top of the list for many travelers.
Outdoor Pool & Relaxation Space
After a morning at the DRC, there’s no better way to decompress than a dip in Sea Dell’s sparkling outdoor pool. The property also has picnic areas and grilling stations — perfect for families who want to cook fresh seafood and spend an easy evening on the property.
Central Marathon Location
Staying in Marathon means you’re not just close to the DRC — you’re close to everything. Sombrero Beach, the Turtle Hospital, Crane Point Hammock, world-class fishing charters, and some of the best snorkeling in the Florida Keys are all within minutes of Sea Dell.
Tips for Planning Your Dolphin Research Center Visit
A few things worth knowing before you go:
- Book interactive programs in advance. The DRC’s swim and encounter programs sell out, especially in peak season (December–April and summer). Reserve your spot at dolphins.org well before your visit.
- Arrive early. General admission opens at 9 a.m. Arriving at opening means smaller crowds for the first behavior sessions and more time to explore the grounds.
- Budget your time. General admission alone can easily fill 1.5–3 hours. If you’re doing an interactive program, plan for a half-day minimum.
- Dress for the water. Even if you’re not doing a swim program, the Florida humidity is real. Light clothing, sunscreen, and water shoes are a good idea.
- Check the calendar. The DRC is closed on a handful of holidays each year. Double-check before booking travel around holiday weekends.
Other Attractions Near Sea Dell Motel & the DRC
The beauty of staying in Marathon is that your options don’t end at the Dolphin Research Center. Within a short drive of Sea Dell, you’ll find:
- Sombrero Beach — Marathon’s best public beach, with calm, clear water and a sandy shoreline. Free admission, great for families.
- The Turtle Hospital — The world’s only licensed sea turtle hospital, located right in Marathon. Educational tours run throughout the day.
- Crane Point Hammock — A 64-acre protected nature preserve with trails, a wild bird center, and historic sites. Great for a morning walk.
- World-Class Fishing — Marathon is one of the premier fishing destinations in the United States. Backcountry, offshore, and flats fishing charters depart daily from nearby marinas.
- Snorkeling & Diving — The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s coral reef system is right offshore. Dive and snorkel trips are available through operators throughout Marathon.
Book Your Stay at Sea Dell Motel
Ready to plan your Florida Keys trip around the Dolphin Research Center? Sea Dell Motel is the closest comfortable, affordable, pet-friendly option in the area — and it comes with all the creature comforts you need after a full day of adventure.
- Address: 5000 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
- Phone: (305) 743-5161
- Email: inquiry@seadellmotel.com
- Website: seadellmotel.com
- Distance to DRC: Approx. 9 miles / 10–12 minute drive
- Pet Policy: Pet-friendly, $25/night fee
Book direct for the best available rates. The team at Sea Dell knows Marathon inside and out — give them a call and they’ll help you make the most of your time in the Florida Keys.
Sea Dell Motel — 5000 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 | (305) 743-5161 | seadellmotel.com
