Top Dolphin Myths Debunked: What You Really Need to Know Before Your Tour

Dolphins are some of the most beloved marine animals, and for good reason—they’re smart, social, and stunning to watch in their natural habitat. But with all the love comes a fair share of myths. At Blue Wave Adventures, we hear them all the time on our dolphin watching tours in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Today, we’re setting the record straight.

Here are the top dolphin myths—debunked by your local dolphin experts.

Myth 1: Dolphins Are Always Friendly

The Truth: While dolphins often seem playful and curious, they are still wild animals with complex behaviors. They’re not always in a “good mood,” and they can become aggressive if they feel threatened. On our eco-friendly tours, we observe dolphins from a respectful distance—allowing you to enjoy their beauty without disturbing them.

Myth 2: Dolphins Are Fish

The Truth: Dolphins are mammals! That means they breathe air, give live birth, and nurse their young. Many people are surprised to learn that dolphins have more in common with you than with the fish swimming around them.

Myth 3: Dolphins Are Always Smiling

The Truth: That “smile” is just the shape of a dolphin’s mouth. It doesn’t reflect how the dolphin is feeling. Their body language and vocalizations tell us much more about their behavior and mood than their permanent grin.

Myth 4: Dolphins Are the Same Everywhere

The Truth: Different dolphin populations have different behaviors, habitats, and even physical characteristics. The Atlantic bottlenose dolphins we see in Murrells Inlet are uniquely adapted to our coastal environment. Our guides will share local insights about their feeding, socializing, and travel patterns.

Myth 5: It’s Safe to Swim with Wild Dolphins

The Truth: It might look magical on social media, but swimming with wild dolphins is not only risky—it’s discouraged by marine biologists and conservation groups. Wild dolphins can become stressed or aggressive when approached too closely. On our tours, we promote safe, responsible, and respectful dolphin watching from the boat.

Experience the Truth About Dolphins in Murrells Inlet

Ready to meet these amazing creatures in the wild? Join us for a dolphin watching tour with Blue Wave Adventures and learn the real facts from experienced naturalists. Our trips are family-friendly, educational, and always focused on protecting the wildlife we love.

Book your spring dolphin tour today and see for yourself why dolphins are even more fascinating in real life—myths aside!