Penguin Swim Near
Sarasota, FL
There is nowhere else near Sarasota where you can get in the water with a colony of Critically Endangered African penguins. Chase Sanctuary's Penguin Swim puts you directly in the habitat pool -- about 4 feet of 65-70°F salt water -- alongside the sanctuary's flock, with a guided introduction and keeper presentation included.
Genuinely Wild
Webster, FL is approximately 95 miles northeast of Sarasota -- about a 2-hour drive via I-75 South. Best suited for a full-day trip (consider pairing with an overnight stay at the Hacienda).
This is a limited-engagement experience; spots go quickly.
Book Your Experience →"Chase Sanctuary's Penguin Swim puts you directly in the habitat pool -- about 4 feet of 65-70°F salt water -- alongside the sanctuary's flock, with a guided introduction and keeper presentation included."— Location Details
Address: 6127 SE 122nd Blvd, Webster, FL 33597
Signature Experiences
Discover the encounters that make Chase Sanctuary unforgettable.
$150/person | Tue, Fri & Sun at 2PM
Enter the habitat pool and swim alongside Chase Sanctuary's Critically Endangered African penguin colony -- approximately 4 feet of 65-70°F salt water. Ages 8+.
Book Penguin Swim$195/person | 9AM-1PM, by appointment
Step into the role of an animal keeper for a half day -- assist with feeding, enrichment, and daily care alongside experienced staff. The most hands-on experience Chase Sanctuary offers.
Book Keeper for a DayAdd-On Encounters
Sloth / Anteater Add-On
Up-close time with gentle sloths or anteaters -- always on the animal's own terms.
Fennec Fox Add-On
Meet the sanctuary's big-eared, endlessly charming fennec fox. Tiny, curious, and unforgettable.
About Chase Sanctuary
Chase Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit wildlife sanctuary in Webster, FL dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of endangered primates and exotic animals.
The sanctuary operates on WAZA welfare standards. Animal interactions are never forced.
Every dollar from your booking goes directly to animal care and conservation. No animals from Chase Sanctuary have ever been sold as pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How far is Chase Sanctuary from Sarasota for the Penguin Swim?
A: Webster, FL is approximately 95 miles northeast of Sarasota -- about a 2-hour drive via I-75 South. Best suited for a full-day trip (consider pairing with an overnight stay at the Hacienda). It's a manageable day trip for Sarasota visitors and residents.
Q2: What is the Penguin Swim experience like?
A: You'll enter the penguin habitat pool -- approximately 4 feet of 65-70°F salt water -- and swim alongside Chase Sanctuary's African penguin colony, with a guided introduction and keeper presentation included.
Q3: Is the Penguin Swim safe for all swimmers?
A: Guests must be ages 8 and older and able to safely navigate steps into and out of the pool. Water shoes are strongly recommended for the rocky and sandy habitat surfaces.
Q4: What should I bring for the Penguin Swim?
A: Come dressed and ready to enter the water, with water shoes, a towel, and a change of clothes.
Q5: Can I pair the Penguin Swim with other experiences on a trip from Sarasota?
A: Yes. Many guests combine it with the Penguin Encounter or add on a Sloth/Anteater or Fennec Fox encounter.