Physically, they are of medium height, with a height-to-weight ratio not much higher than humans. They have a tapered body that allows them to swim very fast and a tail fin that complements their powerful legs. Their heads contain a unique and voluminous organ used for orientation, and their mandibles are elongated to form a distinctive beak or rostrum. They have webbed hands and feet with fingers joined by a thick layer of skin and a showy dorsal fin. Their back is gray in color, while their belly tends to be white. Often, along the sides, they have an hourglass-shaped spot that is light gray in color. Also, the head often has two dark stripes around the eyes and mouth, while the arms are dark instead.

The society of the Dolphin people is matrilineal, and traditionally land, money, and titles are passed through the female line. High chiefs are chosen only between high-ranking females. Although patrilineal practices have been introduced over time, matrilineal customs still influence nearly every aspect of their traditions, especially in funerals, marriages, inheritance, and the passing of traditional titles. Hao Nawana is the main residence island of the Dolphin people, although they also populate smaller, contiguous islands that they often share with Orcas and Whales. Different clans rule small portions of territory, generally divided according to the ocean perimeter they control. Although there is a central government, they act more like a confederacy than a unitary state.

Every village has meeting houses called bais or abais. There are several types, distinguishable by their use or form and the quality of the materials used to build them. For example, the "bai er a rubak" are typically located in the village square and serves as a community center, while the "bai er a cbeldebechel", elaborately ornamented with traditional designs and colors, are located at the village entrance and is used by the male organization in charge of defense.
The Dolphin people are particularly witty and mentally adept. They have developed amazing new algorithms and diagrams for traditional magic, and many are guessing that the next evolution of the magical system will develop within this people. Their livelihood includes local foods such as cassava, taro, yam, potato, and especially fish and shellfish. They also have local alcoholic drinks made from coconut and kava roots, and they chew betel nuts.