<p>The Peale’s dolphin (<i>Lagenorhynchus australis</i>) is one of the most frequently observed species off the southernmost South American coast. Although it is a common species with a coastal distribution, little is known about its behavioral patterns. We used an unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) to follow and video-record 171 groups of Peale’s dolphins in the Strait of Magellan, and positively evaluated the use of drones for recording behavioral data. We present the first complete ethogram for this species, containing eight behavioral states and sixty-six behavioral events that can be used to describe and compare behavioral data and provide a robust basis for further research. A test for inter-observer reliability in recording behavioral data showed the usefulness of this ethogram, and the importance of experience for the correct identification of behaviors. The daytime behavioral budget shows that Peale’s dolphins spend most time traveling (37.9%) and engaged in social (21.8%) or sexual (14.2%) behavior. Only a small portion of their daytime (± 7%) is spent feeding, suggesting either an effective cooperative feeding strategy likely linked to kelp beds or nighttime feeding. Resting was rare (3.8%), and likely occurs at night or further offshore. Although these results reduce the concern about the almost continuous interruption of feeding due to fast-boat tourism, we emphasize the pressing need for more research into this topic. A comparative analysis of our findings with behavioral budgets of previous studies was impossible due to methodological differences, highlighting the urgent need for standardization in study design and terminology.</p>