Tucked away between the palms of Central Florida, sits an oasis full of aquatic life and relaxation. This oasis is Discovery Cove. Discovery Cove offers guests the opportunity to swim with dolphins, walk 33 feet underwater alongside sting rays and so much more! I am a born and raised Floridian but foolishly have to admit this was my very first time visiting and exploring Discovery Cove. The lush property is filled with tropical trees, glistening waterfalls, and will leave you wondering if you are still in Orlando, Florida. Discovery Cove is truly an immersive all-day experience for families looking for a memorable vacation in a convenient location.
WHO is Discovery Cove for?
Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort for guests of all ages. It is perfect for families looking to pay a one-time admission fee per person followed by an exciting day of adventure, delicious food and relaxation.That being said, there are a few fun activities at Discovery Cove that require guests ages 6-12 be accompanied by an adult. Guests ages 2 and under are admitted into the park for free.
WHAT is Discovery Cove?
Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort. To visit, guests are highly encouraged to make a reservation ahead of time along with purchase of admission. Guests are also able to add unique animal encounters and on-site adventures to their admission ticket.
There is so much this property offers with the standard admission ticket such as access to the Grand Reef for snorkeling, Explorer’s Aviary where guests can feed exotic birds, swimming in the Fresh Water Oasis, Serenity Bay and Wind-Away River. Each admission ticket also includes includes free parking, shower amenities, use of lockers, wetsuit rentals, towels, snorkel gear, all you can eat breakfast, lunch, snacks, non-alcoholic beverages as well as select beer & wine.
WHEN is a good time to visit Discovery Cove?
Discovery Cove is open year round although water temperatures vary depending on the month you visit. I recommend visiting April through November for warmer water temperatures.
The freshwater pools include Wind Away River, Freshwater Oasis and Serenity Bay. These pools are range around 85-86′ Fahrenheit. The salt water pools include Dolphin Lagoon and the Grand Reef. These pools are range around 76-77′ Fahrenheit. To learn more about what to expect for climate and weather, visit https://discoverycove.com/orlando/park-info/climate/.
Discovery Cove pools open at 9am but guests are able to arrive at the park beginning at 7:30am. I highly recommend arriving early between 7:30-8am because this will allow you plenty of time to get settled, find a locker, and enjoy breakfast which is also served beginning at 7:30am and available until 10:30am. We even got super lucky and were able to witness a group of flamingos walk right by our outdoor breakfast table.
WHERE is Discovery Cove?
Discovery Cove is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the Seaworld Parks & Resorts area located in Orlando, Florida. The address is 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando-32821. The location is super convenient to anyone visiting the Orlando area theme parks. I highly recommend setting aside an entire day to explore Discovery Cove because there really is so much to see and explore.
WHY should I book an all day adventure at Discovery Cove?
If you are looking to experience Orlando in a whole new way, then this all-inclusive day resort is for you! This resort is perfect for families looking to create new memories that will last a lifetime while also learning up-close about dolphins, aquatic life and more!
Should I add the Dolphin-Swim to my itinerary?
Yes! This is not your average dolphin encounter experience. Upon checking-in, guests who have signed up for the Dolphin Swim are provided with a time slot and location to meet their dolphin trainer prior to the experience for a brief orientation.
The dolphin trainers are extremely knowledgable, friendly and attentive to both the guests and the dolphins. Our Discovery Cove Dolphin Swim group consisted of six people, one friendly dolphin trainer and Thelma the dolphin. The swim lasted approximately 30 minutes and included several one on one experiences with Thelma along with plenty of photo opportunities that are available for purchase after the Dolphin Swim.
TIP: Make sure to visit a wetsuit location to pick up the proper wetsuit and give yourself plenty of time to change and also find the correct wetsuit size. It took me a couple of tries to find the right wetsuit so I advise giving yourself a solid 15-20 minute window prior to the Dolphin Swim for changing and locking up your personal belongings including jewelry, watches, and cell phones.
Book Your Trip To Discovery Cove by clicking HERE
