Discovery Cove: Your Guide to Orlando’s All-Inclusive Paradise

Welcome to Discovery Cove, Orlando’s all-inclusive day resort, where dreams come true, and unforgettable memories are made. In this blog post, we will take you through an ultimate guide to Discovery Cove, revealing all the hidden gems and exclusive experiences that await you.
Key Takeaways
- Swim with Dolphins: Experience the joy of swimming with dolphins in a serene lagoon and learn about marine conservation.
- All-Inclusive Resort: Enjoy unlimited food, drinks, and use of snorkeling gear in an all-inclusive day resort setting.
- Underwater Adventure: Explore the Grand Reef’s vibrant marine life and relax on pristine beaches for a perfect day out.
A Day at Discovery Cove: What to Expect
Everyone deserves a break, and what better way to spend a day than at Discovery Cove, a luxurious all-inclusive day resort unlike any other theme park?
Making a discovery cove reservation offers a pathway to unique animal encounters, lush landscapes, and endless relaxation.
Arrival and Check-In
As you arrive at Discovery Cove Orlando, you’ll feel like you’re checking into a hotel. With your reservation date in hand, prepare to be greeted with warm smiles and impeccable service.
Check-in starts at 7:30am, therefore, an early arrival, preferably between 7:00am – 7:15am, allows you to optimise your day.
Don’t forget to bring your photo ID, as it’s required for admission.
After you’ve completed the check-in process, if you’ve chosen to participate in the dolphin swim, you’ll be given a specific time slot for this signature experience.
With access to the serene lagoon, grand reef, and other exciting attractions, you’ll soon discover why Discovery Cove is one of Orlando’s most unique theme parks.
All-Inclusive Amenities
An integral part of your Discovery Cove experience is the inclusion of all amenities, including discovery cove admission.
Indulge in delicious food and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day. And don’t worry about parking, as complimentary all-day self-parking is included.
At Discovery Cove, everything you need for an unforgettable day is provided. From wet suits and snorkelling gear to fresh towels and lockers, all the essentials are at your fingertips.
So, grab a towel, slip into your wet suit, and let the adventure begin!
Planning Your Day
Planning ahead can help you optimise your day at Discovery Cove.
Start your day early, and be sure to arrive between 7:00am – 7:15am. Arriving early provides enough time for you to engage in all the activities, including interacting with marine life and visiting the aviary.
Don’t forget to take advantage of the unlimited food and beverages throughout the day, ensuring you have the energy to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Discovery Cove.
Dolphin Lagoon Delight
If you’ve booked a dolphin swim, get ready for excitement at Dolphin Lagoon in Discovery Cove. Here, you’ll get a chance to meet a dolphin up close!
In this serene lagoon, you’ll interact with bottlenose dolphins in small groups, ensuring an intimate and unforgettable encounter.
During your 30-minute dolphin interaction, you’ll learn a special hand signal that prompts a sweet display of affection from your new aquatic friend.
This magical experience is not only fun but also educational, as you’ll discover more about these magnificent creatures and their conservation.
Don’t forget to get a Discovery Cove Photo Package so you can share your memories with friends and family.
The Dolphin Swim Package
Discovery Cove’s Dolphin Swim Package includes:
- A 30-minute interactive dolphin swim
- Snorkelling with tropical fish and rays in the Grand Reef
- Unlimited access to the Freshwater Oasis
- A full day of relaxation on pristine beaches
This package offers an unmissable, unique experience.
Priced from $264, the Dolphin Swim Package caters to those in pursuit of a memorable adventure.
With safety measures in place and experienced guides accompanying you throughout your swim, you can rest assured that your experience will be both thrilling and secure.
Conservation and Education
The Dolphin Lagoon is not only an exhilarating experience but also an educational one.
Discovery Cove is proud to work in partnership with dozens of conservation groups, providing funding and physical assistance in rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
Through their various educational programs, Dolphin Lagoon teaches visitors about:
- Animal training
- Veterinary care
- Natural history
- Marine conservation
By providing interactive experiences with dolphins, they inspire a greater appreciation for these amazing creatures and raise awareness about the importance of conservation.
Grand Reef Adventures
The Grand Reef is an awe-inspiring underwater world, ready for exploration.
Home to thousands of tropical fish, velvety soft rays, and reef sharks, this vibrant underwater ecosystem offers an unparalleled snorkelling experience.
Snorkelling and Exploration
Put on your snorkelling gear and dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Grand Reef.
With four species of reef sharks – Blacktip Reef, Nurse, Zebra, and Bonnetheads – and colourful fish like angelfish, you’ll be mesmerised by the beauty that lies beneath the surface.
Discovery Cove provides all the necessary snorkel gear, including prescription goggles upon request, so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
With approximately 45 minutes to explore the Grand Reef, you’ll have ample time to take in the stunning underwater sights and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Panoramic Views of Predators
Aside from the vibrant marine life, the Grand Reef also offers panoramic views of various predators in their natural habitat.
With safety measures in place, you can enjoy an up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures while remaining completely secure.
Whether you’re observing reef sharks through a viewing window or interacting with toothy eels, the Grand Reef provides an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the natural world and its incredible inhabitants.
Serenity Bay Bliss
After a day filled with adventure, it’s time to unwind at Serenity Bay.
This tranquil beach offers warm, crystal-clear water and cascading waterfalls, creating the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Lounge on the white sand beaches, take a dip in the soothing waters, and let the gentle sounds of the cascading waterfalls wash away your worries.
Serenity Bay is the ultimate retreat, providing a peaceful escape from the excitement of the day.
Explorer’s Aviary Encounters
For bird lovers, the Explorer’s Aviary is a tropical paradise filled with exotic birds waiting to be discovered.
Wander through the lush gardens and prepare for an unforgettable encounter with these vibrant and friendly creatures.
At the Explorer’s Aviary, you’ll have the opportunity to hand-feed colourful birds, chat with feathered friends, and even capture the memory with a Discovery Cove photographer.
This enchanting experience will leave you in awe of the beauty and diversity of our feathered companions.
Freshwater Oasis Fun
The Freshwater Oasis offers a unique and delightful experience for the whole family.
As you wade through the waters, you’ll come face to face with marmoset monkeys and playful otters, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
With the presence of expert guides ensuring safety for guests and animals, you can engage deeply in this unique experience.
The Freshwater Oasis is the perfect place to learn about these fascinating creatures while having fun in the process.
Wind-Away River Journey
Drift along the Wind-Away River, letting the calming currents guide you through the verdant landscape of Discovery Cove.
This lazy river takes you past waterfalls, lagoons, and beaches, offering a relaxing and scenic experience like no other.
As you meander along the river, you’ll pass through the free-flight aviary, allowing you to admire the exotic birds that call Discovery Cove their home.
The Wind-Away River is the perfect way to end your day, offering a serene and tranquil adventure that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Exclusive Experiences and Upgrades
For those seeking to elevate their Discovery Cove experience, exclusive experiences and upgrades are accessible.
From private cabana rentals to ultimate theme park access, these options provide additional luxury and convenience, ensuring an unforgettable day at Discovery Cove.
Private Cabana Rentals
Elevate your Discovery Cove experience with a private cabana rental.
These luxurious retreats comfortably accommodate 6 to 8 guests, providing the perfect space for relaxation and quality time with family and friends.
Cabana rentals include:
- Towel service
- Snack basket
- Mini-fridge with complimentary Coca-Cola products and bottled water
- Dedicated hosts for certain packages
With prices ranging from $199 to $899, there’s a cabana rental to suit every budget and preference.
Ultimate Theme Park Access
Why limit your adventure to just Discovery Cove? With the Ultimate Theme Park Access upgrade, you can enjoy unlimited access to SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica Orlando, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
With prices commencing at $189 for a Day Pass Package or $264 for a Dolphin Swim Package, the Ultimate Theme Park Access upgrade provides exceptional value.
Explore thrilling rides, amazing animal encounters, and unforgettable experiences at these world-class theme parks.
Animal Trek and More
Experience the wild with the Animal Trek, a behind-the-scenes encounter that provides an intimate connection with birds and small mammals.
From vibrant macaws to a screech owl, and even a sloth, this 90-minute tour offers an intimate encounter with some of the world’s most captivating creatures.
In addition to the Animal Trek, Discovery Cove offers a range of unique animal encounters, such as the Flamingo Mingle, where you can walk and wade with these beautiful birds, and the Ray Feeding, where you can hand-feed these gentle creatures.
No matter your interests, there’s an animal encounter to delight and inspire you at Discovery Cove.
SeaVenture Deep Dive
Experience an underwater adventure with Discovery Cove’s SeaVenture.
This guided walking tour takes you along the ocean floor, where you’ll encounter tropical fish, stingrays, and more in an immersive, breathtaking environment.
As you discovery cove explore, you’ll be amazed by the wonders of the underwater world.
No diving experience or SCUBA certification is required for this 20-25 minute experience, making it accessible to all ages and abilities.
With experienced guides by your side, you can confidently explore the depths of the Grand Reef and create unforgettable memories in the process.
Final Thoughts
From swimming with dolphins to floating along a lazy river, Discovery Cove offers an all-inclusive tropical escape that will leave you feeling relaxed, inspired, and truly amazed.
With unique animal encounters, incredible amenities, and exclusive experiences, your day at Discovery Cove will be an unforgettable adventure that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Discovery Cove.
Do you actually swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove?
Yes, you can actually swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove! Enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with these majestic creatures, and even be pulled along on their dorsal fin for about 30 feet, which lasts for approximately 5 seconds. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience!
Is Discovery Cove closer to Disney or Universal?
Discovery Cove is right across from SeaWorld Orlando and only a 15-minute drive away from both Disney and Universal Orlando, making it the ideal spot for your next vacation – free parking included!
What’s the difference between SeaWorld and Discovery Cove?
Discovery Cove is a unique part of the SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment family – offering experiences like swimming with dolphins, feeding birds, and lounging on pristine beaches, all with unlimited food and drinks!
What is the minimum age for Discovery Cove?
At Discovery Cove, children aged 6 and above can enjoy swimming with dolphins, feeding the rays and taking part in animal treks or becoming a trainer for a day. Younger kids aged 3-5 can purchase a Non-Swim Package and those aged 6-12 must be accompanied by a paying adult participating in the experience.
How many people can a private cabana accommodate at Discovery Cove?
Experience the luxury of a private cabana at Discovery Cove – comfortably accommodating up to 8 guests!