✈️Discovery Cove – What it's like to visit the Florida park

An exclusive resort full of animal experiences and even all inclusive. This is Discovery Cove, Florida's amusement park, but as a park it has few features. Check out all about the place here, in this guide!

Discovery Cove Orlando is a park unlike anything you've ever seen. There you will not find extreme rides, attractions full of adrenaline or even queues. It is a true sanctuary for different species of marine animals, and an ideal place for a rest day with lots of immersion in nature.

Famous for swimming with dolphins and unparalleled care for the animals, visiting the park is an Orlando resort experience. The ticket allows you to spend a full day of activities and is all inclusive, a fact that makes up for the higher price of admission.

If you've heard of Discovery Cove Orlando, are passionate about animals and want to have a different experience while traveling, check out everything you need to know in this comprehensive guide.

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how is the park
Where is it and how to get there
park map
best time to meet
the experiences
Tickets
Where to stay – Hotel Tips
Tips for enjoying the park
FAQ

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Discovery Cove – What it's like to visit the Florida park — Have you ever imagined diving with sharks and seeing other animals in a park? Discovery Cove Orlando is like this – Photo: Disclosure

What is Discovery Cove Orlando like?

Spending a day at Discovery Cove is like booking a stay at a Caribbean resort – but without staying overnight. Due to its exclusivity concept, around 1000 visitors are allowed per day, and depending on the time of year it is very popular.

Arriving there, the reception already looks like a hotel. The valuable tip is to arrive early, around 7:15 am, just before the park check-in and tour reservations start. So you can choose the best time before the others.

As the ticket is all inclusive (all inclusive), you are already guaranteed food (breakfast, lunch, snacks and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks), diving clothes, mask and snorkel, lockers, parking, towels, protector is also included eco-friendly solar. The only expenses besides the entrance are souvenirs, professional photos and extra tours, in case you want to participate in one.

In fact, a good tip is to enjoy breakfast at Discovery Cove itself. The park offers a complete and well thought out meal to all visitors. All-you-can-eat lunch and snacks are also available throughout the day.

Discovery Cove admission includes unlimited entry for 14 days to two other parks, SeaWorld and Aquatica in Orlando.

About the animals at Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove is part of the SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment group, along with SeaWorld, Aquatica, Busch Gardens and Adventure Island parks. All are themed with inspiration from the animal world and the main highlight is the presence of animals in the environment.

Many people object to the presence of animals in entertainment areas – and not without reason. Several destinations around the world exploit the fauna to earn money, in a practice that is not legal.

Discovery Cove, and the other parks in the SeaWorld group, are known for taking care of several species of animals, especially marine ones.

The animals are very well cared for, and the group maintains conservation programs, with a veterinary medical center that rescues injured animals and rehabilitates them to return to nature.

At Discovery Cove you will find dolphins, sharks, rays, fish, otters, marmosets and birds.

Where and How to get to Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove is located in Orlando, Florida, just under 30 minutes from downtown.

The access there is very simple, following the interstate road I-4 W, heading south. For those who rent a car in Orlando, just follow the GPS to confirm the route and there is no mistake. ?

The park itself also offers a transport option. It leaves and drops off visitors at the bus and taxi stops at SeaWorld, and can be easily called from an on-site phone. It may not be advantageous, as parking is already included in the ticket price.

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Mapa do Discovery Cove

Check out the Discovery Cove Orlando map to familiarize yourself with the park. So, when you get there, is it easier to go if you plan to follow your itinerary and enjoy the attractions?

But it is worth remembering that, after check-in, you will receive a badge with your personal and park reservation information, as well as a map to accompany you during the tour.

When to go to Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove Orlando is open year-round and can be visited at any time. The most recommended time to go is in the summer, as the activities involve water and the winter there, despite not snowing, is still very cold.

Even in winter, it is still recommended to visit the park, because the swimming and recreation areas are heated, only the place where the animals are that have a colder temperature, but the thermal diving suit helps a lot.

The park does not open on stormy days, if during your trip there is an imminent risk, your ticket can be rescheduled or the amount will be refunded. So, if your goal is really to get to know Discovery Cove, leave it for the beginning of the trip. That way you can reschedule if you need to.

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Things to do at Discovery Cove Orlando

Several Discovery Cove attractions are included in the basic ticket, others are charged separately.

Extra attractions can be booked at reception upon check-in for an additional fee. Prices vary from tour to tour.

The tip is that you choose at least one of them to venture out, and be careful not to go overboard with reservations – otherwise time will run out to enjoy all that Discovery Cove has to offer.

Experiences included in the ticket

Explorer’s Aviary – An aviary with more than 250 species of birds, where it is possible to feed the small birds and interact with others that are more than one meter tall.

Freshwater Oasis – A space dedicated to relaxation, where visitors can swim, take trails to explore the environment and find otters and marmosets.

Serenity Bay – Area with white sand beaches and palm trees, where the huts are located, as well as sun loungers and hammocks for the comfort of visitors.

The Grand Reef – A large area of reef that mimics the same environment found in tropical countries. There, it is possible to dive, snorkel and float, to observe fish and stingrays.

Wind-Away River – A river with a gentle current and a depth that varies along the way, it runs through almost the entire length of the park, in different environments such as beaches, tropical forests and caves.

Separate booking experiences

Dolphins Swim – It is Discovery Cove's most famous tour. Groups of up to nine people swim and interact with bottlenose dolphins in a lake for 30 minutes. Minimum of six years to participate and children must be accompanied by an adult.

SeaVenture – On this tour, participants wear special clothes on a dive with various marine species. Minimum of ten years to participate and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Shark Swim – Guided by expert staff who teach you everything about sharks, there is snorkeling in the habitat of these animals. Minimum of ten years to participate and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Ray Feeding – This tour is a private stingray feeding tour of the Grand Reef, before opening to the general public. Minimum of six years to participate and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Animal Trek – Private one-hour tour to get to know the backstage of the park. The tour starts with birds and goes on to meet other animals such as armadillos, anteaters or sloths.

Trainer for a day – This experience includes some surprises such as a second dive with dolphins, a private photo session with two of them, a backstage tour, accompanying a trainer, feeding fish in the Grand Reef, among other activities.

See in the video a little of what it's like to participate in SeaVenture

Gastronomy no Discovery Cove - All inclusive system

With the all-inclusive ticket, Discovery Cove offers full meals during the entire period of activities in the park. From the American breakfast, served at 10:30 am, to lunch and snacks provided throughout the day at kiosks, the offer is complete for visitors.

There is a restaurant in the complex, the Laguna Grill. Because it's the only one, you might find some queues there – but no big deal, since the amount of people in Discovery Cove is controlled. Lunch is served daily from 11:15 am to 15:XNUMX pm and has a variety of options, such as salads, hamburgers, various meats and good desserts.

The park has a children's menu, with smaller portions and also offers options for different diets, with gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan dishes.

In addition to the two main meals, it also offers snacks such as cookies, pretzels and unlimited drinks throughout the day. It also offers coffee, water, soda and alcoholic beverages for those over 21.

Discovery Cove Ingressos

The day ticket at Discovery Cove is more expensive than the other parks in the group, but it has perks that end up making the purchase advantageous.

In addition to being all inclusive (with parking, meals, diving equipment and bath amenities), it can also include visits to other parks in the SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment group, with free admission for 14 days.

Spaces are limited to 1300 people per day, and it is recommended to get tickets well in advance. Depending on the season, such as summer vacations or US holidays, prices are higher.

The values vary according to the chosen package, and children up to 2 years old do not pay. See below for average prices.

Discovery Cove single ticket: between $149 and $180*
Discovery Cove Ticket + Swim with Dolphins: between $199 and $310*
Discovery Cove + SeaWorld and Aquatica ticket: from 170 to 200 dollars (+ swim with dolphins: from 220 to 330 dollars)*
Discovery Cove + SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens Ticket: from 195 to 225 dollars (+ swim with dolphins: from 245 to 355 dollars)*

*according to 2019/2020 rates – check the official website for updated prices on your travel dates

Ticket prices increase as you add more activities with extra tours, cabins or more exclusive reservations for special occasions, etc.

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Where to stay when visiting the park

To stay close to Discovery Cove, as with other SeaWorld Orlando parks, there are good options for hotels in the vicinity, including some that are official partners of the parks (and, therefore, have some advantages).

Staying overnight at one of the partner hotels gives you some benefits, such as priority entry, discount on the purchase of products in the parks, etc. Some offer transportation, as well as quick queue access and access to the SeaWorld rescue tour.

We have separated some accommodations that we recommend to help you choose where to stay in Orlando.

>> Read also Cheap Hotels in Orlando – Our Tips for Savings

*Changes may occur in daily rates depending on the time of year and availability. Always check the Booking.com website for up-to-date prices.

Midpointe Hotel by Rosen Hotels & Resorts ($)

What's worth: good value for money and right next to Discovery Cove.

O Midpointe Hotel by Rosen Hotels & Resorts It is an excellent option to stay close to Discovery Cove, with very fair prices and great facilities. It is very close to famous US restaurants and department stores.

It has swimming pools, wooded space, security and helpful staff, in addition to the rooms being cozy and equipped with cable TV, minibar, coffee maker and microwave. It also has a laundry room for guests to use.

Rates between R$190 and R$400, in rooms for two to five people, with breakfast and parking included.*

See prices and availability and make your reservation by clicking here.

Hilton Grand Vacations at SeaWorld ($$)

What's worth: A large complex with an excellent structure to stay.

O Hilton Grand Vacations at SeaWorld is one of the official partners of the SeaWorld group – that is, it has all the advantages offered by the parks. The accommodations are in a large complex, very well located (close to the theme parks and shops), and with a great structure.

It has excellent value for money for those traveling in a group, with options for up to eight people. The rooms are spacious and fully equipped, including kitchenware, perfect for those who like independence while traveling – there is even a grocery store in the complex.

Daily rates between R$390 and R$500, for two people with breakfast and parking.*

See prices and availability and make your reservation by clicking here.

Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld ($$$)

What's worth: Great location overlooking SeaWorld.

For those looking for something more refined, the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld it's a great option. The hotel is four stars and is in a privileged location, next to SeaWorld, including some rooms overlooking the orca whale park. Nearby is Discovery Cove.

The rooms are spacious and super cozy, with double beds and can accommodate groups of up to four people. The hotel also has a game room, gym, pools with waterslide, Starbucks and three restaurants. The airport is less than 20 minutes away.

Daily rates between R$1.500 and R$1.800, for up to four people, with breakfast and parking.*

See prices and availability and make your reservation by clicking here.

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More Discovery Cove tips

1) Be aware of the time to enter Discovery Cove

Arrive as early as possible, even with the limited number of visitors per day, so you have more freedom to schedule your tours and make the most of the day. Time flies at Discovery Cove, so enjoy your time?

The park is open daily from 8:30 am to 17:30 pm, check in starts at 7:30 am. The park may open earlier in high season, always check the official website here.

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4) What to bring and not to bring to Discovery Cove

Bring bathing suits and a dry suit to change into later. It's also worth bringing water shoes if you'd like, but the park has them for daytime visitors. Vests and wetsuits for diving are available from Discovery Cove and are included in the ticket price.

The park offers toiletries, so you don't have to worry about that! Towels, soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer and even sunscreen are provided.

By the way, common sunscreen is prohibited, as it can be harmful to animals. The one used in the park is totally ecofriendly. Jewelry is also not allowed in the environments, as the bugs can swallow it.

Water is provided by the park itself throughout the day. Don't forget to hydrate yourself to have fun in the mood?

5) Tips for those traveling with children

Children under the age of six cannot participate in some Discovery Cove attractions, such as swimming with the dolphins or feeding the stingrays. To participate in SeaVenture or swim with sharks the minimum age is 10 years.

If you have babies, a good idea is to rent a cabin to spend the most comfortable day. There are also good shaded spaces to rest throughout the park. Babies are allowed to take milk and food in small portions, but they cannot be taken in glass containers.

The park provides swimsuits of all sizes for little ones, including those under one year old. There is a kind of water diaper, ideal for little babies.

And don't worry about the stroller, Discovery Cove lends you a version with large wheels, suitable for sand, free of charge.

6) Photos not Discovery Cove

You can bring your own camera or cell phone to take pictures, but you will not be able to bring the equipment near the dolphin or shark tanks. It's a park security measure.

You can ask someone else to take your photos, from the area released by the park – which means that the photos won't be that good.

Discovery Cove has professional photo packages, which can be purchased when purchasing a ticket or at check-in. Prices range from $199 to $279, from the simplest to the most advanced.

The cheapest includes four printed photos, and the most expensive includes 10 printed photos, a framed photo, an album, file with all the digital photos, a poster and a photo printed on metal.

#Tip: if you arrive at the park early, at the beginning of check-in, you can take a family photo that is distributed free of charge at the end of the day.

7) Extra Discovery Cove Tips

Arrive early to book the tours, especially swimming with the dolphins – when the park opens there are more time options so you can enjoy the day more
Leave for breakfast in the park, is it delicious?
Discovery Cove has cabins for reservation. These are exclusive spaces to relax with your group, perfect for those traveling with small children or the elderly.
There is a VIP package with a different cabin and other perks, intended for those who are going on a more special trip, such as a honeymoon or engagement… if that’s your case, it’s worth considering
Once a day you can see flamingos walking around the park for a few minutes. Be sure to check it out when you're there.
If you can, give preference to go to Discovery Cove in the summer
If you wear prescription glasses, you can request a special diving mask at the park reception. They have adapted masks so you can see as much of the underwater attractions as possible.
Keep an eye on ticket prices, which vary widely – around the holidays or US holidays, prices increase
Discovery Cove is great for resting, so it's perfect for the end of your trip. But if you go in the rainy season, maybe it's better to go early, so you can reschedule in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Discovery Cove Quick Questions and Answers

What is Discovery Cove?

Discovery Cove is one of the SeaWorld group parks, with an all-inclusive resort space that offers several attractions with animals continue reading…

Where is Discovery Cove?

It is located in Orlando, Florida, close to SeaWorld and Aquatica parks continue reading…

Where to stay near Discovery Cove?

Good hotel options near Discovery Cove are: Midpointe Hotel by Rosen Hotels & Resorts ($), Hilton Grand Vacations at SeaWorld ($$) and Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld ($$$).

What are Discovery Cove's main attractions?

Discovery Cove's main attraction is the Dolphins Swim (swim with dolphins), there is also an aviary, lakes keep reading…

How much does the Discovery Cove ticket cost?

Tickets for Discovery Cove cost between 150 and 355 dollars, vary according to the time of year and the extra attractions keep reading…

Do you need travel insurance to go to Orlando?

Travel insurance is not mandatory to visit Orlando or other cities in the United States, but it is highly recommended. Make your quote here.

What does the Discovery Cove ticket include?

The basic ticket includes unlimited access to The Grand Reef, Serenity Bay, Wind-Away River, Freshwaters Oasis and Explore's Aviary in addition to meals, scuba gear… read more

What are Discovery Cove hours of operation?

Daily from 8:30h to 17:30h and check-in starts at 7:30h keep reading…

What time should I arrive at Discovery Cove?

Around 7:15 am, to schedule your activities with peace of mind and with more options, keep reading…