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Discovery Cove Guide
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The Complete Guide to Discovery Cove Orlando
Discovery Cove is unlike any other theme park in Orlando. With limited daily attendance, an all-inclusive experience and the chance to swim with dolphins, it's one of the most unique days out Florida has to offer. Here's everything you need to know before you go.
What Is Discovery Cove?
Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort in Orlando where guests can snorkel through coral reefs, hand-feed exotic birds, float along a tropical lazy river and - the headline experience - swim with dolphins. Attendance is capped at around 1,300 guests per day, so it feels worlds away from the bustle of the bigger Orlando parks.
Swim With Dolphins at Discovery Cove
The highlight of any Discovery Cove visit. This 30-minute experience begins with a briefing from a dolphin trainer before you get into the water for group interaction - swimming, playing and even a smooch with your dolphin. Hold onto the dorsal fin as they take you for a ride through the water for a moment you'll never forget.
A Discovery Cove photographer will be on hand to capture the whole thing, so you don't need to worry about getting the shot yourself. Note that personal cameras are not permitted in the dolphin lagoon for the safety of the animals.
If you'd like to include this experience in your day, simply choose our Discovery Cove With Dolphin Swim package when booking. If you'd prefer to enjoy everything else the park has to offer without the dolphin swim, our Discovery Cove Without Dolphin Swim package has you covered.
Top Tips:
Dolphin swim times are assigned on the day on a first-come, first-served basis — arrive early to secure your preferred time. And make sure you select the "With Dolphin Swim" ticket when booking if you want to include this experience.
Snorkel the Grand Reef
The Grand Reef is included in every Discovery Cove reservation, so no matter which package you choose, this stunning coral reef habitat is yours to explore. Swim and snorkel with thousands of tropical fish, rays and other marine creatures for a close encounter, or simply wade in the shallower areas with the kids. Huge sharks and venomous lionfish can be spotted too - safely housed behind glass walls. Discovery Cove staff are on hand throughout and will even give you identification cards to help you spot the different species.
Top Tips:
Head to the Stingray Shallows at feeding time for the chance to feed the rays as they glide around you in waist-deep water. Be prepared for the water to feel quite cool — it's kept at a temperature suited to the marine life.
SeaVenture Underwater Walk
Additional ticket required
For something truly unforgettable, SeaVenture takes you on a walk along the ocean floor of the Grand Reef, surrounded by its exotic marine creatures. No diving experience is needed - just put on a helmet and you're ready to go. Come face-to-face with sharks through panoramic windows and touch and interact with rays, colourful fish and the unique sea creatures that call this underwater world home.
Wind-Away River
Let your worries drift away on Discovery Cove's lazy river, winding through dense rainforest, past cascading waterfalls, hidden grottos, secluded lagoons, underwater caves and white-sand beaches. The river also flows through the Explorer's Aviary, giving you a unique view of the tropical birds from the water.
Serenity Bay
No ordinary swimming pool, Serenity Bay is a beautiful freshwater pool surrounded by white sandy beaches. Children can safely paddle in the shallows or play under the waterfalls, while adults can unwind on sun loungers or take a longer swim in the deeper waters. The water is kept at a comfortable 85–88°F (30°C) year-round.
Freshwater Oasis
Wade, swim or float through this waist-deep tropical river as the rainforest canopy comes alive above you. Keep an eye out for playful marmosets and entertaining otters — especially at feeding time. When you're ready to relax, head to the In-Water Relaxation Station for warm, soothing waters and a cold drink in the built-in chairs.
Explorer's Aviary
Step into these beautiful tropical gardens where exotic birds of all shapes, sizes and colours fly freely around you. Bird feed is complimentary - just pick up a pot and the birds will happily perch on your shoulder or feed from your hand. You'll also learn about the conservation work that goes on behind the scenes, with many of the birds having been nursed back to health after being found injured.
Top Tips:
Visit early in the day when the birds are hungriest for the best feeding experience. It's also worth wearing shoes in the aviary — the birds have been known to nibble at feet!
Food and Drink at Discovery Cove
All food and drink is included in your ticket price — here's what to expect throughout the day:
Breakfast is served from 7.30–10.30am with a cooked breakfast, pastries, fruit and yoghurts. An all-you-can-eat buffet lunch runs from 11am to around 3.30pm, with options including chicken, pasta, noodles and chips. Snack cabanas are dotted around the park for drinks and snacks throughout the day. Alcoholic drinks are available for guests over 21 - don't forget your ID.
If you have dietary requirements, ask for a supervisor when you arrive at any food outlet, try to avoid peak hours and always ask about cross-contact potential.
Discovery Cove Age Restrictions and Important Information
Children under 3 enter Discovery Cove for free — if you're bringing a little one, contact us after booking so we can make a note on your reservation
Children must be at least 15 to visit without an adult
Dolphin swim: children must be at least 6 years old; those aged 6–12 must be accompanied by a paying adult also participating in the swim
SeaVenture: guests under 18 must have a liability waiver signed by a parent or guardian after watching the instructional video
Expectant mothers are advised to consult a doctor before visiting, given the swimming depths and nature of the dolphin experience
What to Bring to Discovery Cove
You're welcome to bring your own mask and snorkel if you prefer, along with books, magazines and headphones. No other diving or swimming equipment is permitted. Food and drink from outside the park is also not allowed — but with everything included in your ticket, you won't need it.
What to Wear at Discovery Cove
Your swimsuit is the most important thing to pack. You can also wear water socks or rubber pool shoes, and we'd recommend a hat and sunglasses for the strong Florida sun. Don't forget dry clothes for when you leave!
Just as important is what not to wear. Jewellery is not permitted (except watches and wedding rings) as it can be dangerous for the animals. Wetsuits are provided on arrival so there's no need to bring your own. And crucially — do not apply regular sunscreen before you arrive. Standard sun creams can harm the marine life, so you'll be provided with an animal-friendly alternative when you get there.
Do I Need to Bring Money to Discovery Cove?
Almost everything is covered by your all-inclusive ticket, but it's worth budgeting a little extra for:
Eco-friendly sunscreen — you'll receive a sample on arrival but may want to buy more throughout the day (around $20 should cover it). Standard sunscreen is not permitted as it can be harmful to the wildlife
Photos from your dolphin swim, taken by Discovery Cove's own professional photographers
Cabana rental — a great base for groups of up to eight people
Anything from the gift shop
What's Included With Discovery Cove Packages?
Discovery Cove Packages are fully all-inclusive, covering:
All food, drinks and snacks throughout the day
Wetsuit, towels and swim mask and snorkel
Use of lockers, showers and changing rooms
Beach chairs and parking
With the Discovery Cove Ultimate Packages, you get:
14 days' unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica.
PLUS free parking at Discovery Cove and all 3 SeaWorld Parks
With the Standard Discovery Cove Packages, you get:
14 days’ unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica.
Discovery Cove Opening Hours and Getting There
Discovery Cove is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Check-in begins at 7.15am — arriving early is highly recommended to make the most of your day and secure your preferred dolphin swim time.
Parking is free at Discovery Cove. The address is 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821.
From the west (Lake Buena Vista/Tampa): Take I-4 East to exit 71 (SeaWorld exit), bear right onto Central Florida Parkway — the entrance is on the right, just past the SeaWorld sign.
From the north (Downtown Orlando/Universal Studios): Take I-4 West to exit 72, follow the Beachline to the International Drive exit, turn left onto International Drive, then right onto Central Florida Parkway at the third traffic light. The entrance is on the left.
From the east (Cocoa/Cape Canaveral): Take FL-528 west to the International Drive exit, turn left onto International Drive, then right onto Central Florida Parkway at the third traffic light. The entrance is on the left.
Water Temperatures at Discovery Cove
Discovery Cove keeps its water at consistent temperatures year-round:
Serenity Bay: 85–86°F (30°C)
Freshwater Oasis: 85–86°F (30°C)
Wind-Away River: 85–86°F (30°C)
Dolphin Lagoon: 76–77°F (25°C)
The Grand Reef: 76–77°F (25°C)
Disabled Access at Discovery Cove
Discovery Cove can accommodate guests with disabilities who are able to manoeuvre themselves with limited assistance during the dolphin experience and in the wading areas. Specially designed outdoor wheelchairs are available on the beach, though these are not self-manoeuvrable and guests will need assistance. Wheelchairs can be reserved in advance by calling 001-877-557-7404.
Ready to Book Your Discovery Cove Experience?
Whether you're planning to swim with dolphins or simply soak up everything this incredible all-inclusive resort has to offer, we're here to help you plan the perfect day. Browse our Discovery Cove packages to find the right ticket for you, or if you have any questions get in touch with our Florida travel experts who are on hand to help.