Discovery Cove Orlando is a luxurious, all-inclusive day resort located in the heart of Orlando, Florida. Far from the typical theme park experience, it offers a peaceful and intimate setting where guests can swim with dolphins, snorkel in tropical reefs, and relax in a lush, natural environment. With limited daily admissions, Discovery Cove provides a more personalized experience that combines adventure, education, and relaxation in equal measure.
What Is Discovery Cove Orlando?
Discovery Cove is part of the SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment family and is designed as a boutique-style resort experience. The park is set in a tropical oasis with freshwater lagoons, sandy beaches, waterfalls, and rainforest-inspired pathways. It’s best known for its signature dolphin swim experience, but also offers encounters with tropical birds, rays, otters, and thousands of colorful fish.
This one-of-a-kind destination emphasizes quality over quantity by limiting attendance each day, which means fewer crowds, shorter lines, and more hands-on experiences with animals and nature.
What Experiences Are Included at Discovery Cove?
Swim with Dolphins
The highlight of most visits is the dolphin interaction. During a 30-minute session, guests learn about dolphin behavior, communication, and conservation. A trained guide then assists each guest in a shallow-water encounter followed by a gentle swim with a bottlenose dolphin. Children must be at least 6 years old to participate, and anyone under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
The Grand Reef
The Grand Reef is a massive, saltwater snorkeling area where guests can swim freely among thousands of tropical fish and gentle rays. The reef is teeming with colorful marine life and features an underwater bridge where guests can safely observe larger species such as reef sharks and lionfish through glass.
Explorer’s Aviary
For bird lovers, the Explorer’s Aviary is a must-visit. This free-flight aviary houses hundreds of exotic birds including toucans, parrots, and lorikeets. Guests can hand-feed the birds and learn about their behaviors and habitats.
Freshwater Oasis
This area features clear freshwater pools and winding rivers surrounded by jungle-like scenery. It’s also home to playful otters and curious marmosets, who can be seen climbing and swinging through the trees.
Serenity Bay and Wind-Away River
Relaxation is easy at Serenity Bay, a warm freshwater beach with loungers and shaded cabanas. For a more dynamic escape, float down the Wind-Away River, which winds through caves, waterfalls, and tropical landscapes. The river flows through various environments and even connects to the aviary.
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What’s Included in the All-Inclusive Package?
Discovery Cove Orlando is all-inclusive, which means everything is taken care of from the moment you enter:
- Gourmet Breakfast and Lunch: Guests are welcomed with a continental breakfast, followed by a freshly prepared lunch menu with multiple choices for all dietary needs.
- Unlimited Snacks and Drinks: Available throughout the day, including soft drinks, coffee, and alcoholic beverages (for guests over 21).
- Use of Equipment: Wetsuits, snorkels, towels, lockers, sunscreen, and swim gear are all provided.
- Parking: Complimentary on-site parking is included with your admission.
- Personal Amenities: Showers, changing rooms, shampoo, conditioner, and other essentials are all available on-site.
What Are the Ticket Options and Prices?
Discovery Cove Orlando offers multiple ticket types to suit different preferences:
- Day Resort Package: Access to all experiences except the dolphin swim.
- Dolphin Swim Package: Includes the full resort experience plus the dolphin interaction.
- Ultimate Package: Includes Discovery Cove Orlando plus 14-day admission to SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica Orlando, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
Ticket prices vary based on the time of year, with peak-season visits being more expensive. On average:
- Day Resort Only: Starting from $180+
- Dolphin Swim Package: Starting from $250+
- Children under 2 years: Free admission
Daily attendance is limited, so booking early is highly recommended.
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Where Is Discovery Cove Orlando and What Are the Hours?
- Address: 6000 Discovery Cove Orlando Way, Orlando, FL 32821
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Check-in: Starts at 7:15 AM
Located just minutes from SeaWorld and other Orlando attractions, Discovery Cove Orlando is easy to access and provides a full-day escape from the hustle of the typical theme park environment.
Is Discovery Cove Family-Friendly?
Yes, Discovery Cove Orlando is designed for visitors of all ages. Children can enjoy the Freshwater Oasis, aviary, and reef snorkeling under adult supervision, while older kids and adults can take part in the dolphin swim and SeaVenture activities.
Birthday celebrations, honeymoons, and family reunions are often hosted here due to the peaceful atmosphere and unique offerings. It’s also wheelchair accessible and provides options for guests with mobility concerns.
What About Conservation and Animal Welfare?
Discovery Cove Orlando is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA), which ensures the highest standards of animal care and safety.
The park supports ocean conservation efforts including:
- Marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation
- Coral reef restoration programs
- Public education on plastic pollution and sustainable seafood
- Responsible breeding programs for endangered species
Guests also learn how to protect marine environments through small daily actions, adding value and purpose to their visit.
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What Should You Bring?
Most essentials are provided, but it’s a good idea to bring:
- A bathing suit
- Change of clothes
- Waterproof camera (Note: Personal cameras are not allowed during dolphin swims)
- Sunglasses, flip-flops, and sunhat
Animal-safe sunscreen is provided and required before entering water areas.
Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive Early: To get your preferred activity times and enjoy a quiet morning experience
- Plan Your Swim Time: Dolphin encounters are scheduled, so arrive on time and confirm your slot at check-in
- Consider Add-ons: Options like private cabanas, photo packages, and SeaVenture (an underwater helmet dive) can enhance your experience
- Hydrate and Eat Well: With unlimited food and drinks, take advantage of the offerings but pace yourself for activities
Why Choose Discovery Cove Orlando Over Other Parks?
- Exclusive Entry: Daily cap on visitors means no long lines or crowds
- All-Inclusive: Meals, gear, lockers, parking — all included in the ticket price
- World-Class Animal Encounters: Intimate experiences with dolphins, rays, tropical fish, and exotic birds
- Scenic Relaxation: Lush landscaping and tranquil water features create a resort-like feel
- Central Location: Close to Orlando’s top attractions, yet feels like a hidden paradise
Discovery Cove Orlando is more than a theme park — it’s a personalized tropical retreat where unforgettable wildlife interactions meet the calm of resort-style relaxation. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an educational family adventure, or simply a place to unwind with nature, Discovery Cove delivers on all fronts.
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