Complete Guide to Discovery Cove

Uncover a tropical paradise filled with animal encounters at Discovery Cove. Here, you can swim with dolphins, snorkel fin-to-fin with colourful fish, and unwind on pristine beaches. Whether it’s combined with its partner resort, SeaWorld, or enjoyed as a standalone attraction, it’s one for every wildlife lover… 

Overview 

Discovery Cove opened in 2000 and is an all-inclusive, reservation-only day resort operated by United Parks & Resorts. It offers guests a tropical oasis just a stone’s throw from sister parks SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica, with capped visitor numbers helping to create a slice of paradise in the heart of the city.  

Whether you’re going with little ones intrigued by sea creatures, or just looking to combine tranquillity with adventure, it is a timeless experience for all ages.  

What’s Included in General Admission 

Dining 

Feast to your heart’s content with complimentary breakfast, lunch, and snacks. There are several options to choose from, including signature restaurants Laguna Grill and Hibiscus Hideaway Pizza. Drinks are also included, from tropical juices to an ice-cold beer - whatever quenches your thirst under the Florida sun. 

Aquatic experiences 

Discovery Cove is a water sports heaven, offering a collection of areas straight out of a tropical island getaway. Snorkel with thousands of tropical fish in The Grand Reef, then say hello to playful otters at Freshwater Oasis. Find ultimate relaxation as you float past beaches and waterfalls on Wind-away River, or soak up the Florida rays on the pristine sands of Serenity Bay.  

Explorer’s Aviary 

Immerse yourself in a bird-watching paradise at Explorer’s Aviary. Here, guests have the chance to get up close and personal with several feathered friends, from tiny finches to flamboyant parrots. Meanwhile, kids will love the chance to hand-feed the birds with little bowls of fruit, while adults can delight in the colourful rainforest setting, where vibrant birds glide gracefully through the air. 

Amenities 

Discovery Cove also takes care of all the little details for you. Included in admission you’ll have access to free parking, lockers, snorkel gear, animal safe sunscreen, towels and changing facilities. So, with all the essentials managed, all you have to focus on is making memories.  

Access to sister parks 

Another great benefit of a ticket to Discovery Cove is its unlimited access to its sister parks for 14 days. This means you can catch an iconic show at SeaWorld, ride the coasters at Busch Gardens, or make a splash at Aquatica. This is the perfect chance to get the full Florida adventure all with one ticket. 

Ultimate add-on experiences 

Dolphin Swim 

Swimming with dolphins is the centrepiece attraction of Discovery Cove. This thrilling experience brings guests face-to-face with the ocean’s most playful residents, the Bottlenose dolphin. The Dolphin Swim experience includes a 30-minute swim and group interaction, where you’ll learn facts and behaviours of these loveable creatures. Professional photographers are also on hand, so you can treasure the moment.  

Shark Snorkel 

If you want to be a bit more daring with your animal encounters, the Shark Snorkel option could be for you. Guided by expert staff, you’ll snorkel amongst more than 20 sharks, including species like Pacific Blacktip, Nurse, and Zebra sharks. Learn about shark anatomy and conservation with aquarist-led sessions and get to know the characteristics of these powerhouses of the sea.  

SeaVenture 

Ever fancied an underwater walk? With SeaVenture, you can explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life with a stroll along the sea floor. All it requires is a dive helmet, and you’re all set for a fascinating adventure like no other, incorporating meet-and-greets with some of the tropical fish that call Discovery Cove home. This is a perfect opportunity for those who may be a little intimidated by snorkelling but still want to get a peek at what treasures lurk under the sea.  

Animal Trek 

For education and interaction, Animal Trek is the ideal add-on. The tour lasts either 30 or 90 minutes, depending on your chosen package, and gives guests a private behind-the-scenes experience with animal experts. Throughout the trek, there will be encounters with anteaters, armadillos, kinkajous, and sloths, with plenty of photo opportunities to be had alongside them. You will also leave with a host of new facts about the conservation efforts, as well as specific animal behaviours and diets.  

FAQs 

What are the opening hours of Discovery Cove? 

Although waterways don’t open until 9am, check-in starts nice and early at 7.15am, allowing time to make the most of the day. Plus, you may want to be first in line for a dolphin swim, as these places are first-come first-served. Closing at 5pm, you’ll have plenty of time to pack everything in. 

What should you pack for Discovery Cove? 

With many things, such as towels, wetsuits, and animal-safe sunscreen provided, you can pack light for your day at Discovery Cove. We recommend the main items to pack are a swimsuit, a change of dry clothes, a waterproof phone case, medications, and a photo ID.  

What happens if it rains at Discovery Cove? 

Discovery Cove doesn’t let a bit of rain dampen its spirit. The park is open come rain or shine, and most activities can continue as normal. However, for more severe storms, they will reschedule or refund, so it’s always best to check beforehand.  

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