ZooFlorida, US

Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove is an exclusive all-inclusive day resort offering unforgettable animal encounters.

About

Discovery Cove is an exclusive all-inclusive day resort offering unforgettable animal encounters. This unique Orlando destination is celebrated for its luxurious, limited-attendance experience, immersing guests in a breathtaking tropical environment. It's been recognized as a top theme park in Orlando, providing a tranquil escape from typical park crowds.

The park boasts a variety of habitats designed for close-up animal interactions. Guests can swim alongside Bottlenose Dolphins in Dolphin Lagoon, snorkel through The Grand Reef with thousands of tropical fish and rays, and observe reef sharks safely behind glass. The Explorer's Aviary allows visitors to hand-feed exotic birds like vibrant Macaws and Toucans, while the Freshwater Oasis offers views of playful Asian Small-clawed Otters and Geoffrey's Marmosets. Serenity Bay provides relaxing lagoons, and the winding Wind-Away River meanders through diverse landscapes, including rainforests and waterfalls.

A visit to Discovery Cove is an unparalleled opportunity to connect with marine life and tropical birds in a serene setting. The all-inclusive nature, covering meals, snacks, drinks, gear, and parking, ensures a worry-free day of relaxation and adventure. It's an ideal choice for those seeking memorable, immersive animal encounters combined with the pampered feel of a premium resort experience. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

Discovery Cove officially opened its gates on July 1, 2000, as an animal-themed waterpark and all-inclusive resort. Owned and operated by United Parks & Resorts (formerly SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment), it is a sister park to SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando. Upon its debut, the park was an immediate success, selling out for the first two months. From its inception, Discovery Cove was designed to focus on relaxation and intimate animal interactions, distinguishing itself from traditional thrill-focused theme parks.

What to do here

Engage in included activities like snorkeling in The Grand Reef, exploring the Explorer's Aviary, swimming near otters and marmosets in Freshwater Oasis, and floating down the Wind-Away River. Consider upgraded experiences such as SeaVenture (an underwater walking tour), Shark Snorkel or Interaction, Ray Feeding, Flamingo Mingle, or Animal Trek to get even closer to specific animals.

Seasonal info

Water temperatures in freshwater pools are around 85-86°F, while saltwater pools are cooler, typically 76-77°F. The park is less crowded during weekdays outside of major school holidays and summer breaks.

Accessibility

Discovery Cove offers extensive accessibility, including wheelchair-accessible pathways, ramps leading into various pools and reefs, and specially designed beach wheelchairs (requiring assistance). Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) are available for rent. The park provides complimentary American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and park guidance upon request, requiring 14 days advance notice. Discovery Cove is also a Certified Autism Center, featuring open spaces to reduce sensory overload, a quiet room, and staff trained to assist guests with cognitive or sensory sensitivities.

Don't miss

Dolphin Lagoon

The signature Dolphin Swim experience (an add-on) allows guests to interact with Bottlenose Dolphins.

The Grand Reef

Snorkel through this vast saltwater habitat to encounter thousands of tropical fish, various rays, and observe reef sharks behind a barrier.

Explorer's Aviary

Walk through and hand-feed hundreds of exotic birds like Macaws, Toucans, and Finches.

Freshwater Oasis

Observe Asian Small-clawed Otters and Geoffrey's Marmosets from above and below the water.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Brown Anole

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive early

Aim to arrive between 7:00 AM and 7:15 AM to complete check-in, enjoy breakfast, and secure optimal time slots for any booked animal encounters like the Dolphin Swim.

Wear water shoes

While walking around the park, sand can get hot, and some water areas have rocky bottoms, making water shoes highly recommended for comfort.

Leave jewelry at home

For the safety and well-being of the animals, guests are asked not to wear jewelry (except for wedding bands) during in-water experiences. Animal-safe sunscreen is provided, so leave your own at home.

Consider an underwater camera

Personal phones and cameras are often not permitted during certain animal interactions, so an underwater camera can capture those special moments if allowed in designated areas.

Book special experiences in advance

Popular add-on animal encounters, such as the Dolphin Swim or Shark Interaction, have limited capacity and often sell out quickly.

Take advantage of all-inclusive amenities: Enjoy the complimentary breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages (including alcoholic options for those 21+) available throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions

: Admission to Discovery Cove is all-inclusive and covers a freshly prepared breakfast and lunch, unlimited snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and a selection of beer and wine for guests 21 and older. It also includes complimentary animal-safe sunscreen, towels, lockers, wetsuits or swim vests, snorkel gear, shower facilities, and free parking.
: Yes, reservations are highly recommended and often required, as Discovery Cove limits its daily attendance to ensure a premium, uncrowded experience for all guests. It's advisable to book your visit, especially for special animal encounters or during peak seasons, several months in advance to guarantee availability.
: Guests can swim with Bottlenose Dolphins (with a Dolphin Swim package), snorkel alongside thousands of tropical fish and various species of rays in The Grand Reef, and hand-feed exotic birds in the Explorer's Aviary. You can also observe Asian Small-clawed Otters and Geoffrey's Marmosets at Freshwater Oasis. Additional upgraded experiences may allow interactions with reef sharks, flamingos, sloths, anteaters, kinkajous, and owls.