Discover Discovery Cove - Orlando

Go “Island style” at the super cool Discovery Cove, a deluxe simulation of a Caribbean island right here in landlocked Orlando. The pristine white sand beach lined with palm trees is perfect for sun bathing and some much needed relaxation. You don’t need to worry about fighting for a spot on the beach as Discovery Cove only allows a maximum of 1 000 visitors per day to ensure a comfortable visit.

Once your done relaxing take a dip in the refreshing resort pool maintained at a moderate 80 degrees all year round.

Paddle about in the oversized freshwater pool or practice your snorkelling skills in the sparkling clear blue water that is therapeutic and serene.

Head deeper into the water nearing the grottos and enjoy a shoulder and neck massage from the pounding water of the many waterfalls.

The Resort Pool is also where you may choose to begin your journey into the Tropical River to explore the other environments found within Discovery Cove.

Head off with snorkel in hand to the expansive coral reef to swim amongst shipwreck remains, giant rays and thousands of exotic fish. The reef boasts more than 150 species of marine species encapsulating every color under the rainbow. You may bump into a shark or two but none that are considered harmful, thank goodness. This is a swim that you won’t forget in a hurry.

Discovery Cove’s sister park, SeaWorld, has a 35 year successful track record with marine animals. After witnessing SeaWorld visitors' growing love and intimate relationships with dolphins it seemed only natural to open Discovery Cove in order to provide an entire new generation of guests the chance to interact more intimately with these much loved marine friends.

The Dolphin Swim at Discovery Cove is the highlight for most guests. This once-in-a-lifetime experience gives families the opportunity to make a special connection with these incredibly remarkable creatures. The Dolphin Swim gives you the chance to touch, play, swim and even talk to the gentle and friendly bottlenose dolphins. Discovery Cove is home to about 35 dolphins.

The Dolphin Swim begins with interactive orientation in the secluded cabanas and consists of a brief video presentation on dolphin characteristics, how to use hand signals and positive reinforcement to communicate with your dolphin and various safety guidelines.

Next, you and a group of 6-8 other guests head to the quaint Dolphin Lagoon where you’ll wade into the shallow crystal clear waters to start your exclusive dolphin experience. Here you will finally turn your dream into a reality by playing with and getting to know your dolphin for approximately 30 minutes. Playing includes hugs, special dolphin kisses, rundowns and and unforgettable one-on-one swim together through the the lagoon. Bear in mind that guests must specify whether they will take the dolphin package (swimming with dolphins) or the non-dolphin package. The prices vary substantially.

Splash about and play with the dozens of southern and cow-nose rays at Ray Lagoon. Prepare yourself for an amazing opportunity to snorkel with these peaceful animals who gladly allow you to touch them and feel their surprizingly velvety skin. Some of them can grow up to 4 feet but no need for concern as they are just gentle giants.

Discovery Cove’s Shark Habitat, for your viewing pleasure, includes a wide variety of these ultimate predators, including whitetip reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, Atlantic nurse sharks and whitespotted bamboo sharks.

Discovery Cove boasts a hidden treasure just waiting to be discovered, the free-flight aviary towering high above water and land. The aviary houses an impressive 30 species of birds, with a total count of about 250 feathered friends, representing species from all over the planet ranging from the blue bellied rollers to sun conures to laughing kookaburras.

Adventure through stone catacombs, over bridges and across rivers whilst feasting your eyes on these colorful creatures of flight. Many of Discovery Cove’s birds are friendly and can be touched, talked to and even fed from your open palm. What a treat!

Discovery Cove also offers special occasion packages, dolphin lover’s sleepovers, trainer for a day, exclusive group evening events and convention attendee specials.

Discovery Cove may be considered to be quite pricey but it is well worth it as the price is all-inclusive, even drinks and meals. A day spent at Discovery Cove feels like a weeks worth of vacation.