Discovering the unexpected beauty of Discovery Cove a true surprise in the midst of Orlando
A Magical Day at Discovery Cove 
Discovery Cove in Orlando, Florida, offers a unique and immersive experience that feels like stepping into a tropical paradise. From swimming with dolphins to snorkeling in a reef teeming with vibrant marine life, Discovery Cove promises an unforgettable adventure.
The Grand Reef is a marine experience like no other. Immerse yourself in waters teeming with sea life… where thousands of exotic fish and rays await you. Everyone is invited to wade, swim or snorkel freely through this vibrant reef. You never know what you’ll discover. Safely share the water with exotic eels, lionfish and sharks. Explore water-side trails and bridges to one of the reef’s many islands. Wade with friendly stingrays and then discover the Explorer’s Aviary, just beyond the towering waterfalls, where you can hand-feed tropical birds. Relax in the refreshing waters of the Resort Pool and float along the Wind-away River. Freshwater Oasis features swimming and wading adventures and face-to-face encounters with playful otters and curious marmosets. Designed with a rainforest canopy above and sparkling clear springs below, Freshwater Oasis is a natural fit within Discovery Cove’s tropical vibe.
Our Journey to Paradise
Our day at Discovery Cove began with an early arrival in our uber from the hotel, he picky us up at the hotel at 7.15 and dropt us in front of the entrance from Discovery Cove.We were warmly welcomed in the grand reception hall of Discovery Cove, where we received our wristbands and booking details, along with the schedule for our excursions.to make the most of the park’s all-inclusive offerings. As soon as we walked through the gates, we were greeted by lush greenery and the sound of cascading waterfalls.
The park’s layout is designed to evo
ke the feeling of a secluded island escape, and it immediately transported us from the hustle and bustle of Orlando to a tranquil haven. First, we enjoyed a delightful breakfast buffet, which was a real treat. We savored our meal outside on the terrace, basking in the morning sun. After breakfast, we set out to find a perfect spot for the day, eventually settling on a comfortable beach chair near the water, with a beautiful view of the lush flora and fauna.
Eager to explore, we embarked on a tour of the park, determined to experience everything Discovery Cove has to offer. Our first stop was the stingray lagoon. As we strolled by the water, we noticed stingrays swimming close to us, curious about our presence. However, we hadn’t put on our wetsuits yet, so we decided to find a locker for our valuables and change into our wetsuits.
SeaVenture
SeaVenture, The Grand Reef’s innovative experience is an underwater walking tour where, while wearing a dive helmet, you’ll feel right at home under the sea.
Find up-close excitement around every corner, each step yielding a new discovery. Easily climb down a ladder and set foot on the reef floor where you’ll come eye-to-eye with sharks through an 8-foot-tall, 21-foot long panoramic window. During the journey, you’ll experience one-on-one encounters with unique animals, schools of fish and velvety rays. You’ll even get to touch unique sea life found along the way. The adventure ends with schools of fish feeding around you with the massive open reef as your backdrop.
SeaVenture is a once-in-a-lifetime, undersea experience. Some say it’s like walking on the moon but, surrounded by fish. The SeaVenture program takes you on a 45 minute excursion from starting with a brief orientation session and ending with a trainer guided underwater walking tour through The Grand Reef that will be filled with incredible animal encounters only found at Discovery Cove.
So off we go to Seaventure, an underwater walking tour with helmets. After a brief orientation session, we were led to the stairs where we would slowly descend into the water. Day was given a special helmet with a balloon-like attachment to make it lighter, as the standard helmet would be too heavy for children. I went first, cautiously descending the steps while wondering what was going through my little girl’s mind.
Several divers accompanied us in the water, ready to assist if needed. We had also learned some underwater hand signals during the briefing, such as “OK,” “I want to go up,” and “photo.” Once we were underwater, a whole new world opened up before us, filled with vibrant fish and the occasional gliding stingray or parrotfish. I looked up to see how my daughter was doing; she was descending without hesitation, her eyes wide with wonder. She had rented an underwater camera, which would undoubtedly come in handy now.
Once Day and the other participants were ready, we began our underwater walk, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of marine life. Along the way, we held various sea creatures, and one of the divers took our photos. It was an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
After approximately 45 minutes of an amazing underwater tour, we ascended back to the surface. I went up the stairs first, making sure to keep an eye on Day. I couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride watching her tackle the experience so bravely. As her head neared the water’s surface, she hooked a large clip onto her helmet to have it lifted off as soon as she emerged. What a remarkable experience it was! We were thrilled and 
couldn’t wait to see the photos they had taken, so we made sure to purchase a few keepsakes.
We then strolled through the winding pathways of the park, passing by various restaurants and bars where we were warmly welcomed to enjoy refreshments—all included in the package. Naturally, we couldn’t resist sampling some of the delicious offerings.
Along our walk, we encountered a strange creature. Discovery Cove provides opportunities for guests to meet different animals,We were fascinated by the animal and listened intently as the caretaker shared interesting facts and answered questions. We also were aloud to touche it.
Soon, our stomachs started to rumble, so we headed to one of the dining areas to enjoy another meal. The variety of tasty options was impressive, and we savored our food on the terrace outside.
Swimming with Dolphins
The dolphin swim is the centrepiece of your visit; here you’ll spend 30 minutes, in groups of no more than 10, getting to know your dolphin through hugs, kisses and ultimately, a one-on-one swim together through the lagoon. Then, you have the rest of the day at your leisure to soak up the unique, indulgent atmosphere.
As the time for our dolphin swim approached, excitement built up. We arrived at the designated point for a brief orientation on the dos and don’ts of interacting with the dolphins. After about 10 minutes, we walked to the dolphin area, where the energetic dolphins were already jumping and diving in anticipation.
Standing in waist-deep water, we met our instructors and the photographer. The dolphins swam by, their heads bobbing out of the water as they curiously observed us. We were allowed to gently stroke them as they passed, and it was an incredible feeling to look into their beautiful eyes.
I had experienced this 25 years ago and was ecstatic to share this moment with my daughter. The instructors shared fascinating information about the dolphins while the dolphins performed tricks—diving, waving their tails, and doing flips. Then, it was our turn to interact with them directly.
We communicated with the dolphins using hand gestures and commands, and even swam with them by holding onto their fins as they towed us to the shore. We also got to hug and even receive a dolphin kiss, just like I did 25 years ago. It was heartwarming to see my daughter experiencing the same joy I once did..
Relaxing on the Lazy River
After our unforgettable dolphin encounter, it was time for some relaxation. We decided to float along the river that winds through the park. Reclining on a large rubber tube, we drifted leisurely, soaking in the serene surroundings.
As we floated, we came across the section where you can feed the birds. Naturally, we couldn’t miss this experience, so we made our way there. This area was teeming with tropical birds, eager to perch on us as we fed them. It was delightful to see Day’s excitement as the birds flocked around her.
Stingray Encounter
Next, we headed to the stingray lagoon. We waded through the shallow water, gently touching the stingrays as they glided by. The smooth, velvety texture of their skin was fascinating. For an even more immersive experience, we decided to take a dive and swim among the stingrays, sand sharks, and other tropical fish. The underwater world was a kaleidoscope of colors and wonders, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into marine life.
Relaxing on the Beach
Under the beautifully shining sun, we finally took some time to relax on our beach chairs and unwind from the day’s adventures. As flamingos strolled by, we marveled at the sights around us. We indulged in delicious ice cream and enjoyed a refreshing cocktail at the bar. Sitting there, we relished all the experiences of the day, reminiscing about the unforgettable moments we shared.
But like all good things, our day at Discovery Cove eventually came to an end. We called for an Uber, which promptly picked us up right at the park’s entrance and took us back to our hotel. As we drove away, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the incredible memories we made and the magical encounters we had. Discovery Cove truly offered a unique and enchanting experience, one that we will cherish forever.
Swimming with Dolphins
One of the main attractions at Discovery Cove is the opportunity to swim with dolphins. Our experience started with a brief educational session where we learned about dolphin behavior and conservation efforts. Then, we were introduced to our dolphin, a friendly and playful creature named Kai. Interacting with Kai was surreal; we got to touch, swim, and even receive a kiss from this magnificent animal. The trainers were knowledgeable and ensured both the dolphins and guests were comfortable and safe throughout the interaction.
Snorkeling in the Grand Reef
After our dolphin swim, we headed to the Grand Reef, a stunning underwater world where we could snorkel among thousands of tropical fish and rays. The reef is beautifully designed, with clear waters that allow for excellent visibility. Swimming alongside colorful fish and majestic rays felt like diving into a natural aquarium. For those who prefer to stay dry, there are plenty of areas to observe the marine life from the shore.
The Aviary and Lazy River
Next, we explored the Explorer’s Aviary, a large, free-flight aviary where we could feed and interact with a variety of exotic birds. The aviary is home to hundreds of birds from all over the world, and it was a delight to have them perch on our arms and shoulders while we fed them.
We also enjoyed the Wind-Away River, a lazy river that winds through lush landscapes, waterfalls, and caves. The gentle current carried us through different environments, from tropical jungles to serene waterfalls, making it a relaxing way to see more of the park.
Relaxing and All-Inclusive Amenities
Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive park, which means that food, beverages, and gear are all included in the admission price. We indulged in a delicious breakfast and lunch, with plenty of snacks and drinks available throughout the day. The park provides all the gear needed for the activities, including wetsuits, snorkels, and towels, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Conservation and Education
Discovery Cove is committed to conservation and education, which was evident in every aspect of the park. The staff was knowledgeable about the animals and their habitats, and there were numerous educational displays and programs aimed at raising awareness about marine conservation.
Tips for Visiting Discovery Cove
1. **Book in Advance**: Discovery Cove limits the number of guests each day to ensure a more intimate experience, so it’s essential to book your tickets in advance. Discovery Cove attendance is limited to 1300 guests a day, so all bookings require a reservation.
2. **Arrive Early**: To make the most of your day, plan to arrive when the park opens.
3. **Bring a Waterproof Camera**: There are countless photo opportunities, and you’ll want to capture the magical moments with the dolphins and other marine life.
4. **Stay Hydrated and Use Sunscreen**: Florida’s sun can be intense, so make sure to stay hydrated and reapply sunscreen throughout the day.
Our day at Discovery Cove was truly magical, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and education. Whether you’re swimming with dolphins, snorkeling in the Grand Reef, or simply lounging in a hammock by the beach, Discovery Cove provides an unparalleled experience that feels both luxurious and enriching. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to create unforgettable memories in a tropical paradise.
Cabanas at Discovry Cove
Discovery Cove offers a variety of private cabanas, each designed to provide guests with a luxurious and secluded retreat amid the park’s tropical surroundings. Here is a summary of the different cabanas available for rent:
1. Standard Cabanas:
• Location: Scattered throughout the park, often near key attractions like the Grand Reef or the Freshwater Oasis.
• Features: These cabanas offer comfortable seating, a table, and a personal locker. They provide shade and privacy, ideal for families or small groups looking to relax between activities.
• Amenities: Complimentary snacks, cold beverages, towels, and sunscreen are provided.
2. Premium Cabanas:
• Location: Positioned in prime locations with beautiful views, often near the Dolphin Lagoon or secluded beach areas.
• Features: These cabanas are more spacious and include premium furnishings, such as cushioned lounge chairs and a larger table.
• Amenities: In addition to the standard amenities, premium cabanas may include enhanced services like personalized waitstaff, upgraded snacks, and a wider selection of beverages.
3. Elite Cabanas:
• Location: Exclusive areas with the best views and maximum privacy, often in serene, less trafficked parts of the park.
• Features: Elite cabanas offer the highest level of comfort with luxury furnishings, a mini-fridge stocked with beverages, and additional seating options for larger groups.
• Amenities: All standard and premium amenities are included, plus special extras like reserved dolphin swim times, personalized service, and possibly a dedicated cabana host.
Benefits of Renting a Cabana
• Privacy: Cabanas provide a private space away from the hustle and bustle of the park, perfect for relaxing or regrouping with your party.
• Comfort: Enjoy comfortable seating and a shaded area to rest between activities.
• Convenience: Access to complimentary snacks and drinks, as well as personal lockers for storing belongings.
• Service: Enhanced service options, including waitstaff and personalized attention in premium and elite cabanas.
• Scenic Views: Many cabanas offer beautiful views of the park’s attractions and natural landscapes.