Complete Guide to Discovery Cove, Orlando’s Most Relaxing Theme Park
“Theme park” and “relaxing escape” are not two phrases you’d normally pair. But Discovery Cove isn’t your normal theme park. In fact, we uncovered that it is, indeed, Orlando’s most relaxing theme park, if not Orlando’s only relaxing theme park. It’s a destination in Central Florida with plenty of things to do, but it balances its activities within a tropical oasis designed to put you at ease.
Water elements pair with beautiful flora to create a place for visitors that’s worth the price of admission. Dare we say, it’s the perfect place to be if you’re visiting Orlando and desire an unstressful day.
But what are the essential things to understand at Discovery Cove, and what do you need to pre-plan? How are tickets priced, and what is the park’s rain policy? Do you need to budget for food and drinks? We answer all this and more, uncovering not-to-miss experiences that are unlike anything else we’ve done anywhere in the world.
Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase, at no cost to you. We thank Discovery Cove for hosting us. We truly only recommend destinations, hotels, products and services we personally use.
Essentials You Need to Know About Discovery Cove
Picture a slice of paradise where lush greenery meets calm lagoons and exciting animal education. In the distance, you can hear the welcoming chatter of exotic birds. This isn’t your usual theme park; Discovery Cove is a wonderland crafted as an immersive, tropical full-day experience.
Each corner invites you into a different mini-ecosystem, whether you’re wading in the water with stingrays, walking on the “ocean” floor to view tropical fish, or strolling through the aviary. As two travelers who know the relaxing pace of a river cruise well, this park feels like the perfect blend of a relaxing river cruise with a wonderful waterworld served with a splash of adventure.
Key Areas of Discovery Cove
Five main areas of the park are included with your ticket. They are Explorer's Aviary, The Grand Reef®, Freshwater Oasis®, Serenity Bay, and Wind-Away River, which is the lazy river.
The lazy river is the best we’ve ever experienced! The water was a really nice temperature, the waterfalls were fun, the slight current kept us moving, the provided water noodles were comfortable and high-quality, and the lack of round plastic water tubes meant we weren’t bumping into other people.
There were points of interest along the 1,600-foot loop, and lifeguards kept an eye on guests. There were also various entry and exit points, but if you stayed on the loop for a full go-around, it took approximately thirty minutes, which was a lovely amount of time.
The main dining area at Discovery Cove is named Laguna Grill. Hibiscus Hideaway Bar & Pizza offers complimentary snacks, like potato chips and pizza, all day; an additional bar, named Blue Bamboo Bar, keeps guests over 21 happy. Two animal encounter areas, where animals such as sloths, anteaters, and armadillos are brought out for guests to learn and discover. Those two points are located around the park.
Flamingo Point was the spot to view the pink long-legged beauties. The Freshwater Oasis, which features otters, completes Discover Cove’s main areas of interest. Lastly, there were the restrooms, which featured amenities such as showers and changing areas.
There are also thoughtful touches throughout the park that we want to mention, such as souvenir shops that sell a wide range of items, from t-shirts to plush toys and jewelry, as well as water-safe phone cases in case you didn’t buy one on Amazon before arriving at the park. A footwash station before leaving the park was key to preventing sand from getting into our car during the drive home, and the towel bin just before exiting was the kind of detail we appreciate.
Discovery Cove Hours
The park is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day. Check-in and breakfast, which are included for all guests, begin at 7:15 am. Water activities open at 9:00 a.m.
Discovery Cove Restaurants and Dining
The food quality was surprisingly better than expected. It’s served buffet-style, and while not gourmet, it was delicious. We even enjoyed a slice of pizza and French fries as snacks in the afternoon, balanced with the fruit we had during breakfast.
Meals are served during designated times at Laguna Grill:
- Breakfast is served from 7:15 to 10:00 am
- Lunch is available between 11:00 am and 3:30 pm
Snacks, namely the pizza at Hibiscus Hideaway Bar & Pizza, are served between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm
Discovery Cove Tickets
You pay one price to enjoy the entire park, without worrying about add-ons like food or soft drinks and select beer and wine. Limited animal encounters and viewing are included. You can add optional upgrades if desired, which we recommend.
There’s no need to worry about anything like a “fastpass” because the only line you’ll wait on all day is the line to check in the morning of your visit. Otherwise, there’s not a line to be found inside the park.
Pricing is All-Inclusive
To make your day even more carefree, admission to Discovery Cove is inclusive of:
- Parking
- Food (breakfast, lunch, and snacks)
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- Select beer and wine
- Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the showers
- Rentals, including snorkel gear (you get to keep the mouthpiece but must return the goggles), wetsuits, and life jackets
- Locker rentals
- Animal encounters, like seeing the resident sloths and armadillos
The all-inclusive pricing here means that not only do you not need to worry about your wallet, but also that no unexpected charges will appear during your visit. It also means that while tickets may seem costly at first glance, admission rates pack more value when compared to other theme parks. This is especially true with add-ons at other parks these days, like Walt Disney World’s Lightning Lane passes or Universal Orlando’s Express Passes, which make tickets much pricier than expected.
What is Not Included in Discovery Cove’s Minimum All-Inclusive Pricing
- VIP parking, which includes the closest parking spots to the reception area, where you enter the park (which we did not feel like we needed, whatsoever)
- Premium drinks package, which includes cocktails, frozen drinks with alcohol, and upgraded beer and wine ($45 upgrade per person)
- Cabanas or Luxury Day Beds (starting at $239 and $103, respectively)
- Photo Packages (pricing starts at $239 for the Digital Photo Package)
Discounts, Ways to Save Money, and Other Things to Know about Discovery Cove Tickets
There are several ways to save money on Discovery Cove tickets. We’ve checked the website several times, during various seasons, and it seems they’re usually running a promotion of some sort.
Keep these six tips in mind:
- Book during weekdays or shoulder seasons to score lower ticket prices and quieter crowds. Summer and holidays usually cost more.
- Package Discovery Cove with SeaWorld, Aquatica, or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for extra savings. They also offer hotel packages.
- If you’re a Florida resident, check for special discounts tailored just for you.
- Book early to secure the best prices for future visits. As dates near, prices tend to increase as inventory lessens, very much like hotel or airline pricing.
- Look for incentive pricing or discounts on their website. For example, they may offer a 20% discount on a cabana, include a Dolphin Swim for a promotional ticket price, or offer a complimentary drinks package if you book by a certain date.
- Discovery Cove offers military discounts. (Thank you for your service!)
Free Shuttle to Busch Gardens
If you wish to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, purchase a ticket bundle. A complimentary shuttle service between Orlando and Busch Gardens is included with the purchase of a park ticket, which is particularly convenient since Tampa is a one- to two-hour drive from Orlando, depending on traffic.
Limited Daily Capacity
To maintain a relaxed atmosphere and a personal experience, daily visitor numbers are capped. This exclusivity means you'll want to book well in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak times. It also means the park never feels crowded, elevating every visitor’s experience.
Child and Infant Policies
Much like the policy at surrounding theme parks, children over two require tickets. Additionally, since all the included activities are child-friendly, there is no price differentiation between adult and child tickets at Discovery Cove; the price is the same for all tickets, regardless of age.
Children under two get in free with a paid adult, making it a budget-friendly choice for families with toddlers. However, to participate in the Swim with Dolphins experience, arguably the most popular experience there, kids must be at least six years old and at least 42 inches tall.
Rain Policy
The park does not give refunds if it rains. Understanding this might be a vital part of your satisfaction with your visit, especially during the months of June through September, when Central Florida experiences its rainy season.
Our Discovery Cove Tips & Advice to Maximize Your Visit and Expectations
It’s easy to imagine that Discovery Cove is like any other theme park before you visit. However, adopting that mindset would be a mistake; it’s more of a relaxing resort-style oasis, featuring animal activities and underwater adventures.
Take our firsthand advice for how to maximize your experience…
Arrive Early
Arrive as soon as possible to make the most of every minute of your day. The park opens early for check-in starting at 7:15 am. Breakfast starts at 8:00 am, and the park closes at 5:00 pm. The day we visited, we arrived at 8:00 am to check in and had breakfast before our cabana and the park’s waterways opened at 9:00 am.
Arrive as close to 7:00 am as possible if you’re participating in three or more add-on experiences so the team can properly schedule your day.
Set Your Expectations
Discovery Cove is a place for relaxation and discovery. It’s not a “typical” theme park with roller coasters, dark rides, or costumed character encounters (which, let’s be honest, is a welcome differentiator).
The day flies by! At first, when we checked in at 8:00 am, we thought, “We have all day! It’s plenty of time!” But after we checked in and had breakfast, it was 9:00 am. Breakfast was followed by our cabana check-in and two back-to-back experiences, SeaVenture and the Dolphin Swim. After that, it was already lunchtime!
After lunch, we had about four hours to enjoy many areas of the park we hadn’t explored. There was so much to do and see (and it rained for a little while, which paused our activities for a bit) that even after we left, we realized we hadn’t done it all. Understand that though the entire day is ahead of you, it flies by. Plan accordingly and be aware of the time so you can make the most of your visit and accomplish everything you want to during your stay.
Rent a Cabana
We absolutely loved our cabana. Renting one is up to you, but we truly felt it elevated our experience. Cabanas are priced by amenities, and it is recommended to reserve one in advance. However, if you show up and have remorse for not doing so, ask the team if there are any still available that day. You might get lucky.
You cannot request a specific cabana location, like a Dolphin Lagoon view, unless you purchased a VIP Cabana Package.
Here are the different cabana level options, all of which fit between six to eight guests comfortably with a maximum of 10 guests per party:
- Private cabana, which includes chairs, a stocked mini-fridge, snacks, a ceiling fan, a locker, and your own sunscreen to use that day.
- Elite Cabana, which includes everything from a private cabana, but adds a personalized buoy if you also opted for the Dolphin Swim package, as well as the Digital Photo Package ($229 value if purchased separately)
- VIP Cabana Package includes all of the Elite Cabana perks plus a dedicated VIP cabana host, exclusive animal encounter, reserved seating at breakfast and lunch, and a guaranteed Dolphin Lagoon view.
If you don’t want to rent a cabana but are interested in a lounge chair option that provides some shade, your only alternative is to rent a Luxury Day Bed, which comfortably accommodates two adults. The day beds are not private, like the cabanas, but they’re a nice option if you’re concerned about the sun and know you’ll want to lounge for a portion of the day.
Otherwise, it’s important to understand that the lounge chairs available for all guests to use, which are scattered in designated areas around the park, do not have coverings. They are exposed to the sun.
Cabana rental pros:
Cabana rental Cons:
Bring a Swimsuit and a Change of Clothes
Bringing a bathing suit is essentially a non-negotiable here. Most of the experiences require one. Whether you are comfortable in a one-piece, a bikini, board shorts, a long-sleeved rash guard, or other swim attire, if you are going to get in on the action at Discovery Cove, you will get wet, so you have to dress accordingly.
Additionally, be sure to bring a change of clothes. Which brings us to what to pack for your visit.
🩱🩳 What to Pack for Your Day at Discovery Cove (and What to Leave Home)
Here’s what we packed in our backpacks:
- Bathing suit
- Dry bag (Discovery Cove has plastic bags in the bathroom to take a wet bathing suit home; however, we despise single-use plastic, so we bring our reusable dry bags for this reason – though we’re happy to report they don’t use plastic straws, lids or shopping bags)
- Change of clothes, including underwear, bra, shorts, t-shirt
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Handheld fan (because it gets hot and a handheld fan will provide a lot of comfort when you are lounging)
- Waterproof phone case (very fun to have on the lazy river)
- Book (though we ended up not having a lot of reading time)
- Refillable, insulated water bottle because we like to drink ice cold water to stay hydrated and cool on hot Florida days, which are plentiful
- A driver’s license or some form of photo ID for check in
Things to leave at home:
- All jewelry: We had to remove rings, watches, and I had to remove my stud earrings, for many activities. Better to leave it at home or in the safe of your hotel.
- Sunscreen: We used the provided sunscreen throughout the park, out of respect for the animals and in accordance with the park's guidelines for what is allowed in the water.
- Towels: They are provided for you.
- Snorkel gear: Unless you have a specific piece of gear you want to wear, there is no need to bring any. They provide goggles and the mouthpiece.
- Wetsuits: Discovery Cove provides them in various sizes.
- Water toys: Don’t bring pool floats or similar items. Water noodles are supplied for the lazy river.
- Food: Unless you want something special, there’s no need to bring food. It’s included in admission.
- Drinks: Drinks are provided for you or available for purchase if you didn’t opt for the premium drinks package.
What to Do if It’s Supposed to Rain During Your Visit (and Discovery Cove’s Refund Policy)
While the team allows you to go into the water if it rains, for safety reasons, everyone must evacuate these areas if there is lightning and thunder nearby.
We visited in May and had a fairly good forecast until the afternoon. Around 3:00 pm, the thunder and rain clouds moved in. Though the overcast skies protected us from the scalding sun, the lightning and rain followed, and we had to evacuate the Grand Reef, the area we were enjoying at the time. This prompted us to inquire about the park’s rain policy.
We also realized that if the forecast in predicting rain for most of the day a few days before your visit, and you have flexibility in your schedule, it’s best to move the date. This is an outdoor park with water elements, and there’s not much to do there if you’re not allowed in the water during inclement weather.
Discovery Cove’s Rain Policy
Though refunds are not given for rain, the park has a Named Storm Policy in place in the event of extreme weather, like tropical storms or hurricanes. In these limited instances, they will not apply any cancellation or change fees.
Otherwise, if you wish to change your park ticket date because of the weather forecast, you must do so 48 hours or more before your scheduled entry date without any penalty. The exception is that you may be required to pay the difference in price if a higher seasonal rate applies. However, there are no additional costs outside of this if you reschedule your date within 14 days on either side of your original booked date, as long as it falls within the minimum 48-hour rebooking window.
If you choose to move your date a second time, you will be subject to a $50 rebooking fee. A 100% refund is available outside of the 30-day window. If, for some reason, the day is a washout, Guest Services will handle things on a case-by-case basis. If this happens, stop by Guest Services before you exit the park.
Park policies for changes to group rate tickets may differ.
Understanding the Animal Environment and Safety–for Humans and Animals–at Discovery Cove
Discovery Cove proclaims they are a “Paradise with a Purpose,” and we believe that’s well stated after our experience there. The purpose isn’t only to provide a memorable day for everyone who visits; it’s also to educate their guests about animal conservation.
They hold accreditations or certifications from:
- Association of Zoos and Aquariums
- Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums
- International Marine Animal Trainers Association
- United States Department of Agriculture
- American Humane
Our safety and well-being, as well as that of the animals, were emphasized during the briefings before our animal encounters, such as the Dolphin Swim and SeaVenture. The team members who accompanied us were incredibly aware of the animals, ensuring we didn’t disturb or alarm them.
Animal Encounters and Experiences
Imagine being inches away from a dolphin or hand-feeding tropical birds as their beaks touch the small dish of food in your hand. Discovery Cove transforms animal interactions into unforgettable highlights of your visit. They blend education, connection, and adventure through carefully managed, small-group experiences. Whether you’re snorkeling with curious rays or become part of a school of fish during a SeaVenture experience, the moments will stick with you long after you’ve left.
Groups are kept small, and reservations are purposely limited.
Safety Measures and Park Rules
Safety at Discovery Cove is like a well-choreographed dance where every step and interaction is designed to keep guests and animals happy and secure. With water-based activities and close animal contact, the park incorporates multiple systems of care, ranging from trained guides to clear rules that can be thought of as friendly guardrails for a relaxing day of fun.
Important Things to Keep in Mind Regarding Safety and Animal Encounters at Discovery Cove
- Animal interactions are supervised with limits on touch, timing, and proximity to protect welfare and prevent accidents—rushing or unscheduled touching isn’t allowed. It’s vital to the welfare of you and the animals to follow staff instructions.
- Licensed lifeguards continuously monitor swimming areas and snorkeling zones, and flotation devices are provided for guests who require them at no additional cost. This ensures comfort and security.
- Guests must follow guidelines for smoking, alcohol consumption, and general conduct to maintain a respectful environment for all.
- The park is equipped with first aid stations and has trained staff to respond rapidly to any incidents.
Accessibility and Family Friendliness
Discovery Cove rolls out the welcome mat for families and guests with accessibility needs, making sure everyone can soak up the magic, as equally as safety allows. It’s a very inclusive park, with thoughtful accommodations baked into the park’s design and operations.
Accessible Areas for People with Mobility Challenges
The park is wheelchair- and scooter-friendly, featuring paved pathways and signage that indicate accessible areas. There are even special accessibility chairs available for the Wind-Away River and Serenity Bay, accommodating guests who require wheelchair-accessible entryways.
Discovery Cove offers manual wheelchairs with oversized tires for easy maneuvering on the sandy beach areas. These can be reserved by calling the park directly: 407-513-4600.
The restroom areas, which include toilets and showers, are also accessible, featuring spacious and well-located changing rooms. Locker areas are accessible, and accessible cabanas are available to rent.
Service Animals
Service animals, which include dogs and small horses as mandated by federal and state law, are permitted in the park on leashes. They must stay 30 feet away from the Aviary, The Grand Reef®, Serenity Bay, Wind-Away River, Freshwater Oasis, and Dolphin Lagoon and must always be attended by someone in your party. If your pet needs boarding, the SeaWorld Pet Care Center is conveniently located nearby.
Visitors With Autism
Discovery Cove is a designated Certified Autism Center™ (CAC). They have a “Sensory Guide” on their park map, indicating the five-senses stimulation scale in different areas as well as for the various activities offered.
Nearby Attractions and Fun Orlando Areas
If you’re visiting Orlando—the theme park capital of the world—Discovery Cove fits perfectly into a larger itinerary peppered with sunny thrills and wildlife wonders. If you’re local, like us, it’s a great staycation or local date idea.
Understanding what’s near Discovery Cove lets you craft a smooth vacation schedule blending the park’s serene, close-to-nature vibe with the heartbeat of Orlando’s high-energy attractions.
Visit Additional Theme Parks
Discovery Cove is part of SeaWorld Parks & Resorts, and SeaWorld and Aquatica are right next door. Combined visits unlock complementary experiences, such as roller coasters, water slides, and shows, that are not available at Discovery Cove. Pairing the two gives your itinerary a wild mix of calm nature and adrenaline.
Favorites like Universal Studios, Disney World, and ICON Park are nearby and can be incorporated into longer stays. Discovery Cove is centrally located between Universal and Disney World.
Legoland and Kennedy Space Center are also nearby, though in opposite directions.
ICON Park is situated close to Discovery Cove and offers a variety of paid experiences, as well as numerous dining options. Visiting and walking around ICON Park is free of charge. They have live music on the grand lawn well into the evening on some nights. This could be a great nighttime activity after a fun day at Discovery Cove, which closes at 5:00 pm.
Additional Wildlife and Nature
Places like the Central Florida Zoo and Wekiwa Springs State Park expand your options for interaction with nature.
Visit Discovery Cove for a Stress-Free, Memorable Time in Orlando, Florida
Although we didn’t entirely know what to expect when we arrived at Discovery Cove the morning of our visit, we left in the late afternoon feeling fulfilled, relaxed, and excited to tell family and friends to go for a recharging day of fun. Regardless of whether you buy the park admission and stick with what’s included or add on cabanas and special experiences, you’re sure to have a day to remember and leave with everlasting memories.
