Discovery Cove Theme Park in Orlando, Florida
Snorkeling with Tropical Fish in America's Southernmost State
Adjacent to SeaWorld just off of International Drive, Discovery Cove offers families and friends an easy way to enjoy marine thrills otherwise limited to the more distant Keys or Caribbean. Central Florida stays temperate all year and the park is open every day of the year.
Intimate Theme Park Experience
The theme park provides a more intimate way to get to know the colorful fish and playful marine mammals seen at SeaWorld. Only 1,000 patrons are admitted to the cove in any one day, so it's pleasantly uncrowded.
An amazing manmade coral reef and lagoon at the park successfully mimics a reef and is filled with more fish in a wider variety than one could ever find in nature. Stingrays, parrot fish, sergeant majors, filefish and other species swim side-by-side snorkelers.
Safe and Secure Family Vacation
Barracudas and sharks seem to glide by in the lagoon, but no worries. The predators are separated from snorkelers by an underwater tank embellished with reef-like camouflage. A number of observant life guards monitor the lagoon and other swimming areas, so those concerned about safety need not fear.
Plenty of light-weight, comfortable life vests are on hand and are required for all water activities. Although the park provides snorkeling gear, even prescription masks, avid snorkelers with their own masks and snorkels are welcome to bring them.
Central Florida River and Aviary
Floating down the tropical river that snakes around the Central Florida park is part of the fun. A current makes for an easy swim especially if you grab one of the park’s plentiful floats.
Past a waterfall along the river is the jungle aviary with 250 tropical birds. Swimmers are encouraged to feed the colorful birds and visit with anteaters and other creatures. Within the aviary and throughout the park is lush tropical vegetation that creates a sense of being on a paradise island.
Photos of Dolphin Swim
At the appointed time, visitors who have opted for swimming with dolphins head to a cabana for their briefing. Groups of six to eight swimmers are assigned to a trainer who assists their interaction with a dolphin and provides information on dolphin biology and behavior.
Discovery Cove staff take photographs and video of the dolphin encounter. Visitors may opt to buy DVDs, prints and other picture memorabilia after their swim
Discovery Cove Admission and General Information
Admission is $189 per person with an additional $100 for a dolphin swim. There's no charge to bring in toddlers age 2 and under. Florida residents get up to a $90 discount on admission during select dates.
Admission to Discovery Cove includes one free photo, snorkeling equipment, towels, lockers, changing facilities, lunch, snacks and drinks, plus a 14-day pass to either SeaWorld or Busch Gardens Tampa.
Although Discovery Cove is open to all ages children must be at least 6 years old for the dolphin swim. An adult must accompany children under 13 years old in the park and a parent or legal guardian must be with children up to 17 years old during check in. The park is handicap accessible.
Open every day of the week, the park recommends booking at least two months in advance for those planning to visit during the summer or near a holiday. Early fall and late spring, except for spring break weeks, are the best times to visit to beat the crowd and still have toasty temperatures to swim in.
Snorkelers dive in Discovery Cove lagoon
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A dolphin swim at Discovery Cove
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The snorkeling lagoon at Discovery Cove
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