Discovery Cove offers a truly all-inclusive experience. Your admission typically covers a freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, and snacks, as well as unlimited soft drinks, water, and select alcoholic beverages (for guests 21 and over). You’ll also receive complimentary use of lockers, towels, wetsuits, and swim gear. In addition, depending on your chosen package, you can enjoy access to The Grand Reef, Serenity Bay, Wind-Away River, Explorer’s Aviary, and other park areas. Some packages also include the popular Dolphin Swim Experience – so do check exactly what’s included when you book.

The dolphin swim is often the highlight of a Discovery Cove visit. You’ll join a small group to meet a friendly bottlenose dolphin with the guidance of a trained animal expert. After a brief orientation on dolphin behaviour and safety, you’ll wade into shallow water to interact with the dolphin, followed by an optional deeper-water swim for those comfortable in deeper areas. The entire encounter usually lasts about 30 minutes, leaving you with cherished memories (and some wonderful photo opportunities!).

Not at all! Life vests and flotation devices are available throughout the park, and the staff are on hand to offer assistance if you’re uncertain in the water. The Grand Reef, for instance, has both shallow and deeper sections, making it perfect for everyone from confident swimmers to beginners. If you’d rather stay in the shallows, you can still marvel at tropical fish and rays passing by without venturing too far out.

Families with young children are more than welcome. While there is no age limit to enter Discovery Cove, the Dolphin Swim Experience requires participants to be at least 6 years old. Children younger than 13 must be accompanied by a paying and supervising adult. Even if children aren’t old enough for the dolphin swim, they’ll still enjoy exploring the serene beaches, meeting birds in the aviary, and splashing about in the calm waters.

Leave them at home – Discovery Cove has you covered! The park provides complimentary wetsuits or swim vests (in various sizes), as well as towels and even snorkelling gear. You can also use the park’s lockers free of charge, so there’s no need to worry about lugging your belongings around all day.

You’re welcome to take your own photos in most areas (so long as it’s safe for the animals and equipment), but do check which experiences allow it and whether waterproof cameras or phone cases are permitted.

Early birds definitely get the best start! Discovery Cove generally opens around 7:15 a.m. for check-in, with the lagoons and attractions usually available from 8:00 a.m. Arriving early helps you make the most of the included breakfast and beat the rush for the prime loungers. While you can leave and return on the same day if you need to, most guests prefer to stay onsite to maximise their all-inclusive experience and make the most of the day’s offerings.

Florida’s weather can be unpredictable, but Discovery Cove does its best to ensure you’ll still have a wonderful time. Many experiences carry on in light rain or cloudy skies, and there’s ample shelter around if you need to keep dry. However, if there is severe weather, some attractions might close temporarily for safety. It’s always wise to check the park’s official policies on weather-related rescheduling or cancellations, just in case.

Your meals are already taken care of! Discovery Cove’s all-inclusive dining ensures you can enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch in the Laguna Grill, along with snacks and drinks throughout the day. The menus offer a variety of options, including vegetarian choices and kid-friendly fare. You’ll also find well-stocked snack stations with fresh fruit, ice cream, pretzels, and more.

• Book well in advance: The park limits daily attendance to keep experiences intimate and uncrowded.
• Consider an upgraded package: Extras like the Shark Swim or SeaVenture can be the icing on the cake.
• Bring minimal belongings: Since so much is included, there’s no need to pack heavily.
• Explore all corners of the park: Don’t forget to visit the Aviary, where you can hand-feed brightly coloured birds, or simply relax on the sandy beaches.
• Stay hydrated: Florida’s sunshine can be intense, so drink plenty of water (thankfully, it’s included!) and apply sunscreen often.