Review

This is our personal review of Discovery Cove and we have to say it's something we love to do when we go to Orlando as even though you're out for the day at a park, it doesn't feel like it at all as it's just so relaxing there. 

When we go to Discovery Cove, we always like to arrive early, normally between 07:00am and 07:30am as the queues can get quite long though it doesn't typically take very long to get through the lines. There is free parking, free towels, free sunscreen that is animal friendly and also the lockers are free of charge which is rarity in parks! They even have bags for your wet items which we think should be in every water park as it's so handy. Included in our ticket, is the all day dining which we personally think is great value for money as this includes breakfast, lunch and all snacks. For those over 21yrs, select alcohol is also included, which again, is really great value as one drink normally in a park can easily set you back $14 + tax. Anyone over the age of 18, will need photo ID, either a passport or Driving License, though we normally take our Driving License's.

 As we normally do the dolphin swim, we get allocated a time (this can really vary on what you get, whether it be the morning or the afternoon) and then off we pop to the lockers. We are always changed ready to go so we just add our items into the lockers and away we go. We have breakfast before doing anything as it's good food and fresh. They have an array of food you can choose from and whilst we don't have any food allergies, if you or any of your party do, they can accommodate.  It's buffet style and you can always have more if you wish.

Depending on what time our dolphin swim is, we do like to go snorkelling in The Grand Reef as you can see so many different types of fish and rays! Be sure to take a waterproof camera to take lots of photos and look out for any rays lying on the sand bed as they do like to lay there for a while, so watch your step. You do need a life vest or a wet suit to go into any of the animal enclosures as well. We like to get the wet vests as they are easy to take on and off whenever you want to. We do like a snack, or 2 😂, and they have snacks throughout the day, crisps, cookies, fruit and ice cream. Whilst we love all the food here, we have the say that the Pizza is soo good as it's more of a flatbread. They have different toppings as well and as people are always going up and getting some, it's always fresh and on the go so you never have to worry about it being sat there going stale. 

The sandy beaches are lovely and soft and really makes you feel like you're at a real beach. There is plenty of seating around for everyone, so no need to worry about not finding a seat. You can also hire day beds and cabana's if you want to, though this will be an additional cost. 

The Freshwater Oasis is lovely to go and visit the otters whilst they are swimming and playing around. A visit to the aviary is a must as well, with all the colourful birds flying around (we didn't get pooped on once thankfully) and you can also feed them should you wish. Whilst going on the wind-away river, this also takes you through the Aviary so you could view them that way as well. 

The wind-away river can be quite deep in certain parts, 8ft. They do have floats you can use and they have lifeguards as you go around. This is such a great way to just relax, breathe and take it all in. 

We have done the SeaVenture: Underwater Walking tour. This is where you can see different types of fish, rays and shark (the sharks are behind glass on this excursion). Whilst we did enjoy the experience, for us we didn't think it was worth the money as you spent more time getting into a suit, listening to the rules and putting on the dive helmet than you did looking at the animals. 

We have purchased a photo package whilst there and have opted for the 4 photo package which is currently $109 + tax. You can pre purchase select photo packages if you want to and save on the costs depending on how many photos you are looking for. 

Overall, we have a fantastic time every time we go to Discovery Cove and personally would recommend it. If you prefer to do a non dolphin swim this is also possible and the ticket price is cheaper, as well as still including all the benefits as you would get with a dolphin swim. 

Ears,Munchies and Resorts - Copyright 2024