Dolphin Swim

For many, the dolphin swim is the reason to go to Discovery Cove.  We are enamored with these fantastic marine creatures.  Perhaps it is their intelligence, grace, free-spirited demeanor and propensity for playfulness that we admire.  Dolphins represent a carefree lifestyle that many of us envy.

Discovery Cove's Dolphin Swim is a life-long, memorable experience.  The 30 minute dolphin encounter is a combination of education, fun and exhilaration.  These powerful but gentle animals will swim inches in front of guests, roll over to have their bellies rubbed, kiss and be kissed, talk, splash and perform awesome jumps.

Several groups of six to eight guests are arranged in a line in shallow water where each group is greeted by their own dolphin.  Guests are introduced and then interact with their dolphin through a series of activities.  The highlight of the session comes with a swim out to deeper water (swim vests are worn), where your dolphin will allow you to hold his/her fins while the dolphin swims with you back to the shallow area.  This is an absolutely unforgettable experience!

Coral Reef

Discovery Cove's Coral Reef is awesome!  From the sur, it looks like a pretty lagoon of clear, turquoise water accentuated with a ship wreck.  Put a mask and snorkel on and swim along the sur to discover the real magnificence of this simulated coral reef.  There are thousands of exotic and colorful fish of all sizes and shapes.  There are also numerous types of rays (all harmless) of which some are impressively large!  Look closer and be surprised by real sharks and barracuda as they swim safely (good thing!) behind protective glass from within the simulated ship wreck.  Anyone who enjoys snorkeling in the Florida Keys, or would like to in a controlled environment, will enjoy Discovery Cove's Coral Reef.

Tropical River

Relaxation.  It doesn't get any better.  Float along the slowly moving, turquoise waters of the Tropical River as is meanders along winding turns with lush gardens and palm trees along its banks.  Refresh as you pass through waterfalls spilling over the river or go through the rocky cave.  Step out as you pass into the aviary to enjoy the variety of exotic birds, or at any of the sandy beaches along the way to relax in the sun or grab a snack.

Ray Lagoon

Ever consider walking and swimming among stingrays!  You can (safely!) here.  The clear lagoon is shallow and stocked with many southern and cow-nose rays permitting adults and children an extraordinary experience.  Rays, some 4 feet in width!, swim gracefully around the lagoon where guests can wade or snorkel to get to nose with these gentle creatures.  Reach out and touch the velvety rays as they glide past.

Aviary

What tropical paradise would be complete without exotic birds?!  Discovery Cove Aviary is home to more than 30 species of birds.  Walk along the lush gardens and admire the beautiful birds, listen to their exotic conversations and stop to feed them if desired.  There are more than 250 tropical birds in the enclosed, free flight aviary.  Explore the the winding trails, stone catacombs and pass over bridges and across rivers.

Resort Pool

Ooohhh. . .   Sparkling, crystal-clear water at 80 degrees F. year round, white sandy beaches, water falls, surrounded by a tropical setting - what could be more relaxing or serene!?  Swim or snorkel in the clear, shallow waters, or head over the grotto to get a shoulder and neck massage from the water falls.  Begin your track to the Tropical River from here if desired.