Our Day at Discovery Cove: Why We Loved the Cabana (and Other Family Tips!)
What is Discovery Cove?
Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort in Orlando, Florida, where guests can relax and interact with marine life in a tropical paradise setting. Unlike a typical theme park, admission includes meals, snacks, drinks, snorkeling with tropical fish and rays, floating down a lazy river, and visiting an aviary full of exotic birds. You can also choose to add unique experiences like swimming with dolphins or feeding rays. It’s designed to feel like a private island escape — perfect for families looking for a more laid-back, immersive day together.
Welcome to Discovery Cove! You’ll feel transported to a tropical oasis as soon as you arrive
The beautiful lobby and check-in area set the tone for relaxing, all inclusive resort-like experience.
Discovery Cove opens at 7 a.m., and we arrived around 7:20 a.m. There was still plenty of parking, but there was already a line at the door. Thankfully, check-in was quick — we started our day by 7:30 a.m. and were ready for adventure!
Why We Recommend Renting a Cabana
One of the best decisions we made was renting a cabana. It meant we didn’t have to scramble for lounge chairs or find a shady spot, which made a huge difference for our multi-generational group (grandparents and elementary-aged kids).
Our private deluxe cabana set up for the day - so relaxing, private, and perfect for our family
Some areas at Discovery Cove can get crowded, but in the cabana, we had our own comfortable, private space.
We were truly spoiled by our private concierge, who made sure we had everything we needed — and more. The cabana came stocked with snacks, a fridge full of water, juice, and soda, plus plenty of towels and our own sunscreen dispenser (the animal-safe sunscreen was complimentary to all guests, but there was usually a line to use them).
A huge bonus for us was how attentive the concierge was about food allergies. Our child has several allergies, and they ensured everything was safe so we could relax and enjoy.
Another perk? Our concierge grabbed us treats like ice cream and extra drinks, so we didn’t have to stand in line.
We lucked out with our cabana location — right in front of the dolphin experience. We didn’t book the dolphin swim, but we still enjoyed watching them play all day. It was like having a front-row seat to a private show!
The view from our cabana - we could watch the dolphins all day without leaving our seats!
Although it rained a couple of times during the day, the cabana saved us from getting soaked. We stayed cozy, snacked, and watched the dolphins even in the rain, which really helped keep the day fun despite the weather.
Meanwhile, the kids loved playing in the sand near the shore.
Verdict: Totally worth it!
Food at Discovery Cove
There’s a good variety of food options, with healthy choices too. We loved that breakfast and lunch were all-you-can-eat — perfect after a morning of swimming!
It was great to grab a burger or snack whenever we wanted, and the staff were accommodating with allergies.
Note: If you or anyone in your group has food allergies, it's always a good idea to let the staff know ahead of time so they can accomodate you safely.
There are lots of snack kiosks around the park, but since our concierge could bring everything to us, we didn’t have to wait in line.
Tip: Be aware of the birds — they’re quick to try and snatch your food if you’re not paying attention!
Favorite Attractions
Snorkeling at the Grand Reef
The kids picked it up quickly, although they had mixed feelings about the stingrays and fish swimming beneath them!
We used a waterproof phone pouch to capture underwater shots — so much better than the disposable waterproof camera we used when we first visited years ago!
“Lazy” River
This was hands-down the kids’ favorite part. It’s not your typical lazy river; some sections are up to 8 feet deep! The kids zipped through, while us parents got quite the workout trying to keep up. They would have gone all day if the rain hadn’t interrupted!
The “lazy” river - so much fun and deeper than we expected! The kids could have stayed here all day.
Aviary
Once the rain stopped, we checked out the aviary. Feeding the birds was a fun experience (even though my wife was nervous at first!).
Pro tip: my wife was grateful to be wearing a wide-brim hat when a bird landed on her head!
Hand-feeding the birds was such a special experience - they come right up to you!
Up close and personal - the birds will happily eat right out of your hands!
Our Favorite Gear & Recommendations
Water Shoes
Limberun Kids Water Shoes — lightweight and easy for kids to put on/remove by themselves.
KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Closed Toe Sandal — great support and easy to clean.
Closed-toe kids sandals — easier for younger kids to slip on and off.
Kids Crocs — classic and easy.
Waterproof Phone Case
JOTO Universal Waterproof Pouch — perfect for snorkeling or the lazy river.
Hats
Wide-brim hat for adults — easy to wash, keeps its shape.
Kids' sun hat — durable, great coverage, and adjustable.
Final Thoughts
Despite a few rain showers, our day at Discovery Cove was unforgettable — thanks to the cabana, helpful staff, and kid-friendly experiences.
If you’re planning a visit, we highly recommend renting a cabana, bringing the right gear, and getting ready for a full day of family fun and adventure!
If you need help planning your next adventure, definitely fill out our Contact form below!
