What to Bring to Discovery Cove: A Guide for First-Time Visitors

Heading to Discovery Cove? Here’s what you need to pack for a hassle-free, amazing day. From IDs to swimwear, this guide covers all essentials so you can enjoy your day fully prepared.

Key Takeaways

• Plan Ahead and Arrive Early: Book your tickets in advance to ensure your spot, as guest numbers are limited.
• Pack Light and Smart: Bring essential items like swimsuits, hats, sunglasses, and water shoes Discovery Cove provides towels, wetsuits, and reef-safe sunscreen, so you don’t need to pack those.
• Enjoy All-Inclusive Perks: Discovery Cove offers all-inclusive meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day.

Essentials for a Day at Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove in Orlando is a premier all-inclusive day resort that immerses visitors in a tropical paradise experience. One of the best perks of a day at Discovery Cove is the all-inclusive nature of the park. From breakfast served at Laguna Grill starting at 7:30 AM to lunch and unlimited snacks and drinks throughout the day, you won’t need to worry about meals.

Other amenities provided include:

• Locker hire
• Towels
• Wetsuits
• Masks
• Snorkel gear
• Shower amenities
• Animal-friendly sun cream

Discovery Cove provides towels and additional water gear such as wetsuits and vests. These amenities make it easy to pack light and enjoy your day.

Downloading the Discovery Cove app will maximize your experience. It’s a helpful tool packed with valuable tips and information that can enhance your visit. Whether you’re exploring the dolphin lagoon or relaxing at Serenity Bay, this app will be your best companion alongside Discovery Cove’s expert staff.

Don’t Forget your Photo ID

When getting ready for your Discovery Cove visit, remember to bring the necessary documents. Every guest needs a photo ID. If minors are visiting without an adult, they must have a completed ‘Authorization to Treat’ form signed by a parent or legal guardian.

For experiences like the dolphin swim, you’ll also need to provide a copy of your driver’s license when signing the waivers.

What to Wear to Discovery Cove

Since most activities at Discovery Cove involve water, packing the right swimwear is crucial. When considering what to wear to Discovery Cove, remember the tropical environment and warm weather.

Here are some must-haves:

• Swimsuits
• Water socks or rubber pool shoes
• Hats
• Sunglasses
• Cover-ups or dry clothes for after water activities

Discovery Cove requires appropriate swimwear like bathing suits or rash guards to keep everyone comfortable and safe. For families with young kids, waterproof protectors or swim diapers are essential, and Discovery Cove can provide them if needed.

Don’t forget to bring a dry change of clothes for after all the water fun. Whether you’re snorkeling with tropical fish, swimming with dolphins, or relaxing by the sandy beaches, having the right gear will make your day more enjoyable. Be prepared so you can fully enjoy the tropical oasis without any worries.

Sun Protection

The Florida sun can be intense, so protecting yourself is important. Hats and sunglasses are great for shielding against UV rays. Discovery Cove also provides reef-safe sunscreen at all locker areas to protect both your skin and the marine life. This special sunscreen is safe for use in animal habitats, helping to preserve the environment and its amazing creatures.

Using reef-safe sunscreen not only protects you but also supports the health of the vibrant ecosystems you’ll explore, like those protected by the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation. Enjoy the clear waters and white sand beaches knowing you’re helping keep the environment clean and healthy.

Footwear

Having the right footwear can make your day at Discovery Cove much more comfortable and safe. Water shoes are a great choice because they offer good grip and protection, especially in rocky areas like the Wind-Away River. They help you walk safely on wet and uneven surfaces, reducing the risk of slipping and getting hurt.

Flip-flops are fine for walking around sandy areas, but they might not be the best on slippery rocks. Some guests like to bring different types of footwear for different activities. For example, closed-toe water shoes can be safer when walking on rougher ground. Wearing the right shoes will let you explore every part of this tropical paradise comfortably and safely.

Towels and Wetsuits

Discovery Cove provides towels and additional water gear such as wetsuits and vests. No need to pack towels and wetsuits when you visit Discovery Cove. The park provides these for you, so you can leave yours at home. Guests get swim vests and wetsuits to wear during their visit, making sure everyone is ready for the water activities.

This convenience means you won’t have to carry extra gear, making your day at the park easier and more fun. Whether you’re diving into the Dolphin Lagoon or exploring the Grand Reef, Discovery Cove has you covered with all the gear you need.

Personal Items to Pack Lightly

To make your day at Discovery Cove stress-free, it’s best to pack lightly. Leave your jewelry at home, since only watches and wedding bands are allowed for the safety of the animals. By bringing fewer items, you won’t have to worry about keeping track of too much stuff and can enjoy your experience more.

Snacks and Hydration

One of the great things about Discovery Cove is that food and drinks are all-inclusive. From a tasty breakfast to a gourmet lunch and endless snacks and drinks throughout the day, your meals are taken care of. They offer fresh meals that cater to all dietary needs, including options for seafood lovers and vegetarians.

It’s important to stay hydrated with all the excitement and activities. You can enjoy unlimited access to a variety of drinks, including gourmet coffee, cold beverages, and for those over 21, beer and wine. There’s also an optional premium drink package if you want to enjoy mixed drinks. Remember to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Waterproof Camera or GoPro

To capture all the fun at Discovery Cove, think about bringing a waterproof camera or GoPro. These cameras are allowed in most areas of the park, so you can easily take photos and videos of your adventures, including underwater shots.

A submersible camera is great for capturing the colorful marine life at The Grand Reef. Don’t forget to take a cool Discovery Cove photo as a keepsake of your amazing experience, and keep your Discovery Cove photo ID handy for any needed verification.

Consider models like the GoPro HERO9 Black for its waterproof build and excellent video quality, or the Olympus Tough TG-6 for its durability and close-up features. Don’t forget accessories like a floating wrist strap to keep your camera from getting lost in the water.

Cashless Payment Options

For convenience and security, Discovery Cove uses a cashless wristband system introduced in 2023. This system lets you:

• Make purchases in the park without needing cash
• Load funds onto your wristband at the start of the day
• Link it to a credit card
• Set a spending limit to manage your expenses

This feature allows you to enjoy your day without the hassle of carrying money.

What NOT to Bring

To keep everyone safe and protect the marine life, Discovery Cove has some rules about what you can’t bring. Make sure to leave these items at home:

• Jewelry, except for watches and wedding bands.
• Outside food and drinks, including alcohol and coolers.
• Flotation devices like noodles, swim fins, sand toys, flippers, and scuba gear.

Special Considerations for Families

Visiting Discovery Cove should be an essential part of any family travel itinerary. Orlando is great for families with activities for all ages. It’s not just another theme park. With your admission, you can enjoy animal meet and greets, which are perfect for families.

Experiences like the Animal Trek, where you get to meet small mammals and exotic birds, are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Just keep in mind that some activities have age requirements. For example, kids need to be at least six years old for the Animal Trek. Knowing these details ahead of time can help you plan a smooth visit for everyone.

Preparing for Weather Changes

Florida weather can change quickly, especially from June to September when thunderstorms are common. Packing disposable ponchos can help you stay dry if it rains. Sealable sandwich bags are also useful for keeping your electronics and valuables dry.

Being prepared for weather changes means you can still have fun, rain or shine. With the right gear, a little rain won’t ruin your day at Discovery Cove.

Optional Upgrades and Add-ons

Discovery Cove offers lots of cool upgrades and add-ons to make your visit even better. You can try unique animal interactions like the Shark Swim, dolphin swim, and SeaVenture experience. The dolphin swim experience is a central feature, including a structured process with orientation, instructions, and safety protocols, culminating in personal interactions within designated lagoons.

These activities are available for guests aged six and up and give you a closer look at marine life. The SeaVenture experience includes an underwater walking tour, an immersive adventure where participants explore the ocean floor and interact with marine life.

For special occasions, think about the Premium Proposal Celebration Package. It includes a private cabana, flowers, and a personalized message delivered by a dolphin. Discovery Cove’s photographers can capture these special moments so you have beautiful memories to take home. These upgrades can turn a great day into an unforgettable one.

Final Thoughts

Packing the right items and knowing what to leave at home can make your day at Discovery Cove smooth and enjoyable. Arrive early, take advantage of the amenities, and consider some of the fun upgrades. Enjoy your day at Discovery Cove Orlando.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own towels and wetsuits to Discovery Cove?

Nope! Discovery Cove has you covered. They provide towels, wetsuits, and swim vests for all guests, so you can leave those at home.

Can I bring my own food and beverages to the park?

Sorry, outside food and drinks are not allowed. But don’t worry, Discovery Cove offers an all-inclusive food and beverage service, so you’ll be well-fed throughout the day.

Are there age requirements for certain experiences at Discovery Cove?

Yes, there are. Some activities, like the Animal Trek and Shark Swim, have age requirements. Make sure to check these before planning your day.

What type of footwear is recommended for Discovery Cove?

Water shoes are a great choice because they offer good grip and protection. Flip-flops or closed-toe water shoes also work well for different activities around the park.

Is there a cashless payment option at Discovery Cove?

Absolutely! Discovery Cove uses a cashless wristband system. It’s a secure and easy way to make purchases within the park.