Swim with the dolphins at the one-of-a-kind Discovery Cove. Much controversy surrounds the park as animal rights activists protest the exploitation of these amazing creatures, making the decision to participate one not to be taken lightly. However, if there is one place to do a dolphin swim, Discovery Cove is probably it, a place where extreme caution is taken to ensure the animal's safety.

That said, here is one of the best places to spend your vacation dollars. And dollars you will spend with a full day costing as much as $279. But it is a chance to get in the water with a dolphin, snorkel in tropical coves loaded with fish and rays (sharks and barracudas are safely behind Plexiglas), and sit on relatively uncrowded white-sand beaches. Only 1,000 guests per day are allowed to enter this 30-acre park, built at a cost of $100,000,000.
 

Discover a tropical paradise overflowing with palms and flowering plants, dripping bougainvilleas, crystal-clear blue lagoons, waterfalls, aviaries, and marine life galore. It has the feel of a Caribbean island in which only a limited amount of people are allowed to visit. Interact with tropical fish, stingrays, colorful birds, and of course, dolphins. Lie on lounge chairs scattered under luxurious umbrellas around the white sandy beaches fronting the boulder-strewn, sparkling blue dolphin lagoons while sipping tropical drinks to your heart's content. It has the makings for a great day in the Florida sun.

Admission

The cost, depending on the season, is an all-inclusive price of $259 to $279, including a dolphin swim, or $159 to $179 minus the swim. Only those ages six and older may participate in the dolphin swim. I personally do not think the park is worth the money if there is no interest in the dolphins. Although it’s certainly a beautiful spot, there really isn’t enough activity for a full day unless you love the idea of suntanning on a white-sand beach. Your money would be better spent at one of the many spectacular water parks in the area.

If the price seems unreasonably high, consider what is included: all attractions, continental breakfast, lunch, snacks and beverages throughout the day, a 5-by-7-inch photo of your party, parking, lockers, snorkeling equipment, wet suit, towels, fish and bird food, and a bonus admission of seven consecutive days at either SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Admission to both parks for fourteen consecutive days is available for an additional charge of $30.

Reservations

Reservations are a must. In busy season try to plan your visit 6 months in advance (reservations are taken up to 1 year prior). Off-season allows for a bit more flexibility. If the day you wish to visit is sold out, keep checking for cancellations. Call 877-434-7268 or go online at www.discoverycove.com.  A 25% deposit is required at time of booking with full payment due 45 days prior. Full refund up to 30 days prior, 50% refund 15 to 29 days prior, 25% refund 8 to 14 days prior, and no refund if canceled within 7 days of your visit.

Park Basics
Lay of the Land
This is one park where you won't need a guide map. It's compact and simple to maneuver. Just follow the pathways and consult the large maps located throughout.

Attractions

DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER****

CORAL REEF**

TROPICAL RIVER**

AVIARY***