discovery cove Archives - Higher Calling Wildlife

In a city where fantasy worlds dominate, Discovery Cove offers something refreshingly real: a chance to connect with animals in ways that are immersive, educational, and soul-stirring.

Tucked away in Orlando, FL, this all-inclusive day resort provides far more than just photo ops with dolphins (which is awesome in its own right!)—it’s become a launchpad for a deeper appreciation of marine life and a powerful tool for conservation.

“It’s just a very enjoyable and aesthetically pleasing experience. Very educational,” said Dr. Guy Harvey, the legendary marine artist and conservationist, in a recent interview.

“For many people, aquariums and places like Discovery Cove are the only way they will ever experience marine life firsthand. It’s one thing to see it on a screen—but when you get close enough to see the eyes, the texture of the skin, the movement—there’s nothing like it.”

A Gateway to the Ocean World

Discovery Cove’s mission is rooted in connecting guests, especially those with little access to the ocean, with the life teeming beneath the surface. Whether swimming with bottlenose dolphins, snorkeling in a million-gallon reef surrounded by rays and tropical fish, or hand-feeding exotic birds, the experiences are curated to ignite curiosity and compassion.

Crystal O’Hea, Vice President of Marketing at Discovery Cove said limiting crowd size is an important part of the experience.

“We limit capacity to about 1,000 guests a day, not just for the guest experience but for animal welfare. It’s like being on a private island—intimate, enriching, and respectful of the wildlife.”

That intimacy allows for meaningful education to unfold naturally. Guests might find themselves feeding a stingray, identifying Amazonian birds in an aviary, or helping a dolphin practice husbandry behaviors like presenting its tail for a health check—all while learning why such efforts matter.

“When a child sees a dolphin up close or swims with a spotted eagle ray named Narina, they start to connect personally with that animal,” said O’Hea.

“That personal connection can spark a lifelong interest in conservation.”

Conservation In Action

The park is more than a feel-good experience—it’s a conservation engine. Through its partnership with the Guy Harvey Foundation, Discovery Cove directly funds marine science research and education.

Proceeds from unique guest programs such as dolphin encounters and shark snorkel opportunities support ocean conservation and help dispel myths about these often-misunderstood predators.

Dr. Harvey sees these encounters as critical.

“People often think sharks are terrifying. But they’re incredibly misunderstood. Discovery Cove gives guests a way to safely see them and learn why they matter,” he said.

“Our oceans are being pushed to the brink. We need people to view marine life not just as food or entertainment, but as wildlife to be respected and protected.”

The park also partners with Rising Tide Conservation to propagate marine fish through aquaculture rather than wild harvesting. The reef system in Discovery Cove produces thousands of fish eggs annually, which are then sent to programs focused on sustainable breeding.

Even the flamingos contribute: visitors who participate in the Flamingo Mingle help fund habitat protection through the Audubon Society.

“We tell guests, ‘You’re not just buying a ticket. You’re investing in conservation,’” O’Hea said.

Empowering the Next Generation

For Dr. Harvey, who’s spent decades exploring the world’s oceans, places like Discovery Cove play a vital role in raising up future ocean advocates.

“We use documentaries, social media, and educational programs to reach people, but nothing replaces real-life experience,” he said.

“When someone touches a shark, watches a ray glide by, or feeds a dolphin, it activates something in them. That inspiration can lead to real change.”

Celebrate With a Life-Changing Giveaway

Now, Discovery Cove and the Guy Harvey Foundation are giving one lucky family a chance to create these unforgettable moments for themselves—with an epic National Dolphin Day Giveaway, running through May 14.

The $4,900 prize package for a family of four includes: