About two hours from Tampa Bay, tucked into a lush oasis in Orlando, is a place where time slows down and paradise feels surprisingly close to home.
Discovery Cove, owned and operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, isn’t your typical Orlando attraction. Designed as an all-inclusive day resort, it invites you to unwind Caribbean-style—think crystal-clear water, frozen cocktails and dolphin kisses.
My staycation escape began early, but the moment I stepped onto the sand, the hustle of daily life faded. I felt miles away from Orlando.
From the first interaction until I left for the day, every staff member was friendly and helpful. Going above and beyond seemed to be a recurring theme at Discovery Cove.
After being escorted to my private cabana, the day unfolded like something from a dream, slow, sun-soaked and filled with little luxuries.
Dolphin dreams and lazy(ish) rivers
Swimming with dolphins in the park’s famed Dolphin Lagoon was, without a doubt, the highlight. These gentle creatures are incredible to see up close and the trained staff made the entire encounter feel both safe and personal. It’s no wonder Discovery Cove was recently named the No. 1 Best Animal Encounter in Florida by Newsweek readers.
But the resort offers much more than marine magic. At The Grand Reef, guests can snorkel alongside thousands of tropical fish and rays. Later, I took a ride through Wind-Away River, Discovery Cove’s not-so-lazy “lazy river” that USA Today named the best in the country. With waterfalls, caves and currents that kept me moving, it felt more like an aquatic adventure than a leisurely float. (Note to readers: Grab the complimentary green float. You will need it. Trust me.)
A true all-inclusive
Maintaining that all-inclusive resort feel food and beverages are included in admission for Discovery Cove including breakfast, lunch and snacks. For guests 21 and older, beer and wine are included and, for an upcharge, liquor and frozen specialty drinks.
Everything from snorkel gear and towels to sunscreen and lockers is included in the experience. Add-ons like SeaVenture (an underwater walking tour) or the Ultimate Animal Experience offer even more opportunities for animal encounters.
Plan your own escape
Discovery Cove has racked up awards from Good Housekeeping, USA Today and others, and it’s easy to see why. For those in Tampa Bay looking for a staycation that blends relaxation, nature and just enough adventure to keep things exciting, this might be the perfect spot.
And bonus: they’re currently offering 30% off 2025 reservations plus a free premium drink package—for a limited time.
If your version of summer escape includes tropical vibes without the passport, consider a quick drive east to Discovery Cove. If you’re lucky, a dolphin might just kiss you goodbye.
–Photos courtesy of Discovery Cove
MORE THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER
Dive into Nature on the Gulf Coast
Just under two hours north of Tampa Bay, the communities of Crystal River and Homosassa offer a summer escape packed with charm and adventure. Go scalloping in the shallow Gulf waters (July 1–Sept. 24), swim with manatees in the springs or watch daily mermaid shows at Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter. For anglers, the CCA Florida STAR Tournament runs through Labor Day with more than $500,000 in prizes. Family-friendly festivals, fireworks and fresh “cook-your-catch” meals round out a staycation that’s as relaxing as it is wild.
More info: DiscoverCrystalRiverFL.com
Coastal luxury on Amelia Island
For a relaxing island escape with high-end touches, head northeast to Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and lush marshlands, this 1,350-acre resort just outside Jacksonville features oceanfront rooms, miles of quiet beach, a full-service spa and 36 holes of championship golf, including the newly renovated Oak Marsh Golf Course by Beau Welling. For a more casual vibe try Little Sandy, the resort’s 10-hole, par-3 course designed for fun at every skill level.
More info: omnihotels.com/ameliaisland
Group getaways go grand in The Bahamas
Just a quick flight from Tampa Bay, the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, in Nassau, offers the perfect blend of luxury and fun. The resort’s newly renovated family suites sleep six, comfortably, with bunk beds, a king bed and a spacious living room made for memory-making. With three resorts, more than 20 dining spots, a Jack Nicklaus golf course, the Caribbean’s largest casino and a brand-new $200 million water park, there’s no shortage of things to do, whether it’s a family trip, girls’ getaway or reunion with friends.
More info: bahamar.com
Spa serenity at The Surf Club, Miami
Just north of South Beach, The Four Seasons at The Surf Club in Surfside offers a tranquil, Mediterranean-inspired retreat. The 15,000-square-foot spa, recently named one of the world’s top 100 by Vogue, features oceanfront treatment rooms, CBD foot soaks and detox body wraps—all in a serene setting that blends historic charm with modern elegance.
More info: fourseasons.com/surfside
GLO Summer at JW Marriott Grande Lakes, Orlando
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, JW Marriott Grande Lakes transforms into a vibrant summer playground. Guests can enjoy live music, fire dancers, fireworks and themed events like “Christmas in July.” With luxury cabanas, gourmet food trucks, and spa rooftop retreats, it’s a festive yet upscale getaway for families and couples alike.
More info: grandelakes.com