How accessible is Discovery Cove?

[MinnieForMe]

Just curious if there are a lot of steps between pools etc.. We did Aquatica last year and what a disappointment from a handicap standpoint. There were areas that only three steps stopped me from taking my toddler up to the waterslide. It was very sad for a new park!

 

[dolphingirl47]

All pools have 0 entry or ramps. The tropical river only has it at the resort pool. The entry by the aviary has steps, but you access the aviary via the beach. The real issue is that pretty much all of Discovery Cove is beach. They do have a limited amount of beach wheelchairs that they lend on a first come, first served basis, but even with those, I have seen many people struggling to push them. They have to be pushed as well. There is no way to self-propell.

dolphingirl47

 

[MinnieForMe]

Thank you. Are there walkways between pools? Could I drive my scooter to the edge and then walk a short distance to the pool? I can't do distance walking but could manage short walks with my husband's help.

 

[dolphingirl47]

Unfortunately not. There is a concrete walkway that runs from the entrance, via the shop, photo pick up point and the reataurant to the changing rooms, lockers and the cabanas they use for the orientation talk prior to the dolphin swim. Access to all pool areas and to the aviary avoiding the stairs is via the beach. Nobody in our family has mobility issues, but I hate having sand stuck to my feet so if there was a way to get to the pools avoiding the beach, I would have found it by now. We have been to Discovery Cove 6 times so far.

dolphingirl47

 

[MinnieForMe]

Thanks again. I'm going to have to think of something. Is the parking lot similar to that of SeaWorld with handicap parking right at the gate? I'm off to see if they have a map of the place! I guess I could always stay at the resort with our toddler (she was staying at the resort anyway with grandma) and have my husband take our sons without me!

A beach wheelchair is no fun for anyone!

 

[dolphingirl47]

I can't help you there unfortunately. We have either walked from the closest bus stop or have caught the courtesy shuttle from Seaworld.

dolphingirl47

 

[JoyMouse]

We used the handicapped parking. It is right up front, and has room for lifts or standard wheelchairs. I found DC to be very accessable. We didn't have too much trouble pushing in the sand, just took turns between the three of us that are more mobile. My DD was able to walk to the water with a little help from us most of the time. I hope that this helps.
Joy

 

[MinnieForMe]

Thanks Joy! That is reassuring!