SeaWorld San Diego

Catch all the fun at Sea World without getting soaked, unless you want to, of course!

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SeaWorld has been a tremendous asset in our region's ability to attract millions of international and domestic tourists.

There is no doubt that SeaWorld's impact on the local economy has been significant. Sea World is actually located on public land that was once little more than acres of mud flats. The parks and land formation in and around Sea World, called Mission Bay, were all man-made. It has become such a part of San Diego that some locals have no idea that Mission Bay was not always a part of the city's landscape.

SeaWorld's lease with the City of San Diego stipulates that it maintain a commitment to educate its visitors about marine life. Over the years, SeaWorld has done a very good job in bringing large marine mammals like killer whales and dolphins up close and personal with human beings. SeaWorld also rescues a number of stranded marine mammals and birds throughout the year as part of their service to the community. We appreciate all they do to help our feathered and flippered friends.

Turtles, baby, turtles! The engineers and designers have been working overtime to get the new turtle experience, Turtle Reef, up and ready for summer. The new home for hawksbill and green sea turtles is a 300,000 gallon aquarium alongside thousands of tropical fish. Best of all, some of these green sea turtles were actually hatched at SeaWorld. This exhibit is all about the green backs, baby. If you are not a lover of turtles, just get our of your shell and head over to the many other nautical viewing options that SeaWorld offers.

Naturally, green sea turtles are nothing new to San Diego and plenty can be found lounging around near a coastal power plant in Chula Vista, just south of San Diego. Really!

The key to a great day at SeaWorld is to go early or go late, especially in the summer. If you prefer not to navigate through crowds, plan on visiting on a weekday since most folks go on the weekends. If you have a strong interest in seeing a particular type of mammal or fish, be sure to head there first so you don't leave without seeing them. And, just like we suggest for the San Diego Zoo be sure to wear comfortable shoes because you will walk a lot! Remember, SeaWorld occupies 200 acres of Mission Bay!

SeaWorld has created a nifty interactive map that allows you to see the park from a bird's eye view. Check it out!

Speaking of comfort, be sure to wear comfortable clothes and if you plan on getting drenched by Shamu's big waves, be sure to wear fast-wicking material that will dry quickly. The last thing you want for yourself or your kids is to walk around with wet clothes and shoes all day. Some folks even bring a change of clothes or towels just in case the big Orca's wave action goes into full throttle.

Be sure to plan your visit with your's and your children's' ability to endure a day at SeaWorld. Don't make the mistake of tiring your kids out early in the morning with all the rides and then having to suffer through a melt down before they even see Shamu! Reassure them that they will see as much of SeaWorld as they want to see but that it will take time. But, oh, what fun you will all have!

Let's be clear, you don't have to be a kid to enjoy SeaWorld. Sure, there are rides and walking characters, but there are also many significant aquatic exhibits that are found nowhere else in the world. The amazing athletic abilities of Shamu, the official killer whale of SeaWorld, are a sight to behold. Dolphins and seals also can put on quite a spectacular show and are always crowd favorites.

Serenity can be found at SeaWorld when you visit attractions such as the Penguin Encounter, the Shark Encounter, and the various aquariums that bring the quiet natural beauty of these creatures into focus. Other exhibits bring tide pools and coral reefs within your reach.

One of the most unique parts about SeaWorld is that they have a fireworks display daily during the summer and on weekends the rest of the year. If you go to SeaWorld earlier in the day and want to return for the fireworks, be sure to ask for a re-entry stamp upon your exit. You might have to pay the parking fee again, just be sure to ask at the exit gate. The fireworks are usually released around 8:50pm or 9:50pm depending on the season. Many of us that live in San Diego actually hear the fireworks if the weather conditions are right. And if you happen to be going by SeaWorld when the fireworks are lit get to see the show for free!

SeaWorld is open every day of the year. Opening and closing times vary by season. Hours are extended during holiday periods and summer evenings (May through Labor Day). Be sure to check out their web site for the most up-to-date information.

From Interstate 8: Exit Interstate 5 North to SeaWorld Dr. and turn West towards park entrance.

Wheelchair/Stroller Rental - Wheelchair access is provided at all shows and attractions. For safety reasons all strollers must be parked outside of most exhibits and attractions. Guest must be 18 years or older to rent.

Food and Beverage Policy - Large hard or soft coolers, glass containers, food, drinks, and picnic lunches may not be taken into the park. Guests with special diets, baby formula or baby food may bring their items into the park.

Smoking - Designated smoking areas are located throughout the grounds. Please ask at the gate.

Lockers - All-day locker rentals are located adjacent to the Reservation Center.