Sea World San Diego

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

Share this Article

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

There is no doubt that Sea World's impact on the local economy has been significant. If fact, many of us (myself included) worked there during the summer and for many others it was their first job.

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.

Sea World's lease with the City of San Diego stipulates that it maintain a commitment to educate its visitors about marine life. Over the years, Sea World has done a very good job in bringing large marine mammals like killer whales and dolphins up close and personal with human beings. Sea World 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.

The key to a great day at Sea World 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 and the Wild Animal Park, be sure to wear comfortable shoes because you will walk a lot! Remember, Sea World 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 Sea World. 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 Sea World 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 Sea World. 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 Sea World, 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 Sea World 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 Sea World is that they have a fireworks display daily during the summer and on weekends the rest of the year. If you go to Sea World 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 Sea World when the fireworks are lit get to see the show for free!

Single-Day admissions are not cheap. $65 for guests age 10+, $55 for guests ages 3 through 9. Note: guests 2 years old and younger are FREE.

If you live in San Diego and plan to visit more than once a year, consider buying their annual pass. If you are visiting San Diego, ask your hotel if they have a Sea World package or get discounted prices through GOCARD.

Sea World 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.

$12 for cars/$17 for RVs and campers/$8 for motorcycles/$17 for preferred parking.

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.

The rates are: $43.10 for electric wheelchairs(plus $5 refundable deposit)/$12 for manual wheelchair(plus $2 refundable deposit). Stroller rates are $12 for a single and $17 for a double.

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.

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

The all-day locker rental kiosk is located adjacent to the Reservation Center: $7.00 plus $5.00 refundable deposit.