Amazing SeaWorld San Diego Vacation (SeaWorld San Diego Tips)
- Planning a SeaWorld San Diego vacation? Awesome, you will love the SeaWorld San Diego experience!
There are so many fun things to do in SeaWorld San Diego. We are going to plan the best SeaWorld San Diego itinerary!
SeaWorld San Diego invited my family to experience the park firsthand so we could help you plan your trip. We thank SeaWorld for this awesome opportunity!
Our SeaWorld experience was amazing and we learned so much on our trip! We are excited to share all of our SeaWorld San Diego tips with you so you can plan the best SeaWorld San Diego vacation!
In this post, we are going to give a complete SeaWorld guide. We will also give you some Sea World San Diego tips and tricks and let you know what the best rides and shows Sea World San Diego has to offer!
Let’s plan the best SeaWorld San Diego itinerary!
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All of the opinions in this post are our own. We do have affiliate links(Including Amazon) in this post that will give us a commission at no additional charge to you.
What to Expect From Your SeaWorld San Diego Vacation
SeaWorld understands sea life. It leans on decades of observation, training, and conservation to provide a unique experience for guests.
In this way, it is more than an aquarium or zoo, although it has elements of each. And although it has thrill and water rides, its shows and exhibits give a broader experience than an amusement park.
SeaWorld’s blend of options makes it a wonderful place for families with children (and adults) of all ages.
One thing we loved about our SeaWorld San Diego vacation was that we had a lot of fun and most importantly learned a lot about the amazing animals. Our experience was phenomenal.
Rescue and Conservation Mission
For the last 50 years, SeaWorld San Diego has rescued over 40,000 sick, injured, or orphaned marine life animals. This has given many animals a second chance at life.
SeaWorld works with federal and state agencies in marine life rescue efforts. Information provided at shows and shown in exhibits educates attendees about sea life and the ocean, and their importance.
Protecting Marine Animals
SeaWorld’s mission is to help protect animal environments. It has donated over 17 million dollars to organizations that solely focus on animal conservation.
SeaWorld has received a lot of criticism in years past but from what I saw they are committed to helping animals. The trainers have great relationships with the animals and truly love the animals.
Where Is SeaWorld San Diego Located?
The address to SeaWorld San Diego is 500 Sea World Dr, San Diego, CA 92109.
It is conveniently located in the heart of San Diego. You can easily get here from Old Town, Coronado, Balboa Park, and the San Diego Zoo.
How Best to Get to Sea World San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego is located about 15 miles from the San Diego International Airport. It takes about 20 minutes to drive.
If you are coming in from the San Diego International Airport you have a few options. Obviously, renting a car is going to be the fastest and most convenient, but you can also take a shuttle or Uber from the airport for a reasonable price.
Traveling From Los Angeles
From the Los Angeles International Airport, it is about 123 miles. Which is about a 2-hour drive.
If you are in California to experience the many amusement parks in addition to SeaWorld San Diego, (Legoland, Disneyland, and Universal) then this might be helpful information to navigate the time it takes to travel from LA to San Diego.
Are There Hotels On The SeaWorld San Diego Property?
No, there are no hotels located on SeaWorld property. When you are planning your SeaWorld San Diego vacation you will need to stay off-property.
There are many hotels located near the property that you can stay at, and many have shuttles that will take you to SeaWorld San Diego.
Our Experience
We stayed at the Comfort Inn Sea World/ San Diego Zoo location and it was about a mile away. The hotel was very family-friendly and offered large rooms which is one reason why we booked it. You will find many hotel options close to SeaWorld.
Parking at SeaWorld San Diego
General parking at SeaWorld San Diego costs $28 per car. There is priority parking that will get you a spot closer to the park for $35. Another option is to park in the first six rows for $33.
You can purchase parking vouchers as you pull into the park or if you would like to save time you can buy them online ahead of time.
Parking was very straightforward. We were close enough to walk right into the park without shuttle service.
Ticket Options For Your SeaWorld San Diego Vacation
SeaWorld Tickets
There are many ticket options at SeaWorld.
- Single Day Tickets
- Single Day with Meal Plan
- SeaWorld Annual Passes
- Single Day + All-Inclusive Experience
- Multi Park Tickets to SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, and San Diego Safari Park
SeaWorld San Diego Tip
SeaWorld also gives free admission to active military members and does have a program for veterans.
Also, if you live in California a SeaWorld annual pass might be a good thing to consider. The cost is equivalent to going two or three times (depending on promotions).
Buying your SeaWorld San Diego tickets ahead of time is the best way to save money. It will be more expensive if you purchase them at the park.
What Do I Do if it Rains On the Day I Go To Sea World?
SeaWorld San Diego Weather is really something to consider for your SeaWorld San Diego vacation.
If there is heavy rain in the forecast, you may want to skip the park. But if there is a forecast for light or even moderate rain, you may want to go to the park.
We have been to the San Diego area theme parks twice. On both trips, our first day had rain in the forecast throughout the entire day.
For both trips, we arrived late that day, had no rain, and did everything we wanted to in the park in one day with no crowds.
Seaworld San Diego Tips
If you see rain in the forecast, we recommend buying ponchos off of Amazon or from a local store before your trip. SeaWorld also sells ponchos, but it will cost more in the park.
Our Experience On Our SeaWorld San Diego Vacation
On our most recent SeaWorld San Diego vacation, we arrived the day after Christmas. According to one crowd calendar that was the first result on Google, that day was supposed to be busy (ranked the highest crowd level).
It wasn’t. To our surprise, it was pretty much a ghost town!
Amazingly, we learned that if it rains while you are at SeaWorld, you can get a pass to go to the park again once any time during the next year.
Bottom line — unless it’s pouring, rain can be your friend!
What to Expect On Sunny Days at SeaWorld San Diego?
Depending on the time of year, it can be very crowded on sunny days. If there was rain in the forecast before a sunny day, there could be a surge of people resulting from pent-up demand.
Remember to bring sunblock. While there is shade in parts of the park and plenty of indoor options, the sun will find you!
Will I Get Wet At SeaWorld San Diego?
Yes, even if it is not raining SeaWorld has some awesome rides that may get you wet. You may need ponchos on sunny days. There are two rides at the park Ship Wreck Rapids and Journey to Atlantis, that will get you wet.
While there are big family dryers ($6) to help get the water off after rides if you are like me and don’t want to get wet in the first place, put on your ponchos!
You can also get wet at Seaworld San Diego shows. If you see the Orca Whales or the dolphins, there are “wet zones.” These should really be called “soak zones,” because these mammals don’t simply splash, they send waves over the glass walls to engulf the audience.
If you want to avoid the water, sit in the upper areas. Sitting in the lower areas, you will likely get wet. Ponchos and umbrellas come in handy. But watch out. Sometimes the whales and dolphins will catch you by surprise.
Stroller and Scooter Rentals at SeaWorld San Diego
I am ready to tell you about all the fun things at SeaWorld but I thought I had better mention that if you have small children or more seasoned individuals that stroller and scooter rental is available.
Strollers Cost $45-60
Electric Scooters Cost $65
Wheel Chairs Cost $30
I have rented wheelchairs and scooters in the past at different amusement parks and it has been very convenient and helpful.
Things to Do at SeaWorld San Diego
There are lots of fun things to do at SeaWorld San Diego, We are going to list some of the best SeaWorld attractions! From shows to rides and even food, this SeaWorld San Diego itinerary is perfect!
How Are SeaWorld San Diego Shows?
On our SeaWorld San Diego vacation, one thing that we were looking forward to is the best SeaWorld San Diego shows. I had been to SeaWorld years ago and still remember the incredible orcas.
The best shows at SeaWorld San Diego are first and foremost about sea life. The quality of the shows are outstanding. Trainers have a great connection with the animals and you can tell they love their jobs.
1. SeaWorld San Diego Dolphin Show
There are different SeaWorld San Diego dolphin shows based on the time of year you go. We went at Christmas time and experienced the Dolphin Island Christmas Show. The show is about 25 minutes long but you should arrive earlier to get a seat.
San Diego Dolphin Show
SeaWorld San Diego has at least 12 dolphins and some small whales in this show. These whales were rescued; one in Japan, two others in Florida. The two from Florida were taken care of and trained initially at SeaWorld Orlando before coming to San Diego.
Most importantly, we loved the interaction between trainers and dolphins. It was amazing to see! Watching a trainer swim with a dolphin is quite the sight.
And so is the height on some of the dolphin jumps. We won’t spoil all of the details of the San Diego dolphin show. What we will say is this is a show worth seeing. I would say that this really made our SeaWorld San Diego vacation worth it!
You should add this San Diego dolphin show to your SeaWorld San Diego itinerary! You will need to check the SeaWorld San Diego schedule to see what times the show is presented.
2. Orca Encounter SeaWorld San Diego
The Orca Encounter at SeaWorld San Diego is another fantastic offering. This is where you will see a killer whale at SeaWorld San Diego. These mammals are a beautiful sight. Prepared to get wet if you sit close to the water!
SeaWorld has discontinued its theatrical Orca whale show’s but now the show demonstrates the beauty and nature of the Orca whales. These mammals are incredible animals. You will learn so many amazing things about the Orca’s as you watch.
It was really impressive to see these whales up close and personal. This is one of the best SeaWorld San Diego “shows.”
3. Sea Lion and Otter SeaWorld San Diego Show
The sea lion show stars Seymour and Clyde. SeaWorld highlights the training of the sea lions, coupled with comedy.
The show could use some updating but is another solid offering. Our ten-year-old son absolutely loved it! It was his favorite thing about SeaWorld.
The show is about 30 minutes long but be sure to get there early for the pre-show!
4. Other SeaWorld San Diego Shows
SeaWorld San Diego also offers shows that do not have sea life. When we were there during the Christmas season, we went and saw a Cirque Christmas show that highlighted acrobatic feats. We also watched an ice skating show.
During the summer months, there is another Cirque show featuring acrobatics.
Both of the shows we saw were top quality and very impressive.
Do I Need to Arrive Early for the SeaWorld San Diego Shows?
You may need to arrive early for a show to get a seat. And remember, for the Orca whale and dolphin shows, the lower seating areas are wet zones.
SeaWorld San Diego Tips
We went on a day that was supposed to rain, and walked into the Orca whale show a few minutes late and had no problem finding a seat. Subsequently, we arrived for the other shows as they started or a few minutes prior and had no issues finding a seat.
But I think the forecast kept guests away from the park that day. We saw signs suggesting shows fill to capacity, and that you need to arrive thirty minutes early.
If you do arrive early, you will still be entertained because most shows have a pre-show with music and crowd involvement.
Other Options For Getting a Good Seat For The Shows
You can reserve seats in advance. You can either use the SeaWorld app or purchase a VIP pass. Both of these options cost money but can get you a seat and save you time.
5. Rides At SeaWorld San Diego
There are some fun rides at SeaWorld. There are roller coasters, water rides, and even little kid rides. Everyone in the family will enjoy what SeaWorld San Diego has to offer.
SeaWorld San Diego Water Rides
- Ship Wreck Rapids
- Journey of Atlantis
Sea World San Diego Roller Coasters
- Manta
- Electric Eel
- Wild Artic
Little Kid Rides
- Sesame Street Bay of Play
- Rope Climbing Area
- Sea Dragon Drop
- Tentacle Twirl
- Riptide Rescue
- Rescue Rafter
- Rescue Riders
- Aqua Scout
- Octarock
New Rides at SeaWorld
- Emporer
- Artic Rescue
As you can see there are a lot of fun rides at SeaWorld San Diego. The rollercoasters are quality. They are a lot better than what you might find at your local amusement park. The rides at SeaWorld are amazing.
6. SeaWorld San Diego Food
There are quite a few SeaWorld San Diego food options. They have done a great job providing a mix of snacks, meals, and healthy selections for those that have dietary needs or nutritional preferences.
Maybe the best way to succinctly describe the SeaWorld San Diego food is that you don’t come to SeaWorld to eat, but while you are at Sea World, there are food options that will fill your belly.
All Day Dining SeaWorld San Diego
We went with friends who purchased the all-day dining SeaWorld San Diego pass, which allowed them to order food every hour. That allowed us to sample quite a variety of food.
The all-day dining SeaWorld San Diego pass was not that much more than your base ticket. If you purchase a ticket and include the dining plan it is only $20 more.
SeaWorld San Diego Tips
Another option is if you want your base ticket + the front of the line pass for rides + dining meal it is only a few dollars more. Plus, you get a photo package with an all-inclusive pass.
Important: You have to purchase this option ahead of time!!!
We tested this dining plan out and thought it was really worth it. You really get a full meal every hour!
What Are The Best SeaWorld Restaurants On The All-Day Dining SeaWorld San Diego Plan?
The all-day SeaWorld San Diego dining plan allows you to eat at a wide variety of restaurants. We had pizza, chicken, and even brisket. I was very impressed with the variety of SeaWorld restaurants available on the plan.
Let’s explore all the options!
1. Mama Stella’s
Mama Stella’s is located in the center of the park near the big tower. It is a pizza place.
Surprisingly, they had many choices (not just pepperoni and Cheese) We tried a chicken barbecue pizza and different salads as well. I thought it was pretty good SeaWorld San Diego food!
2. Ship Wreck Cafe
Ship Wreck Cafe has some a great SeaWorld San Diego food. This was actually the first place we stopped and I was shocked at how much food came in each meal.
The amount of meat on the plates could easily feed two people. At this location, there were ribs and rotisserie chicken.
I thought the food was quality and I enjoyed the side. Moreover, I like to have healthy grapes and watermelon along with my protein!
3. Pineapple Pete’s Island Eats
Pineapple Pete’s is also centrally located. It has a Hawaiian feel and offers a pineapple dole whip treat. You can also get your classic chicken nuggets and fries here.
My kids loved this location. (of course) There is also pineapple upside-down cakes available here. This is some good SeaWorld San Diego food.
This was amazing but is not included in the all-day SeaWorld San Diego dining plan but worth trying if you are Pineapple Pete’s.
4. Explorers Cafe
Explorer Cafe was the one SeaWorld restaurant that we did not get to try! It serves hamburgers and hot dogs. It is located near Ocean Explorer Area.
We just didn’t have enough time to try it out. If you have eaten there let us know what you think in the comments!
5. Calypso Bay Smokehouse
Calypso Bay Smokehouse was worth every penny paid on the all-day dining SeaWorld San Diego plan.
If you were to go to this SeaWorld restaurant without having the plan it would set you back. Basically, the restaurant serves top-quality brisket and smokehouse-style food.
We enjoyed this meal immensely! It was some of the best SeaWorld San Diego food!
Will Teenagers Enjoy a Day at SeaWorld San Diego?
We think so. The oldest child with us was 12. She had a good time, and we saw lots of teenagers riding Manta. We think there are enough choices of roller coasters and shows at SeaWorld to keep teenagers entertained.
I actually, remember going at 19 to SeaWorld San Antonio and loved it. My favorite part was the orca whales and I still enjoyed them this trip.
Does SeaWorld Have an App?
Yes, SeaWorld has an App that can be used for any of its parks, including its park in San Diego.
I had some difficulty with the app. While using it, I tried to look up ride wait times, and show start times. I could not find wait times and only found showtimes in a menu that showed activities by hour (instead of by show).
However, we were new to using the app so maybe there is a trick we do not know!
Are You Ready For Your SeaWorld San Diego Vacation?
Hopefully, this post helps you plan your ultimate SeaWorld San Diego vacation! I think there is enough SeaWorld San Diego tips and tricks in this post to save you time and money!
There are so many things to do in SeaWorld San Diego you are going to have such a fun time!
San Diego Go Card
SeaWorld San Diego is included in the San Diego Go Card. This might save you money if you are planning on doing many of the San Diego attractions.
Facebook Community
If you have any questions be sure to join my Facebook Travel Community This great community can help answer any questions you may have about your upcoming trips. Plus, I try to add any great deals or promotions that companies send me!
San Diego Vacation
Also, if you are planning a trip to San Diego make sure to stop by the Marina District to see the USS Midway. My family also really loved Old Town and the Mormon Battalion Museum.
Legoland is in Carlsbad, which is really close to San Diego. My family loves all the rides at Legoland.
We love California if you want to extend your California trip, think about visiting Disneyland, California Adventure, and Downtown Disney. San Francisco is also an amazing place to visit.
This seems like a great family trip!
My kids had so much fun!
Thanks for sharing. Looks like an amazing and fun experience.
It was awesome, SeaWorld is a really cool place!
I love the Table of Contents for a quick reference. Sea World is one of my favorite places despite the negative publicity at times.
Thanks! My son said this last trip was his favorite amusement park!
Looks like a lot of fun! You really shared a lot of great, helpful information. Thanks!!!
Thanks! It really was so fun!
Such a detailed guide! Sea World looks like a lot of fun.
Thanks! It was a ton of fun!
Wow…we haven’t been to SeaWorld since my son was five. There is so much more to experience! Would love to return. It’s unfortunate that SeaWorld receives so much criticism as they do a lot to protect marine life and their exhibits and shows are so educational. Fabulous post!
I agree 100%! SeaWorld is pretty amazing!
I would love to see the sea lion and otter show!
It really is an amazing show! My boy loved it!
Such a great guide for families traveling to Sea World San Diego. We have been to the one in Orlando but I would love to try the San Diego one as well. Thanks for sharing!
I want to try the one in Orlando!
WOW! Sea World has changed a lot since we were last there! Maybe it is time to return!
I went 18 years ago and just barely went again and loved it both times.
We have not been to Seaworld San Diego, but we have been many times to the Orlando location. It is a great educational experience. My girls had so much fun. You have provided a great guide for visiting! Thanks for sharing.
I would love to go the Orlando location and see what the differences are!
I had no idea it was this big. I think I went back in the early 90’s and don’t remember it being that big with so much to do. What fun for you.
It was a good size! We were able to do everything in a day, but there were no crowds when we went.
Wow, I did not know that they had rescued so many animals. It has been many years since we have visited. Therefore I am excited to learn that they have an app and the “Single Day with Meal Plan.”
The meal plan was awesome! You could just eat all day!
What a great place to visit. We have been to the one on Orlando, but plan to be in the San Diego area in the next couple of years. I certainly make the time for this.
We had a great time! San Diego is so awesome you will love it!
Wow! What a thorough and complete guide to visiting Sea World. Good to know about the scooter rentals. After my hip replacement, I’m all for that. lol
We have rented the scooters in the past and they are lifesavers!
Great guide, these sea creatures are incredibly intelligent in the wild too. They’re fascinating to learn about and love seeing them underwater diving around the world .
I would be a little nervous diving near the orca’s. They are so big! But it would be really cool!
Very informative post! We have not been to Sea World in five years. We go to Sea World in San Antonio.. perhaps it is time for another trip.
Very informative post! We have not been to Sea World in five years. We go to Sea World in San Antonio.. perhaps it is time for another trip.
I would love to go to the one in Orlando, It looks amazing with its Discovery Cove!
Seaworld looks pretty cool! I’ve never been to one, but we love aquariums! Thanks for sharing 🙂
It is better than any of the aquariums I have been too. I really had a great time!
I love Sea World Orlando! It’s such great value since they always have great deals going on. Plus, they do amazing things for injured sea life in Florida.
They do have some amazing deals!
Super thorough description!! Thanks for the heads up on ponchos. I love the swings/tentacles! Also I had no idea that Sea World rescues sick, injured, or orphaned marine life animals. I just hear the bad press they get from their orca program. That’s good to hear about!
Thanks! Yes, Ponchos were awesome!
I remember going to the SeaWorld shoes growing up, it was always my favorite part. Thanks for sharing!
The Shows are amazing!
I love the photos of the whales. I was watching a nature show once and they are really intelligent creatures.
They are beautiful creatures!
I lo e Sea World, it had been awhile and looks like the is some amazing changes! Thank you for sharing!
No problem!
So much great information here- literally everything anyone needs to know. So fun.
Thanks!
I have been tot he Orlando version many times but getting out to the San Diego location is definitely on the bucket list!
I would love to go to the one in Orlando! San Diego was great!
Sounds like a great trip! I went to Sea World once when I was little, and remember how cool it was. I’d love to take my children when they are older!
It is worth taking the trip!
Thanks for this extensive review!
No Problem!
What a thorough article on Seaworld!
Thanks!
Wow, this is such an organized and thorough post! I’m so impressed at all the things you did and how well I can now picture planning a trip there. My niece lives in San Diego so we may possibly go visit when my grandson is a bit older. Thanks!
Thanks! That would be awesome if you get to go!
I grew up in SD and have been to Sea World several times and loved every visit more than the previous. You’re right; it’s great for ALL ages! It’s been a few years so I think it’s time to plan a trip back there!
SeaWorld was really a great trip!
What a great guide! You always give the best information and your family looks like they are really enjoying this trip!
Thanks! We had a great time!
So fun!! My husband and I were there in 2017. I loved it then and would love to go back!!
That is awesome, if I lived closer I would get a pass!
We took our sons here 20 years ago, along with my husbands 80 year old grandma. We all loved it. It looks like it has changed a bit since we where there. I would love to go back. Maybe some day. Thanks for information.
It was a lot of fun for all ages!
We live in San Diego, and we love taking our two young kiddos there! Glad that even though the forecast had rain that you didn’t actually have any!
I would love to live in San Diego! It was nice that it didn’t rain but kept the crowds away!
I never knew there was so much other stuff at SeaWorld! And there’s a dining option?! Mind blown! Thank you for such an informative post!
Oh good! I’m glad my post helped!
My family and I will be ending a cruise in San Diego in March and we will only be staying there for 1 night. I like the idea of going to Sea World; thanks for the information!
Oh that would be fun!
Some of my best memories happened at Sea World. I’ve been there twice and I hope to be able to take my kids someday.
Your kids will love it!
It would be so cool to visit at Christmas! We actually got to go last June on our California trip. We were planning on the zoo, but we changed our minds when we discovered the pandas were leaving about a month before our trip. My daughter had always wanted to go, so we gave it a shot. It was a fun day. It was also a very cool day in San Diego when we went, even in June. We wore sweatshirts in the morning!
I didn’t know the Panda’s were not there anymore. Yes, always 65-70 degrees all year round. I think winter is a perfect time to go because it feels so nice!
Thanks for the detailed guide! Good to know that you should have a poncho regardless of the weather!
Those came in handy!
What a great trip and a very thorough guide! We went there last summer and it was so much fun, so your post brought back a lot of wonderful memories!
That is awesome!
So much wonderful information and so well organized. Great share! We have never been to the one in San Diego, only Orlando! Pinning this to help anyone preparing to visit!
Oh Thanks!
It has been a loooooong time since we’ve been to Seaworld San Diego!!!! In fact, our middle son was less than a year old when we were there and he heads off to college soon. (gulp). I have some precious memories from that visit.
That is awesome! They grow up too fast!
This was very informative. I’ve never been to sea world but I’d love to go someday!
It was really awesome!
Looks an amazing vacation spot. I love too that Sea World has a part in rescuing animals.
I loved learning all about the research that has been done.
What a fun adventure!!
It really is so awesome!
Whenever I get down there, I am heading straight to Pineapple Pete’s. I LOVE pineapple upside down cake and when I can get it while traveling (because I don’t have to make it), I’m all in for that. Thanks. 🙂
Oh that is fun we didn’t get to try the upside cake but we did try the pineapple full of ice cream. It was really good!
What a great post. We visited SeaWorld San Diego last Summer and it was so much fun. Everything on this article is super accurate. It made me wanna go back!
Oh good! We loved our time there!
My husband and I have been to San Diego twice and have never thought to visit Sea World….looks like we will next time. Thanks for all of the valuable information.
It was really fun! You should go next time!