Updated September 29, 2023
We visited SeaWorld San Diego a few years ago and had such a good time! We had not been in over 10 years, so it was nice to visit after only doing so on vacation a long time ago.
A lot has changed and some had not, which was nice to see.
Lots to cover. Let’s get started!
An Overview
- SeaWorld includes indoor and outdoor exhibits, shows, rides and more. I recommend a day to see everything. Arrive early, as the line to buy tickets fills up quickly. Buy online in advance to save time.
- Check out ride and attraction closures before visiting.
- Park hours vary throughout the year. Check the SeaWorld Hours page before you visit.
- All Day Lockers are available near the Reservation Center at the front of the park for a small fee. Smaller lockers are available throughout the park as well, in case a ride will not allow bags to be carried on.
- In addition to rides and shows, SeaWorld has a plethora of Hands On Exhibits, our favorite.
- There are many “Premier Experiences” that must be planned in advance and that require an additional fee. Take a look at those before you visit to see if any are a good fit for your group.
- SeaWorld is located in the heart of San Diego and is about 2 hours from Disneyland. Check my All About San Diego post for transportation options including the train.
What to Pack
*Sunblock – Regardless of which day of the year you visit, the sun will likely be out in San Diego. And, even if it’s not, you could get a sunburn. Pack sunscreen.
*Change of Clothes – There are lots of opportunities to get wet at SeaWorld – rides, shows and splash pads. If your little ones plan on indulging, you might consider bringing a change of clothes for later on and especially if the park hours allow you to stay late. Consider a sweater or jacket, too, if you’ll be there at night.
*Bottled Water – Food and drinks are not allowed in, but bottled water is. Stay hydrated!
How to Tour the Park
Review the SeaWorld Map before visiting and get to know the park a bit. I recommend choosing two shows, at least, to watch and plan around. Pick up a map and entertainment schedule upon entry to learn your times and then walk the park route that makes sense to coordinate with your show times.
SeaWorld can be enjoyed in a single day if you do it right. The park is designed well and the walking paths push you from one attraction to the other.
Dining
Food and drinks may not be brought into the park, however, you can leave for a picnic just outside of the entrance. Be sure to get your hand stamped for re-entry prior to leaving.
Check out all of your dining options for visiting.
Beer and wine are available throughout the park, too.
SeaWorld Dining continues to improve, so check it out!
Shows
Check out this link to see what’s happening for entertainment.
Rides
SeaWorld used to be a park dedicated to animals, but it is so much more today.
This link takes you to the rides – big and small. They’ll surprise you!
Final Thoughts
I think the highlight of our visits is always the Flamingo Walk, pictured above. We happened upon it, but I encourage you to ask a team member upon arriving if they know when it will take place.
The flamingos choose to stay in their habitat or go for a walk through the park. It was really special to see them up close and watch them parade through the park with such confidence.
Just like Disneyland, a visit to SeaWorld is a much bigger success with planning. Let me know if you have any questions!
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Do you know if they still allow you to feed the dolphins at Rocky Point?
This is a comprehensive review. I love the insights. Thanks for this, I will probably visit soon.
Do you think the photo pass is worth it? $79 for one day, is there a lot of photo opportunities like Disneyland to make it worth it? I only seen 7 locations on the details, Im just wondering if theres possibly more thats not listed? $80 for 7 photos almost doesn’t sound worth it. Thanks! I LOVE all your posts for my vacations to So Cal!!
Hey, Camille. I haven’t done it in a while, so they may have added more, but I think you can accomplish the same photos on your own with your mobile device. I think I would put that money into something else. Enjoy!