Have you been wanting to visit SeaWorld San Diego for a long time? Let our fans share their tried and true tips to make your visit to the park even better. Their best advice? Play with the animals and see what they have to offer!

The Explorer’s Reef at SeaWorld San Diego: Insider Tips for Visitors

Donovan, California

Prior to visiting the park, check the website for attraction closures and park hours. Off-season (January through May) is when some attractions close for annual maintenance.

Bring only what is allowed/not allowed into the park. And get a locker too! There are lockers required for Manta carry-ons.

Make sure you arrive early to the park. On morning rides, crowds are minimal and lines are shorter. There will be more time to explore the park if you do this.

Make sure you stay at least 6 to 8 hours. If you stay for this amount of time, you’ll be able to see all the shows, animal encounters, and rides.

At show times, avoid walking near the amphitheaters as crowds will start to disperse.

Visit Explorers Reef’s touch pools and experience all of the animals up close. It has a great deal of exhibits and aquariums. Among my favorite animal exhibits are the Shark Encounter and the Orca Underwater Viewing.

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Enjoy the rides, animals, and shows!

The Explorer’s Reef at SeaWorld San Diego: Insider Tips

Cassie, California

If you think you’ll be returning a few times before the year is over, consider a Fun Card. You may want to consider an Annual Pass if you intend to return more often.

A full meal at one of the parks’ restaurants includes Calypso Bay Smokehouse, Shipwreck Reef Cafe, Explorer’s Cafe, and Baja Grill.

The chocolate cake cup from Explorer’s Cafe is an excellent snack. The cake is rich and decadent, and although I don’t split it with anyone, it could probably be shared.

Take part in DeepSee VR: Orca 360. With only $10 per person, you can feel like you’re right next to the orcas and even swim with them virtually, all while learning about their care. It’s an amazing supplemental experience few people are aware of.

Journey to Atlantis Ride Insider Tips for SeaWorld San Diego

Dakota, California

Get to know animals and their environment by looking at them and learning how to help them. Be prepared to get wet. Take tons of pictures!

The Insider’s Guide to SeaWorld San Diego Dolphin Encounters

Alexis, Arizona

It’s best to buy tickets a month or two before your vacation. You’ll need your tickets (don’t forget them!)

To get a good seat, get to the show 30 minutes before it starts.

Go see all the animals.

Breaks are necessary to avoid exhaustion and to avoid getting everything done too quickly.

Tips for Visiting SeaWorld San Diego’s Beluga Interaction Program

Moe, California

A sunblock for the sun, a windbreaker or jacket for those who get cold easily.

If it’s hot outside, take Journey to Atlantis for a ride with a change of clothing.

Have kids and want photos? Make sure https://www.google.com/maps?cid=4522298345687754523 are safe with PhotoKey.

Want a true interaction? Swim with dolphins or beluga whales or do a behind-the-scenes tour.

Dine with Orcas.

No better photos of Bayside Skyride at sunset than this one.

Most importantly, SMILES will make it an awesome journey!

Visiting SeaWorld San Diego and riding the Manta ride: Insider Tips

Jessica, California

Take the stress out of finding good seats at the shows by downloading the app.

For the kids, make sure they have towels and sunscreen.

On the water rides, pack a pair of flip-flops to wear instead of good walking shoes.

On wet rides, pack a bag to store your belongings.

Tips for visiting SeaWorld San Diego’s Shipwreck Rapids ride in our blog

Jennifer, California

To see all that the park has to offer, use the park map you’ll receive. Invite your kids, a friend, your parents, your in-laws. Taking many pictures and just enjoying the views is a great way to spend time. Take it all in. Be sure to get your Annual Pass before you leave.

Visiting SeaWorld San Diego Shark Encounter? Here’s what you need to know

Rose, California

Been going since 1991. My grandmother says I’ve been going since I was 3 days old. Our family is now a member.

If step-by-step guide want to ride the water rides, you’ll need some quarters for the flamingo food.

For pictures and videos, you should have enough battery life.

When it’s summer, you can buy a Quick Queue pass to avoid long waits. Otherwise, get to the park early.

Use your Annual Pass if you have it if you’re an Annual Pass holder.

How to Visit SeaWorld San Diego Shamu Plush by following our blog

Alexis, California

There’s water pretty much everywhere. Put on nothing that you don’t want to get wet. Don’t miss the national anthem if you arrive early. Additionally, there are so many things to see in so little time.

SeaWorld Blog
Kat M.
Author
You can count on Kat to keep you informed about everything new, fun, and exciting at SeaWorld San Diego! Also, she enjoys sharing SeaWorld’s rescue and conservation stories.