Ever since it first opened in 1964, SeaWorld® San Diego in Mission Beach has drawn kids and big kids alike. Visitors come here to get closer to the amazing marine animals on show. Why not head over to Dolphin Point where you can feed and even train the performing bottlenoses—these intelligent mammals love to do tricks. It is even possible to arrange to get into the water with the impressive beluga whales, but make sure you book in advance.
One of the park’s big draws is its One Ocean® show, a 25-minute live display featuring orcas leaping in and out of the water and performing tricks to delight the crowds. If you’re feeling brave, check out the Shark Encounter® glass tunnel, the bat rays at the Manta exhibit and the comedy antics of the otters and sea lions too.
If you can tear yourself away from the sea animals on show, there are all kinds of rides for you to try out—from the 69 kph Manta rollercoaster to the Bayside Skyride gondola voyage across Mission Beach. Explore the frozen landscape of the poles on the Wild Arctic® simulation, or fly 100 metres into the air on SkyTower to see San Diego from above. You can even get wet on the Shipwreck Rapids® which will take you right under a waterfall.
Sesame Street® Bay of Play® is the perfect place to take younger visitors, with its child-friendly rides, as well as special appearances by Elmo, Bert and Ernie, who are always happy to pose for a photo with their fans.
There is so much to see and do at Seaworld, that a day just flies by. Hang around in the evening for the fireworks show which is held every night during the summer months. There is a range of food options, offering something for everyone, from a light bite to a full meal. If you’d like to eat by the whales’ training pool at the Dine with Shamu café, it’s a good idea to book a place in advance. The park’s opening times change throughout the year, with hours extended during holiday seasons and the summer.
