We recently returned to SeaWorld in San Diego with our boys. We hadn’t been to the West Coast SeaWorld since our twins were toddlers at 18 months. In the years between, we visited SeaWorld Orlando a few times, but the San Diego park still holds a special place in our hearts—nostalgia is powerful.
SeaWorld is still one of my favorite places to visit.
SeaWorld San Diego: Things To Do & Shows To See!
We began our day with a hearty breakfast at The Mission in San Diego. If you enjoy good food, it’s a great place to fuel up—because you’ll need plenty of energy for a day at SeaWorld. I also recommend packing a lunch and bringing extra water and snacks. To save money, bring bottles of water and portable snacks since kids get hungry and thirsty walking around in the Southern California sun.
Keep in mind park parking fees. On our visit we paid $16 for all-day parking; check current parking prices before you go, as fees can change. Savings tip: you may be able to save a dollar or so by purchasing parking online in advance.
Let the show begin
We planned our day around the show schedule, since shows run on a set timetable and can fill up. Arrive 15–30 minutes early for the best seats.
The first show we saw was the Clyde & Seamore performance. The comedian who played Biff stole the show with unpredictable antics, dance moves and a lot of audience interaction. The sea lions were impressive—clever, quick on their flippers and clearly well trained. There was also an otter named OP who charmed our youngest; his mischievous, almost “spy-like” behavior got lots of laughs.
Verdict: Highly recommended. This family-friendly show is a must-see and full of laughs and education about marine animal rescue and rehabilitation.
Next up was the dolphin show. Seeing dolphins in person is a different experience—their size, grace and intelligence are striking up close. The trainers’ choreography and the dolphins’ aerial leaps were breathtaking. If you sit in the front rows, expect to get splashed.
Verdict: A definite must-see for animal lovers. The performance blends entertainment with information about SeaWorld’s rescue and care programs.
We then visited the Pet Show, which focuses on land animals rather than aquatic species. This show features dogs, cats, birds and a few more surprising performers. I was particularly impressed with how trainable the cats were. Many of the animals in the show come from local shelters, and the program promotes adoption and responsible pet ownership.
Verdict: A fun show, especially for kids who love domestic animals. If your time is limited, it’s one to skip, but it’s a delight for animal-loving families.
After three shows in a row we took a break for lunch. I didn’t bring a full picnic this time, but we did have bread and Nutella in a bag, which helped. We also treated the kids to a few sweets and grabbed coffee. As with most theme parks, food prices inside the park are high, so bringing your own lunch and snacks will save money. A small portable spray fan can help keep kids comfortable on warm days and is cheaper to buy before you arrive than inside the park.
Our last show of the day was the Shamu performance. The presentation has changed in recent years: trainers no longer enter the water with the orcas, but the animals remain majestic and powerful. Orcas are enormous and watching them breach and splash is unforgettable. Visitors seated in the splash zone should expect to get soaked.
Verdict: The Shamu show remains a highlight. Seeing an orca up close is an awe-inspiring experience for children and adults alike.
We also rode the Manta, a smooth coaster-style attraction suitable for kids who meet the 48-inch height requirement. It’s fast but not extreme—no loops—so it’s great for first-time coaster riders. The Skytower was closed for maintenance during our visit, which was disappointing, and the Wild Arctic ride was an okay simulated helicopter experience; the adjoining exhibit lets you see beluga whales, walruses and polar bears up close.
If you’re planning a trip to Southern California with kids, SeaWorld San Diego is a top family destination. It blends entertainment, educational programming and opportunities to learn about rescue and conservation efforts.
Savings tip: If you live nearby or plan to visit multiple times, consider SeaWorld’s season or multi-visit passes (often called “fun cards”) so you can pay for a single visit and return for the rest of the year.
P.S. It was hard to narrow down photos for this post. I shared more pictures and some videos on my Instagram account—come follow along to see more of our Southern California travel adventures.
If you have questions about accessibility or how to plan a SeaWorld visit for children on the autism spectrum or with other disabilities, stay tuned for a follow-up post with tips and strategies to make the day easier and more enjoyable.
Until then, tell me about your SeaWorld visit: what were your favorite shows or rides?