What is Sea World?: With more than 100 million visitors since its opening on March 21, 1964, SeaWorld is San Diego’s No. 1 tourist attraction and one of the most popular marine parks in the world. It's located in Mission Bay, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Shamu the Killer Whale: SeaWorld is best known for its iconic symbol/mascot/signature animal, Shamu the Killer Whale, thrilling audiences since 1965. In actuality, Shamu is an umbrella name for several performing whales over the course of the park's history. The Shamu show is a spectacular show, and culminates with a giant tidal wave of water that soaks the audience sitting in the front rows.
So, SeaWorld is mainly a marine park?: SeaWorld is an ideal place to learn about, enjoy and gain an appreciation for some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. Over the years, the park has grown from a small display of marine animals into one of the largest and most respected marine zoological facilities in the world.
So, what kinds of marine stuff is there?: Besides killer whales, you'll see dolphins, sharks, sea lions, walruses, penguins, polaar bears, beluga whales, manatees, and schools of sea and fresh water fish and wildlife.
Is it just a bunch of fish to look at?: SeaWorld actually has a few rides incorporated into its park. The newest attraction is Journey to Atlantis, a water coaster ride. Shipwreck Rapids lets you float and splash in giant innertubes over river rapids. Wild Arctic is a simulation ride that drops you off into an arctic habitat. There's also a skyride and tower ride to take in the views of San Diego.
Does a beer company own SeaWorld?: Technically, yes. There were four SeaWorld parks (the original in San Diego, Ohio, Orlando and San Antonio). Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. purchased the SeaWorld parks from HBJ in 1989 (In January of 2001, the Ohio park was sold to Six Flags Entertainment.) The SeaWorld parks are owned and operated by Busch Entertainment Corporation (BEC), the family entertainment subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch. That's why you'll see Clydesdale horses when you visit (as well as Budwesier beer).
Does SeaWorld let you swim with dolphins?: SeaWorld has a number of animal encounter programs. Dolphin Interaction lets you swim and interact with dolphins (additional fee). Wild Arctic Interaction lets you swim with white whales. Trainer for a Day lets you really immerse yoruself in dolphin behavior. You can book any of these interactions online.
Is there a place you can dine with Shamu?: Yep. SeaWorld has a Dine with Shamu experience. Dine With Shamu is an amazing up-close adventure featuring VIP encounters and a delicious private buffet. You will be seated at your reserved table next to Shamu's private pool to feast on Beef Bourguignon, Seafood Creole and Chicken Dijon, savory sides, fresh baked rolls and decadent desserts. Then enjoy a fascinating, behind-the-scenes encounter with Shamu and the SeaWorld trainers. Oh, yeah. It costs extra to do this.
Your Guide's take on SeaWorld: Unlike San Diego's other major attraction , the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld is more of an amusement park with animals. It has rides, shows and attractions that are geared more for entertainment, but that's also a reflection of its parent company, Anheuser-Busch.
On the other hand, those marine animals are pretty amazing and spectacular creatures. Who wouldn't be awed and entertained by killer whales, dolphins, sharks, beluga whales, sea lions. I think for animal lovers, the rides are pretty standard and secondary, but they serve a purpose for families with kids needing a distraction.
Best Bets: The Shamu Show "Believe," the Dolphin Discovery show, Shark Encounter with its walk through acrylic tube, Rocky Point preserve where you can pet and feed dolphins, and Journey to Atlantis (hey, its a roller coaster, sort of).
Note: SeaWorld can be pricey for some families. Its $56 single day adult admission is on par with Disneyland. One way to save, especially for families, is to buy SeaWorld's 2007 Fun Card $56 adults/$46 for kids), which gives you admission to the park all year (subject to certain blackout dates).
SeaWorld is located at 500 Sea World Drive in Mission Bay. Opening and closing times vary by season. Hours are extended during holiday periods and summer evenings (May through Labor Day).
