Make sure you wear comfortable shoes with good arch supports. Avoid buying new shoes for the trip, or you may have blisters all over your feet the next day. San Diego is generally mild all year round, so casual outfits like jeans and T-shirts are acceptable, but it does get cold in California when the sun goes down. Pack a sweatshirt for each member of the family. Don't forget your sunglasses, water and sunscreen. (Make sure your sunscreen is waterproof. You're liable to get wet at any and all of the shows, rides or attractions.)
While strollers are welcome in the park, they are not allowed in many of the exhibits and attractions. At these places, children must be carried into the exhibit or walk.
To ensure the best seats, get to the shows a little early. They can fill up very fast during busier times.
While most everything is included in the park fee, there are a few activities and attractions that require some extra dough to participate in. The Skytower (a 265-foot tower), Bayside Skyride (a ride that takes you over the San Diego Bay) and the Extreme Zone (rock climbing and trampoline area) are all extra charge. In addition, participating in guided tours, Dolphins and Wild Arctic Encounters and the Trainer for a Day program all require a reservation and extra fee.
In addition to the shows, Sea World offers several rides that will positively soak you and your family. It is recommended that you bring a change of clothes for everyone (even if you keep it in the car) as well as some plastic baggies to places things such as valuables and electronics in.
If the kids get tired or cranky, you can always get your hands stamped at a halfway point and go back to your hotel or home for a nap. Then return later that evening for the Fireworks show, which takes place around 9 or 10 p.m.
Visit Seaworld.com to explore all of the activities going on at the park currently. SeaWorld often has special events and exhibits, so visit the site to get the most up-to-date information about what's happening when you visit the park.
