With four million annual visitors walking through the gates of SeaWorld San Diego, parking is a huge responsibility for this top attraction. Fortunately, it’s handled well, and you won’t have any complaints about the big on-site parking lot – except the parking rates, maybe.
Top attractions like SeaWorld amp up San Diego’s reputation as an all-ages year-round vacation destination. Along with the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, SeaWorld San Diego is the city’s most kid-friendly place. But it’s for all those who love to have some theme park fun. It’s also an oceanarium and marine mammal park with a wildlife conservation mission. Overall, SeaWorld is a lot more than a fun place to visit, and a few hours wouldn’t be enough to explore it all.
Whether you can’t wait to pet the penguins or walk through the underwater tunnels, SeaWorld’s biggest draw is its residents. And it isn’t just Orcas, belugas, dolphins, walruses, bat rays, sharks, seals, and sea lions. Flamingos, sloths, otters, and a few exotic birds reside at SeaWorld. Apart from the permanent exhibits, tours, and rides, seasonal events are also held. In the first half of 2022, look forward to a new dive coaster and a Sesame street-themed area.
Ready to plan your visit? Here’s what you need to know before you go.
When does SeaWorld San Diego water park open?
SeaWorld San Diego is open daily and the busiest day of the week is Saturday. Currently, the park is open to visitors from 10 am to 6 pm on weekends and 10:30 am to 5 pm on weekdays. Times are subject to change; confirm the theme park hours here.
How to get tickets
You can get Sea World San Diego tickets and annual passes online or on-site at the park when you arrive. Online ticket rates are lower than on-site prices. You can also pre-book your SeaWorld parking spot online, but single-day tickets are only valid on the date of reservation. Children under three years of age can enter the park free of charge.
How to reach
SeaWorld San Diego is within Mission Bay Park, and you can easily reach it by car via the I-5 freeway. Click on ‘Directions’ in the map below to see your route.
MTS trolley and bus services are available from early morning if you wish to use public transportation. Take routes 8 or 9 from the Old Town Transit Center. Hotels near SeaWorld also have complimentary shuttle services. However, remember to check current availability before you go.
Click here for the San Diego Parking Guide
Parking at SeaWorld San Diego
There’s plenty of parking space at SeaWorld San Diego. The enormous on-site parking lot is divided into three sections. General parking is the cheapest option and furthest from the park entrance. Up-Close parking is next – these spots occupy the first six rows from the entrance. SeaWorld San Diego parking cost for VIP parking is the highest, but you can park right outside the park entrance.
How much is parking at SeaWorld San Diego?
The SeaWorld San Diego parking fee starts at $25 per car for general parking. Preferred parking spots will cost you $30 – $35; these rates often vary from season to season. Due to peak demand, VIP and Up-Close parking could also cost more on Saturdays. You can pre-book both general and preferred parking at SeaWorld online, except RV/Camper parking. Credit cards are accepted at the on-site parking toll booths. Keep in mind that all parking passes are non-refundable.
Is there free parking at SeaWorld San Diego?
Free general parking is available for SeaWorld Annual Pass holders, and it can be upgraded to Up-Close parking for a small fee when you arrive at the park. You have to present a photo ID and your annual pass to access your free parking spot at SeaWorld San Diego.
Is there ADA/Accessible parking?
Accessible parking spots are available right in front of the SeaWorld San Diego entrance to ensure maximum convenience. However, these spots are limited and provided on a first-come, first-serve basis. Standard general parking rates are applicable, and you must present a valid disabled placard, parking permit, or license plate to use these parking spots.
Find out more about accessibility at SeaWorld San Diego here.
Affordable parking in San Diego
If SeaWorld is not the only San Diego destination on your itinerary, affordable parking in the city must be on your radar. Driving in from another city and leaving the car in a garage for the day? Book your all-day parking spot in advance for the best deals. You’ll find the lowest rates at any San Diego parking lot online on parking apps and websites like Way.com.
Try 3880 Greenwood St Parking for cheap and secure all-day parking within 2 miles of SeaWorld. This 24×7 open outdoor self-parking facility is also close to the Old Town Transit Center. You can catch a bus from here to SeaWorld San Diego. Check out 755 W Laurel St Parking, 1655 Pacific Hwy Parking, or 939 11th Ave City Parking for cheap hourly, daily, or overnight parking in downtown San Diego.
Find out more about San Diego parking rules, rates, and deals here.
Read more blogs on affordable airport parking, the best insurance for your car, and top-rated car washes near you.
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