Seaworld san antonio trip planner

I’m kind of a theme park junkie. Sometimes I think I enjoy theme parks more than my kids do. Our family has had SeaWorld San Antonio annual passes for the last seven years or so, and I love that they enable us to visit the park for a few hours at a time without feeling rushed or like we have to see everything in one day. Over the years and dozens of visits, we have definitely found our favorite areas and features of the park, and my friends and family often ask me about SeaWorld. Here are my tips for visiting SeaWorld San Antonio with kids.

First Things First: Shows

If you’re visiting SeaWorld San Antonio, you probably expect to see some shows. While I personally love all of the shows, my kids sometimes lose interest. The orca (formerly Shamu) shows are a no-brainer, as most kids are awestruck by the giant killer whales. (And what kid can resist sitting in the Splash Zone?) But you may be surprised to learn that my kids’ absolute favorite show at SeaWorld is “Pets Ahoy,” a funny, fast-paced show featuring trained dogs, cats, birds, pigs, and even a skunk! This show is indoors, and the cool AC is a welcome respite from the Texas summer heat. Make sure to show up at least 30 minutes early for this show on busy days because it fills up quickly.

Keep The Kids Active

If your kids are like mine, they probably don’t like to stay in one place for very long. This is the reason we generally do more moving around the park than sitting at shows. If you’re looking for experiences that will keep your kids moving, try some of these.

• View the dolphins from both above and below water at Discovery Point. It’s so much fun to watch these majestic mammals play and swim. And the underwater viewing area is an amazing backdrop for photos! 
• Visit Explorer’s Reef to see a stunning underwater habitat of sharks, tropical fish, seahorses, living coral, and much more. And, once again, AIR CONDITIONING is a major bonus here! See if your kids can spot the colorful dart frogs and sneaky eels at the end of the exhibit. 
• Feed the sea lions and seals at the Pacific Point Preserve behind Sea Lion & Otter Theater. This one is easy to miss, and I actually visited the park many times before I even realized it was there! Kids love watching the sea lions and seals play around in the water, and for a few dollars, you can buy fish and feed them. 
• Visit the alligators in Alligator Alley. You can feed them too! 
• View the penguins and puffins. (Sometimes you can even see penguin chicks!) Kids love riding the moving walkway while watching the penguins waddle around and dive through the water. 
• If it’s open, head to “Chill Out,” SeaWorld’s new 50-degree dance party/cold drink location where it’s always a cool time (literally!). This place is great on a hot day and has a live DJ, ice-cold drinks (adult beverages too), and a glowing atmosphere. It is located in the Games Center next to The Great White roller coaster, so you might want to play some games while you’re there too! 
• Check out the giant sea turtles in the new Turtle Reef aquarium. My kids love getting face-to-face with these endangered and rescued turtles. 
• Play in the three-acre Sesame Street® Bay of Play®, which features kids’ rides (a carousel, small roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and more), a large net-and-tunnel play area, a huge splash pad (and a small splash area and playground just for toddlers), a Sesame Street® show, and sometimes, friendly Sesame Street® characters hanging out, ready to hug and take pictures with your kids. This place is always a hit with the kids, and you may have a hard time dragging them away! Make sure to bring a swimsuit or change of clothes and a towel if you plan to let your kids use the splash pad.
• Look for the large, shady playground just outside of the Bay of Play®, across from the Sea Star Theater. It’s easy to miss (and sometimes I’m thankful for that), but this is a great place to let the kids run off some energy in a small, somewhat contained space, while parents can take a break on a bench. This playground is more low-key than the Bay of Play® play area, usually less crowded, and much more contained. Though sometimes I find myself wondering, “Why did I bring my kids to SeaWorld just to play at a playground?” Nonetheless, it’s a nice option when everyone needs a break from the busy-ness of the park. 
• During certain times of the year (usually summer and Christmas), SeaWorld offers a Sesame Street® evening parade that runs through the Bay of Play® with elaborate floats and all your favorite Sesame Street® characters. Line up early for this, because the viewing areas are limited, and it can be hard to find a spot if you wait too long. Check the SeaWorld San Antonio schedule for dates/times. Also offered is a parade and dining package with a dinner buffet and reserved parade seating.  
• You might also like to know that there are diaper changing stations located in all restrooms, and both SeaWorld and Aquatica have at least one nursing facility inside each park.

It’s Feeding Time!

SeaWorld has many options for feeding your family. Harbor Market offers the largest variety in a food court-style cafe. Options include Asian, Italian, and American favorites. I tend to stay away from this cafe for two reasons: (1) The lines can get VERY long, and they often don’t have enough registers open; and (2) seating is limited, and we’ve had a hard time finding a table at times.

I prefer Rosita’s Cafe, an all-you-can-eat pizza and pasta buffet; Pizza & More, a small counter-service place near the Bay of Play® featuring pizza, turkey legs, and other small snacks (can you tell I like pizza?); the new Pretzel Kitchen located in the Sea Star Market, which features delicious pretzel dogs, freshly-made pretzels, and pretzel bites with yummy dipping sauces (try the pepperoni pretzel!); or Spanky’s Fresh-cut Fries, where you can get fries with a variety of toppings, such as Loaded Baked Potato or Buffalo Chicken.

SeaWorld San Antonio does not allow you to bring in coolers or meal-type foods. They allow one water bottle per person and single serving-sized snacks only. And they do check your bags at the entry point! I have seen many people asked to throw away perfectly good food.

Meet the Animals

In recent years, SeaWorld San Antonio has shifted from a focus on shows and entertainment to a focus on education and experiences. One of my favorite experiences we’ve had at SeaWorld San Antonio was the Penguin Interaction. For an extra fee, you can get all bundled up and actually go inside the penguin habitat and meet the penguins! You will learn all about the different types of penguins housed at SeaWorld and how the staff cares for them, and best of all, you will get to TOUCH the penguins! We did this for my daughter’s eighth birthday, and she was in heaven! Participants must be at least 48 inches tall, so keep that in mind if you’re interested.

SeaWorld San Antonio also offers interactions with their dolphins, killer whales, beluga whales, sea lions, sharks, and more! Check their website for details.

Play in the Water at Aquatica

Aquatica is the waterpark located within SeaWorld San Antonio. Admission to Aquatica requires an additional fee, but if you are visiting for more than one day (or are a local resident), I think it’s worth the cost. This waterpark is very family-friendly, and we even enjoyed visiting with our toddler.

Kata’s Kookaburra Cove® is a shallow pool with several water features just for toddlers and preschoolers. Slippity Dippity® and Whanau Waters both have small body slides that are also perfect for this age. My eight-year-old still loves them as well!

For the bigger kids, Walkabout Waters is a huge play structure with sprinklers, sprayers, and geysers galore. It also has a giant bucket that dumps water on the excited children below every few minutes. Cutback Cove is another fun area with an activity pool and larger waterslide.

Of course, there are also the classics like Big Surf Shores (a giant wave pool) and Loggerhead Lane (a splashy lazy river). Be warned that it is impossible not to get soaked in Loggerhead Lane, because there are unavoidable water sprayers along the way. Because of this, my kids took a while to warm up to this attraction.

There are many other slides and attractions that may be available to your family, depending on height requirements (which range from 36″–48″). Stingray Falls™ is a family-style raft ride that ends in an underwater grotto where you can view stingrays and other tropical fish as you float by. This one only has a 36-inch height requirement and is a great place to see how your kids will react to the larger slides.

Don’t Forget the Cooler Months

My favorite times to visit SeaWorld San Antonio are during the seasonal events throughout the year when the weather is cooler. The Fall brings Howl-O-Scream and Spooktacular, Halloween-themed festivals with trick-or-treating for the little kids and spooky pathways for the big kids. During the Christmas Celebration, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with millions of breathtaking lights, Christmas-themed shows and characters, and delicious new foods and drinks. And perhaps my favorite event, the Seven Seas Food Festival is held in the spring and offers food and beverage selections from all over the world.

Check the Website Before You Go

Lastly, make sure to visit SeaWorld San Antonio’s website before your visit. Their opening and closing hours often vary, as do the showtimes. And never pay full price for a ticket! You can almost always find a deal online, and if you plan to visit more than one day it’s often cheaper to buy an annual pass that includes free parking (otherwise you will pay at least $20 for parking) and gives you 10% off purchases, including animal experiences. Then you can go back and enjoy the park’s various seasonal offerings. Who knows? You just might become a theme park junkie too!

How to get there

More than 8.5 million passengers fly through San Antonio International Airport (SAT) each year. Amtrakalso serves the city. Taxis serve both.

Ways to save: Many of the city’s hotels offer a complimentary shuttle, so check when you book your room. The airport has a hotel kiosk with a courtesy phone. The city’s bus service, VIA, goes to downtown for $1.30. It offers door-to-door paratransit service with advance reservation. An ADA-compliant SuperShuttle costs $15 from the airport to downtown. Ride services, such as Uber or Lyft, offer cost-effective transportation — but watch out for surge pricing at busy times.

Activities to arrange before you go  

Even though San Antonio is a last-minute kind of town, reservations for the city’s hottest restaurants are usually a must. Skip at least one line and buy tickets in advance for a narrated cruise on the River Walk with Go Rio River Cruises. If you have the grandkids along or just enjoy amusement parks, get your tickets for SeaWorld San Antonio (mostly accessible) and Six Flags Fiesta Texas (fully accessible) in advance to avoid the ticketing lines. If you want a guided tour of the Alamo, buy your tickets at least 24 hours ahead.

Ways to save: Buy a package of tickets from Go San Antonio Card to save up to 40 percent on admission to museums and theme parks, including a hop-on, hop-off city tour. Print out coupons from the San Antonio Tourism Council and save at some of the city’s most popular attractions.

What to pack

San Antonio is a very casual city, accustomed to hosting guests from all over the world. Shorts, T-shirts and flip-flops rule, especially if you're downtown at the popular attractions. That’s fine, but if you’re going to a sit-down restaurant, go business casual, with comfortable walking shoes, khakis or nice shorts and a short-sleeved shirt. At night, dress smartly, and you’ll look like an executive or a savvy local.

The weather can be unpredictable. Make sure to pack an umbrella. Not only does it protect you from a sudden rainstorm, it’s great to provide shade on those 100-plus-degree days.

Safety

Overall, San Antonio is a safe destination, with property crimes falling 9 percent over the past six years. The city saw a spike in violence in 2016, but those crimes dropped by 6 percent in 2017 and didn't involve visitors. Even though it may feel like a small town, it is a big city, requiring commonsenseprecautions. Avoid walking alone at night, stay in more populated areas and always keep your purse or wallet secure. Also, be cautious around the edge of the River Walk, which doesn't have railings.

AAA Editor Notes

SeaWorld San Antonio, 10500 SeaWorld Dr., is a marine life adventure park offering shows, up-close animal encounters, attractions and rides. The high-energy show Orca Encounter blends orca behaviors with music and messages of education and conservation. The Ocean Discovery: Dolphins & Beluga Whales show is an enlightening experience featuring graceful beluga whales and athletic Pacific white-sided dolphins, while the Sea Lion High show features the comical sea lion duo, Clyde and Seamore.

The three-acre Sesame Street Bay of Play offers family rides and the chance to meet and be photographed with Sesame Street characters. Explorer's Reef brings you face-to-face with tropical fish, sharks and eels. There's also an opportunity for dolphin, beluga and sea lion interactive swims; and a penguin habitat with more than 200 birds. Guests can also enjoy Turtle Reef, a habitat for endangered sea turtles.

Journey to Atlantis combines the thrill of a coaster with the plunge of a water ride. Among the other rides are the Steel Eel coaster; Rio Loco, a river rapids ride; and The Great White, on which riders go heels-over-head five times. Wave Breaker: The Rescue Coaster is a jet-ski-style coaster combining the thrill of a roller coaster with the adrenaline rush of a marine animal rescue mission.

Holiday-themed events include SeaWorld's family-friendly Spooktacular held in October and SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration, which runs from mid-November to early January.

Note: Swimsuits are recommended; rental lockers, changing facilities and showers are available. Pets are not permitted; kennels are available.

Guided tours are available. Food is available.

As part of our epic cross-country summer road trip a few years ago, we made a stop in San Antonio to see the Alamo, take a river cruise on the San Antonio River, and of course, spend the day at SeaWorld San Antonio.

While I like to expose my kids to history, culture and national parks, I know that I also need to build in days for their kind of fun when I put together itineraries, and our day at SeaWorld San Antonio was just that, a full day of fun.

We stayed not far from the park – at the Omni San Antonio Hotel – so we were able to get there fairly close to opening time at the park. That was a good thing too because there was a lot to keep us busy between SeaWorld and Aquatica, SeaWorld’s water park.

Things to Do at SeaWorld San Antonio

A lot has changed and been updated in the last few years, so here’s the scoop on what’s new and notable now for kids and families among SeaWorld San Antonio attractions.

Here are 15 things you must do if you plan to visit this super-fun theme park as a family. For more San Antonio fun, check out my related post on Things to Do in San Antonio, Texas.

Start by getting your tickets for SeaWorld in San Antonio ahead of time to avoid lines at the attractions when you arrive. Buy single day tickets or multi day tickets now (like, right now). It’s definitely worth it to purchase a two-park flex ticket to go to both parks on the same day. 

#1: Explore Turtle Reef

In May 2019, Turtle Reef opened to the public, enabling guests an up-close look at endangered and threatened sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Turtle Reef is one of the newest SeaWorld attractions and is part of a larger experience – a 126,000-gallon coral reef themed environment – featuring green sea turtles and hundreds of vibrantly-colored tropical fish.

#2: Watch the Sea Lion Show

SeaWorld San Antonio’s sea lion show called Clyde and Seamore’s Sea Lion Highis so much fun. Your kids will love watching the sea lions perform tricks and interact with the trainers and audience as they go back to school in search of diplomas (my kids loved this show). 

#3: Get the All Day Dining Deal

If you plan to spend all day at the park, it’s a must to grab the all day dining plan. With this you get one entrée, one side or dessert, and one drink every time you go through the line (as many times as you want).

This was great when the kids just wanted a snack or a drink. SeaWorld San Antonio also has an All-Season Dining Deal (an even more wallet-friendly meal deal!).

Related article: Austin with Kids: 5 Must-Do Activities (Murals, Junk, Food Trucks)

#4: Feed the Sea Lions

Head to Pacific Point Preserve inside the park to visit with the sea lions. You can either stop by during designated feeding times or spend a few dollars to purchase some fish to feed them yourselves.

Note that these guys can get pretty loud when they see you holding a fish or two. Also, head to Discovery Point for dolphins when visiting SeaWorld San Antonio.

#5: Meet Animal Experts Throughout the Day

Head to the Animal Connections Conservation Center to meet animal experts, as well as the animals they care for at SeaWorld San Antonio.

It’s a great way to help your kids learn about protecting and caring for the rescued animals at the park. Kids can get up-close with penguins, dolphins, beluga whales, sea lions and more. 

Related: 5 Stops to Make in Beaumont, Texas

#6: Pose with Sesame Street Characters

For the little littles in your family, head to the three-acre Sesame Street Bay of Play, which has at least a half-dozen rides just for small kids, including Grover’s Round-Up (a colorful carousel) and Big Bird’s Spinning Reef (a Ferris Wheel).

An interactive water playground called Little Bird’s Splash will keep little ones busy with more than 20 water elements, like bubblers and geysers. 

#7: Plan to Eat During Show Times

It’s a good idea to grab lunch or snacks during off-times, but at SeaWorld, it’s an especially good time to eat while everyone else is watching one of the big SeaWorld San Antonio shows. Consult the show schedule and plan for meals during the shows. Hungry kids do not like to wait in lines!

Related article: Exploring with Kids: Long Weekend in Galveston

#8: Cool Down at Aquatica

It can get really hot in San Antonio, so spend some time on the water slides and lazy river at Aquatica. Be sure to ride Ihu’s Breakaway Falls, a steep, multi-drop tower slide that debuted at Aquatica in 2019. It’s also a must to ride Rio Loco, a thrilling whitewater rapids ride.

Keep in mind that Aquatica closes before the rest of the park, so plan your day accordingly. You’ll also need to purchase a multi-park flex ticket, but it’s totally worth it. 

#9: Make Time for One Ocean

One Ocean is probably the most popular show at SeaWorld San Antonio. Seats can fill up quickly so you’ll want to get there early, but it’s worth it.

Arrive at least 30 minutes in advance and you’ll be entertained by a warm-up performer (who happens to spray water into the crowd!).

This kid-friendly show takes guests on an uplifting celebration of life under the sea, inspiring with the message that we are all part of one world and one ocean. You will get wet if you sit in the splash zone.

Related: 10 Things to Do at SeaWorld Orlando

#10: Ride All the Rides

But definitely make time for brand new rides, like Riptide Rescue, a boat ride that takes guests on a sea turtle rescue mission.

A second ride, Sea Swinger, also debuted in 2019. This thrill ride swings riders 180-degrees in both directions, putting riders near parallel with the ground.

Another one of the top SeaWorld San Antonio roller coasters is the Steel Eel. This is the tallest roller coaster at 15 stories tall. For thrill-seekers, it’s a must to ride this hypercoaster.

In Spring 2020, look for the new Texas Stingray, which is set to be the tallest, fastest and longest wooden roller coaster in Texas. No matter what, ride all the rides at SeaWorld San Antonio. You will have a blast.

#11: Try a Behind-the-Scenes Tour

SeaWorld San Antonio offers multiple behind-the-scenes tours at the park. Sure, it’s an extra fee, but learning about the work SeaWorld does to rescue and rehabilitate manatees and sea turtles is pretty incredible. 

Related article: Fun Things to Do in San Antonio with Kids (including plenty of free activities in San Antonio)

#12: Learn the Mysteries of Killer Whales

Get an up-close look at killer whales as trainers share their deep understanding of orcas. This interactive presentation educates guests on the orcas’ habitats and native behaviors in the wild.

#13: Don’t Forget about Animal Encounters at Aquatica

There may be flamingos, penguins, orcas and sea lions at SeaWorld, but you’ll find plenty of animals to visit with at Aquatica, too. Head to Roa’s Aviary to see 300 tropical birds. Go early in the morning and pick up a free cup of food for the birds.

Related: 10 Best Hotel Deals in San Antonio

#14: Settle in for the Pets Ahoy Show

Head to the Sea Star Theater for the Pets Ahoy live show. Your kids won’t be able to take their eyes off the stage as dogs, cats, parrots, pigs and more perform funny tricks and steal the show.

As a bonus, stay once the show is over to meet and greet the animals on stage. This was easily one of my favorite SeaWorld activities.

The animals were seriously so adorable. It’s nice to be able to settle in, take a break, then get back to all the super-fun SeaWorld San Antonio rides. 

#15: Buy a Fun Card

It’s not a season pass. It’s a Fun Card. Even better, when you buy one now, you’ll get all of 2020, plus you’ll get the rest of 2019 free, including SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. Such a great way to save on SeaWorld San Antonio admission tickets. 

I hope this gives you a good idea of what to do at SeaWorld San Antonio. Since there’s so much to see and do, feel free to take a look at the SeaWorld San Antonio map to know where to go before you go. 

But first, avoid the lines. Get your SeaWorld San Antonio park tickets online ahead of time. Buy single or multi day tickets now. Curious about things to do at SeaWorld Orlando? I’ve got you covered there too. Or, click here for more on what to do in San Antonio. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. However, all views expressed here on things to do in San Antonio, TX, specifically at SeaWorld San Antonio, are my own.

This post contains editorial samples and/or affiliate links to products I recommend. While this adds no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission on any sales made.

One of the first things we did when our firstborn was old enough to enjoy a good long time outdoors,  was get our family a SeaWorld San Antonio family pass. Over 10 years later, we’re still making our way to SeaWorld, with as much excitement and enthusiasm as the first time. The Park is always growing and changing so there’s always something new to look forward to. And yes, over the years we’ve collected enough SeaWorld San Antonio tips to make any first-timer’s visit stress-free.

(Disclosure: As a member of the SeaWorld Wildside Blogging Team 2014, my family was provided with annual SeaWorld and Aquatica passes.

Being SeaWorld San Antonio Wildsiders has allowed us to explore and experience both parks at leisure, and thereby bring you our best tips to make your visit more memorable.)

I thought it would be fun to share some insider tips for any first-timers that plan a trip to SeaWorld San Antonio.

A few of my SeaWorld Wildside buddies have added their tips to the list too.

Feel free to share these with family and friends.

SeaWorld celebrated over 50 years of educating and empowering visitors of all ages in the year 2014.

1. How to get discount tickets for SeaWorld San Antonio.

Buy your tickets in advance. 

 Book your tickets online to grab a great deal on web-exclusive admission rates.

Plus this way you also skip standing in a long line!

Consider getting an Annual Pass if you know you will visit two days in a row, or even later on in the year.

It’s definitely the best bang for your buck and yes this would be the best way to get cheap SeaWorld tickets when looking at this in the long run.

The next best alternative is a 2 day-2 Park Flex Pass- unlimited admission to SeaWorld San Antonio and Aquatica.

My family never misses the annual SeaWorld San Antonio Christmas celebrations.

Over 8 million holiday lights twinkle throughout the park.

Plus the holiday shows, and experiences make for great memories.

I would consider the holidays the best time to go to SeaWorld San Antonio because the weather is beautiful and the atmosphere is charged with festivity!

With the annual pass, parking is free and you will receive discounts on dining, in-park purchases, and additional perks through the year.

(Senior citizens do get a discount. Remember to ask)

2. Free admission:

Kids 3 and under are free.

Military personnel and up to 3 direct dependents may receive one complimentary admission in the year.

For more details visit the Waves of Honor site.

(Earlier in the year preschoolers and teachers in Texas were also offered free admission. This is an annual offering. Keep an eye on their social media pages to see when these open up.)

3. What to Wear to SeaWorld San Antonio? : Clothing tips

Texas heat is a scorcher so dress in cotton-based, light, airy apparel.

Wear comfortable footwear and don’t forget those sun hats/caps.

If the heat just gets to you, consider investing in mini portable fans, cooling towels, and reusable water bottles.

The Park is pretty spaced out so look forward to quite a bit of walking.

4. Don’t cram Aquatica and SeaWorld into one day: 

You will need a whole day to enjoy SeaWorld and a separate day to enjoy its water park-Aquatica.

There is so much to do!!

If you have little ones in tow, read these tips before visiting Aquatica. 

5. Plan your day at SeaWorld with a Park Map: 

As soon as you set foot in the Park, pick up a map at the entrance, and plan the day’s activities.

The educational programs are well spaced out allowing you to enjoy everything if you get into the Park as soon as it opens!

6. What to bring to SeaWorld San Antonio?

Can you bring food into Sea World San Antonio?

Can you bring water into SeaWorld San Antonio?

Can you bring water bottles into SeaWorld San Antonio? 

These are questions that are commonly asked.

“Pack your six-pack sized cooler into the park!

You’re allowed to bring personal-sized coolers inside.

It’s great if you have small kids because you can pack some bottled water, juice, and small snacks.” – Arena Blake (The Nerd’s Wife).

Just remember not to bring any straws into the Park.

They will be confiscated at the security check-in at the gate.

Just make sure you dispose of your trash in the right places and don’t leave it lying around in the park.

Make sure you look at the updated Sea World San Antonio bag policy before your trip, especially if you’re wondering-“what can you take into SeaWorld San Antonio?”

And to confirm, yes if you asked this question:

Can I bring a backpack into SeaWorld San Antonio?

7. Save with the All Day Dining Plan: 

” If you plan to stay the whole day and want to save money, buy the All Day Dining Plan.” – Sara Phillips (Sensibly Sara).

The wearer of the wristband can choose an entree, a side or dessert, and a non-alcoholic beverage or water, each time he/she goes through the line.

You can stop to eat as many times as you want while at the Park that day!

8. Buffet option at the Park: 

“If you have hungry teens, eat at Rosita’s Cafe.

The all-you-can-eat pizza and pasta buffet is an affordable option as it includes unlimited drinks, salad, and dessert!”- Heidi Gollub (Free Fun In Austin)

If you’re a vegan by choice, they can make you a 100% veggie pizza, on request.

9. Chill out with frozen treats:

“Find out where to get soft-serve ice cream (which my kids prefer over packaged ice cream bars) in the park to cool off.

Our favorite place to find it is at Azul Treats across from the Azul show, between the restrooms and the World of Azul/Elmo’s Splish Splash shop. You can also get soft-serve (and hand-dipped ice cream) at Polar Parlor, located next to Sweet Treats Bakery and just before you head over to Dolphin Cove.”- Colleen Pence (San Antonio Mom Blogs)

Another favorite?

Dippin’ Dots!

10.  Spend some time enjoying SeaWorld’s animal ambassadors: 

You can enjoy animal interactions with the dolphins, stingrays, and residents at the Animal Connections Conservation Center, at no additional cost.

Their handlers can answer any questions you have, making it a great learning experience for both, adults and kids.

11. Sign up for a one-of-a-kind animal encounter:

For a price, sign up for an animal encounter at SeaWorld. Highly recommended on the list are the Stingray Encounter, Penguin Interaction Program, and the Beluga Interaction Program. We did the Beluga Interaction Program as a 7th birthday gift for my daughter.

It was an experience she will never forget!

(Psst! Annual Pass Members get discounts on encounter and interaction programs.)

12. Places to cool off while at SeaWorld: 

“When the day gets too hot, hit up the Sharks/Coral Reef aquarium, the Penguins Encounter, and Animal Connections Conservation Center.

Don’t miss the frog exhibit located in the gift shop adjacent to Azul and Bay of Play.

If the breeze is blowing, you can take a stroll through Alligator Alley then let the kids play at the nearby playground in the shade while you recharge for a few minutes.” – Stacy Teet ( Kids Stuff World)

13. Be prepared to get wet –

“Even if you don’t plan to go to Aquatica, there are many fun ways to cool down!

Wear clothes that are light-weight and dry quickly, or pack a change of clothes. But put your inhibitions to the side and get wet with your kiddos! ” – Rebecca Darling (RWeThereYetMom. )

Check out Rebecca’s suggestions on 10 ways to get wet while at SeaWorld San Antonio! 

14. Buy a refillable tumbler/cup and use it year-round: 

Buy your tumbler at any dining station and re-fill it for a minimal rate. “Bring your refillable cup – don’t forget it at home!” – Alba Garza (Independent Mami)

15. Bring your child’s stroller:

While you can rent a stroller while entering the Park, it just makes it so much more economical to bring your own and identify the same right after you finish a show, from the designated stroller parking areas.

16. Nursing Mamas look out for those nursing stations!:

Sandwiched between practically all the men and women restrooms is a baby changing room.

In the same, you will find a lockable nursing station that is, yes, quiet and air-conditioned.

Some come with a bench while one or two come with a rocking chair.

My favorite is the station right outside the Rio Grille in Aquatica.

It’s spacious, has a charging slot for my phone and the coolest station in the Park.

17. Don’t forget your camera and get one for your child too!:

There are so many photo opportunities to enjoy both at SeaWorld and at Aquatica.

You never know what ( or who) you will see! ” For some kid fun – get a disposable waterproof camera and let the kids take some underwater pics – great for the lazy river that flows by the new aviary.

You’ll enjoy seeing them post trip!” – Jennifer Patrick (Still Living The Dream)

18. Pre and post-show surprises at SeaWorld:  

Never get to any SeaWorld show bang when the show starts, or leave a few seconds before to beat the crowds.

Go early, wait late.

There’s always lots of fun to experience.

15 odd minutes before the Clyde and Seamour show and Azul begins, get ready to roll in the aisles with laughter.

Right after the Pets Ahoy show ends, be prepared to get spoiled with some furry love!

(No spoilers here!!) Wait after the One Ocean show to speak to the trainers or even experience a feeding session underway.

19. Look out for surprise character appearances: 

Characters appear throughout the Park without notice.

Kids can take photographs with Shamu (most often at the entrance of the Park, during the holidays) and the Sesame Street gang (most often right before/after a show at the Bay Of Play Area).

Meeting the much-loved Sesame Street characters is always such a treat for younger visitors who’re crazy about Elmo and his friends.

What’s great is you don’t have to pay extra to watch them on stage or take pictures with them one-on-one!

20. Get a waterproof, air-tight pouch to wear around your neck: 

“This keeps important things like ID’s, annual passes waterproof and when around your neck it’s easy reach.

So if you swim or are in the pools you can keep it on you.

I wouldn’t recommend this for small children though. 

You can get this at Aquatica in that main storefront when you walk in but can also get these at Walmart.” – Heather Vanderwaal (Dallas Single Mom)

21. Store those valuables safely:  

Stash your valuables in a locker just inside SeaWorld’s Main Entrance and in Aquatica. (You can reserve the same while entering the Park) Coin-operated lockers are also available near rides. 

Or “wrap your valuables (cell phone, credit card) inside a clean diaper. It looks like a dirty diaper when wrapped up and nobody steals it from your bag!” – Anonymous.

What a fantastic idea!

22. Out of juice?:  

Look for the Relax and Recharge Station to power up those dying electronic devices you bring to the Park.

I’ve also charged my phone in the Nursing Station and at Penguin Cove!

Another option is to make sure you pack that trustworthy portable battery pack.

23. Don’t hesitate to bring your family member with disabilities to the Park. SeaWorld is ADA compliant:

My friend Wendy shares 10 reasons why you should take your special needs child to SeaWorld. 

This is worth a read!

24. Educate your child on what to do if they get separated from you:

A child going missing can happen to any of us! My son went missing at Disney, so I know firsthand how gut-wrenching those moments when we couldn’t see him were.

“For older children – establish a meeting place if anyone gets lost. For younger children, write your cell number with a sharpie on their hands or have identification bracelets with it.

Also, point out SeaWorld employee’s uniforms so children can identify official employees.” – Tori Johnson (The sTORIbook)

“If you lose a child, tell a SeaWorld employee immediately.

They can help you find the child quickly by alerting everyone in radio distance to join the search.

Don’t be embarrassed to ask, team members have been trained in this and are happy to help. ” – Kami Huyse (Zoetica)

“Take photos of your kids before you enter the park on your cameras and cell phone, if you are separated you have a photo of what they are wearing and you can immediately share it with park employees & security.

From personal experience, when you can’t find your child, remembering the exact color of their shorts, their shoes etc., can be hard to recall.’- Kristin Barclay (In Deep H2O)

25. Crazy about rides? Grab a Quick Queue pass to skip ahead in the line.

Lines for popular rides can be pretty long especially on busy days at the park.

A Quick Queue pass helps you get unlimited, priority front-of-line entrance on the following rides: The Steel Eel Roller Coaster, The Great White Roller Coaster, Wave Breaker: The Rescue Coaster, Sea Swinger, Riptide Rescue, Abby’s Rockin’ Wave, Grover’s Round-Up and Super Grover’s Box Car Derby.

If rides are a big focus of your park visit then this pass is worth every buck spent. Book this online, under the “Add-ons” tab, on the site.

What sea world san antonio tips do you have to add?