The SeaWorld San Diego Shark Encounter features 11 species and a moving walkway tunnel. Discover the only shark feeding experience on the West Coast.
SeaWorld San Diego is diving deep into the world of apex predators this season. The park has officially announced that Shark Encounter, an all-new immersive experience, is scheduled to open to the public on May 22. This revamped underwater adventure aims to combine state-of-the-art multimedia with up-close animal sightings to dispel common myths about these creatures. From the sand tiger shark to the endangered Australian leopard shark, guests can explore a 180-degree underwater world featuring 11 species.
What to Expect Inside Shark Encounter
The journey begins at a coastal beach scene, where guests view sharks from the surface. As you move deeper into the exhibit, the environment shifts into “underwater caverns.” The highlight for many will be the shark tunnel, a moving walkway that transports visitors through a transparent passage.
The experience concludes at a massive floor-to-ceiling glass wall. This area is enhanced by dynamic LED multimedia technology designed to tell the story of shark conservation in a way that is both visually stunning and educational.
Exclusive Opportunities and Pass Member Perks
For those looking for more than just a walk-through, SeaWorld is offering the Shark Up Close Experience. This is currently the only opportunity on the West Coast where guests can safely feed a variety of large shark species right over the water while learning about their care from zoological experts. SeaWorld Pass Members will be among the first to see the new exhibit, with exclusive early-access dates scheduled before the May 22 grand opening.
SeaWorld San Diego Shark Encounter: A Mission of Conservation
Beyond the thrills, the exhibit serves as a platform for marine advocacy. “The all-new Shark Encounter is an awe-inspiring experience that brings guests face-to-face with some of the ocean’s most powerful and misunderstood predators,” said Tyler Carter, SeaWorld San Diego park president. “From above-water viewing to the immersive shark tunnel, this dynamic habitat offers a deeper appreciation for these incredible animals while reinforcing our commitment to marine education, conservation, and inspiring the next generation of ocean advocates.”
Danielle Castillo, zoological curator of aquariums, added, “Sharks play a vital role in maintaining the health and balance of our ocean ecosystems, yet many species face growing threats in the wild. Through engaging encounters and up-close viewing opportunities, Shark Encounter allows guests to better understand shark biology, behavior, their importance as apex predators, and the actions we can all take to help protect them and the oceans they call home.” The opening comes on the heels of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) granting SeaWorld San Diego full accreditation. just like SeaWorld Orlando earned, specifically noting the excellence of the shark animal care teams.
SeaWorld San Diego Shark Encounter: Plan Your Summer Visit
To celebrate the SeaWorld San Diego Shark Encounter launch, SeaWorld is offering advance purchase tickets starting at $65.99 (available through May 10 for visits through August 31). Annual Passes are also available for as low as $11/month, offering unlimited visits and no blockout dates for upcoming events like Viva La Música and the Summer Spectacular. For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit www.seaworldsandiego.com.
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego remains a premier marine destination, blending high-speed thrills with deep conservation roots. Thrill-seekers can also enjoy the newly reimagined Journey to Atlantis 2.0, which now features enhanced projection mapping and water effects.
Beyond the coasters like Arctic Rescue and Emperor, guests can explore Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience or attend the Seven Seas Food Festival. SeaWorld continues to lead in education, sharing the stories of over 42,000 rescues while offering world-class presentations like the all-new Dolphin Adventures and Sea Lions Tonite.
For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News.
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