Sea World San Diego is one of three Sea World parks in North America.  This park features marine animals, several rides, shows and dining options.

Right now (March 2012) you can purchase a 7 day ticket for the price of a one day ticket.  The price is $73.00 per adult and $65.00 per child through age 9.  Like Disneyland, Sea World considers a 10-year-old to be an adult.

There are several rides at Sea World and for those who have been to Disneyland as many times as I have, I will let you know the similar ride in Disneyland so you know what to expect before getting to Sea World San Diego.

Riptide Rescue - since I have not been on it I can't tell you what it is like but it is a flying attraction.  Based on the name I am guessing it is not a gentle flight but one full of adventure, similar to the old fair staple the Spider.

Journey to Atlantis is a boat ride and you may get wet.  It will tell the story of Atlantis.  This reminds me of Splash Mountain style rides.  Since Atlantis is at the bottom of the sea you have to go down sometime!  This is one of the three Quick Queue attractions.

Shipwreck Rapids is a water ride similar to Kali River Rapids or Grizzly River Run at Disney's California Adventure.  Your ride vehicle is the same style.  This is one of the three Quick Queue attractions.

Wild Arctic Ride is a simulator ride.  Disneyland's simulator ride is Star Tours.  Universal Studios has several.  These rides tend to cause motion sickness for some.  They can be quite jerky as well.  This is one of the three Quick Queue attractions.

Skytower is an attraction that will take you up high for some great views, and gently bring you back down to solid earth.

Bayside Sky Ride is a six minute sky ride over the Bay.  People say it is fantastic during the sunset.  I expect it is a beautiful ride no matter when you go.

Manta is the parks lone roller coaster.

Elmo's Flying Fish is like Dumbo, Astro Orbitor and other similar flying rides.  It is very gentle for the younger guests.

Abby's Sea Star Spin is Sea World's version of the Tea Cups at Disneyland.  There is even a wheel so you can spin it yourself.

Quick Queue, which is offered on just three rides is a front of the line pass.  This pass costs $24.95 each, or you can do the premium Quick Queue for $34.95 and it will include preferred seating and/or entry into shows.  On a hot summer day the quick queue could be a lifesaver giving you front of the line abilities on the two water rides.

Sea World San Diego also has several dining options, including Dining with Shamu $39.00 each, breakfast with Shamu $26.00 each or the Dine all Day Deal.  This deal allows you to eat at Shipwreck Reef Cafe, Calypso Bay, Mama Stella's Pizza and the Seaport Market.  Each time through the line you can order an entree, a side OR a dessert, and a non alcoholic drink.  It is an all you can eat program so if you are starving you can go through the line twice and get the same deal.  The price for this is $29.99 per adult and $14.99 per child aged 3 through 9.  You will be given a wristband which must be worn all day.  You can not use this pass at any of the carts or other restaurants, and can't use it to Dine with Shamu.

Sea World also has many animal encounters.  You can get up close with the dolphins, whales or penguins for example.  Each of these tours will cost you, depending on the tour.  For example the penguin experience is a one hour tour, and you do get to meet a penguin.  This tour is $42.00 per person.  The dolphin and whale experiences are more expensive than the penguin experience.

Since Sea World is only an hour or so away from Disneyland, this is an easy side trip you can make while visiting southern California.  And like Disneyland, this park isn't all about the rides.  While Disneyland is about the total experience, Sea World is mostly known for the sea life shows.  The dolphin and whale shows have full crowds consistently and are worth seeing.  So enjoy your day(s) at Sea World California, and say hi to Shamu for me!