Thursday, May 7, 2026

SeaWorld San Diego Unveils a Blockbuster Summer with All-New Nighttime Animal Experiences, First Ever Drone Show, Fan Favorite Concert Series, and the Debut of Shark Encounter!

Kicking off May 22, SeaWorld San Diego unveils its best summer line up ever during Summer Spectacular with a vibrant slate of day‑into‑night excitement, including the debut of new nighttime animal experiences featuring orcas, dolphins, and sea lions; a show‑stopping drone spectacular; the grand opening of Shark Encounter and launch of Dolphin Adventures; the return of its highly anticipated summer concert series headlined by top artists from 90s and early‑2000s hip hop and R&B, and more.


“This summer marks the most exciting season in our park’s history, as we introduce an incredible lineup of new experiences—from our immersive nighttime animal presentations and first ever drone show to the debut of Shark Encounter and the return of our fan-favorite concert series,” said Tyler Carter, SeaWorld San Diego’s president.  “With extended hours, new attractions, and unforgettable entertainment from day to night, there’s never been a better time to visit SeaWorld San Diego.”

 

Summer Debuts on May 22:

  • ALL-NEW: Ocean of Dreams Drone Show – This groundbreaking 12-minute, immersive experience lights up the night sky with 600 fully synchronized drones set to a soaring soundtrack, celebrating the beauty of the ocean and its incredible marine life. Guests will be taken on a breathtaking journey beneath the waves, with vibrant aerial formations bringing to life animals like dolphins, sea otters, sharks and a majestic orca, all culminating in a dazzling neon finale inspired by ocean conservation and wonder.
  • ALL-NEW: Shark Encounter – Opening May 22, the all-new Shark Encounter invites guests face to face with jaw-dropping sharks from 11 remarkable species in a refreshed, interactive experience that journeys from sunlit shores to the depths of the ocean. Guests enter through a lush coastal scene filled with sharks and colorful fish, where they can observe sharks from above, explore educational displays, learn about conservation, and even participate in shark feeding. Deeper inside, the exhibit transforms into a breathtaking underwater world, where sharks glide overhead in an awe-inspiring 180-degree viewing experience.
  • ALL-NEW: Dolphin Adventures - Featuring fresh music, vibrant staging, and a cast of scene stealers—including dolphins, pilot whales, and the ever playful next generation of dolphins—this reimagined show bursts with personality from beginning to end. Guests can expect high‑energy moments, uplifting interactions, and unforgettable displays from some of the ocean’s most charismatic animals.
  • ALL-NEW: The Wonders of North American Wildlife! – This engaging and educational presentation highlights the incredible diversity of native wildlife across North America, comparing and contrasting species from different regions while sharing inspiring rescue and rehabilitation stories. Guests will gain a deeper appreciation for these animals and learn how conservation efforts help protect them in the wild.
  • ALL-NEW: Deep Sea Disco! – Dance the night away every night of summer under the glow of SkyTower lights as the Rhythm of the Reef dancers bring high-energy fun to the ocean floor. Guests can join in as dancers teach the coolest under-the-sea moves, building up an exciting, can’t-miss finale performance that keeps the party going all night long.

 

ALL-NEW Nighttime Animal Experiences 

Beginning June 12, this summer introduces three all-new nighttime animal presentations, blending fun, education, and energy:

  • ALL-NEW: Shamu Celebration: Light Up The Nightshowcases the power, beauty, and grace of killer whales in a way that captivates audiences of all ages and inspires them to take an interest in wildlife and conservation.
  • ALL-NEW: Dolphins: Touch the Skyfeaturing playful bottlenose dolphins, inspiring storytelling, and an energetic soundtrack that celebrates the connection between humans and the natural world. 
  • ALL-NEW: Sea Lions Tonitelaunched in spring and continues to bring even more laughs, personality, and fast-paced comedy as SeaWorld’s beloved sea lions take center stage with all-new surprises. 

 

Returning Fan-Favorites

  • BMX Blast! Powered by BODYARMOR Stunt Show – BMX Blast! is a high-energy stunt show celebrating the history of extreme sports in Southern California. Sing along as a live band cranks out the pop-punk hits of the late nineties while world class stunt riders showcase tail whips, bar spins and back flips. Guests won’t want to miss these big tunes, big ramps and big air! 
  • Pirates Ahoy! The Battle for Mermaid Cove – The sword-swinging pirates make their grand return for an even more action-packed escapade this summer. Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas with this spectacular water stunt, Pirates Ahoy! Watch as daring pirates battle against mesmerizing mermaids in a thrilling display of water stunts and acrobatics. This action-packed stunt show will have guests on the edge of their seats and fully immersed in the alluring world of mermaids and pirates.

 

2026 SeaWorld Summer Spectacular Concert Series

The 2026 Summer Concert Series takes place every Saturday (except July 4) from June 6 to August 29 at 6 pm for an unforgettable musical journey featuring R&B, hip-hop and rap hits from the '90s and early 2000s. With the bay's scenic views as a stunning backdrop, this is the ultimate spot to move to the sounds that defined a generation. Musical performances include:

 

  • Saturday, June 6 – Ying Yang Twins
  • Saturday, June 13 - Ginuwine
  • Saturday, June 20 - Bow Wow & Dem Franchize Boyz
  • Saturday, June 27 - Pop 2000 Tour
  • Saturday, July 11 - E-40
  • Saturday, July 18 - Ashanti
  • Saturday, July 25 - Soulja Boy & Paul Wall
  • Saturday, August 1 - Jordin Sparks
  • Saturday, August 8 - Too $hort & Warren G
  • Saturday, August 15 - Saliva
  • Saturday, August 22 - Uncle Kracker
  • Saturday, August 29 - Skillet

 

All concerts are included with park admission and those looking to secure a great seat can opt to purchase reserved seating in advance. Reserved seating can be purchased at https://seaworld.com/san-diego/events/concert-series/.

 

Unlimited Visits and Unlimited Summer Fun with an Annual Pass

The best way to play and experience all the Summer Spectacular concerts, entertainment and fun is with an Annual Pass. Pass Members receive unlimited visits for a year with benefits including special savings on merchandise, Quick Queue, reserved seating and more.

 

For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit www.seaworldsandiego.com. Follow SeaWorld on Facebook and Instagram for the latest Summer Spectacular details and information.

 

About SeaWorld

SeaWorld is a leading marine life theme park and accredited zoo and aquarium that provides experiences that matter while educating and inspiring guests of all ages to care about marine life. Welcoming millions of guests every year, the parks offer fun and enriching experiences from up-close animal encounters and year-round educational programs to award-winning marine-life themed rides and attractions, special events and exciting entertainment. For more than 60 years SeaWorld has advanced the conservation of marine life in and outside its parks through science, education, and exceptional animal care that is Humane Certified by American Humane and accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. SeaWorld is one of the largest marine animal rescue organizations in the world, helping more than 42,000 animals to date. The SeaWorld Conservation Fund, a non-profit foundation established in 2003, has provided more than $20 million to nearly 1,400 organizations to advance critical research on every continent. A portion of park proceeds goes toward supporting these longstanding conservation commitments. SeaWorld parks are in Orlando, San Antonio, San Diego and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). SeaWorld is part of the United Parks & Resorts (NYSE: PRKS) portfolio of theme park brands. For more information, visit us at SeaWorld.com.

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