San Diego Fun

Sea World Aquatica

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An Out-and-About Idea

Aquatica is the new water park that Sea World now owns. It used to be Soak City, but know is owned andĀ operated by Sea World. It’s a great place to take kids who want to get wet, ride slides, and have fun. The cost is $38 for adults and $30 for kids for day passes. Parking is $15. I work here over the summer and everyone hasĀ a great time! Here are a few thoughts to consider:

-The rides are not new, but they are repainted and the names are different. The layout is exactly like Soak City, but Sea World did some landscaping and added lots of trees and made it feel more tropical.

-There are live flamingoes and fresh water turtles on display and a trainer walks around with a hawk (to keep the seagulls away) that guests can actually touch if they ask!!

-Aquatica is best for any child that can walk on their own. There is an exhibit made especially for children under 48 inches – it’s a little island with some slides.

-I think kids that are taller than 48 inches will have the most fun because they will not be required to wear a life jacket and can get on all the rides. Children 42 inches and up have to wear a life jacket and there are some rides they will not be able to go on, but they would still have a ball!

-If the lines are not that long, one could do all the slides, lazy river, and spend time in the wave pool in a couple of hours (roughly 3 or 4). But that lazy river can suck some hours up fast!

-Sea World is all about costumer service, so there are 2 places to eat (tropical bbq and a pizza/hamburger type place), lots of little venders, and they even have a booth for beers and margaritas.  The prices are a little high, but its just like going to Sea World.

-Lockers are available for rent and one can even rent a Cabana- their own private, closed-in little area complete with a table, 4 chairs, and a small refrigerator. One can place food orders and have it delivered right to their cabana too!

-The water isn’t heated very high. It will be brisk when you first step into it, but you get used to it quickly. Its really the wind thats cold! Around 3 or 4pm, the water gets warmer because of the sun. But its not frigid my any means.

-Guests under 42 inches are required to wear a life vest if they’re in the water. Guests 42-48 inches will have to wear life vests on many of the rides. Guests over 48 inches can choose to/not to wear vests. Complimentary vests are available.

-There are no age restrictions, only height restrictions.

I think Aquatica is better than Soak City because of the way it looks and the staff (lifeguards and concession workers) are all excited and happy to be there. Personally, I think that makes a big difference. It’s a great place to take the family!

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Amy Gray

Owner of Sitterwise and San Diego beach photographer. Amy has been connecting families with trusted caregivers since 2005.

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