SeaWorld San Diego will open its reimagined Shark Encounter on May 22, 2026. The refreshed attraction adds new multimedia, updated viewing areas, and a lineup of 11 shark species inside the park’s longtime shark habitat.
For guests, that means a more immersive walkthrough with above-water viewing, a tunnel section, and a new upcharge shark-feeding tour. Annual Pass Members will also get early access on select dates before the public opening.
What is changing
SeaWorld says the updated experience starts with a redesigned entrance that moves guests from a coastal setting into a deeper underwater environment. The park is adding enhanced visuals and multimedia throughout the attraction as part of the refresh.
What guests will see
The park says Shark Encounter will feature 11 species, including sand tiger sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and endangered Australian leopard sharks. Signature spaces include an above-water viewing area, a moving walkway through a shark tunnel, and a floor-to-ceiling viewing window paired with LED media.
New up-close add-on
SeaWorld is also introducing the Shark Up Close Experience, a separately purchased tour that includes a behind-the-scenes look at animal care and a chance to safely feed sharks from above the habitat. The park calls it the only shark-feeding experience of its kind in Southern California.
What to know before you go
SeaWorld says Pass Members will receive preview access on select dates before the May 22 opening, although the park has not yet listed those dates on the public attraction page. If you are planning a summer visit, May 22 is the key date to watch, and Pass Members should keep an eye on SeaWorld’s booking details for preview access and the Shark Up Close add-on.
Source: SeaWorld San Diego
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