Do I need a touring plan for SeaWorld in August?

[BriannaRuth]

Taking a one-day trip to SeaWorld San Diego, will be there on a Friday in late August. For my Disneyland trip, I bought touringplans, plus ridemax, plus I've read every post on the board about how to do what -- down to which way to turn if the line splits off! I am well-prepared!

Do I need a touring plan for SeaWorld, other than getting there at park opening? I've looked here but am not finding much on a specific touring plan ala Disneyland. I have found that I need to get there early for the shows, but is there anything else I need to be aware of?

Sorry if I've missed something already posted -- this particular board is not super-organized!

Thanks!

 

[skiingfast]

The main things is there are only a handful of rides, and these can get big lines. A couple of the rides are water rides so you won't want to ride them early or at night. The shows have big cycles with long breaks between.

What I would suggest is riding Manta first, it's a new coaster and gets a long line. While it may seem intuitive to want to see Shamu, the other orcas and the dolphin show, don't forget Pets Rule, or the Sea Lions. Try to see Sea Lions Tonight because IMO and others it's the best show they have, fun for everyone.

The other exhibits are walk throughs so do them midday when crowds are bigger and when you are between shows.