Hello!
I'm going to Sea World this weekend(Mat 20-22). I'm not sure what there is to do there first off so any suggestions would be great. I'm also a big fan of animal photography so I was wondering if a point and shoot would be enough or if I should pack my SLR. What do you think. We're staying at Coronado so any suggestions of things to try there would be nice. Thanks

Get yourself a schedule of events when you arrive and find out what times the shows begin. Then you can schedule your time in the park around which shows you want to see, and when you want to see them.

sea world is great, if you don't mind average pictures, you may not want to lug your slr around all day, they can get heavy.

coronado is nice, you can also go to tide pools near by...

balboa park, usually something going on there. san diego is really nice, do dinner in old town, or the gas light district

i think the shamu show is great. i always encourage people to go see the first show of the day. then, you can go back again for the afternoon show.

If you want incredible animal shots, I suggest you get the Breakfast or Dinner With Shamu. I did the Dinner and it was great! The whales come thisclose to you. I got sime great shots with my simple 35mm. Plus the dinner (buffet style) is actually pretty good. But I suggest you book it the moment you get in the park. Or better yet, reserve it online.

Be aware that if you're not careful where you sit, you and your camera will get wet! Lots of splashing at Seaworld.

Don't miss seeing the penguins and also the Polar Bears (Wild Arctic) in their exhibits. 2 of my favorites. Also the shark exhibit is great.

There's a building (Anheiser Bush, I think it is called) which gives you 2 free tastes of beer. You can also buy sandwiches there.

Shamu came right up on our railing while eating. We got soaked. Food was a surprise, as I didn't expect it to be anything but steam table food. It was better. I highly suggest the lunch or dinner with children, or if trying to take photos.