How about a story about a place that once echoed with the splash of orcas and the laughter of families? This is Sea-Aire Park. It stands on land rich with the memories of Marineland of the Pacific.
Marineland of the Pacific was not just an oceanarium. It was a mid-20th century California icon. William Pereira designed it. He also designed the Transamerica Pyramid and the Los Angeles International Airport.
Imagine Marineland in 1954. It opened one year before Disneyland and was the world’s largest oceanarium. People flocked to see the performing orcas. A 1974 tourist guide described killer whales leaping 18 feet to snatch fish from trainers. Dolphins jumped through fire-ringed hoops. Sea lions crooned tunes.
Orky and Corky called Marineland home. They were among the most famous orcas. Marineland also showcased the first pilot whales ever displayed Bubbles and Bimbo. Dolphins, sea lions, harbor seals, and sharks also lived here.
Marineland offered more than just animal shows. The Sky Tower lifted visitors 344 feet above the sea. Hourly boat tours explored the coastline. The Baja Reef was a unique swim-through aquarium. Snorkelers could swim with colorful fish and even sharks for seven minutes. In 1985, this cost $4 equivalent to about $10 today.
By 1979, a macaw show entertained audiences. Strolling cartoon characters roamed the park. A marine animal care center showed the work behind the scenes at Marineland.
But Marineland’s story took a turn. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich purchased it in 1986. The park was run down. Restoration plans were canceled. Yearly losses of $2 million loomed.
Orky and Corky were moved to SeaWorld San Diego. The city council tried to keep Marineland open. The company received bomb threats. Marineland closed suddenly on February 11, 1987. The owners poured concrete into the drains.
Much of Marineland was left abandoned for years. The 414-foot tower stood until 1995. The Marineland Restaurant, renamed the Catalina Room, operated until 2004.
In 1995, developer York Long Point bought the land for $24 million. Construction began in 2007 on a $450 million resort. The Terranea Resort opened in 2009.
Today, Terranea Resort pays homage to Marineland’s past. The Point Vicente Interpretive Center displays Marineland memorabilia. You can see a Save Marineland pin and publications. One of the original dolphin statues stands on display.
The Marineland of the Pacific Historical Society preserves the park’s history. They offer information to students, researchers, and fans.
Tod Perry launched a ten-hour podcast called “LA’s Own Marineland”. It covers the park’s 33-year history, abandonment, and the lives of the animals. It includes interviews with trainers and employees.
Marineland appeared in many TV shows and films. The Beverly Hillbillies, The Munsters, and Wonder Woman filmed here. After its closure, Pirates of the Caribbean and Charlie’s Angels used the location.
So, as you enjoy Sea-Aire Park, remember the magic that once filled this place. Marineland of the Pacific may be gone, but its legacy lives on.