SeaWorld San Diego Releases Rehabilitated Sea Lions On Camp Pendleton Beach

SAN DIEGO, CA — SeaWorld San Diego released two rehabilitated sea lions Friday on a beach in Camp Pendleton, marking the rescue team's first return of the year in San Diego County.

Both of the female California sea lions were rescued in December 2024.

The adult female was found tremoring in Solana Beach, while the then- 6-month-old pup was found emaciated and lethargic in Point Loma, according to Jeni Smith, a member of the rescue team.

"Returning these two animals has been super rewarding, getting a chance to see them run back into the ocean," Smith said. "They stuck together. We know that they are going to be successful out there, and that's the number one goal — to rescue, rehabilitate and return the animals."

The successful release of the rehabilitated sea lions marks the first of 2025 for the rescue team in the county. It also highlights the ongoing environmental conservation initiatives led by Camp Pendleton.

Camp Pendleton's training beaches, which are off-limits to the public, offer an "ideal undisturbed setting for the sea lions to safely return to their natural habitat," according to SeaWorld.