The SAP Center at San Jose has been nicknamed “The Shark Tank,” due to it being the home ice of the San Jose Sharks. Construction of the arena began in June of 1990 and was completed in September of 1993 for the 1993-94 NHL season. The Sharks are a member of the Pacific Division in the NHL’s Western Conference. The Sharks were founded in 1991 and although they have not won a Stanley Cup, they did advance to the finals in 2016. The Sharks start each home game at the SAP Center with a bit of flair, as the team skates onto the ice through a giant shark’s mouth.
How many seats are in SAP Center?
SAP Center seats more than 17,500 fans for Sharks hockey games. The seating bowl is arranged across the 100 and 200 levels, with suites and other premium areas around the building.
For current concessions and stand locations, see the SAP Center food guide.
Directions – How to get to SAP Center
SAP Center is at 525 West Santa Clara Street in San Jose. Drivers can approach from I-880, I-280, or State Route 87. Diridon Station is directly across from the arena and is served by Caltrain, ACE, Capitol Corridor, VTA light rail, and VTA buses. Bicycle parking is available around the building.
Where to Park near SAP Center?
There are more than 3,000 parking spaces within one-third of a mile, including about 1,500 spaces in the main on-site lot. Lots generally open two hours before an event. Prepaid parking is available, and the main lot can be entered from Santa Clara Street or Julian Street.
Other SAP Center FAQs
Who owns the SAP Center?
The City of San Jose owns SAP Center, and Sharks Sports & Entertainment operates it.
Are the San Jose Sharks moving?
No move is planned. In August 2025, the Sharks and the City of San Jose extended the team’s lease through the 2050-51 season and announced a long-term arena upgrade program.
What does SAP stand for in San Jose?
SAP is a German software company known for its ERP systems. SAP refers to Systems, Applications, and Products in Data Processing.
How old is SAP Center?
The SAP Center opened on September 7, 1993, after approximately three years of construction.
What is the bag policy at SAP Center?
Bags measuring 5 by 9 by 2 inches or smaller make entry faster. Larger bags up to 20 by 14 by 11 inches are allowed but must pass X-ray screening and fit under the seat. The arena does not provide a bag check or storage lockers.
Is SAP Center cashless?
SAP Center is nearly cashless. Most purchases require a card or mobile payment, and reverse ATMs near the north and south entrances can convert cash to a prepaid card. The ticket office still accepts cash.
What hockey teams play at the SAP Center?
The San Jose Sharks are SAP Center’s primary hockey tenant. The San Jose Barracuda now play at Tech CU Arena.
Sources
Fact-checked August 11, 2026.