Stearns Wharf: A Santa Barbara Landmark
Experience California's oldest working wharf in Santa Barbara: Stearns Wharf, offering dining, shopping, and stunning ocean views since 1872.
Stearns Wharf, California's oldest working wooden wharf, has been a vibrant part of Santa Barbara since 1872. Extending into the Pacific, it offers shops, restaurants, stunning views, and a glimpse into the area's maritime past.
A brief summary to Pier Santa Barbara
- 144-152 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, Waterfront, California, 93101, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Take a stroll to the end of the wharf for panoramic views of Santa Barbara and the Channel Islands.
- Visit the Sea Center to discover local marine life through interactive exhibits.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the wharf's restaurants, many offering oceanfront dining.
- Check out Stearns Wharf Bait & Tackle for fishing gear and advice; no fishing license needed on the wharf.
- Consider taking the Lil' Toot water taxi for a fun ride between the harbor and Stearns Wharf.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Santa Barbara, walk towards the ocean on State Street. State Street ends at Cabrillo Boulevard, cross the street and you will see the Dolphin Fountain marking the entrance to Stearns Wharf. The walk is approximately 5 minutes from downtown.
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Public Transport
The MTD Downtown-Waterfront Shuttle and the State Street Loop offer convenient service to Stearns Wharf. The MTD Shuttle operates Friday through Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM, with a one-way fare of $0.50. The State Street Loop, featuring electric golf carts, runs between the Dolphin Fountain at Stearns Wharf and Victoria Street, operating Thursday through Sunday from noon to 7 PM. Alternatively, from Santa Barbara Airport, the Line 11 bus goes directly to the Transit Center, with hourly departures; from there it is a short walk to Stearns Wharf. The bus costs $1-2.
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Driving
From Highway 101, exit at Garden Street and head south towards the ocean. Turn right onto Cabrillo Boulevard, and the entrance to Stearns Wharf will be on your left. Parking is available on the wharf. The first 90 minutes are free, after which it costs $3.00 per hour, with a daily maximum of $30.00. Alternatively, parking is available in nearby lots along Cabrillo Boulevard, such as the Garden Street lot, for $2.50 per hour with a daily maximum of $15.00.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Funk Zone Studios
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Veterans' Memorial Building
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Unmissable attractions to see
Stearns Wharf
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Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center
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217 Stearns Wharf
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Eat This Shoot That!
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Lil' Toot Santa Barbara
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West Beach
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Ambassador Park
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State Street Visitor Center
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Point Castillo
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The Funk Zone
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Essential places to dine
Longboard's Grill
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Moby Dick Restaurant
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Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
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Bluewater Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Old Wharf Trading Co
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Deep Blue Sea
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Loveworn
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