Santa Barbara Harbor: A Waterfront Gem
Explore Santa Barbara Harbor: a historic waterfront with boat tours, dining, maritime museum, and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Santa Barbara Harbor, established in 1929, is a vibrant hub where the city meets the Pacific Ocean. Home to recreational boaters, fishermen, and tourists, the harbor offers stunning views, diverse activities, and a taste of Santa Barbara's maritime history. Enjoy waterfront dining, explore the Maritime Museum, or set sail on a sunset cruise.
A brief summary to Santa Barbara Harbor
- 132-A Harbor Way, Santa Barbara, Waterfront, California, 93109, US
- +1805-564-5531
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7 am-6 pm
- Friday 7 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early for the Saturday Fisherman's Market to get the freshest seafood and avoid crowds.
- Take advantage of the free 90-minute parking spots around the harbor for short visits.
- Visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum to learn about the area's nautical history and see fascinating exhibits.
- Stroll along the breakwater at sunset for stunning views of the harbor and coastline.
- Consider taking the Lil' Toot water taxi to Stearns Wharf for a fun and scenic way to travel between the two landmarks.
Getting There
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Walking
From Stearns Wharf, walk west along Cabrillo Boulevard, enjoying the ocean views. Turn left onto Harbor Way. The harbor is a short walk, approximately 5-10 minutes, and is easily accessible. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
From downtown Santa Barbara, take the MTD Downtown-Waterfront Shuttle. The shuttle runs frequently and stops at various points along State Street and Cabrillo Boulevard. Get off at a stop near the harbor. The fare is $0.50 per ride, or $0.25 for seniors and people with disabilities. A day pass is available for $1. Alternatively, the State Street Loop offers free rides from Cabrillo Boulevard and the Waterfront to Victoria Street.
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Driving
From Highway 101, exit onto Castillo Street and head towards the ocean. Turn left onto Cabrillo Boulevard and then right onto Harbor Way. Follow Harbor Way to the main harbor area. Parking is available in the city's public parking lot at the harbor. Parking costs $3.50 per hour, with a daily maximum of $20. Free 90-minute parking is available in designated spots around the harbor.
Discover more about Santa Barbara Harbor
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Syuxtun Story Circle
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Burton Mound State Historical Landmark
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Veterans' Memorial Building
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A historic waterfront landmark honoring veterans and serving as a vibrant community hub in Santa Barbara, hosting events and offering stunning ocean views.
Waterfront Santa Barbara
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Hastings Adobe
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Funk Zone Studios
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Area 5.1 Winery
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Santa Barbara Trolley
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Andalucia Building
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Fess Parker Funk Zone
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Faith Mission
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Residential building
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De La Guerra Plaza
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Paseo de la Guerra
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El Paseo "Street in Spain"
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Unmissable attractions to see
Paddle Sports Center
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I Bike Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours
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Free Walking Tour Santa Barbara
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Outdoors Santa Barbara Visitor Center
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Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
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Point Castillo
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Leadbetter Beach
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Old Spanish Days Carriage
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Santa Barbara Carriage and Western Art Museum
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Ambassador Park
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West Beach
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Fernald Mansion
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Lil' Toot Santa Barbara
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Pier Santa Barbara
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Eat This Shoot That!
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Essential places to dine
On The Alley
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Brophy Bros.
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Breakwater Restaurant
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Shoreline Beach Cafe
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Toma Restaurant & Bar
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Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
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Moby Dick Restaurant
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Longboard's Grill
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Finney's Crafthouse - Santa Barbara
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Bluewater Grill
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Santo Mezcal
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Blackbird
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Loquita Santa Barbara
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Santa Barbara FisHouse
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The Lark Santa Barbara
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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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The Blue Door
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The Shopkeepers
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Dylan Star Boutique
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Stabiles Boutique
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Jules by the Sea - FUNK ZONE
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The Vintage Fox, Antiques & Gift Shoppe
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Asher Market
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The Lotus Boutique
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Arzoo’s woVen
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Urban Outfitters
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Only In Santa Barbara
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Antique Alley
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rodeo Room
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Pearl Social Santa Barbara
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Test Pilot
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STUDIO Bar & Soundroom
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Brass Bear Brewing & Bistro
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Shaker Mill
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Santa Barbara Wine Therapy
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Whiskey Richards
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Unbearable Skee Lodge
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O'Malleys Bar
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Dusk Bar
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Old Kings Road
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The Bobcat Room
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Elsies Tavern
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Dargan's
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