Stearns Wharf: Santa Barbara's Historic Seaside Hub
Discover California's oldest working wharf in Santa Barbara: dining, shopping, stunning views, and marine adventures await!
Stearns Wharf, California's oldest working wharf, has been a vibrant part of Santa Barbara since 1872. Extending into the Pacific, it offers dining, shopping, marine exploration, and stunning views, making it a must-visit landmark.
A brief summary to Stearns Wharf
- 217 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, Waterfront, California, 93101, US
- +1805-698-5600
- 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
- Arrive early to find convenient parking, especially during the summer months when tourist traffic is higher.
- Check the local event calendar for festivals or concerts happening on the wharf.
- Visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxed dining experience at the restaurants.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the coastline and marine life.
- Take advantage of the free fishing advice at Stearns Wharf Bait & Tackle.
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of State Street and Cabrillo Boulevard, walk towards the ocean. Stearns Wharf is located at the end of State Street, extending into the Pacific Ocean. The walk is approximately 500 feet and offers views of the harbor and beaches. There are no costs associated with walking onto the wharf.
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Public Transport
From downtown Santa Barbara, take the MTD bus route 1 or 2. Catch the bus at the nearest stop on State Street. The fare is $1.75 per ride. Get off at the Cabrillo Boulevard stop near State Street, and then walk towards the ocean to Stearns Wharf.
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Driving
From Highway 101, exit onto State Street and head towards the ocean. Turn left onto Cabrillo Boulevard and then turn right onto Stearns Wharf Road. Parking is available on the wharf, with the first 90 minutes free. After the free period, parking costs $3.00 per hour, with a maximum daily fee of $30. Valet parking is available courtesy of the Harbor Restaurant.
Discover more about Stearns Wharf
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterfront Santa Barbara
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Funk Zone Studios
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Veterans' Memorial Building
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Santa Barbara Trolley
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Syuxtun Story Circle
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Burton Mound State Historical Landmark
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Area 5.1 Winery
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Fess Parker Funk Zone
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Andalucia Building
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Faith Mission
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Hastings Adobe
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Residential building
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Casa Covarrubias
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Unmissable attractions to see
217 Stearns Wharf
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Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center
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Pier Santa Barbara
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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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MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
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Chase Palm Park
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Shipwreck Playground
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The Funk Zone
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Funk Zone Art Mural
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Moreton Bay Fig Tree
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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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Santa Barbara FisHouse
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Blackbird
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Finney's Crafthouse - Santa Barbara
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Santo Mezcal
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Lucky Penny
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The Lark Santa Barbara
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The Nook Santa Barbara
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Loquita Santa Barbara
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Waterline
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Toma Restaurant & Bar
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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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Dylan Star Boutique
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The Blue Door
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The Shopkeepers
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Asher Market
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The Vintage Fox, Antiques & Gift Shoppe
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Urban Outfitters
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Antique Alley
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
STUDIO Bar & Soundroom
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Brass Bear Brewing & Bistro
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Pearl Social Santa Barbara
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Test Pilot
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Rodeo Room
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Shaker Mill
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Whiskey Richards
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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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Dargan's
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Press Room
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