Stearns Wharf: A Santa Barbara Icon

Experience California's oldest working wharf, offering stunning ocean views, diverse shops, fresh seafood, and family-friendly attractions in the heart of Santa Barbara's waterfront.

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Stearns Wharf, California's oldest working wharf, extends Santa Barbara's vibrant State Street into the Pacific. Built in 1872 by John P. Stearns, it transitioned from a vital shipping hub to a beloved tourist destination. Today, visitors stroll its wooden planks, enjoying stunning ocean views, diverse shops, and fresh seafood restaurants. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center offers interactive marine exhibits, while wine tasting rooms provide a taste of local vintages with panoramic vistas. Whether fishing off the pier, browsing unique boutiques, or simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere, Stearns Wharf offers a classic California experience for all ages. Don't miss the chance to capture a memorable sunset from this historic landmark.

A brief summary to Pier Santa Barbara

144-152 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, Waterfront, California, 93101, US
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Local tips

Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking on the wharf, as spaces fill up quickly.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the wharf's wooden planks can be uneven and challenging to navigate in heels.
Check the event calendar for festivals, concerts, and other special events that take place on the wharf throughout the year.
Bring a jacket or sweater, as the ocean breeze can be cool, even on warm days.
Take advantage of the free fishing opportunities, with bait and tackle available for purchase on the wharf.

Getting There

Walking

From the intersection of State Street and Cabrillo Boulevard, simply walk towards the ocean. Stearns Wharf extends directly out from the end of State Street. The Dolphin Fountain marks the entrance. It's a pleasant stroll, approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on your pace. Be mindful of vehicle traffic as you approach the wharf entrance.
Public Transport

Santa Barbara MTD's Downtown-Waterfront Shuttle provides convenient access to Stearns Wharf. The shuttle operates frequently, with stops along State Street and Cabrillo Boulevard. Check the MTD website or app for the most up-to-date schedule and route information. The fare is $0.50 per ride, or $0.25 for seniors and people with disabilities. A $1 day pass offers unlimited rides. Get off at the Cabrillo Boulevard and State Street stop, and walk towards the ocean to reach the wharf entrance.
Driving

From Highway 101, exit onto State Street and head towards the ocean. As you approach the waterfront, follow signs for Stearns Wharf. You can drive directly onto the wharf and park in one of the designated parking spaces. Parking is free for the first 90 minutes, after which it costs $3.00 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $30. Alternatively, you can find parking in nearby lots along Cabrillo Boulevard, such as the Garden Street Lot, for $2.50 per hour with a $15 maximum per day. Keep in mind that parking on the wharf can be limited, especially during peak season.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Request a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to Stearns Wharf. Most drivers will be familiar with the location. The drop-off point is typically at the entrance of the wharf, near the Dolphin Fountain. A short ride from downtown Santa Barbara will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and distance.

Discover more about Pier Santa Barbara

Stearns Wharf, a prominent landmark in Santa Barbara, California, holds the distinction of being the oldest working wooden wharf in the state. Completed in 1872, it was the vision of local lumberman John P. Stearns, who sought to create a vital link between the city and the sea. Before its construction, passengers and cargo had to be ferried ashore through treacherous breakers and kelp beds, making Stearns Wharf a significant improvement for the region's maritime commerce. For over a quarter of a century, Stearns Wharf served as a bustling hub for passenger and freight shipping, playing a crucial role in connecting Santa Barbara to the outside world. The wharf's strategic location at the end of State Street made it a natural gateway for goods and people arriving by sea. In its early days, the wharf even featured a railroad spur, facilitating the efficient transfer of lumber from ships to the nearby Southern Pacific Depot. However, the wharf's history has not been without its challenges. Severe storms and fires have tested its resilience throughout the years. In 1878, a devastating storm caused significant damage, and in 1973, a fire destroyed the Harbor Restaurant, leading to the wharf's closure for extensive renovations. Despite these setbacks, Stearns Wharf has consistently been rebuilt and restored, a testament to its enduring importance to the community. Today, Stearns Wharf stands as Santa Barbara's most visited landmark, attracting locals and tourists alike. Its transformation from an industrial hub to a vibrant recreational and commercial center reflects the changing needs and priorities of the city. The wharf offers a diverse array of attractions and activities, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit. As you stroll along the wharf's 2,300-foot length, you'll be greeted by stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Barbara coastline, and the Channel Islands. The salty air, the sound of crashing waves, and the sight of seagulls soaring overhead create an immersive sensory experience that captures the essence of the California coast. The wharf is home to a variety of unique shops, offering everything from souvenirs and clothing to seashells and artwork. Mother Stearns Candy Company entices visitors with its vast selection of old-fashioned candies, while Nature's Own Gallery showcases an impressive collection of shells, minerals, and fossils. For those seeking a taste of local wines, the Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room provides a picturesque setting to sample Conway Family Wines while enjoying 360-degree views of the harbor and coastline. Stearns Wharf is also a culinary destination, boasting a range of restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. Santa Barbara Shellfish Company is a must-visit for seafood lovers, serving up fresh catches like Alaskan King Crab, lobster rolls, and steamed mussels. The Harbor Restaurant offers a more upscale dining experience, with international dishes featuring local ingredients and stunning ocean views. For casual fare, Char West serves up char-burgers and fish and chips, while Longboard's Beach Bar and Grill provides a relaxed atmosphere with oceanfront views. For families, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center offers an engaging and educational experience. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to learn about the fascinating creatures that inhabit the waters beneath the wharf, with opportunities to encounter sharks, rays, sea stars, and other marine animals. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines off the pier, with Stearns Wharf Bait & Tackle providing all the necessary supplies and advice. No fishing license is required, making it an accessible activity for visitors of all ages. Beyond its commercial and recreational offerings, Stearns Wharf also holds historical significance. The Dolphin Fountain, sculpted by local artist Bud Bottoms, marks the entrance to the wharf and serves as a welcoming symbol for visitors from around the world. Madame Rosinka, a palm reader who has been a fixture on the wharf since 1951, adds a touch of mystique and intrigue to the experience. Whether you're seeking stunning views, delicious food, unique shopping, or a glimpse into Santa Barbara's maritime past, Stearns Wharf offers a quintessential California experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. From its humble beginnings as a lumberman's dream to its current status as a beloved landmark, Stearns Wharf continues to evolve and adapt while retaining its charm and character. As the sun sets over the Pacific, casting a golden glow on the wooden planks and the surrounding waters, Stearns Wharf transforms into a magical place. The twinkling lights, the gentle sea breeze, and the lively atmosphere create an unforgettable ambiance that captures the spirit of Santa Barbara. A visit to Stearns Wharf is not just a trip to a pier; it's an immersion into the heart and soul of this vibrant coastal city.

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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Syuxtun Story Circle

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Santa Barbara Trolley

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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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Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours

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Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk

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Casa Covarrubias

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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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Discover marine life and natural history at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, where education meets adventure on Stearns Wharf.

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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MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation

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Point Castillo

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The Funk Zone

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Shipwreck Playground

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Chase Palm Park

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Funk Zone Art Mural

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Moreton Bay Fig Tree

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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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Santa Barbara Wine Therapy

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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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Dargan's

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Press Room

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Stearns Wharf: A Santa Barbara Icon

A brief summary to Pier Santa Barbara

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Pier Santa Barbara

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Pier Santa Barbara

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Waterfront Santa Barbara

Funk Zone Studios

Veterans' Memorial Building

Syuxtun Story Circle

Santa Barbara Trolley

Burton Mound State Historical Landmark

Area 5.1 Winery

Fess Parker Funk Zone

Andalucia Building

Faith Mission

Hastings Adobe

Residential building

Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours

Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk

Casa Covarrubias

Unmissable attractions to see

Stearns Wharf

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center

217 Stearns Wharf

Eat This Shoot That!

Lil' Toot Santa Barbara

West Beach

Ambassador Park

State Street Visitor Center

MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation

Point Castillo

The Funk Zone

Shipwreck Playground

Chase Palm Park

Funk Zone Art Mural

Moreton Bay Fig Tree

Essential places to dine

Longboard's Grill

Moby Dick Restaurant

Santa Barbara Shellfish Company

Bluewater Grill

Santa Barbara FisHouse

Finney's Crafthouse - Santa Barbara

Blackbird

Santo Mezcal

Lucky Penny

The Lark Santa Barbara

The Nook Santa Barbara

Loquita Santa Barbara

Waterline

Toma Restaurant & Bar

Shalhoob's Funk Zone Patio

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Old Wharf Trading Co

Deep Blue Sea

Loveworn

Dylan Star Boutique

The Blue Door

The Shopkeepers

Stabiles Boutique

Jules by the Sea - FUNK ZONE

Asher Market

The Vintage Fox, Antiques & Gift Shoppe

Urban Outfitters

Arzoo’s woVen

Only In Santa Barbara

The Lotus Boutique

Antique Alley

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

STUDIO Bar & Soundroom

Brass Bear Brewing & Bistro