Santa Barbara Pier: Stearns Wharf Santa Barbara

The Santa Barbara Pier is a “must-see” for visitors. Built in 1872, Stearns Wharf Santa Barbara is California’s oldest working wharf. It’s one of the best places to capture an amazing view of the area.

It’s a small pier, but you’ll find lots of things to do on the wharf.

Possibilities include:

• Enjoy a meal overlooking the ocean.
• Visit the Ty Warner Sea Center, a marine education center .
• Fish from the end of the pier.
• Take a cruise or the water taxi, which shuttles back and forth to the harbor
• Shop for souveners
• Have your fortune told.
• Watch the marine life.
• Watch an outdoor movie: Friday Night Movies at the Wharf – August & September

Parking can be a challenge on the weekends. Street parking in the area is free. You can park on the pier itself. The first 90 minutes is free with validation.

The area around the wharf is a happening place as well. Spend some time exploring Cabrillo Blvd. Relax on one of the nearby beaches or take a walk.

Near the entrance, browse the Arts & Craft Show held on Sundays from 10AM until dusk. I always love the eclectic variety of arts and crafts for sale by local artists and craftspeople. Perhaps you’ll discover an irresistible find!

Just east of the wharf is Skaters Point. This popular skateboard park is operated by the City of Santa Barbara.

It’s a great place to experience bowl riding and street skating in a safe and fun environment. It’s free to participate and interesting for observers, too.

The Cabrillo Bike Path runs along the area as well. You can rent a bike or surrey and enjoy a ride along the beach.

The bike path is actually the boardwalk with both bikers and walkers sharing the path.

An increasing number of wineries have opened tasting rooms in downtown Santa Barbara. Check out Santa Barbara Wineries if sampling wine sounds appealing. Beer drinkers should know that there are also a number of great breweries Just click on the link for more information.

Stearns Wharf – Santa Barbara Pier
Address: 219 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Telephone: (805) 564-5530

Directions from Highway 101
1. Take the Garden Street exit.
2. Turn west onto Garden Street.
3. Turn right onto E. Cabrillo Blvd.
4. Turn left onto Stearns Wharf.

If you have been to the Santa Barbara Pier, please tell us what you like best about Sterns Wharf. There’s a box below for you to leave a comment.