Overview
Stearns Wharf is the longest deep-water pier between Los Angeles and San Francisco. It's a historic landmark that offers shopping, dining, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Historic landmark and popular tourist destination in Santa Barbara
Location
Address
217 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, California
Neighborhood: Downtown Santa Barbara
Coordinates
34.412800, -119.693100
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild and pleasant
- • Spring blooms
- • Outdoor dining
summer
Warm and sunny
- • Extended hours
- • Live music
autumn
Cool and comfortable
- • Fall colors
- • Harvest events
winter
Cool and occasionally rainy
- • Holiday decorations
- • Indoor shopping
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- No admission fee
- Open daily
- Check for events
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low
- • Uneven surfaces
- • Slippery when wet
Medical facilities: First aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable walking shoes, Walking shoes, Beachwear
Booking Tips
- • Not required
- • Official website for events
- • Not applicable
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Santa Barbara Visitor App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Events, Dining
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes
Charging Stations: Near seating areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Santa Barbara Airport (SBA)
Distance: 15 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic significance and beautiful views
Historical Significance: Oldest wood-framed pier in California
Insider Tips
- Visit early for the best parking spots
- Check out the antique carousel
- Enjoy the free live music events
Local Recommendations
- • Try the seafood at The Dockside Restaurant
- • Visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History nearby
- • Take a whale-watching tour
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
End of the wharf
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Wide-angle shot
Result: Stunning ocean views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Santa Barbara Harbor
Distance: 0.5km
Walking: 7 min
Type: Harbor
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Museum
East Beach
Distance: 0.8km
Walking: 12 min
Type: Beach
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit at sunset"
- "Try the fish tacos"
- "Check out the shops"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (3)
Quick Info
Available Tours
21
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
Free