Museum
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center
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The Sea Center, part of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, is an interactive marine biology museum located on Stearns Wharf. Visitors can touch live tide pool animals like sea stars and urchins, observe local fish species in aquariums, and learn about marine ecosystems through hands-on exhibits. The center also features a working marine lab and offers programs on ocean conservation. Its pier location provides panoramic views of the coastline, making it a unique educational experience that combines science with the sights and sounds of the harbor.
Don't miss
- Touch live sea stars, anemones, and hermit crabs in the interactive tide pool exhibit.
- Watch a live diver feed fish in the 2,000-gallon kelp forest tank during scheduled feedings.
- Explore the plankton lab and use microscopes to view tiny marine organisms up close.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County Admission4.4★ · 128 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$18 per personSee dates →
Most bookedSanta Barbara Trolley Tour4.6★ · 864 travelers~2 hoursFrom$37 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Santa Barbara History and Architecture Walking Tour5★ · 62 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$99 per personSee dates →More attractions in Santa Barbara
