Stearns Wharf Tours and Activities

Embodying beauty, rustic charm, tourism, and a feel of the ocean, Stearns Wharf is Santa Barbara’s number one tourist attraction. Built by lumberman John P. Stearns in 1872, Stearns Wharf has a long and decorated history including naval appropriation and one great conflagration which all but destroyed it. Nowadays the pier is a bustling center for shops, restaurants, and fishermen.
Santa Barbara’s historic three-dolphin statue marks the pier’s entrance at the bottom of State Street, where cars and pedestrians alike head out over the deep blue water to do a bit of wine tasting, souvenir shopping, pay a visit to the Ty Warner Sea Center, or just to get a great view of Santa Barbara from a different angle. Bring a camera and the kids – enjoying the beauty of Stearns Wharf is one of Santa Barbara’s highlights.
Santa Barbara’s historic three-dolphin statue marks the pier’s entrance at the bottom of State Street, where cars and pedestrians alike head out over the deep blue water to do a bit of wine tasting, souvenir shopping, pay a visit to the Ty Warner Sea Center, or just to get a great view of Santa Barbara from a different angle. Bring a camera and the kids – enjoying the beauty of Stearns Wharf is one of Santa Barbara’s highlights.
Practical Info
Stearns Wharf is located at 219 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, California. It is most easily recognizable by it protrusion into the ocean from the bottom of Santa Barbara’s main tourist thoroughfare, State Street. Parking is available on the wharf and is free for 90 minutes with merchant validation, but is otherwise $2.50 every hour or part thereof.
Address: 219 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, USA
7 Tours and Activities to Experience Stearns Wharf
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Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Experienced Guide
59
This private Santa Barbara kayaking tour lets you explore the marine life and landmarks of Santa Barbara Harbor and the spectacular coastline on the ‘American Riviera’ along one of four different routes. Take in views of rugged shoreline cliffs and the Santa Ynez Mountains, and be on the lookout for dolphins and seals. This 1.5- to 2.5-hour tour is led by an experienced kayak guide who points out natural features and customizes the speed of the ride according to your skill level.
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From
$60.00
From
$60.00
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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Mountains to Shore Biking Tour in Santa Barbara
2
Take a van to the top of La Cumbre Peak, hop on a bike, and embark on a mostly downhill journey to the shores of a local Santa Barbara beach. With plenty of sights to see along the way, including the Santa Barbara Mission, this roughly 20-mile (32-kilometer) tour is perfect for all skill levels. Chat with a local guide about the natural and cultural history of the area, and enjoy a provided lunch in a park.
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From
$145.00
From
$145.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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Santa Barbara Trolley Tour
254
All Aboard Santa Barbara’s Original & Longest Running Trolley Tour and Charter Services
See the American Riviera in 90 minutes
Santa Barbara sightseeing at its finest on the original, fully narrated Santa Barbara Trolley Tour. For 30 years, we've been providing trolley tours in the Santa Barbara community. Join us as we visit local hot spots such as the Santa Barbara Courthouse, Santa Barbara Zoo, Museum of Natural History, the historic Santa Barbara Mission, and more, all fully narrated by our energetic and knowledgeable tour guides! Our pick up location is only a 5 minute walk from the train station at the Corner of Cabrillo Blvd and State St, Stearns Wharf.
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From
$25.65
From
$25.65
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Santa Barbara Sunset Kayak Tour
10
Paddle into the sunset along the Southern California coast during this beginner-friendly kayaking trip from Santa Barbara. Watch the last rays of the day melt into the Pacific as you travel through the glassy waters of Santa Barbara Harbor. As you move, you’ll pass by the historic wharf and past other boats, keeping your eyes out for marine life. An included lesson in astronomy and ecology from your guide is an added bonus. A guide and all necessary kayaking gear is included.
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From
$102.70
From
$102.70
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Santa Barbara Scavenger Hunt Adventure
1
Make Santa Barbara your game board with a 3-hour scavenger hunt adventure for a team of 2–5 people. Use a smart phone to follow a series of locally-themed clues that lead to fun challenges with your friends and family. Trace a 2-mile route past historic monuments, seaside neighborhoods and hidden gems to get an insider's look at the city. Rack up points to compete against prior scavenger hunt teams, or simply enjoy the self-guided tour at your own pace, with plenty of stops to eat, drink and sightsee.
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From
$20.52
Price varies by group size
From
$20.52
Price varies by group size

Santa Barbara Kayak Tour
27
Get another perspective on the southern California coast during this leisurely kayak tour in Santa Barbara. Learn the basics of kayaking from your guide, and hear about Santa Barbara’s natural history and marine life during your tour. Includes use of all kayaking gear.
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From
$63.47
From
$63.47
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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Private 10-hour tour to Santa Barbara & Solvang from Los Angeles - Hotel pick up
Even though there is a lot to see in Los Angeles, a excursion out of the city is also highly recommended. Enjoy a visit of Solvang; a city founded by Danish travellers who wanted to establish a Danish community! It gives you a brief view of Denmark and it is a truly incredible location. We will also enjoy a stop and visit to the city of Santa Barbara. This is also a unique coastal city with incredible views and beautiful panoramic views and it has a Mediterranean vibe.
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From
$769.03
Price varies by group size
From
$769.03
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More
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