Museum and Sea Center FAQ

We look forward to seeing you at both of our locations.
Here are our most frequently asked questions: 

Parking is free at the Museum. As you approach the Museum you will see our large lot on the right. 

Sea Center
Nearby city-owned lots offer the first 90 minutes free and then charge $2.50 per hour thereafter.

The Museum is open Weds–Mon, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. The Sea Center on Stearns Wharf is open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. Closed: New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Closing early at 3:00 PM on Christmas Eve.

The Museum is closed the last Saturday in June for the Santa Barbara Wine + Food Festival. 

At the Museum most guests spend 1.5 to 2 hours visiting our halls and grounds. Depending on your interests, some guests spend all day.

Sea Center
Most guests spend 45 min. to 1 hr.

The Museum has a beautiful picnic area alongside the creek and snacks available in the Museum Store and vending machines. You are welcome to bring your own picnic. The picnic area is outdoors and available on a first come, first served basis. The Museum Store carries some snacks.

Sea Center
The Sea Center is surrounded by local restaurants and the beach is always great for a picnic.

All exhibits are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

At the Museum wheelchairs are available on a first come, first served basis and can be checked out at the Museum’s Admissions Office by leaving a driver's license or another form of valid identification.

We accept cash, checks, traveler’s checks, and most major credit cards.

Online tickets available through Trip Advisor.

We have a fantastic store at both locations with merchandise representing our exhibits and other nature-inspired gifts, jewelry, books, and toys.

Plantarium shows are free. Please see our Planetarium schedule for shows and show times.

Yes! We encourage our guests to take photos and share their visits on social media, but for personal use only. @sbnature  #sbnature #NaturallyDifferent

Yes. We ask that all children 12 years or younger be accompanied by an adult at all times while at the Museum and Sea Center.