The Museum is open Wed–Mon, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. The Sea Center on Stearns Wharf is open daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Annual Mission Creek Gala

The Galactic Gala was held on Saturday, April 15, 2023 and raised $570,000!

The Museum inspires a thirst for discovery and a passion for the natural world and is committed to providing exceptional educational programs for the Santa Barbara community. Our annual Gala has raised more than six million dollars for school programs since 2000.

Please contact Development Director Caroline Baker 805-682-4711 ext. 109 or cbaker@sbnature2.org with any questions.

Staff event speakers and support Isabella Figueroa, Charlie Thrift, Krissie Cook, and Luke Swetland. Photo by Baron Spafford

Staff event speakers and support Isabella Figueroa, Charlie Thrift, Krissie Cook, and Luke Swetland. Photo by Baron Spafford

Sponsors Heather and Rob Hambleton and their table guests enjoying the Gala.  Photo by Baron Spafford

Sponsors Heather and Rob Hambleton and their table guests enjoying the Gala.
Photo by Baron Spafford

Galactic Gala Honorary Committee

  • Stacey Byers
  • Sheri Eckmann 
  • Venesa Faciane
  • Elisabeth Fowler
  • Heather Hambleton
  • Kenneth Kelly, Ph.D.
  • Bobbie Kinnear
  • Karen Nicholson
  • Susan Parker

2022 Seahorse Soiree

Seahorse Soiree at the Sea Center

Sea Center on Stearns Wharf lit up for the Seahorse Soiree

Thanks to the generous sponsors and donors to the Seahorse Soiree the event raised $500,000 to support our important nature and science education programs for schoolchildren in our tri-county area. These funds will be used to fund hands-on learning opportunities that provide an understanding and appreciation of the natural world thereby fostering the next generation of ecologists, policy makers, and informed citizens. For many, the Museum is their first introduction to the wonders of nature, and the remarkable region in which we live. This sets the stage for a life-long interest in both science and the natural world.

Heather Hambleton and Melissa McCann enjoy the opening reception at the Seahorse Soiree

Heather Hambleton and Melissa McCann enjoy the opening reception at the Seahorse Soiree.

For more information contact Caroline Baker at 805-682-4711 ext. 109 or cbaker@sbnature2.org.