Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Sea Center

Temporarily Closed Until Spring 2022

The Sea Center on Stearns Wharf will be temporarily closed from September 7, 2021 to spring 2022. During this time, the Sea Center’s building infrastructure will be upgraded and upstairs exhibits will be refreshed in order to offer the best guest experience and improved habitats for our live animals.

Visit our Sea Center experience, Wonderful Waters, at the Museum while the Sea Center is closed. 

With the help of our knowledgable Sea Center interpreters, explore our transformed Broder Building across the creek to learn about the Santa Barbara Channel's unique ecosystem, the animals that call it home, and what we can all do to protect it. Meet friendly swell sharks, sea stars, and anemones in our touch tanks, see a Two-spot Octopus up close, and more.

For more information, please contact Sea Center Director Rich Smalldon at rsmalldon@sbnature2.org.

Discover the wonders of ocean life at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center. Located on historic Stearns Wharf, this highly interactive regional aquarium offers you close encounters with marine animals from the Santa Barbara Channel. In addition to permanent exhibits, the Sea Center hosts unique events and special educational programming. The Sea Center is proud to part of the White Abalone Restoration Consortium, which is working to bring this endangered marine snail back from the brink of extinction.

One visit is not enough

The ocean is dynamic and each day is different. Come back to discover more! Members receive free admission all year long.

Plan your visit to Stearns Wharf; check out Sea Center Location and Hours.

Want to get involved?

Check out our Sea Center Volunteer Opportunities!

Celebrating a special event?

Learn how you can book the Sea Center for weddings, receptions, and private parties.