Updated
Pier Santa Barbara
Tourist attraction · Santa Barbara, California
Stearns Wharf is California's oldest working wooden wharf, built in 1872 and stretching 2,300 feet into Santa Barbara Harbor. The 3.8-acre pier has survived storms, tornadoes, and fires over 150 years and today hosts restaurants, a shellfish market, the Sea Center marine museum with interactive touch tanks, a winery, and free fishing access. The Dolphin Fountain sculpture marks the entrance, and visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Channel Islands.
Things to Do Near Pier Santa Barbara
Top-rated tours and experiences around Santa Barbara, powered by Viator — free cancellation on most.
Discover Santa Barbara Yacht Experience
Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Experienced Guide
Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)
Santa Barbara Trolley Tour
We earn a commission on bookings — at no extra cost to you. Helps keep this site free.
Stay near Pier Santa Barbara
Find hotels near Pier Santa Barbara
Compare prices on Expedia — free cancellation on most rooms.
We earn a commission on bookings — at no extra cost to you. Helps keep this site free.
Current water conditions
Live data from NOAA buoy 46053 (14.4 mi away), as of Aug 20, 10:50 PM UTC. Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly — always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories before swimming.
Weather at Pier Santa Barbara
Sponsored gear checklist
Pack smarter for Pier Santa Barbara
Useful gear categories for this kind of water spot. These links open Amazon search results so you can compare current options.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently asked questions
- Where is Pier Santa Barbara?
- Pier Santa Barbara is a tourist attraction in Santa Barbara, California.
- What is the water temperature at Pier Santa Barbara?
- As of August 20, 2026, the water temperature at Pier Santa Barbara in Santa Barbara, California is 70°F (21°C), measured by NOAA buoy 46053, 14.4 miles away.
- Can you swim at Pier Santa Barbara?
- There is no fixed answer for Pier Santa Barbara: whether it is safe to swim there on a given day depends on the water temperature, recent rainfall, and any advisories posted at Pier Santa Barbara in Santa Barbara, California. Check current water conditions before you go, and follow posted signs and local guidance.
- How is Pier Santa Barbara rated?
- Pier Santa Barbara in Santa Barbara, California has an average visitor rating of 4.6 out of 5, based on 6289 reviews.
- What amenities does Pier Santa Barbara have?
- Visitor-listed amenities at Pier Santa Barbara include camping-nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Be the first to share your experience here
Join our community to share your water adventures
Earn badges as you share your experiences!
No reviews yet — share what you know
Been here? A quick note helps the next visitor plan their day. Handy things to mention:
Best Times to Visit
- ›Weekday mornings (8–10 AM) are typically less crowded
- ›Check the forecast 2–3 days ahead for best planning
- ›Avoid holiday weekends for a quieter experience
Location & Contact
144-152 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Santa Barbara, California 93101
</> Embed this location on your site
Paste this snippet into your website to show a live badge for Pier Santa Barbara — free to use with the included credit link.