The Santa Barbara Channel is a pillar of the city’s history and the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) is the perfect place to learn about it. Located in the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbor, the Maritime Museum provides exhibits and educational experiences that celebrate the vital connection between the local community and the sea. Delve into California’s fascinating maritime heritage through interactive exhibits, preserved artifacts, art and film. The museum also offers a variety of fun educational programs for children of all ages.

What to See and Do

Through the museum’s many hands-on activities, you can learn about sustainable fishing in a kelp forest, raising a sail, diving, sport fishing and more. Stop by the onsite gallery to see rotating exhibits of ocean-themed artwork. Sailing in from the back wall of the museum is a replica of a Wilson Brothers lumber schooner.

For a breathtaking panoramic view of the harbor, climb to the fourth floor, where you’ll find the Outdoor Santa Barbara Visitor Center (open daily; 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Be sure to check out the spectacular mosaic tiled floor and kelp forest mural as you make your way to the outside deck to take in the view.

Maritime Museum Hours and Parking

The Maritime Museum is open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and the first Friday of August for Fiesta. Check the museum’s calendar before visiting for closures due to special events.

The museum is accessible by the Lil’ Toot water taxi which runs between the Harbor and Stearn’s Wharf, and the Downtown Waterfront Electric Shuttle which runs along Cabrillo Blvd. and up State St. Parking is also available on the east side of the museum or along Shoreline Drive.