TOP 20 Best Coastal conservation in Santa Barbara, California

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, located at 113 Harbor Way in Santa Barbara, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction and museum. Offering the best views in Santa Barbara, this institution is free to visit seven days a week. Explore two floors of historical and maritime art exhibits, take guided virtual museum tours with the Executive Director, and download a printable map of the museum in PDF format. The Maritime Museum is available for private and corporate events, and visitors can join the Navigators Circle to support the museum. Celebrate the deep sea pioneers of Santa Barbara and their contributions to commercial diving by donating or becoming a member of the museum. The institution is known as the birthplace of deepwater commercial diving and offers education, information, and lectures on the Santa Barbara Channel, Channel Islands National Park, and human interaction with the sea over 13,000 years.

The Coronado Butterfly Preserve, managed by The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, is a beautiful 9.3-acre park located on Coronado Drive in Goleta, California. This preserve is a haven for native coastal sage scrub habitat, eucalyptus groves, and a variety of birds and wildlife. Visitors can explore woodlands, meadows, and Devereux Creek, as well as enjoy trails, an outdoor gathering area, and a classroom for educational purposes. The Preserve serves as a gateway to other protected coastal areas nearby, including the Goleta Monarch Grove and Ellwood Shores coastal bluffs. It is also adjacent to the largest Monarch butterfly over-wintering groves in California, attracting up to 1,000 visitors per weekend during butterfly season.

Dive Santa Barbara is a premier diving institution located at 301 West Cabrillo Boulevard in Santa Barbara, California. As a school, store, and travel agency all in one, Dive Santa Barbara offers a comprehensive experience for diving enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you are looking to learn how to dive, purchase top-quality diving gear, or plan an unforgettable diving trip, Dive Santa Barbara has everything you need. With expert instructors, a wide selection of equipment, and personalized travel packages, Dive Santa Barbara is your one-stop shop for all things diving in the beautiful coastal city of Santa Barbara.

The Santa Barbara Waterfront Department, located at 132 Harbor Way in Santa Barbara, California, is a local government office and tourist attraction dedicated to providing the community with a quality waterfront for recreation and commercial use. Managing approximately 252 acres of tidelands and submerged lands, the department oversees the Harbor and Stearns Wharf. Unlike most city departments, the Waterfront operates as an Enterprise Fund, using revenues generated from tenant rents, boat fees, parking fees, and other sources to fund improvements and services such as preventative maintenance, capital improvements, public safety, and special events. The department also follows the guidelines of the Local Coastal Program Coastal Land Use Plan, which was revised in 2019 to prioritize activities within the Harbor. Visitors can contact the department at 735 Anacapa Street or by phone at (805) 963-0611 during office hours from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Thursday, and alternate Fridays.

Welcome to the Santa Clara River Preserve, a stunning natural haven located at 1368 Mission Rock Road, Santa Paula, California. This expansive park spans nearly two miles of the majestic Santa Clara River, encompassing almost 1,000 acres of diverse upland habitat and riverbed. As one of the few public access points to the Santa Clara River, the preserve offers a unique opportunity to connect with this vital waterway. Managed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the Santa Clara River Preserve is a perfect destination for outdoor education, community gatherings, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Visitors can explore the natural beauty and learn about the ecological significance of the Santa Clara River, a critical source of drinking water and a key resource for local agriculture. The preserve also plays an essential role in providing some of the last riverside and freshwater habitats in the Los Angeles-Ventura region.

The Outdoors Santa Barbara Visitor Center is a must-visit tourist attraction and travel agency located at 113 Harbor Way in Santa Barbara, California. Offering the best views in Santa Barbara seven days a week, this center is free to visit and explore. Visitors can enjoy two floors of historical and maritime art exhibits, as well as guided virtual museum tours with SBMM's Executive Director Greg Gorga. Additionally, visitors can download a printable map of the Maritime Museum and exhibits, and the museum is available for private and corporate events for Navigators Circle members. The center is a partnership between NOAA, CINP, SBMM, and the City of Santa Barbara, providing information about the Channel Islands National Park, the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, and the Los Padres National Forest.

The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at Channel Islands National Park, located at 1901 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura, California, is a popular tourist attraction and travel agency. The center features a bookstore, displays of marine aquatic life, and exhibits showcasing the unique characteristics of each park island. Visitors can also enjoy the 25-minute park movie, “A Treasure in the Sea,” shown throughout the day in the auditorium (closed-caption film available upon request). The fully accessible visitor center is open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm, with closures on Thanksgiving and December 25th. On weekends and holidays, rangers offer free public programs at 11 am and 3 pm, providing insights into the resources of the park. The center also hosts various events and programs, which can be found on their website.

Harbor View Park, located in Oxnard, California, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the ocean. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as jet skiing, whale watching, and sunset gazing. The park is just an hour's drive from Los Angeles, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination. Channel Islands Harbor, where Harbor View Park is situated, is a working harbor that provides opportunities for paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing, and dining at local eateries. The area is known as "America's Galapagos" due to its diverse marine environment and offers excursions to the Channel Islands National Park.

Double Dolphin Cruises is a premier travel agency located at 302 West Cabrillo Boulevard in Santa Barbara, California. Offering unforgettable experiences on the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Double Dolphin Cruises specializes in providing luxury cruises and excursions for individuals and groups. Whether you're looking to relax and soak up the sun or embark on a thrilling adventure, Double Dolphin Cruises has something for everyone. With experienced staff and top-notch amenities, you're guaranteed a memorable and enjoyable experience on the water. Book your next cruise with Double Dolphin Cruises and create lasting memories on the stunning California coast.

Mesa Lane Beach is a stunning natural feature located in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This beautiful beach offers pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day soaking up the sun, swimming in the ocean, or taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Mesa Lane Beach is the perfect spot for a peaceful escape and a true gem of the Santa Barbara coastline.

Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5775 Carpinteria Avenue in Carpinteria, California, United States. This serene and picturesque park offers visitors the opportunity to explore a unique and diverse ecosystem, including salt marshes, wetlands, and sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape. The park also offers educational programs and guided tours for those looking to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Come visit Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park for a peaceful retreat into nature.

The Andrée Clark Bird Refuge is a 42-acre open space park located at 34a Los Patos Way in Santa Barbara, California. The park features a 29-acre lake and an estuary with brackish wetlands, providing a safe haven for migratory and local birds. Visitors can enjoy passive recreational activities such as bird watching, hiking, and biking on the multi-modal path that surrounds the lake. The park also offers interpretive self-guided tours and outdoor fitness equipment at the adjacent Stretch Station. The Bird Refuge is home to over 200 species of birds, as well as native and non-native turtles. The park's eastern and southern perimeter includes a Class I bike path that extends to Shoreline Park, offering stunning views of the ocean and Harbor. Three viewing platforms along the northern shore provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.

Parma Park, located at 2066 Stanwood Drive in Santa Barbara, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its scenic hiking and horseback riding trails. The park offers panoramic views of the Cielito neighborhood and the ocean, with large Coast Live Oaks lining the hillsides and creekside habitats teeming with wildlife. The olive grove, once damaged by fire, is now recovering beautifully. Mountain biking is allowed only on designated fire roads, and portable barbecues are not permitted due to high fire danger. Help protect this natural chaparral landscape by following park regulations and enjoying the beauty of Parma Park responsibly.

1000 Steps Beach, also known as the Thousand Steps, is a popular tourist attraction located at 1429 Shoreline Drive in Santa Barbara, California. This unique beach can be accessed by a 157-step stairway that leads visitors from the cliffs down to the sandy shore below. Originally built in 1925, the steps feature a gazebo structure that adds to the charm of the area. Situated along the California Coastal Trail, 1000 Steps Beach offers stunning views of the Santa Barbara Channel and offshore islands. The trail is part of a network of paths that connect coastal communities and provide opportunities for walking, biking, horseback riding, and wheelchair use. With over six miles of paved paths and dirt trails through open space parks, visitors can enjoy the coastal breeze and sounds of the waves while exploring the area.

Stearns Wharf Bait & Tackle is a one-stop shop for all your fishing needs located at 230 Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, California. This store offers advice, drinks, snacks, SB Trolley tickets, bait and tackle, as well as rod and crabnet rentals. One of the best parts about this establishment is that no fishing license is needed to fish here, making it a convenient and enjoyable experience for all. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, Stearns Wharf Bait & Tackle is open 7 days a week and guarantees a fun and memorable fishing experience.

Western Gate Maritime is a premier tourist attraction and travel agency located at 3508 Madrona Drive in Santa Barbara, California. Specializing in diving and whale watching trips, we offer a variety of services to ensure a unique and intimate experience for all our guests. Owned and operated by Conrad, who holds a 1600 ton USCG Masters License, Western Gate Maritime is dedicated to sharing the beauty of the local waters with visitors. With over 20 years of experience exploring these waters for work and pleasure, Conrad is passionate about providing unforgettable experiences for all who charter with Western Gate Maritime.

Located at the University of California, Santa Barbara, the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management is a professional graduate school dedicated to cultivating environmental leaders. Offering comprehensive and data-driven environmental graduate programs, the Bren School empowers students to address critical environmental issues such as climate change, conservation, and sustainable water and agriculture. With a strong network of alumni making a global impact, the Bren School fosters a community of students, faculty, and researchers who are committed to finding innovative solutions to environmental challenges. From exploring legislative bipartisanship on climate mitigation to assessing the impact of anthropogenic pressures on coastal ecosystems, the research conducted at the Bren School has far-reaching implications.

SeaSketch is a cutting-edge institution located at 1 UCEN Road in Santa Barbara, California, United States. Specializing in marine conservation and sustainable ocean management, SeaSketch offers innovative tools and technologies for stakeholders to collaborate, plan, and make informed decisions for the health of our oceans. With a focus on data-driven solutions and community engagement, SeaSketch is at the forefront of promoting environmental stewardship and preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.

Explore the Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument, a premier tourist attraction located in Santa Cruz, California. Nestled on the north coast of Santa Cruz County, this extraordinary landscape became part of the California Coastal National Monument just days before President Barack Obama left office, recognizing its incredible ecological, cultural, and historic significance.

Whales & Co. is a travel agency located at 3150 Harbor Boulevard in Oxnard, California, United States. Specializing in eco-friendly whale watching tours, our crew invites you to join us for an unforgettable experience at the Channel Island National Marine Sanctuary off Anacapa Island. Our Research Vessel offers half-day tours for families and friends to discover the beauty of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. For those looking to relax, we also offer a selection of tasty snacks and wines for a sunset cruise.

Paseo de la Guerra is a historic institution located at 10 El Paseo in Santa Barbara, California. This iconic building serves as a cultural hub and educational center, showcasing the rich history and heritage of the region. Visitors can explore exhibits, attend lectures and events, and learn about the significant events and figures that have shaped Santa Barbara. Paseo de la Guerra is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of this coastal city.

The UCSB Marine Biotech Lab is a cutting-edge research institution located at 555 Lagoon Road within the University of California-Santa Barbara campus in California, United States. This school is dedicated to exploring the latest advancements in marine biotechnology, conducting innovative research, and providing hands-on learning experiences for students interested in marine science. With state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty members, the UCSB Marine Biotech Lab offers a unique opportunity for students to dive deep into the fascinating world of marine biology and biotechnology.

The Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory, located in Santa Barbara, California, United States, is a cutting-edge research facility dedicated to the study and conservation of the world's oceans. With state-of-the-art equipment and a team of expert scientists, the laboratory conducts innovative research on a wide range of ocean-related topics, including marine biology, oceanography, and climate change. Through their work, they strive to better understand and protect the fragile ecosystems of our oceans for future generations. Visitors to the laboratory can learn about the latest research findings and even participate in educational programs and events aimed at raising awareness about the importance of ocean conservation.

Welcome to Hobie Beach, a beautiful and serene park located at 2974 Victoria Avenue, Oxnard, California. Nestled along the stunning coastline, Hobie Beach offers a perfect escape for families, friends, and nature enthusiasts alike. Our park is renowned for its pristine sandy shores, gentle ocean waves, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. At Hobie Beach, visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or engage in water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding, there's something for everyone. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced water enthusiasts.