TOP 10 Best Marine park attractions in Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara Adventure Company is a top-rated tourist attraction and travel agency located at 520 East Haley Street in Santa Barbara, California. Visitors have described their experiences with us as amazing, unforgettable, and absolutely fantastic. Our knowledgeable guides go above and beyond to ensure an exceptional experience for all guests. One of the highlights of our offerings is the opportunity to explore Channel Islands National Park, a protected and remote gem just 25 miles off the coast of Santa Barbara. Additionally, Santa Barbara Wine Country, with seven AVAs, nine distinct wine trails, and nearly 300 wineries, is recognized as one of the greatest wine regions in the world.

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.

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.

Peninsula Park is located at 3333 Peninsula Road in Oxnard, California, United States. This park is part of the scenic Channel Islands Harbor, offering a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you want to ride a jet ski, spot a whale, or simply enjoy a beautiful sunset over the ocean, Peninsula Park has something for everyone. Just an hour's drive from Los Angeles, this beach-lined park is the perfect destination for a weekend adventure or a day trip with the family. You can surf uncrowded beaches, visit museums, and indulge in local cuisine at nearby restaurants.

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 Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center is a fascinating institution located on Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, California. This unique facility combines elements of an aquarium, museum, and tourist attraction, offering visitors an immersive experience into the diverse marine life of the region. From interactive exhibits showcasing local marine habitats to hands-on touch tanks with sea creatures, the Sea Center provides a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. With its stunning ocean views and engaging displays, this institution is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the wonders of the sea.

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.

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.

Channel Islands Harbor, located at 3900 Pelican Way in Oxnard, California, is a local government office and popular tourist attraction. Just an hour's drive from Los Angeles, this scenic harbor offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. From jet skiing and whale watching to enjoying a beautiful sunset over the ocean, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Surrounded by beach-lined parks and picnic-worthy coastlines, Channel Islands Harbor is a great destination for those looking to surf uncrowded beaches, explore museums, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. The working harbor also offers water activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing, and dining at waterfront restaurants.

Stearns Wharf is a historic pier located in Santa Barbara, California, offering a variety of attractions for visitors. The pier is home to an aquarium where guests can explore marine life, as well as several restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes. Visitors can also enjoy a meal takeaway option or shop for souvenirs at the stores located on the pier. Additionally, Stearns Wharf is home to a travel agency where guests can book exciting excursions and tours in the area. With its stunning ocean views and diverse offerings, Stearns Wharf is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Santa Barbara.

Shipwreck Playground is a unique tourist attraction located at 323 East Cabrillo Boulevard in Santa Barbara, California. This playground is inspired by the theme of a shipwreck, offering a fun and adventurous play experience for children and families. With interactive play structures, slides, and climbing areas designed to resemble a sunken ship, visitors can let their imaginations run wild as they explore this one-of-a-kind playground. The Shipwreck Playground is a must-visit destination for those looking for a memorable and exciting experience in Santa Barbara.

Welcome to Ventura Marina Mobile Home Park, your premier destination for lodging and RV parking in the picturesque city of Ventura, California. Located at 1215 Anchors Way, our park offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and convenient access to the vibrant Ventura Harbor. At Ventura Marina Mobile Home Park, you can enjoy the serene waterfront lifestyle, whether you're staying overnight or looking for a long-term home. Our prime location provides easy access to the bustling Ventura Harbor Village, where you'll find an array of seaside restaurants, charming shops, and exciting activities. For those seeking adventure on the water, we offer a variety of water recreation rentals.

Welcome to The Colony, your premier destination for lodging and RV parking in the scenic seaside city of Oxnard, California. Nestled at 2400 East Pleasant Valley Road, our location offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, conveniently situated between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles on the beautiful Southern California coast. At The Colony, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. Take a refreshing dip in our heated pool and spa, or enjoy a friendly game of cards or billiards in our stunning clubhouse. Our family-friendly environment features a playground where kids can enjoy hours of outdoor fun, while adults can stay active in our well-equipped fitness center.

Welcome to Ventura Beach Marriott Discover a coastal retreat at Ventura Beach Marriott, conveniently located at 2055 East Harbor Boulevard, Ventura, California. Nestled just two blocks from the ocean and adjacent to Highway 101, our newly renovated hotel offers a serene escape on a stunning 10-mile stretch of the Pacific coast between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

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.

Welcome to Winfield Scott Wreck, a unique historical attraction nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Ventura, California. Our site offers an intriguing glimpse into the maritime history of the 19th century, when the rush for gold in California brought about a surge in shipping and travel along the Pacific coast. The Winfield Scott, a majestic steamship owned by the Pacific Mail Steamship Company, met its tragic fate in 1853 off the shores of Anacapa Island, within the Channel Islands National Park. Embark on a journey through time as you explore the story of this grand vessel, which carried over 300 passengers, vital mail, and $1 million in gold. Despite the dense fog and treacherous currents, the ship's captain made a fateful decision to navigate the narrow Santa Barbara Channel, leading to its untimely demise on the rocky shores.

Welcome to Channel Islands & Victoria, your premier transit station located in the heart of Port Hueneme, California. Nestled in the scenic surroundings of the 93041 area, we serve as a vital hub for travelers and commuters alike. Our station provides seamless connectivity to local and regional destinations, ensuring a convenient and efficient travel experience. At Channel Islands & Victoria, we prioritize your comfort and safety. Our modern facilities are designed to accommodate the needs of all passengers, offering a range of amenities to enhance your journey. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring the beautiful Channel Islands, or visiting the vibrant community of Port Hueneme, our friendly staff is here to assist you every step of the way.