TOP Preservation efforts in Santa Barbara, California

The Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured and orphaned wildlife in the Santa Barbara area. Located at 1460 North Fairview Avenue in Goleta, California, their team of trained volunteers and staff work tirelessly to provide medical treatment, nourishment, and shelter to a wide variety of native bird and animal species. Through education and outreach programs, they also strive to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and protecting local wildlife habitats. Visit the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network to learn more about their mission and how you can get involved in helping to support and care for our precious wildlife.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a popular tourist attraction located at 2559 Puesta Del Sol in Santa Barbara, California. This museum offers a fascinating look into the natural history of the region, featuring exhibits on local flora and fauna, geology, and anthropology. Visitors can explore interactive displays, dioramas, and hands-on activities that showcase the rich biodiversity of Santa Barbara and its surrounding areas. The museum also offers educational programs, guided tours, and special events for visitors of all ages. With its beautiful location and engaging exhibits, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and curious minds alike.

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.

The Santa Barbara Zoo, located at 500 Ninos Drive in Santa Barbara, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park that houses a variety of exotic animals. Visitors can explore the zoo and learn about conservation efforts to preserve the natural world and its living treasures. As a member of the Santa Barbara Zoo, you can join a community of individuals and families dedicated to supporting the zoo's mission. With a commitment to preserving and enhancing the environment, the Santa Barbara Zoo offers a unique and educational experience for all ages.

Located in Santa Barbara, California, the Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786 is a historic institution that serves as both a museum and a place of worship. Visitors can take a step back in time as they peruse artifacts, learn new stories, and explore the Mission's rich history. The institution also features a historic mausoleum for remembrance and the Santa Bárbara Mission Archive-Library, which houses a wealth of early California and Mission history. Visitors can immerse themselves in historic books, rare documents, and preserved artifacts to gain a deeper understanding of California's roots. Additionally, guests can learn more about the Franciscan Friars who have lived at the Mission since its founding in 1786. Those looking for a spiritual experience can join a morning, afternoon, or weekend Mass in the historic Mission Church.

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.

Santa Barbara County Landmarks is a local government office located at 123 East Anapamu Street in Santa Barbara, California. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the historical landmarks and cultural heritage of the county. Through research, advocacy, and education, Santa Barbara County Landmarks works to ensure that these important sites are recognized and maintained for future generations to enjoy. Visit their office to learn more about the rich history of Santa Barbara County and the efforts being made to preserve its unique landmarks.

The Santa Barbara County Parks Department is a government institution located at 123 East Anapamu Street in Santa Barbara, California. As a park department, their mission is to provide and maintain beautiful and accessible outdoor spaces for the community to enjoy. From playgrounds to hiking trails, picnic areas to sports fields, the Santa Barbara County Parks Department strives to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. With a dedication to conservation and recreation, this department plays a vital role in preserving the natural beauty of Santa Barbara County.

Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is a stunning park located at 1500 Santa Barbara Street in Santa Barbara, California. Once the site of the El Mirasol Hotel, this downtown block is now home to a beautiful botanical collection featuring 75 different tree and plant species, a peaceful pond, a sensory garden with audio posts and Braille signs, a demonstration garden showcasing low water use plants, benches, walking paths, picnic areas, and a charming gazebo. This park is often referred to as the "crown jewel" of City parks. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the garden free of charge and are encouraged to join the dedicated team of volunteers who help maintain this beloved park. Every Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., volunteers of all experience levels can participate in tasks such as pruning, mulching, deadheading, and weeding under the guidance of Parks staff. Drop-in volunteers are always welcome and should meet at the big shed on the Santa Barbara Street side of the park. If you have your own hand tools and gloves, please bring them along, although a limited supply is available for use. Come and be a part of preserving this special green space in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Sedgwick Reserve is a renowned research, conservation, and education facility situated in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley of Santa Barbara County, California. Managed by the University of California Santa Barbara Natural Reserve System, this 6,000-acre park is a hub for interdisciplinary research and innovation in collaboration with the La Kretz Research Center. Visitors can explore the diverse flora, fauna, geology, and history of the reserve on docent-led hikes offered on Second Saturdays. These hikes cater to all levels of abilities, from easy and family-friendly to more strenuous treks. In case of inclement weather, hike cancellations will be communicated via email the day before.

The Goleta Monarch Butterfly Grove at Ellwood Mesa is a popular tourist attraction located at 7727 Hollister Avenue in Goleta, California, United States. This beautiful grove is home to thousands of Monarch butterflies during their annual migration, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close. The grove is a peaceful and serene spot where visitors can learn about the life cycle of the Monarch butterfly and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing day out, the Goleta Monarch Butterfly Grove is a must-visit destination.

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 Alhecama Theatre, located in downtown Santa Barbara, California, is a historic venue within the El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park. Originally built in 1925 as the Pueblo Theatre, this beautifully restored facility now serves as a versatile space for weddings, lectures, social gatherings, and theatre events. With its original oak floors, stage, and a mural by artist Ross Dickenson, the Alhecama Theatre offers a unique and charming atmosphere for any occasion. Originally used for drama, music, and dance classes at the Santa Barbara School of the Arts, the theatre was later purchased by Alice Schott in 1939 and renamed after her daughters. Over the years, it has been utilized by various educational programs and institutions, eventually becoming part of the State of California's historic preservation efforts in 1982.

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.

Ortega Park, located at 604 East Ortega Street in Santa Barbara, California, has been a cultural and social hub for the Eastside neighborhood since its establishment in 1930. After community input and requests for revitalization, the City of Santa Barbara began a project to enhance the park for local families. The plan includes public art, improved aquatics facilities, community gathering areas, a play space, a basketball court, a skate/multi-wheel park, and a sports field. The project aims to provide safe and beautiful facilities while preserving the rich history and vibrant culture of the neighborhood. Funding includes City funds and Community Development Block Grant funds, with additional grant funding being sought. The park features murals that have been a part of its identity since the 1970s, with efforts to preserve and restore them through community involvement. The park will also include a year-round pool, an all-wheel park, a multi-sport field, and a community plaza. The design considers the local climate and long-term effects of climate change. Numerous community events and public hearings have been held throughout the planning and approval process for the park's revitalization.

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.

The Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration is a renowned institution located in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This center serves as both a museum and a university, dedicated to the preservation and restoration of biodiversity in the region. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the diverse ecosystems of the area and learn about the importance of ecological restoration efforts. The center also offers educational programs and research opportunities for students and scholars interested in conservation and environmental science. Located at Harder South, the Cheadle Center is a hub for learning and discovery in the field of biodiversity and ecological restoration.

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 Ventura Botanical Gardens and City Hall Parking, conveniently located at 567 Poli Street, Ventura, California 93001. Our parking facility is your gateway to a breathtaking 107-acre world-class botanical garden, offering stunning views of the California coastline, the Channel Islands, and Ojai’s Topa Topa peak. Whether you're visiting for a day of exploration or attending one of our many events, our parking area provides easy access to this natural haven. We offer complimentary parking for members, children 18 and under, and EBT cardholders. Enjoy free parking every Friday, and don't forget to check our Facebook page for additional holiday free days. Please note that we are closed on rainy days to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.

Los Prietos Ranger Station is a historic institution located at 3505 Paradise Road in Santa Barbara, California. This ranger station serves as a hub for forest management and conservation efforts in the surrounding area. The station provides information and resources for visitors, as well as support for park rangers and other personnel working in the Los Padres National Forest. With its picturesque location and dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the region, Los Prietos Ranger Station is a valuable asset to the community and a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Brinkerhoff Avenue Landmark District is a historic neighborhood located at 528 Brinkerhoff Avenue in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This district is known for its well-preserved Victorian and Craftsman style homes, which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The district is a designated landmark, showcasing the rich architectural history of Santa Barbara. Visitors can stroll through the tree-lined streets and admire the unique charm and character of the homes in this picturesque neighborhood. The Brinkerhoff Avenue Landmark District offers a glimpse into the past and provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

The California Missions Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the historic missions scattered throughout California. Located at 3 West Carrillo Street in Santa Barbara, California, the foundation works tirelessly to ensure that these iconic landmarks are maintained for future generations to enjoy. Through fundraising efforts and educational programs, the California Missions Foundation aims to promote awareness and appreciation of the rich history and cultural significance of the missions. Visit their headquarters in Santa Barbara to learn more about their important work and how you can get involved in preserving California's heritage.

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.

Discover "The Hide Drogher" in Dana Point, California Nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Dana Point, California, "The Hide Drogher" is a captivating sculpture that brings to life a unique slice of 19th-century history. Crafted by renowned artist F. Benedict Coleman in 1990, this striking statue depicts a sailor in the act of hurling a cowhide over the cliff—a nod to the historical practice where rancheros transported cow hides to the cliff's edge, from where droghers (draggers) would send them down to ships waiting in the harbor below.