Stearns Wharf
Santa Barbara, CA
Stearns Wharf is the oldest working wooden wharf in California, restaurants and fishing spots lined up along its length with excursion boats departing for whale watching and Channel Islands trips. Ambassador Park and several other small downtown parks sit just onshore, easy to combine into one waterfront visit.
A genuinely historic working wharf with real boat trips and dining, though it's a pier and waterfront district more than a beach to swim at.
How we score beachesBook a whale watching or Channel Islands boat trip if you have the time, several operators run right from the wharf.
A day use fee applies; the exact amount is best confirmed at the entrance.
The path from parking to the wharf isn't documented in detail, so allow extra time on your first visit.
Dogs are welcome on leash on the wharf year round, though not all restaurants on it allow them.
Winter and spring bring the best whale watching from the wharf's tour boats, while fog is common most mornings year round.
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