Explore marine life up close at this interactive sea center perched on Santa Barbara's Stearns Wharf. Visitors can touch live sharks, starfish, and sea creatures while enjoying unique exhibits like tide pools and magnified specimens.
What to Expect:
🦈 Live shark touch pools and stingray encounters
🌊 Tidepool tank with diverse sea life
🔬 Interactive microscopes to study specimens
👨👩👧 Family-focused exhibits ideal for children
Important Information:
– Opening days: Closed Thursdays
– Ticket prices vary; discounts for children and low-income households
– Wheelchair accessible facilities
– No reservations required
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🦀 Touch the Sea: The live shark and stingray touch pools offer memorable hands-on experiences for all ages.
🔬 Interactive Learning: Microscopes and specimen study stations engage children and adults with detailed marine biology.
🌊 Unique Location: Positioned on historic Stearns Wharf, the center provides beautiful waterfront views alongside marine exploration.
🎟️ Discounts Available: Museums for All offers reduced admission for SNAP/CalFresh cardholders; check pricing before visiting.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
The Sea Center is praised for its engaging touch tanks, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and family-friendly environment. While some find it small and slightly pricey, the unique location on Stearns Wharf and interactive exhibits justify its appeal for many visitors.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating throughout the facility ensure easy access for visitors with mobility needs.
