The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is located in the Naval Reserve Center building in Santa Barbara, California. This historic building has served various purposes over the years, but today it is home to the museum, among other uses. The museum is a significant attraction for tourists interested in maritime history and the local heritage of Santa Barbara.
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum offers a deep dive into the discovery and exploration of the Santa Barbara Channel and the area's maritime heritage. The exhibits include a variety of artifacts and displays, such as area lighthouses, the Point Conception Lighthouse Fresnel lens, and insights into the local fishing and diving industries. Visitors can also learn about surfing, the Honda Point disaster in World War II, marine safety agencies, ranching on Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel Islands, and shipwrecks.
History & Anthropology Science & Technology Maritime War
Monday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Harbor Way 113, Santa Barbara
11 Sept 2025 – 5 Jan 2026
14 Feb 2025 – 6 Mar 2025
6 Feb 2025 – 5 May 2025
6 Feb 2025 – 12 May 2025
5 Sept 2024 – 20 Jan 2025
13 Jun 2024 – 19 Aug 2024
1 Mar 2024 – 30 May 2024
8 Feb 2024 – 1 Jun 2024
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum has 1 rating.
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum offers visitors an informative look into the maritime history and culture of the Santa Barbara Channel. Located in the harbor area, the museum features a variety of exhibits that cover topics such as local fishing industry, naval history, and marine ecology.
Visitors often appreciate the interactive displays and hands-on exhibits, which are engaging for both adults and children. The museum's collection includes historical artifacts, photographs, and models that help illustrate the region's rich maritime heritage. The Fresnel lens from the Point Conception Lighthouse is a notable highlight for many.
While the museum receives praise for its educational value and well-curated exhibits, some visitors note that it's relatively small and can be explored thoroughly in a couple of hours. The gift shop is mentioned as having a good selection of maritime-themed items.
The museum's location in the harbor adds to its charm, with views of the water and boats enhancing the maritime experience. However, parking can sometimes be challenging, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Overall, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum provides an educational and enjoyable experience for those interested in maritime history and the local coastal environment. It's particularly well-suited for families and history enthusiasts, though casual visitors might find the scope somewhat limited.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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