Ty Warner Sea Center

Explore the marine wonders of the Santa Barbara Channel at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center. This highly interactive marine education facility, situated on Santa Barbara's picturesque Stearns Wharf, invites visitors to dive deep into the underwater world right off the coast. It's a place where curiosity is sparked through direct encounters with local marine life, offering a memorable and educational experience for all ages.The Sea Center is renowned for its hands-on exhibits that bring the ocean's intricate ecosystems into sharp focus. Guests can gently touch fascinating creatures like sea stars, sea urchins, and even a Swell Shark or Round Ray in the Living Beach and dedicated shark and ray touch pools. Inside, observe the mesmerizing dance of Moon Jellies, the clever camouflage of Decorator Crabs, and the intelligent gaze of a California Two-spot Octopus. Overhead, a majestic life-size model of a gray whale and her calf immediately sets the tone for the impressive scale of marine life in the Santa Barbara Channel.Beyond the vibrant aquariums, the Sea Center offers unique opportunities for scientific exploration. The Wet Deck allows you to operate oceanographic tools and examine samples collected directly from the ocean beneath the wharf. Discover the complexities of marine habitats, from bustling kelp forests to rugged rocky reefs, and learn about the diverse species that call them home through the "Dive In: Our Changing Channel" exhibit. The Marine Mammal Mezzanine highlights the rich variety of marine mammals that frequent the Channel, alongside vital conservation initiatives like the White Abalone Captive Breeding Program, showcasing the center's commitment to protecting endangered species. Planning to visit? Download the Snappit app to identify the wildlife you spot in real-time.