Santa Barbara Harbor is one of the most picturesque boating locations in Southern California. Built in 1929, this 1139-slip harbor has become a popular destination for recreational boaters, fishermen and tourists alike. Here you will find world-class yachts, commercial fishing boats and pleasure craft side-by-side. The harbor, Stearns Wharf and nearby State Street provide visitors with a wide variety of services and recreational activities including fine restaurants, wine tasting, gift shops, whale watching, cruises and marine supplies, just to name a few.
Be sure to walk along Santa Barbara’s scenic waterfront to Stearns Wharf, a short distance from the harbor. Built in 1872, it is California’s oldest working wooden wharf and offers spectacular views of the famous “Santa Barbara Riviera.” Extending inland from the wharf is State Street. Within easy walking distance, this area is renowned for its shopping and nightlife, and is also home to several historic sites.
Santa Barbara Harbor provides monthly berthing for approximately 1,100 vessels. Additionally, the harbor offers guest berthing for vessels 20’ to 170’ in length. Information provided here is intended to acquaint you with harbor facilities and policies. If you have further questions, please contact the Waterfront Administration Office at 805-564-5531. VHF Channels 16 and 12 are monitored seven days a week, 24 hours a day. A Harbor Patrol Officer is always on duty.
Currently Santa Barbara Harbor slips are fully occupied and our slip permit waiting lists are closed to new applicants. However, we do have a slip permit transfer policy. Under this policy, when a boat is purchased the slip permit may be transferred to the buyer. Please call the Waterfront Department Administration Office for slip permit transfer details.
Visitor berthing is on a first-come, first-served basis depending on availability; reservations are not accepted. To obtain a guest slip, visiting vessels should dock at the Harbor Patrol Accommodation Dock at the west end of the harbor, located in front of the Harbor Patrol Office. The Harbor Patrol Office is upstairs and we will issue guest slips upon arrival. Vessel registration or documentation is required when registering for a visitor slip. It is unlawful to tie-up anywhere in the harbor without permission from Harbor Patrol. Visitor fees are payable in advance and based on the overall length of your boat. Check out time is noon. Visitor slips may be renewed by contacting the Harbor Patrol office in person. Delinquency fees are charged for late payments and administrative fees may be levied for occupying a slip without registering. Occasionally, the marina may not be able to accommodate your vessel. An open anchorage area is available east of Stearns Wharf.
Marina gate, restroom and shower keys are available for purchase by visiting boaters. Keys are active during your stay only and may be re-activated upon your next visit.
Electricity and water are included with visitor fees in most slips. Electricity is 110 volts, 30-amp in most slips. Certain larger slips and end ties have 220 volts, 50-amp service. Marine grade twist lock cords required.