Museum and Sea Center closing at 3:00 PM on Dec. 24 and closed Dec 25. Otherwise open daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Underwater Parks Day

At the Sea Center on Stearns Wharf

January 18, 2025 / 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Celebrate Underwater Parks Day with all-day free admission to the Sea Center on Stearns Wharf, thanks to support from the Moeller Lab at UC Santa Barbara. Underwater Parks Day celebrates marine protected areas (MPAs), the underwater parks that promote sustainable fishing practices and responsible recreation to preserve the variety, abundance, and longevity of ocean life for future generations.

The Central Coast is home to some of the most nutrient-rich waters on the planet, supporting vibrant marine life in kelp forests, tide pools, and rocky intertidal reef habitats. Enjoy the Sea Center's interactive exhibits representing these habitats. Until 3:00 PM, meet festival partners like Santa Barbara Channelkeeper, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps featuring Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary and Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area, Santa Barbara MPA Collective, Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, Celebration Cruises, Coal Oil Point Reserve, and National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science.

Kids can enjoy a coloring page commemorating the festival, ocean-themed face painting, and two storytime sessions in English and Spanish at 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM.

For more information, call 805-962-2526 ext. 108.

Related Exhibition: Shark Cove & Intertidal Wonders