Santa Barbara Aquarium On The Pier
Santa Barbara, California is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches, Mediterranean-style architecture, and laid-back lifestyle. One of the main attractions in Santa Barbara is the Santa Barbara Aquarium on the pier. This aquarium is a must-see for anyone who loves marine life and wants to learn more about the creatures that inhabit the oceans.
History of the Santa Barbara Aquarium
The Santa Barbara Aquarium was established in 1986 and is located on Stearns Wharf, which is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Santa Barbara. The aquarium is owned and operated by the City of Santa Barbara and is dedicated to educating people about the marine life found in the Santa Barbara Channel. The aquarium is home to over 2,500 marine animals and features a variety of exhibits that showcase the diversity of marine life in the region.
Aquarium Exhibits
One of the most popular exhibits at the Santa Barbara Aquarium is the Shark Cove exhibit. This exhibit features several species of sharks, including the leopard shark and the horn shark. Visitors can watch the sharks as they swim around the exhibit and learn about their behavior and habitat. Another popular exhibit is the Rocky Coast exhibit, which features a variety of marine animals that inhabit the rocky shores of the Santa Barbara Channel, such as sea stars, anemones, and crabs.
The Giant Clam exhibit is another must-see attraction at the aquarium. This exhibit features the largest living giant clam in the world, which weighs over 500 pounds and is over 4 feet long. Visitors can learn about the life cycle and habitat of giant clams and watch as they open and close their shells.
Aquarium Programs
The Santa Barbara Aquarium offers a variety of programs for visitors of all ages. One of the most popular programs is the Behind-the-Scenes Tour, which gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the aquarium's animal care and exhibit design. Visitors can also participate in the Feed the Sharks program, where they can help feed the sharks in the Shark Cove exhibit. The aquarium also offers educational programs for schools and groups, as well as summer camps for children.
Visiting the Santa Barbara Aquarium
The Santa Barbara Aquarium is open daily from 10am to 5pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Admission to the aquarium is $12 for adults, $8 for seniors and children ages 2-12, and free for children under 2. The aquarium is located on Stearns Wharf, which is also home to several restaurants and shops. Visitors can spend the day exploring the aquarium and enjoying the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
Conclusion
The Santa Barbara Aquarium on the pier is a wonderful attraction for anyone who loves marine life and wants to learn more about the creatures that inhabit the oceans. With its diverse exhibits and educational programs, the aquarium is a great place to spend a day with family and friends. So if you're ever in Santa Barbara, be sure to visit the Santa Barbara Aquarium on the pier.
