A number of different organizations work together to keep Santa Barbara’s waterfront in top shape. One of the best loved areas of the city, the waterfront includes the pier, the harbor, and the beach.
Santa Barbara has many organizations, but few are busier than the ones that manage the waterfront area of the city. From the harbor to the beach, there are a number of groups that work tirelessly to keep everything clean, safe, and working flawlessly. Here are a few of the departments and companies that keep things running at the waterfront.
The City of Santa Barbara carries most of the weight when it comes to keeping the waterfront a vital, successful part of the city. The Waterfront Department handles 252 acres of tidelands and submerged lands around the Harbor and Stearns Wharf. While the land itself belongs to the state, it’s held in trust by Santa Barbara and is used for recreation, commercial use, and boating. Money that comes in from tenant fees, parking fees, boat fees and other sources is what pays for maintenance and improvements as well as staffing, boat services, public safety and special events. Unlike most government departments, the Waterfront Department operates as an enterprise fund and has to earn what it spends.
Part of the Waterfront Department is Harbor Operations. The Santa Barbara Harbor is a bustling place, with private and commercial boats berthed in its calm waters. Harbor restaurants offer fresh fish, lobster, or crab from the morning’s catch and the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is a fascinating spot to visit. You can sign up for a day of fishing, kayaking, or head out for a romantic sunset cruise.
Stearns Wharf has its own department which focuses mainly on interacting with the local vendors as well as ensuring the safety and maintenance of the wharf. Stearns Wharf is the oldest working wharf in California, dating back to 1872. You can rent some fishing gear or have your fortune told, and then dine in one of the many world class restaurants perched above the water. Several private and community organizations are involved with the wharf and the Ty Warner Sea Center is a great place to explore.
Many organizations work together to keep the Santa Barbara waterfront thriving. From the boats in the harbor to the fishermen on the wharf, there is a huge amount of work to be done in order for the area to remain a vibrant part of the city, and the many departments and groups involved each day with the waterfront keep it in great shape.