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Santa Barbara Cruise Port
The Basics
Passengers docking at the Santa Barbara Cruise Port often head straight into the neighboring Santa Ynez Valley on full-day wine tours. However, first-time visitors should make the most of Santa Barbara’s Michelin-rated restaurants on food tours—or the highly acclaimed wineries, boutiques, and spas—before heading to the beach for a kayak or surf lesson. Ultimately, though, the main charm of the city lies in walking—or biking—along the palm-tree and eucalyptus-lined streets or scenic Stearns Wharf.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ships dock about 1.5-miles offshore and tenders (small boats) take passengers to the harbor where a hospitality team awaits.
- There are plenty of tourist information points in Santa Barbara, although much of the downtown is easily walkable.
- Waterfront shuttles are available at the Santa Barbara Cruise Port.
- State Street is the main drag in Santa Barbara and can be easily enjoyed and explored in just a day.
- Cycling, kayaking, and winery tours are all popular options in Santa Barbara.
How to Get to Santa Barbara From the Santa Barbara Cruise Port
Cruise ships drop anchor offshore and, from the Santa Barbara Harbor, the downtown is a short walk. There are also waterfront shuttles and taxis available, although bike rentals and city cycling tours are popular ways to get around Santa Barbara too.
Port Information
The official currency is the US dollar, and you'll find plenty of ATMs in and around the port and Santa Barbara proper. Both English and Spanish are widely spoken in the city and surrounds.
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