Stearns Wharf
Protected Area
Campus Point State Marine Conservation Area
Why dive here
Stearns Wharf is a reef dive in California, United States. Water ranges 14-21°C, warmest July, August, September.
Stearns Wharf is a surprisingly good shore dive for its accessibility, right off the beach in Santa Barbara. The depth rarely pushes past 6 meters, making it a comfortable spot for newer divers or those looking for an easy entry. Beneath the pilings, you’ll find a bustling community of nudibranchs, small crabs scuttling amongst the anemones, and often octopuses tucked away in crevices. The light filtering through the pier structure creates some interesting visual effects, and we've spotted some surprisingly large sheephead cruising through the shadows. It’s a great spot for an afternoon critter hunt when you don't want to commit to a boat trip.
Typical Stearns Wharf Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Nearest Dive Centres to Stearns Wharf
Dive shops near Stearns Wharf
Dive Santa Barbara
Blue Water Hunter Dive Shop
Santa Barbara Aquatics
Ventura Dive & Sport
Reviews for Stearns Wharf
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Stearns Wharf
Stearns Wharf Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Stearns Wharf, sourced from NOAA NDBC buoy data - nearest station: Topanga Nearshore, CA (103) (221km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
19°C
66°F · Range: 14–23.7°C
Air Temperature
18°C
65°F
Wave Height
0.6m
13.8s period
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: NOAA NDBC buoy data
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