Discover The Cultured Abalone Farm: A Hidden Gem Near Santa Barbara
If you’re exploring Santa Barbara and looking for a unique and educational experience, The Cultured Abalone Farm should be on your list. Located just 20 minutes north of Santa Barbara along the scenic Gaviota Coast, this sustainable seafood farm offers an insider’s look into the fascinating world of abalone cultivation, seaweed farming, and sea urchin ranching.
The Cultured Abalone Farm offers guided tours that provide an immersive experience in sustainable aquaculture. During your visit, you’ll learn about their innovative farming techniques, marine conservation efforts, and get a firsthand look at how they raise abalone from the size of a pencil dot to the size of the palm of your hand.
During the tour you’ll learn about:
- Sustainable Seafood Production: See how The Cultured Abalone Farm nurtures abalone over 3-4 years, ensuring each shellfish is grown in pristine conditions with a natural seaweed diet.
- Marine Science Insights: Learn about their partnerships with leading scientific institutions that focus on conservation and restoring wild abalone populations.
- Interactive Learning: Guests will have the opportunity to observe the farm’s seawater tank system designed to emulate the natural rock substrate environment where abalone thrive.
- Purple Hotchi Uni: Discover their innovative project that transforms “zombie” purple sea urchins into a rich culinary delicacy through a unique fattening process.
What to Know Before Your Visit
- Reservations Required: Tours are limited to 15 people and must be booked in advance. No drop-in visitors are allowed.
- Arrival Time: Arrive 15 minutes early to check in and complete the waiver.
- Dress Accordingly: Closed-toe shoes are required, and the tour runs rain or shine.
- Essentials to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.
- Farm Shop: After your tour, you can purchase fresh abalone, purple uni, seaweed, and other marine-inspired products. Bringing a reusable cooler is encouraged for seafood purchases.
The Story Behind The Cultured Abalone Farm
The Cultured Abalone Farm is Southern California’s only dedicated abalone farm, known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Each abalone is cultivated by hand, fed a diet of locally harvested seaweed, and grown without antibiotics or artificial feeds. The farm’s efforts have earned them a coveted green rating from Seafood Watch, ensuring their products are eco-friendly and responsibly sourced.
Their collaboration with local commercial divers has also helped manage the invasive purple sea urchin population. The result is their signature Purple Hotchi Uni — a sweet, plump delicacy that has become a sought-after culinary treat in Santa Barbara’s vibrant food scene.
Why Visit The Cultured Abalone Farm?
Visiting The Cultured Abalone Farm is more than just a tour — it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about marine conservation, and sample some of California’s most unique seafood offerings. Whether you’re a foodie seeking fresh delicacies or a nature enthusiast curious about sustainable practices, this experience offers a memorable glimpse into Santa Barbara’s coastal heritage.
Plan Your Visit
For those seeking Santa Barbara things to do, The Cultured Abalone Farm offers a unique experience that blends education, sustainability, and delicious seafood. Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem and discover the incredible world beneath the waves.
Pro Tip: Students can save $20 on admission with the code “STUDENT,” and youth under 18 can use the code “YOUTH” for discounted tickets. Be sure to book early as tours often sell out.
For an unforgettable adventure along the Gaviota Coast, add The Cultured Abalone Farm to your Santa Barbara itinerary and experience the best in sustainable seafood and marine conservation.
Book Your Tour Today!
📍 The Cultured Abalone Farm
9580 South Dos Pueblos Canyon Road Goleta, CA 93117
– 2hrs from LA
– 1.5hrs from SLO
– 45 min from SYV
– 5hrs from SF
