Former Sea Landing site has new owners and is renamed Santa Barbara Landing

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. -  The ownership of a landmark site at the Santa Barbara harbor has changed.      Sea Landing is now called Santa Barbara Landing.

The owners are already involved in the existing operations there offering sport fishing charters, kayaking, jet skies, and stand up paddle boards.  The Condor whale watching operation will be a tenant.

"There's adventure both whether you want to go out on a boat or rental kayak or a sup (stand up paddle board) we are going to have a full service coffee shop, full service tackle shop. a scuba shop,  beach toys and beach activities," said Jaime Diamond a partner in the ownership

The Santa Barbara Landing LLC is comprised of the owners of  the Stardust and Coral Sea, Channel Islands Expeditions, Santa Barbara Jet Boats and the Sea Landing Dive Center.  

The area on the eastern end of the harbor is considered an area that can be a high revenue generating area for the waterfront as it goes through its changes.

Last July, the waterfront department put out a request for proposal to look at presentations from potential operators.   It was put out nationwide to seek input and offers from a wide area.

A team made up of city staff and managers went over the proposals. It was decided after weeks of review that Santa Barbara Landing LLC had the most viable proposal.

The plan also calls for making capital improvements. Diamond says there's a solid relationship with the waterfront department on the Santa Barbara Landing project and associated improvements around the nearby walkway.

Diamond said, "they want this site to be a beacon.  It is an integral part of the waterfront, and it is time.  It is time to move forward."

"In the long term, said Diamond, we are going to be "giving you more of a reason to come to the landing"

Some changes have already taken place with the supplies and on site stock in the retail center. "They can just bring their boat down plop it in the water and then come over here for anything and everything they need.  Fishing licenses, tackle, bait, snacks,  ice, drinks we have it all."

The work on the building may not begin this year but the plan is to eventually have some improvements to the existing structure with open air doors on one side, a small patio area for morning coffee talk, and room from expanded retail.

On the West Beach side will be a customer service window for grab and go sandwiches, ice cream and necessities for a trip to the beach.

Diamond says that connection with the visitor serving areas of the beach has not been met , and it will be with their plan. She says whether you are interested in a water sport activity of just a recreational trip to the area, the look and service provided by the Santa Barbara Landing will be welcoming.

Other options down the road will also include some informational meetings there to learn about the services offered at the landing and some educational gatherings.