Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series

Presents acclaimed author Betsy J. Green as she explores early filmmaking in "Silents on the Islands."

September 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

In the early days of Hollywood, the Channel Islands provided a stunning natural backdrop for over 250 silent films. From pirate tales to shipwreck dramas, legendary stars like Gloria Swanson and Buster Keaton brought high-seas adventure to life along these dramatic shores.

SILENTS ON THE ISLANDS - COVER 5-2025 slide

Join Us at San Ignacio Lagoon

February 24th - 28th, 2006

Guests in attendance and listening to a speaker from the museum's Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series.

Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series

Presents acclaimed author Betsy J. Green as she explores early filmmaking in "Silents on the Islands."

September 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

In the early days of Hollywood, the Channel Islands provided a stunning natural backdrop for over 250 silent films. From pirate tales to shipwreck dramas, legendary stars like Gloria Swanson and Buster Keaton brought high-seas adventure to life along these dramatic shores.

SILENTS ON THE ISLANDS - COVER 5-2025 slide
San Ignacio Lagoon Gray Whales

Join Us In San Ignacio Lagoon

February 24th - 28th, 2026

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum ~ Anchored in the Community

Dive into This Exhibit

"Redwoods of the Sea" Photography by Ralph A. Clevenger

Sept. 11, 2025 to Jan. 4, 2026

Stunning photography reveals the rich beauty and biodiversity of the Santa Barbara Channel Islands’ kelp forests.

Upcoming Events

Image of books on a book shelf with the First Order Fresnel lens.

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More to Explore

Join the Flagship Society

Create a promising future and legacy by making a planned gift to the museum.

Whales Are Superheroes

Learn more about how whales are helping to sustain the entire living system of the ocean.

Online Collections

SBMM has a robust collection of historical artifacts.

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In honor of the museum’s 25th anniversary, we are collecting community stories. Share your visit or special experience with us!