The UCSB Recreation Center opened in 1995 with 100,000 sq. ft. and has been one of the most popular spots on campus ever since. The original Rec Cen has two swimming pools, two gymnasia, two weight rooms, two squash courts and five racquetball courts. The Rec Cen Expansion (Rec Cen II) was approved by students in Spring 2000, opened in the Spring of 2005 and added 56,000 sq. ft. to the Rec Cen Complex. The expansion includes an additional weight room, multi-activity court (MAC), climbing center, spa, pottery studio, classroom and additional locker facilities.
The Rec Cen has continually honored its initial promise of prioritizing drop in recreation use. For instance, students can be participating in a weight training class in one of the weight rooms while the others remain open for use on a drop in basis.
The Recreation Center Governance Board sets facility policies and approves special use requests.
View the Normal Operating Hours/Calendar including reduced hours and closures.
DOWNLOADS
Note: View policy information available below for specifics regarding adult and child entrance policies.
Access to the Recreation Center to children under the age of 18 is limited and strictly enforced.
See links below for full details.
- Rec Cen Policies
- 2022 Annual Calendar
- Child Use Information & Policies (Non-summer | Fall, Winter, Spring)
- Summer Child Use Information (Coming Soon)
Children under 18 years of age must submit the following documents signed by their parent or legal guardian prior to entrance to the Rec Cen (No Exceptions).
REC CEN "FUN FACTS"
On average, 3,000 people use the Rec Cen a day!
The Recreation Center has received several awards of distinction including: 1995 Athletic Business Facility of Merit, 1996 NIRSA Facility of Distinction, and 2002 NIRSA Outstanding Sports Facility.
The US Green Building Council awarded the Rec Cen a Silver LEED – EB (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design – Existing Buildings) in 2008 and Gold LEED – EB in 2014. We are currently working to increase our energy efficiency to earn a LEED-EB platinum. Find more details on our sustainability page.
REC CEN CONTACT INFORMATION
Front Desk
(805) 893-7619
Customer Service Center
(805) 893-3738
Equipment Room
(805) 893-7620
Adventure Climbing Center
(805) 893-3737
Wellness & Fitness Institute
(805) 893-4000
Lifeguard Office
(805) 893-7213
Building Manager
Bruce Hansen
(805) 893-7618
Aquatics Director
Debbie Miles-Dutton
(805) 893-7616
Location:
UCSB Recreation Center
516 Ocean Road
Santa Barbara, CA 93106