We are Šmuwič people, meaning “from the shore”.
Who We Are
Through our ongoing presence and stewardship,
we continue to demonstrate that Chumash culture is a living, evolving tradition that contributes valuable wisdom and perspectives to our shared future.
The Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation represents one of the oldest Indigenous communities of California's southern coast. We are one of seven Chumash tribes, sharing ancestral Chumash territories spanning from Malibu to San Luis Obispo and extending to the Northern Channel Islands. For thousands of years, our people have maintained profound connections to these lands and waters, developing sophisticated maritime technologies, astronomical knowledge, and adaptive and sustainable ecological practices that allowed our communities to thrive.
Historically recognized for our intricate basketry, rock art, and tomol (plank canoe) craftsmanship, we developed complex trade networks and a rich cultural tradition that continues to inform our identity today. Located in Santa Barbara (Syuxtun), Coastal Band is made of Chumash families who have maintained our cultural continuity despite centuries of colonization, missionization, and displacement.
We are a 501(c)(3) tribal entity focused on cultural growth and community wellbeing, and we thrive in many ways:
Cultural Heritage
Our community comes together to pass down knowledge of weaving, storytelling, dance, plant stewardship, maritime culture, and ceremonial practices to younger generations.
Environmental Advocacy
We actively participate in coastal protection initiatives, habitat restoration projects, and sustainable resource management. We ensure our Indigenous perspectives are heard and integrated into environmental policy decisions affecting our traditional territories.
Community Development
Through strong partnerships with local governmental and educational institutions, we enrich the broader communities we share by bringing Chumash perspectives to public life.
Governance
Through our collaborative partnerships with state and federal agencies, non-profit organizations, and municipalities, we create lasting change that benefits both our tribal communities and the broader society.
Our Home
Coastal Band calls Santa Barbara (Syuxtun) home, where the sounds of our Šmuwič language and culture have been alive for thousands of years.
While most of our Coastal Band members still live somewhere on traditional Chumash lands, many of us live in other parts of California, in different states, or in different countries.
“Home is the scent of warm sagebrush in the mountains. The cries of seagulls coming in with the tide. A bit of wisdom from your uncle over the smoke of bbq in the backyard.”
Chumash Country is huge!
Today, most Chumash people identify with one of today’s seven governing tribes of Chumash (listed from north to south):
• Yak Tityutityu Yak Tilhini Northern Chumash Tribe (San Luis Obispo)
• Northern Chumash Tribal Council (San Luis Obispo)
• Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians (Santa Ynez)
• Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation (Santa Barbara)
• Barbareño Band of Chumash Indians (Santa Barbara)
• Barbareño Chumash Tribal Council (Santa Barbara & Ventura counties)
• Barbareño/Ventureño Band of Mission Indians (Ojai/Ventura)