Santa Barbara’s top tours blend historic charm with modern convenience. A 2.5-hour electric bike excursion stands out as the city’s best overall experience, efficiently covering the essential sights – from the Spanish Colonial treasures to the bustling Funk Zone.
The self-guided Solvang audio tour works well for independent travelers who appreciate flexibility while learning about Danish heritage and visiting Old Mission Santa Ines.
For coastal scenery, the City & Sand Electric Bike Tour deserves special mention. This well-planned route along Cabrillo Bike Path to Butterfly Beach offers the perfect mix of urban and oceanfront landscapes, with minimal effort thanks to the electric assist.
Let’s explore these recommended tours in detail.
Good To Know
- The City & Sand Electric Bike Tour offers a 5-star rated experience to explore Santa Barbara’s Spanish-inspired architecture and historic highlights.
- The Solvang City Self Guided Audio Tour provides a flexible and affordable way to discover the city’s landmarks, including the Old Mission Santa Ines and Hans Christian Andersen Museum.
- The Santa Barbara: Electric Bike City Tour is a 2.5-hour guided experience that showcases the city’s culture and history, with stops at iconic sights like Stearns Wharf and the Funk Zone.
- The Santa Barbara: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour combines scenic views along the Cabrillo Bike Path with stops at the Santa Barbara Harbor and Butterfly Beach.
- The Santa Barbara: City Highlights Bike Tour offers a comprehensive two-hour tour with a veteran guide, providing an opportunity to explore East Beach, Butterfly Beach, and downtown Santa Barbara.
City & Sand Electric Bike Tour
The City & Sand Electric Bike Tour from Cal Coast Adventures offers a unique way to explore the stunning coastline and historic landmarks of Santa Barbara. Rated 5.0 out of 74 reviews and recommended by 99% of travelers, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to experience the city from a different perspective.
During the tour, you’ll ride fat-tire electric bikes along the sand, boardwalk, and promenade, taking in breathtaking views of East Beach, West Beach, and Butterfly Beach. The tour also includes an exploration of Santa Barbara’s Spanish-inspired architecture and historic highlights, as well as a cruise along the beachfront Cabrillo Bike Path and the promenade on State Street.
The tour is inclusive of an electric bike, a knowledgeable guide, water, and a helmet. With a maximum of 8 travelers per group, the experience is personalized and customizable to your preferences.
The tour is accessible for various fitness levels, thanks to the easy-to-ride electric bikes.
Read our full review: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour Review
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Solvang City Self Guided Audio Tour
Explore the charming Danish town of Solvang at your own pace with the Solvang City Self Guided Audio Tour. This self-guided experience, available through the Pintours App, lets you discover the town’s highlights at your convenience.
The tour covers the Old Mission Santa Ines and the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, with the audio guide providing insightful commentary along the way.
The tour is priced at $20 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. It’s accessible, with service animals allowed, nearby public transportation, and stroller and wheelchair-friendly.
The tour operates daily from 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM, ensuring you can explore Solvang at your preferred time.
With a perfect 5-star rating from verified reviews, the Solvang City Self Guided Audio Tour is an excellent way to learn about the town’s Danish charm and history. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of exploring Solvang at your own pace.
Read our full review: Solvang City Self Guided Audio Tour Review
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Santa Barbara: Electric Bike City Tour
Discover the picturesque city of Santa Barbara on the Santa Barbara Electric Bike City Tour. This 2.5-hour guided experience showcases the city’s culture and history, with stops at iconic landmarks like Stearns Wharf, the Santa Barbara Harbor, and the Funk Zone.
Priced from $95 per person, the tour offers the opportunity to explore the city on high-end electric bikes that can reach speeds up to 20mph.
Throughout the tour, you’ll learn from knowledgeable local guides who’ll share insights into hidden gems and notable sights. Enjoy scenic bike rides on designated paths, including the State Street Promenade, and take in stunning views at locations like East Beach and Butterfly Beach.
With the option for customizable private tours or shared group experiences, the Santa Barbara Electric Bike City Tour is a versatile and memorable way to discover this charming coastal city.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Electric Bike City Tour Review
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Santa Barbara: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour
Glide along the picturesque coastline and explore the vibrant city of Santa Barbara on the Santa Barbara: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour.
This 2.5-hour tour takes you through the city’s most iconic sights, from the lively West Beach to the charming downtown area. You’ll ride along the Cabrillo Bike Path, admiring the historic buildings and the artsy Funk Zone.
The tour includes a stop at the Santa Barbara Harbor, where you can take in the scenic views, and a ride through the serene Butterfly Beach and the luxurious Miramar Beach in Montecito.
Throughout the journey, your knowledgeable guide will provide insider information about the local attractions.
The tour concludes at the Rosewood Miramar Hotel, where you can soak in the stunning beach vistas.
With included electric bikes, water, and a worry-free cancellation policy, this tour offers a seamless and enjoyable way to discover the best of Santa Barbara’s city and sand.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour Review
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Santa Barbara: City Highlights Bike Tour
Set out on a two-hour Santa Barbara: City Highlights Bike Tour that showcases the vibrant heart of this coastal gem. Priced from $75 per person, this tour provides a rundown of the city’s top attractions, led by a veteran guide.
You’ll start with a 15-minute safety briefing before embarking on a scenic journey through East Beach, Butterfly Beach, Stearns Wharf, West Beach, the harbor, downtown, and the Funk Zone.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy 10 to 15 minutes at each stop, capturing stunning views and learning about Santa Barbara’s rich history and culture.
Choose from 7-speed beach cruisers or hybrid-style bikes, all of which come with helmets and water. While those under 18 must wear helmets, all riders are encouraged to do so for safety.
This tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility issues or those unable to ride a bike. Remember to wear closed-toe shoes and leave alcohol and drugs behind.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can easily plan your Santa Barbara adventure.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: City Highlights Bike Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Explore Santa Barbara’s highlights by electric bike or on a self-guided audio tour. The city’s scenic landscapes, from beaches to historic landmarks, are easily accessible. Whether you prefer a guided tour or an independent adventure, Santa Barbara offers diverse options to suit your travel style. Choose the tour that best fits your interests and energy level for an unforgettable experience in this picturesque California destination.