Santa Barbara’s best guided tours get straight to the heart of this California coastal gem. The top experiences combine local expertise with memorable adventures. The standout tours include coastal kayaking (great for spotting seals and exploring sea caves), wine country excursions (offering intimate tastings at family-owned vineyards), and active outdoor experiences in the nearby Ojai Valley.
Our favorites pack real value: The sunset kayak tours deliver stunning views and marine life encounters, while the small-group wine tours provide transportation and behind-the-scenes access to top wineries. For nature lovers, the guided hikes showcase hidden trails and viewpoints most visitors never see.
Let’s explore the best guided tours Santa Barbara has to offer.
Good To Know
- For wildlife spotting and scenic coastal views, the 1.5-2.5 hour Kayak Tour with an experienced guide is highly recommended with a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation.
- The Sunset Kayak Tour offers breathtaking views and is wheelchair accessible, with a 4.9/5 rating and 95% recommendation rate.
- The Gaviota Coast Kayak Tour, lasting 3.5 hours, includes a lunch and has a 97% recommendation rate, earning a Badge of Excellence.
- The Private Guided Wine Country Tour covers up to four wineries, with tasting fees and a gourmet picnic lunch included, starting at $375 per person.
- The Wine Country E-Bike Guided Tour provides electric-assist bikes, wine and olive oil tastings, and snacks, with a 5.0 rating from 6 reviews.
Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara With Experienced Guide
For those seeking a unique way to explore the stunning coastline of Santa Barbara, the Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara With Experienced Guide offers a captivating adventure.
Choose from three different routes and spot wildlife like seals and dolphins in the sapphire-blue waters. Suitable for all skill levels, the tour provides a safety briefing, kayaking instruction, and a knowledgeable local guide.
Lasting 1.5 to 2.5 hours, the customizable pace and commentary allow you to learn about the cliffside vistas and historical insights.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation, this tour is an excellent choice for an unforgettable Santa Barbara experience.
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Sunset Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara With Knowledgeable Guide
Exploring Santa Barbara’s captivating coastline takes on a new allure with the Sunset Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara With Knowledgeable Guide. This 2-hour excursion offers breathtaking views of the Pacific as the sun dips below the horizon.
With a 95% recommendation rate from 57 reviews and a 4.9/5 rating, the tour caters to beginners with a comprehensive kayaking lesson. Paddle past dolphins, sea lions, and diverse birdlife, while gaining insights into the region’s marine ecology and astronomy.
The tour accommodates up to 10 travelers and is wheelchair accessible, making it an unforgettable experience for all.
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Coastline Kayak Tour Near Santa Barbara With Knowledgeable Guide
This 3.5-hour Gaviota Coast Kayak Tour near Santa Barbara offers a captivating adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Paddle through kelp beds, enjoy stunning coastal views, and spot dolphins, sea lions, and over 1,500 marine species. The knowledgeable guide provides insights on marine ecology and local history.
The tour includes all necessary gear, transportation to the meeting point, and lunch on a secluded beach.
With a 97% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is perfect for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience along the California coastline.
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Private Guided Wine Country Tour From Santa Barbara
Discover the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley on a private guided wine tour from Santa Barbara.
You’ll explore up to four trusted wineries, with tasting fees covered. A professional guide will provide educational insights during vineyard tours.
Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch with customizable options, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan choices.
Door-to-door transportation from your accommodations or the Amtrak station is included. The tour starts at 10 am, with a minimum of two people per booking.
Priced from $375 per person, this highly-rated tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Wine Country E-Bike Guided Tour – W/O Lunch
Why not explore Santa Barbara’s wine country on an exhilarating e-bike guided tour? Experience the rolling hills, vineyards, and scenic landscapes as you ride through the region.
This private tour includes wine and olive oil tastings, ensuring you get to savor the local flavors. The electric-assist bikes make the journey comfortable, and snacks and alcoholic beverages are provided.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. With a 5.0 rating from 6 reviews, this tour promises knowledgeable guides and picturesque views, providing a memorable experience in Santa Barbara’s wine country.
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Guided Hiking, Biking, Rock Climbing, Tennis and Pickleball
Avid outdoor enthusiasts can explore a diverse array of guided experiences in Ojai, California. The 5.0-rated Guided Tour takes adventurers on a journey through the Ojai Valley, offering hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
The customizable private tour caters to each group’s interests and abilities, with high-quality gear provided. Participants can explore the Ojai Valley Bike Trail, hike in the Los Padres National Forest, and scale the rock faces of the Ojai Valley.
Along the way, they’ll savor local olive oil and vinegar while cycling through orange groves. The tour is suitable for ages 10+ with moderate fitness levels.
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Guided Hiking Experience in Ojai
Nestled in the picturesque Ojai Valley, the guided hiking experience immerses adventurers in the serene natural beauty of the region.
Over a few peaceful hours, hikers explore the area’s lush forests, discovering native flora and fauna. Bottled water and healthy snacks are provided, with opportunities to relax by nearby creeks.
The moderate-level hike requires no serious medical conditions, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Meeting at a convenient Ojai Avenue location, the private tour is open to groups of two or more, with a 24-hour cancellation policy and a five-star overall rating from previous participants.
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Guided Ojai Valley Activity Tour – Santa Barbara
Trails by Potter offers a guided Ojai Valley activity tour that allows visitors to explore the natural wonders of the region.
The tour includes a range of activities, such as hiking, biking, rock climbing, and tennis, tailored to participants’ preferences. Guests are provided with pickup and drop-off, snacks, water, and an olive oil tasting, along with a professional guide and necessary equipment.
The tour is suitable for children aged 10 and above, and guests must have a moderate fitness level.
Cancellations due to weather conditions are handled with alternative dates or full refunds, ensuring a smooth experience.
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Guided Biking Experience in Ojai
Explore Ojai’s picturesque landscapes through a guided biking experience. This 2-hour private tour takes cyclists through Ventura Beach and orange groves, led by a personal guide.
Participants must have a moderate fitness level and can’t have serious medical conditions. The tour includes top-notch bike equipment, bottled water, healthy snacks, and helmets.
Starting at $115 per person, this experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. With a 5.0 rating based on one review, the service is praised for its friendly staff and comfortable gear.
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The Sum Up
Santa Barbara offers a variety of guided tours that cater to different interests. From kayaking along the coast to exploring the nearby wine country, visitors can experience the natural beauty and local attractions with the help of knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities or cultural experiences, Santa Barbara’s guided tours provide a convenient and informative way to discover the best of what the area has to offer.