Santa Barbara Waterfront Tours
131 Reviews

It should come as no surprise that a city hailed for its beautiful coastline should consider its waterfront the #1 tourist attraction in the area. With a variety of restaurants, boating and sport fishing tours, a bird sanctuary, bike path, and a beautiful promenade connecting the Waterfront to the rest of the downtown area, the Santa Barbara Waterfront is, without a doubt, one of the glittering gems of Santa Barbara.
From State Street (the area’s main business street) head East to see Chase Palm Park (home to Sunday art-walks and where many a pickup soccer game begins), the Santa Barbara Skate Park, and the Bird Sanctuary. Head West from State Street and find the Harbor, Waterfront Museum, several restaurants, and water sports adventure tours.
From State Street (the area’s main business street) head East to see Chase Palm Park (home to Sunday art-walks and where many a pickup soccer game begins), the Santa Barbara Skate Park, and the Bird Sanctuary. Head West from State Street and find the Harbor, Waterfront Museum, several restaurants, and water sports adventure tours.
Practical Info
The Santa Barbara Waterfront runs from Leadbetter Beach, down past Stern’s Wharf, and over down to East Beach and the Bird Sanctuary and Santa Barbara Zoo. Parking is typically free for 90 minutes, and readily available.
Address: USA
14 Tours and Activities to Experience Santa Barbara Waterfront
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Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Experienced Guide
46
This private Santa Barbara kayaking tour lets you explore the marine life and landmarks of Santa Barbara Harbor and the spectacular coastline on the ‘American Riviera’ along one of four different routes. Take in views of rugged shoreline cliffs and the Santa Ynez Mountains, and be on the lookout for dolphins and seals. This 1.5- to 2.5-hour tour is led by an experienced kayak guide who points out natural features and customizes the speed of the ride according to your skill level.
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From
$50.00
Price varies by group size
From
$50.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Santa Barbara Harbor Kayak Tour
154
Escape the crowds on land and get the best views of Santa Barbara Harbor from the water during a kayak tour that’s designed with active travelers in mind. Exploring in an eco-friendly vessel increases your chance of spotting dolphins and sea lions, while a choice of morning and afternoon start time means you can select a time that suits your schedule.
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From
$59.94
From
$59.94

Santa Barbara Kayak Tour
27
Get another perspective on the southern California coast during this leisurely kayak tour in Santa Barbara. Learn the basics of kayaking from your guide, and hear about Santa Barbara’s natural history and marine life during your tour. Includes use of all kayaking gear.
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From
$63.47
From
$63.47
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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Stand-Up Paddleboard Lesson in Santa Barbara
8
Learn to SUP, or stand-up paddleboard, in Santa Barbara during a 1.5-hour lesson at Leadbetter Beach. No matter your skill level, you’ll learn to stand up and kneel down, balance and paddle as you’re accompanied onto the water. A wetsuit is provided for this all-weather outdoor activity that gives you a glimpse of marine life and the Santa Barbara coastline. Your lesson is limited to 18 people to ensure more personalized attention from the expert instructor.
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From
$85.00
Price varies by group size
From
$85.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Santa Barbara Sunset Kayak Tour
10
Paddle into the sunset along the Southern California coast during this beginner-friendly kayaking trip from Santa Barbara. Watch the last rays of the day melt into the Pacific as you travel through the glassy waters of Santa Barbara Harbor. As you move, you’ll pass by the historic wharf and past other boats, keeping your eyes out for marine life. An included lesson in astronomy and ecology from your guide is an added bonus. A guide and all necessary kayaking gear is included.
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From
$102.70
From
$102.70
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Santa Barbara History and Architecture Bike Tour
3
Biking the seaside in Santa Barbara is always beautiful and having a guide brings it to life by adding context and stories about the development of this lovely waterfront.
State Street just recently closed to automobiles, so now biking through downtown is more enjoyable and safe than ever. Your guide will not only provide entertaining stories about how the town and its buildings came to be, but also give you tips on the best restaurants, bars, and attractions to enjoy during the rest of your stay in Santa Barbara.
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From
$59.49
From
$59.49
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Guides required to regularly wash hands
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Santa Barbara Moke Rental
4
From British classic to Caribbean icon, the Moke electric vehicle has become a symbol for fun in the sun. A Moke rental from Wheel Fun Rentals is the perfect way to enjoy all that Santa Barbara has to offer.
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From
$59.00
per group
From
$59.00
per group

Santa Barbara Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Rental
10
We pride ourselves on carrying Santa Barbara's easiest kayak and paddleboard experience as the only rental and tour company on West Beach. We also prioritize keeping our inventory up to date with the highest-end kayak and paddleboard gear you can find. Most importantly, our friendly tour guides and beach staff will be happy to answer any questions as they help assist you and the family into your ocean adventure!
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From
$30.00
per group
From
$30.00
per group
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board Rental
2
We pride ourselves on carrying Santa Barbara's easiest kayak and paddleboard experience as the only rental and tour company on West Beach. We also prioritize keeping our inventory up to date with the highest-end kayak and paddleboard gear you can find. Most importantly, our friendly tour guides and beach staff will be happy to answer any questions as they help assist you and the family into your ocean adventure!
…More
From
$15.39
From
$15.39
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Santa Barbara Electric Bike Rentals
1
Note: Multiple factors affect how far you will get on a single battery charge including: hills, headwinds, and rider weight. Rider mode will also affect battery life. Our bikes have 3 modes: eco, normal, and high. In eco-mode, you will typically get up to 4 hours of straight riding. For those renting for a full day, you are welcome to come back to the shop to swap out your battery.
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From
$25.00
From
$25.00

Electric Bike Rental in Santa Barbara
40
Explore the ocean views and city sights of Santa Barbara on an electric bike! Capable of speeds up to 20 mph and a range of 25 - 75 miles! These bikes make your sight seeing a breeze! These fun-filled ebikes will help you see more of the city than you expected all without breaking a sweat!
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From
$51.29
From
$51.29
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

City & Sand Electric Bike Tour
The only tour in Santa Barbara that takes you on the sand of our famous beaches on your very own fat tire electric bike! Prepare to take in Santa Barbara's most stunning oceanfront views as you glide in between the waves and the palm trees. This Electric Bike Tour involves riding on the beach as well as biking through town on the boardwalk and downtown promenade. If you're looking for the must-do activity that shows you everything Santa Barbara has to offer this is the bike tour for you.
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From
$107.70
From
$107.70
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Santa Barbara Bike Rentals: Electric, Mountain or Hybrid
24
Get around Santa Barbara with a 1- or 2-day bicycle rental that provides three options: an electric, mountain or hybrid bike. You can cover a lot of ground, including the city streets and coastline, without even pedaling, or explore the nearby hills or Santa Ynez Mountains on a mountain bike. Opt for a hybrid bike if you want to experience the speed of a road bike combined with the stability of a cruiser. Choose from a selection of models appropriate for both beginning riders and those with more advanced skills.
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From
$60.00
From
$60.00
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Santa Barbara Wildlife and History Kayaking Tour
4
Explore California’s gorgeous coast on a scenic kayak tour. With a knowledgeable, experienced guide leading the way, bring the whole family and navigate Santa Barbara’s picturesque waterfront. Learn about the region's history and wildlife, admire the rugged coastal mountains, and watch for pelicans and egrets, dolphins and sea lions. You may even see a family of gray whales on its annual migration.
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From
$60.00
From
$60.00
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