Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Experienced local guides take you on an unforgettable Santa Barbara kayak tour spotlighting one of California's most thriving marine regions. Learn about Santa Barbara’s natural history and marine ecology, as well as local trivia during this fun and exhilarating day on the water. This 2 hour paddling adventure offers spectacular views of the city and beaches from a unique perspective on the water!
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If your contact number is international please include your email address in the comment section.
Minimum numbers apply. Our kayak tours require a minimum of 2 participants to run. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
If you are a single traveler, please feel free to call our office to confirm availability
Children under 5 are not permitted. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult in a double kayak.
Although we offer dry bags to help keep gear dry, everything that comes on the kayaking trip runs the risk of getting wet. We therefore recommend that you only bring personal gear that can get wet or damp during the trip. Items that must stay dry such as cameras or other electronic devices, change of clothes or personal belongings should stay in your vehicle.
To ensure proper equipment, please provide your heights & weights. Thank you.
Double kayaks are automatically provided. Singles are available for odd number parties. Guests over 230lbs will be provided a single kayak.
Guests under 18 years of age MUST have a parent or legal guardian sign their release forms. If you need this paperwork sent to you ahead of time, please contact our office.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Start by getting outfitted with paddle jackets, PFDs, a paddle, and a kayak. Your guide provides a paddling demonstration and safety talk, then makes sure you are comfortable in your boat. Set out on the water from the boat launch and paddle through the harbor, passing other boats, the historic wharf, under the pier, and along the beach. Along the way, look for wildlife like harbor seals, sea lions, brown pelicans, sea stars, cormorants, and seagulls. Expect to paddle approximately one to two miles (1.5–3 km) along the coast before returning to the boat dock where your tour ends.
What‘s Included
All associated kayaking gear (wet suit, PFD, helmet, paddle, etc.
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Spectacular views of Santa Barbara
Knowledgeable guide and discussion of natural history/marine ecology
Personal expenses
Parking is $2.00 per hour, maximum $12.00 per car.
Gratuity for your guide(s) - While optional it is very much appreciated and to be given at your discretion in return for their leadership, expertise, and professionalism.You can tip the guide in cash or via credit card at the end of your tour as you feel appropriate.
Options
Departure
Reviews
182 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Gar and Sophia were great...
Karen D,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Gar and Sophia were great guides who helped us with kayaking techniques and tugging our kayaks if needed. It was overcast day and we had a small group so it was a nice intimate experience. They gave us great knowledge of the harbor and wildlife. We saw seals, sea lions, and lots of birds, including a mama seal bringing up her baby seal to the shore! Fun activity if you’re feeling adventurous and want to be in the water.
Santa Barbara harbor sea life kayak tour
Compass61245637157,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Easy harbor kayaking with knowledgeable and friendly guides. Perfect for beginners and families!
Asa our tour guide was...
Leilani F,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Asa our tour guide was awesome, brought 3 teenagers and they had a blast! The seals, sea lions and the pelicans were a plus!!! Thanks Asa
Cool experience on a hot day
Trek561475,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was truly one of the highlights of our trip! Johnny is an exceptional guide. We had a blast and to our delight saw many marine animals (including dolphins). We highly recommend the Santa Barbara Adventure Company. Suggestion is to bring a waterproof phone case or ziplock bag for your phone (or a waterproof camera) to take pictures.
It’s the 2nd time I’ve...
Kasia T,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It’s the 2nd time I’ve done the tour, and it was great. Our guide was super knowledgeable and fun. Good for all skill levels
100% Yes
Susan H,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00An awesome way to spend a couple hours! Very fun, beautiful and educational. Our guide was knowledgeable about the wildlife, and Santa Barbara. We felt safe and well prepared.
Wildlife enthusiasts assemble!
S1487VNkylief,Feb 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This trip was super fun! We ended up in CA during some high winds, scattered rain & chilly weather, but this company was prepared with wet suits and paddle jackets for us which kept us all super warm and comfortable. Our group varied from minimal to intermediate kayak experience and our guide accommodated us all very well, instilling confidence in newer paddlers. The harbor waters were very calm to paddle in. We loved seeing starfish, pelicans and many other sea birds, and of course harbor seals, including one little baby! This trip is fun and relaxing, and if you love wildlife, the guides are a wealth of knowledge to talk all things environment, ecosystems, and wildlife. Definitely a fun way to spend an afternoon in Santa Barbara!
Lots of natural history,...
Lizabeth B,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Lots of natural history, history of Santa Barbara with view of birds, seals and sea lions. Great information! Had a wonderful paddle around harbor and a little ways into open ocean.
Learned a Lot!
X3486BRsuzanneb,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved it! It was a really fun morning of paddling, full of education from Luke, our guide, and of course lots of wildlife.
Fun in the Coastal Sun
F2217PVoliviab,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We booked the wildlife kayak tour & had a blast. Spencer was truly amazing & made it both a fun & memorable experience. A total highlight of our trip :-)
From US$59.00
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Operated by Santa Barbara Adventure Company