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
171 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Family fun
Voyage47602582093,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Recommend for a fun adventure with your family! The tandem kayaks meant our children could enjoy this activity too. Our guide explained sea life and knew where to take us to see sea lions, starfish, and harbor seals. Super fun for our family!
Asa is awesome!
H8963PEscottt,,Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Asa was OUTSTANDING!!! Incredibly knowledgeable about the history of Santa Barbara and did a wonderful job!!! Highly recommend!
Fun, informational tour
28shelleyn,,Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had so much fun with our guide, Spencer! We lucked out to have a beautiful sunny day this past week. I was fascinated with the history of the harbor, pointing out wildlife, and appreciating the uniqueness of the location/currents or the Santa Barbara harbor. We even were lucky enough to see dolphins! Spencer has convinced us to come back to try the Channel Islands kayaking next time!
Great on water adventure
Jennifer W,,Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing adventure. Out of shape and a bit overweight. 😂. Had a great time with Paco out on the water. Give us great stories about Santa Barbara. Loved seeing sea lions and seals. I’ll never forget how to tell them apart.
Great experience! Confidence builder for kids!
Heather B,,Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My husband and I with our 5yo and 12yo joined Gar on a fantastic guide through the harbor that led to open water. He made us feel comfortable from the minute we got our kayaks. He led us through some great obstacles to learn how to maneuver our Kayaks and we saw lots of sea lions. The weather was perfect, kids had a blast!
Nora, Nora, Nora!!!
Gerald L,,Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Nora, is our hero. We almost hit a sealion on a barge. We cap sized and Nora was cool calm and easy to understand.
Under the boardwalk
Donna H,,Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Going outside the breakwater to see the sea lion on the bouy was a highlight! Our guide Caco took us out of comfort zone kayaking under boats and piers- very cool!
Fun activity for a sunny day
Amy S,,Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00This was a fun activity to do on a beautiful sunny day. It’s not over adventurous but we saw a sea lion and a bunch of harbor seals. Our guide, Caco, shared a lot of the Native American history of the area, as well as interesting information about the development of Santa Barbara.
Kayaking Experience
913brianaa,,Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very fun experience!! I would definitely recommend:) We saw a lot of wildlife and some huge starfish! Our tour guide was knowledgeable and very easygoing
Great Adventure
Marna W,,Nov 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful experience! We had a great day with perfect weather. Spencer , our tour guide was fantastic! Kind, helpful, knowledgeable, accommodating and friendly! We had never kayaked before . I especially liked the way Spencer had us get into the kayak , one person at a time from the boat ramp and then pulled us into the water.
From US$59.00
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Operated by Santa Barbara Adventure Company