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Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

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Overview

Available languages

English

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‘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.

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.

Options

Departure

Reviews

4.90

147 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

138
6
2
0
1
  • Awesome tour!

    Julie R,

    Aug 15, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    The guides Dario R and Josh B were great and very knowledgeable! A fun and informative tour, loved the sea life and eco information and passion of our guides!

  • 90% harbour, 10% wildlife

    Frank O,

    Aug 11, 2025

    - Viator

    3.00

    Too much time drifting slowly around the harbour not enough looking for wildlife. Literally 15 minutes out of the harbour and only after we hassled them to take us. 4 sea lions, two dead crabs in the oil in the harbour and a great blue heron that I spotted and one of the other customers identified.

  • Relaxed and fun kayaking experience

    Colin C,

    Aug 3, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Extremely enjoyable and well organised sea kayaking trip around Santa Barbara harbour. Our guide Asa was very knowledgeable and made sure everyone had a great time. This was our 2nd time kayaking, but I would say this would be easy for first time kayakers, as the start of the trip is on very calm waters within the harbour to allow you to learn how to control the kayak, before heading out into more open sea later in the trip. We saw sealions and may different sea birds.

  • Kayaking with Josh as our...

    Anne W,

    Jul 28, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Kayaking with Josh as our guide was amazing. He taught us so much and had a great sense of humor too.

  • more of a harbor tour...

    Ciara M,

    Jul 26, 2025

    - Viator

    3.00

    more of a harbor tour than a wildlife tour but Aidan was a great tour guide! But you will definitely get to see a few seals at least. Great for beginner kayakers over more experienced ones.

From $55.00

4.90
147 reviews
Check availability

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Operated by Santa Barbara Adventure Company

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