Guided Kayak Wildlife Tour in the Santa Barbara Harbor

Santa Barbara 2 hours

Make your own way to the boat launch at Santa Barbara Harbor to meet your kayak guide. 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.


Kayak tour in Santa Barbara

Receive instruction on paddling and steering the kayak

Watch harbor seals, sea lions, and other wildlife in their natural environment

Get a new perspective on the beaches and city

Suitable for beginners, no experience needed

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

Exclusions

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.

Additional Information

  • 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.
Santa Barbara, California, 93109 Get directions

A full refund will apply if you cancel more than a day before the activity start time.

No refund is possible if you cancel less than a day before the activity start time.

Guide Languages

  • English
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