Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

4.9 (231 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

231 reviews

4.9

Happy kayakers — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Checking out the sea lions — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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!

Kayaking Tours On the Water Excellent Quality Best Conversion Top Product Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate Short term availability

At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 20 people
People per booking: 1–20
Guide: English
Operated by: Santa Barbara Adventure Company

Ages: Children (5–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: All associated kayaking gear (wet suit, PFD, helmet, paddle, etc.
Included: All taxes, fees and handling charges
Included: Spectacular views of Santa Barbara
Included: Knowledgeable guide and discussion of natural history/marine ecology

Not included

Not included: Personal expenses
Not included: Parking is $2.00 per hour, maximum $12.00 per car.
Not included: 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.

Itinerary

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.

Stop 1
Stearns Wharf
Santa Barbara Waterfront

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Enter the harbor at Harbor Way. Turn left and enter at the kiosk. Continue in the direction of the wharf. Follow the signs to the boat launch area. We will meet you at the boat ramp located at the end of the harbor parking lot (next to West Beach). Look for your guide with the kayaks.

End point

Enter the harbor at Harbor Way. Turn left and enter at the kiosk. Continue in the direction of the wharf. Follow the signs to the boat launch area. We will meet you at the boat ramp located at the end of the harbor parking lot (next to West Beach). Look for your guide with the kayaks.

Using your ticket

Meeting Point: 301 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA

Meeting Instructions:

Enter the harbor at Harbor Way. Turn left and enter at the kiosk. Continue in the direction of the

wharf. Follow the signs to the boat launch area. We will meet you at the boat ramp located at the end of the harbor parking lot (next to West Beach). Look for your guide with the kayaks.

Please Note: Although we offer dry bags to help keep gear dry, everything that comes on the kayaking trip runs the risk of getting wet. We 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.

What you will need:

Sun Screen (SPF 30 or higher)
A hat with a brim
Sunglasses with a neck strap such as "Chums" or “Croakies”
1-quart (or greater) water bottle filled with water - please help us reduce our environmental footprint by bringing a reusable bottle
Wet shoes such as "Tevas" or "Aqua Socks" or an old pair of tennies
Swimsuit or swim trunks
Sweatshirt
A beach towel
Waterproof camera (optional)
Polyester shirt or other synthetic clothing, layering to stay warm (optional)

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Terms & Conditions: It is your responsibility to check your booking confirmation carefully as soon as you receive it and contact us immediately if any information on the confirmation appears to be incorrect or incomplete as it may not be possible to make changes later. Please review your confirmation information carefully.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

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.