Santa Barbara stands out as California’s wine country with a charm that combines scenic vineyards, small family-run wineries, and a relaxed coastal vibe. Unlike more commercialized regions, Santa Ynez Valley offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from guided all-inclusive tours that take you behind the scenes of boutique wineries to electric bike outings through vineyards. The variety of options—such as private Tesla tours, true crime wine walks, and even ghost-themed tastings—means there’s something tailored for every wine enthusiast.
This guide will walk you through the 20 best wine tours in Santa Barbara, highlighting what makes each one unique. Whether you want a full-day private experience, a quick tasting hop, or something offbeat like a true crime-themed tour, we’ve got you covered. Expect details on inclusions, prices, durations, and what previous guests loved most.
Quick Overview of Santa Barbara Wine Tours
The list covers a wide range of experiences: all-inclusive group tours, private luxury outings, self-guided electric bike adventures, and thematic tours like true crime or ghost stories. Some tours focus on small family-owned wineries, while others include luxury transport in Tesla SUVs or even driving your own vehicle with a designated driver. Most tours include tastings and lunch, but some put a special spin on the traditional, like walking through town or exploring vineyards on electric bikes.
1. Solvang Santa Ynez Valley Small Group All-Inclusive Wine Tour
At $170 per person, this small-group all-inclusive tour offers a flexible, personalized experience in Santa Ynez. The highlight is the chance to customize your itinerary with your guide, visiting a selection of family-owned wineries, tasting rooms, and possibly olive oils or chocolates. The tour includes lunch, bottled water, and hotel pickup in key towns like Buellton and Santa Ynez. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and hand-picked wineries, especially the chance to visit smaller venues that passionately craft their wines. This is perfect for those who want a tailored half-day in wine country with a relaxed pace. The downside? It’s a shorter experience, so serious wine lovers might want a full-day option. Bottom line: great value for a personalized, flexible experience.
2. 3-Winery Tour Includes Tastings & Lunch from Santa Ynez/Solvang
For $169, this all-inclusive 3-winery tour is a hit with friends. It covers tastings at three wineries, a picnic lunch, and bottled water—all in a comfortable vehicle with a friendly driver. The small-group atmosphere (usually around 8 people) ensures a personal feeling. Guests often mention the “excellent guide” Kris, and the variety of wineries offers a good mix of big names and intimate spots. The included lunch is a real bonus, saving extra costs and time. It’s perfect if you want a straightforward, fun, and well-organized day with zero worries about driving. The main limitation? It’s only five hours, so it’s a quick taste of wine country. Bottom line: excellent for first-timers or those short on time.
3. 3-Winery Tour Includes Tastings & Lunch from Santa Barbara
This 6.5-hour tour for $199 per person takes you to three Santa Ynez vineyards, with tastings and lunch included. It’s ideal for those wanting to explore different vineyard atmospheres, as the tour adjusts wineries depending on the season. Guests appreciate the seamless transfers and the guide’s insights into local winemaking. The picnic lunch in the vineyards adds a charming touch. This tour is slightly longer, making it perfect for those who want a more in-depth experience. It’s suitable for wine lovers eager to sample a variety of wines without the hassle of driving. A minor drawback could be the limited number of wineries—if you’re craving bigger vineyard visits, this might feel a bit boutique. Bottom line: a well-rounded, relaxed day in wine country.
4. Private Santa Barbara Wine Country Vineyards & Villages Tour
For $338 per person, this private 6.5-hour tour allows you to customize your visit to Santa Barbara’s wine villages. The luxury vehicle, often a Tesla SUV, offers a comfortable ride through scenic vineyards. The tour’s flexibility makes it ideal for those who want to pick specific wineries or explore the villages, with options to include a picnic or visit boutique estates. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide and luxury transport. The private aspect means fewer crowds and a tailored itinerary. The main con? It’s pricier, so best suited for couples or groups wanting a more exclusive experience. Bottom line: a fantastic choice for luxury-seekers or special occasions.
5. Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour
At $212, this 6-hour tour takes you to three boutique wineries in Santa Ynez. The trip includes tastings and a picnic lunch, with guides sharing insights into local winemaking. Guests highlight the “beautiful scenery” and the chance to meet owners at smaller wineries. It’s a perfect blend of scenery, education, and tasting enjoyment. Suitable for those wanting a full, relaxed day with plenty of wine and good conversation. The main drawback is that you’re limited to three wineries, which might feel brief for some. Bottom line: a solid, well-reviewed experience combining wine, scenery, and local stories.
6. Private Santa Barbara Winery and Estate Tour in Tesla SUV
This $422 luxury private tour in a Tesla SUV focuses on small, ultra-premium wineries. It’s ideal for wine connoisseurs who want to escape crowds and enjoy sit-down tastings with owners and winemakers. Guests rave about the generous tastings, personalized attention, and the scenic drives between estates. The tour’s exclusivity and upscale transport make it stand out, though it’s on the higher end price-wise. It’s best suited for couples or small groups seeking a refined and intimate experience. The main limitation could be availability, so booking early is advised. Bottom line: a premium experience for the discerning wine lover.
7. Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour of Santa Barbara Wine Country
For $235, this small-group, private seated tasting tour offers access to wineries not open to the public. It’s perfect for those who want an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at boutique wineries, often with owners present. The guided experience includes tastings and a seated lunch, with a maximum group size of 8. Guests appreciate the personalized service and the chance to visit hidden gems. The main downside? It’s limited to small groups, so book early. Bottom line: ideal for wine aficionados seeking an intimate, VIP experience.
8. Solvang Wine and True Crime Tour with Drinks Included
At $120 per person, this fun and quirky tour combines wine tasting with true crime tales. Hosted in Solvang, the tour visits three distinctive wine spots—including a slasher-themed winery—while sharing stories about serial killers and haunted sites. The small-group setting makes it lively, and reviews often mention the engaging guide and unique theme. It’s perfect for those who want a different perspective on wine country and enjoy storytelling. The main trade-off is that it’s only two hours long, so it’s a quick, immersive experience. Bottom line: a memorable, offbeat choice for adventure-seekers.
9. Santa Barbara Wine Tour Experience – Authentic and Boutique
This full-day tour at $265 per person is perfect for those who want to explore Santa Barbara’s boutique wineries at a relaxed pace. The tour includes a gourmet picnic lunch, behind-the-scenes winery visits, and custom options based on your tastes. Guests love the friendly guides and the chance to learn about winemaking while sipping varietals in scenic settings. Its flexible schedule makes it suitable for wine enthusiasts who want to take their time. The only downside? It’s on the pricier side, so budget-conscious travelers might prefer shorter tours. Bottom line: great for those seeking a comprehensive, personalized experience.
10. Electric Bike Adventure in Santa Barbara Wine Country
For $83, this self-guided electric bike tour offers a fun way to explore vineyards at your own pace. Covering 15-25 miles, you can choose routes along popular wine trails like Foxen Canyon or Ballard Canyon. Guests rave about the ease and flexibility of electric bikes, allowing them to visit multiple wineries comfortably. It’s ideal for active travelers who want a relaxed outdoor experience with a scenic backdrop. Be prepared for some cycling, but the bikes assist with hills. The main limitation? You need some stamina for the longer routes. Bottom line: an excellent choice for energetic wine lovers seeking independence and adventure.
11. Wine & Chocolate Walking Tour of Downtown Santa Barbara
Priced at $135, this 3.5-hour walking tour blends local history, art, and wine. Starting in downtown Santa Barbara, it visits two boutique tasting rooms and a chocolatier, all within walking distance. Guests love the blend of cultural sights like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and the food and wine pairing that makes it special. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, city-centric experience without the need for transport. The limited time may not suit those wanting extensive vineyard visits. Bottom line: a charming, city-focused option for wine and history buffs.
12. Santa Barbara’s Original Afternoon Winery Tour
At $223.89, this afternoon tour offers a relaxed way to visit two wineries with tastings and olive oil samples. The guide picks you up in Santa Barbara and takes you into wine country, with plenty of time to explore Los Olivos afterward. Guests highlight the ease of round-trip transport and the variety of wines tasted. It’s suitable for those wanting a laid-back, half-day experience that combines wine and local culture. A potential drawback is the limited number of stops, which might leave some wanting more. Bottom line: a good, hassle-free wine escape in the afternoon.
13. Private Group Wine Tour of Santa Barbara Wine Country
This private 7-hour tour costs $470 per person, perfect for intimate groups wanting exclusivity. The guide customizes the itinerary, often visiting four wineries, with tastings and a picnic lunch included. Guests praise the personalized service and the chance to meet owners and winemakers. It’s ideal for special occasions or those craving a boutique experience with privacy. The higher cost reflects the exclusivity, so it’s best for couples or small groups willing to splurge for a tailored day. Bottom line: a luxurious, behind-the-scenes experience with top-notch service.
14. Private All-Inclusive 3-Winery Tour Santa Ynez/Solvang/Buellton
For $649 per person, this full-day private tour offers a comprehensive tasting adventure. It covers three wineries, includes a gourmet picnic, and offers personalized attention. Guests love the flexibility and the chance to customize the route, visiting wineries suited to their taste. The luxury vehicle, often a private van, makes for a comfortable day. It’s best suited for serious wine fans or couples celebrating a special occasion. The main drawback? The high price makes it less accessible for budget travelers. Bottom line: a top-tier, customized experience for those wanting the best of Santa Ynez.
15. Santa Barbara Ghost Tours “Paranormal Pairing” Wine Tasting & Tour
At $105, this unique ghost-themed tour combines paranormal stories with tastings at a top-rated winery and town walk. It’s capped at five people, making it intimate. Guests love the spooky tales, haunted sites, and the chance to learn about Santa Barbara’s spooky history while sipping wine. Great for couples or small groups looking for a memorable blend of history and spirits. The two-hour length is short but packed with stories and tastings. It’s not a traditional wine tour but a fun, offbeat experience that appeals to thrill-seekers. Bottom line: a memorable night out for those interested in ghosts and good wine.
16. Private All-Inclusive 3-Winery SYV Tour from Santa Barbara
This tour offers 5 hours 15 minutes (approx.) for $379.00 per person. Discover several highlight wineries in California’s Santa Ynez Valley—and leave all the logistics and navigation to your guide—on this small-group, full-day tour. In the morning, meet your guide in Santa Barbara and hop aboard your concierge-class touring vehicle. Visit three different wineries during the day and learn more about the region’s highlights and history from your guide.
With a rating of 5.0/5 from 13 reviews, it provides good value for travelers interested in wine tours.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for wine tours enthusiasts visiting Santa Barbara.
17. Private Santa Ynez Wine Tour (All-Inclusive)
This tour offers 7 hours (approx.) for $500.25 per person. Admire the scenic wonder of California’s Central Coast Wine Region on this private Santa Ynez Valley tour. Our door-to-door shuttle service will pick you up and you’ll visit three local wineries. Learn about the region’s unique varietals and wine production at our favorite partner wineries.
With a rating of 5.0/5 from 10 reviews, it provides good value for travelers interested in wine tours.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for wine tours enthusiasts visiting Santa Barbara.
18. Santa Ynez Wine Shuttle
This tour offers 7 hours (approx.) for $129.00 per person. Explore the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country on this easy tour. Visit 2-3 wineries with our Wine Country Shuttle service, while learning about local history from one of our tour guides. Travel in comfort and style from your pickup in central Santa Barbara, onboard a luxury, air-conditioned van. Stop for a tasty lunch in whimsical Los Olivos.
With a rating of 4.5/5 from 38 reviews, it provides good value for travelers interested in wine tours.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for wine tours enthusiasts visiting Santa Barbara.
19. Santa Barbara/Santa Ynez Wine Tour (We Drive Your Vehicle)
This tour offers 6 hours (approx.) for $300.00 per group (up to 15). Book a designated driver to drive you in your own vehicle. Destination Drivers tour guests save $ compared with pricy limousine, bus, and jeep tours. All tours are highly customizable and uniquely suited to your specific desires. Before your booking date, the owner will reach out to you and help you plan everything. Do NOT be fooled by all-inclusive tours paying for your tasting fees for your convenience – they have worked it all out to make more money off you, and you will be overpaying by hund…
With a rating of 5.0/5 from 8 reviews, it provides good value for travelers interested in wine tours.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for wine tours enthusiasts visiting Santa Barbara.
20. Private Guided Wine Country Tour from Santa Barbara
This tour offers 6 hours (approx.) for $375.00 per person. Relax on a wine tour, tailored to the needs of your group. Choose up to four wineries from our trusted partners on a private guided Wine Country Tour from Santa Barbara. Visit small production and family-owned wineries as you’re educated about each vineyard by a professional.
With a rating of 5.0/5 from 8 reviews, it provides good value for travelers interested in wine tours.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for wine tours enthusiasts visiting Santa Barbara.
How to Choose Your Perfect Santa Barbara Wine Tour
When picking a tour, think about your priorities. On a budget? The Solvang Santa Ynez Small Group Tour offers personalized experiences at a reasonable price. Want luxury and exclusivity? The Tesla private tour or the private Santa Ynez estate tour might be better. Time constraints matter—short on time? The Santa Barbara Ghost Tour or the 3-winery half-day are quick options. If you’re an active type, the electric bike adventure provides a scenic, self-guided day. For those seeking a themed experience, the true crime or ghost tours add a fun twist.
Booking early is key, especially for private or themed tours, as they fill up quickly. Consider the season—spring and fall tend to offer the best weather for outdoor tastings and biking. Also, check if lunch or additional tastings are included to maximize your value.
In The Sum Up
Santa Barbara offers a variety of wine tours that cater to every taste and style. If you want a flexible, personalized experience, the Solvang Small Group All-Inclusive tour or the private Santa Barbara estate tour in a Tesla are excellent choices. For those wanting a more active day, the electric bike adventure hits the sweet spot. And if you’re after something quirky and memorable, the true crime or ghost-themed tours will add a playful twist to your trip.
Whether you’re after an elegant private experience or a lively group outing, booking early guarantees a spot in these sought-after tours. With so many options, your perfect wine adventure in Santa Barbara awaits—so pick your style, and enjoy discovering one of California’s most charming wine regions.