Santa Barbara is a picturesque coastal town that offers a unique adventure for visitors. The Kayak and Horseback Riding Tour combines two thrilling outdoor activities, allowing participants to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region. From the tranquil harbor to the serene canyon trails, this personalized tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking an exciting and breathtaking way to discover the charms of Santa Barbara. With flexible booking options and a focus on providing a personalized experience, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who embark on it.
Key Points
- A 5-hour combination tour of coastal kayaking and horseback riding in Santa Barbara, limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience.
- The kayak tour includes paddling past sea lions, exploring the Sea Center, and learning about the harbor from a certified guide.
- The 90-minute horseback ride offers stunning ocean and Channel Island views along canyon trails, suitable for all experience levels.
- Round-trip transportation from downtown Santa Barbara is included, and the tour offers a flexible cancellation policy.
- The tour highlights the natural beauty and coastal scenery of Santa Barbara through both water and land-based activities.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Santa Barbara through a combination of coastal kayaking and horseback riding.
Over the course of 5 hours, guests will explore the harbor, sea center, and canyon trails with ocean views. The small group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
Transportation to and from the starting location in downtown Santa Barbara is included, and a pay-later booking option with a flexible cancellation policy is available.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness.
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Kayaking Experience
After a brief lesson from a CPR-certified guide, participants embark on a guided kayak tour of Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf, lasting approximately 1.5 hours. The tour highlights include paddling past playful sea lions and exploring the Santa Barbara Sea Center. The kayaking experience is suitable for all skill levels, with all necessary gear provided.
| Key Highlights | Duration | Included |
|—————-|———-|———-|
| Paddle past sea lions | 1.5 hours | All kayak gear |
| Explore Santa Barbara Sea Center | | Brief lesson with CPR-certified guide |
| Suitable for all skill levels | | |
| CPR-certified guide | | |
| Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf | | |
Highlights of the Kayak Tour
Paddling past playful sea lions and exploring the Santa Barbara Sea Center are the highlights of the guided kayak tour.
The 1.5-hour adventure takes guests through the Santa Barbara Harbor and along Stearns Wharf.
Key highlights include:
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Spotting the charming sea lions that often bask on the docks and buoys.
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Gliding by the Santa Barbara Sea Center, which offers immersive exhibits on the local marine ecosystem.
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Enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery and learning about the harbor from the certified guide.
The kayak tour provides an up-close look at Santa Barbara’s vibrant waterfront.
Horseback Riding Experience
A 90-minute guided horseback ride with an experienced wrangler takes participants along canyon trails with stunning ocean and Channel Island views, including a seasonal waterfall.
Riders will enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the trails as they take in the natural beauty surrounding them. The horses are well-trained and suitable for riders of all experience levels.
Riders will revel in the serene tranquility of the trails while immersed in the natural splendor around them. The well-trained horses accommodate riders of all skill levels.
This portion of the tour offers a chance to escape the bustling downtown and take in the serene landscapes just outside Santa Barbara.
The horseback riding experience complements the earlier kayaking adventure, providing a well-rounded outdoor exploration of the region.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Trail Ride
As riders set out along the scenic canyon trails, they’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands in the distance.
The guided horseback ride takes adventurers through a picturesque landscape, including:
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Passing by a seasonal waterfall
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Traversing through lush, verdant canyons
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Enjoying breathtaking ocean and island views
The 90-minute journey is led by an experienced wrangler, providing a safe and memorable experience for riders of all skill levels.
This portion of the tour offers a perfect complement to the earlier kayaking adventure, allowing guests to explore Santa Barbara’s natural beauty from both land and sea.
Transportation and Booking
Round-trip transportation from anywhere in Santa Barbara is included with the tour, making it convenient for participants to get to the starting location.
Customers can choose a "reserve now, pay later" option, allowing them to book the tour without paying upfront. This offers flexibility, as customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour returns to Santa Barbara around 1:30 PM, but start times may vary based on season and weather conditions.
This transportation and booking information ensures a hassle-free experience for those joining the kayak and horseback riding adventure.
What to Bring
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, participants should bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes.
Participants should bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes for a comfortable experience.
The tour involves both water and land activities, so it’s essential to be prepared for the elements. Some key items to bring include:
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Hat to protect from the sun
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Sunscreen to prevent burns
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Water to stay hydrated
Participants should also dress in layers and avoid cotton, which can become heavy when wet.
Following these simple guidelines will help make the Santa Barbara kayak and horseback riding tour a memorable and comfortable adventure.
Important Information
The tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals.
People with back problems, non-swimmers, and those prone to seasickness should avoid this activity.
Appropriate attire is essential – participants should wear a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes.
Bringing water is recommended.
The tour returns to Santa Barbara around 1:30 PM, but start times may vary based on season and weather conditions.
Guests are advised to check the details before booking to ensure the tour aligns with their abilities and preferences.
Ask Away
Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Horse Gear?
No, participants can’t bring their own kayak or horseback riding gear. The tour provides all necessary equipment, including kayaks and safety gear, as well as horses and riding gear. Participants should come prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear.
What if I Have Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
The tour operator should be notified of any dietary restrictions or allergies prior to the tour. They will accommodate participants’ needs to the best of their ability, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
There’s no minimum age for the tour, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the physical activities involved.
Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Activities?
Participants are welcome to take photos and videos during the activities. The tour operator encourages capturing memories of the experience, though cautions against using equipment in a way that could distract from or interfere with the guided activities.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour overview doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. However, customers can inquire with the tour provider about potentially extending the tour for an additional fee, subject to availability and guide schedules.
Final Words
The Santa Barbara Kayak and Horseback Riding Tour offers an unforgettable adventure for all levels. Participants will explore the picturesque harbor, spot sea lions, and enjoy a serene canyon trail ride with stunning ocean views. With flexible booking and transportation, this personalized tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to experience the natural beauty of Santa Barbara.
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