Santa Barbara is known for its scenic beauty, historic charm, and lively culinary scene. But what really sets it apart is the variety of drinking tours that offer more than just sipping drinks—they’re interactive, fun, and full of local flavor. Whether you want to indulge your sweet tooth with a chocolate-making session or sample craft beers in downtown hotspots, these tours give you a taste of Santa Barbara’s authentic, creative spirit. Unlike generic wine tastings, these experiences focus on hands-on activities and immersive storytelling, making each one memorable.
If you’re looking to add a unique flair to your trip, check out these top-rated drinking tours. Each offers something different, from artistic chocolate crafting to exploring Santa Barbara’s vibrant craft beer scene. No matter your budget or preferences, you’ll find an option that turns your visit into a flavorful adventure.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find two standout drinking tours in Santa Barbara. The first combines chocolate making and art, providing a creative and delicious experience. The second is a lively craft beer walking tour that explores the city’s popular breweries and local hotspots. Both have high ratings and positive reviews, ensuring you’ll enjoy your time and come away with new skills or favorite local brews.
1. Santa Barbara: Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop
This Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop offers a sweet escape into the world of craft chocolate. At just $58 per person, this experience is surprisingly affordable considering the quality and creativity involved. The workshop lasts between 1 and 4 hours, giving you flexibility depending on how much you want to indulge and learn. You’ll visit a small local factory, where you get to design your own chocolate bar with a large selection of toppings, from crunchy nuts to exotic spices. The process of making and tempering chocolate is explained in a way that’s approachable for all skill levels.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to unleash your creativity not just in flavor but also in presentation. You’ll paint a wooden box to store your chocolates—an artistic touch that elevates the experience. Plus, you’ll learn about single origin cacao beans, which helps you understand the complex flavor profiles of high-quality craft chocolates. The reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the owners are, making it a fun, welcoming environment. One reviewer called it “an absolutely awesome excursion,” noting that even groups with a wide age range found it engaging.
Bottom Line: If you love chocolate, hands-on experiences, and creative projects, this workshop delivers a memorable and delicious adventure.
2. Santa Barbara: Craft Beer Walking Tour
For around $125 per person, the Craft Beer Walking Tour offers a lively exploration of Santa Barbara’s craft beer scene. The 3-hour tour takes you through downtown hotspots, including the trendy Funk Zone and State Street, while visiting three of the city’s best unique craft breweries. Tastings are included at each stop, giving you a taste of the city’s innovative brewing culture.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of education and local culture. Your guide shares stories about each brewery’s history and the city’s cultural scene, making it more than just a tasting. The tour is praised for its approachable pace, accommodating non-drinkers and those with physical limitations—so everyone can enjoy. One reviewer remarked, “We learned a lot about Santa Barbara and tried many craft beers, which exceeded our expectations.” The tour also includes tips on pairing beers with local foods like Lucky Penny Pizza, adding an extra layer of flavor experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re a beer lover who wants to explore Santa Barbara’s vibrant brewing scene and learn about the city’s culture, this tour offers fun and education in one package.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests and what you want from your trip. If you’re craving a creative, hands-on activity that combines chocolate making with a bit of art, the Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop is perfect. It suits those who enjoy culinary craftsmanship and want a memorable keepsake.
On the other hand, if your focus is on local drinks and socializing, the Craft Beer Walking Tour is ideal. It’s great for beer enthusiasts who want to explore Santa Barbara’s breweries while learning about its cultural and brewing history.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and whether you prefer a more artistic experience or a lively pub crawl. Both tours are best booked early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Santa Barbara offers a surprising diversity of drinking experiences beyond the typical wine tasting. Whether you choose the creative chocolate workshop or the craft beer tour, you’ll enjoy a fun, authentic taste of the city’s local flavor. The chocolate experience is perfect for families and groups wanting a relaxed, artistic outing, while the beer tour appeals to those seeking a social, informative adventure.
If you’re pressed for time, the chocolate workshop’s shorter duration makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule. For beer lovers wanting a deeper dive into Santa Barbara’s brewing scene, the walking tour provides a comprehensive and lively experience. Book early, especially in busy months, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable tasting opportunities.