Santa Barbara’s charm isn’t just in its stunning coastline and Spanish architecture—it also shines in the variety of city tours that let you see the area from different angles. Whether you prefer riding a bike with ocean views, cruising through historic streets on an electric bike, or soaring above the mountains in a helicopter, Santa Barbara offers an activity for every style of explorer. Its bike-friendly streets, scenic beaches, and mountain vistas make it an ideal place to experience with guided tours that highlight its best features—plus some hidden surprises.
Our list features a mix of guided bike tours, including both electric and sand-specific rides, as well as a private helicopter flight that offers panoramic views of the coast and mountains. Each option is rated highly, with top reviews emphasizing knowledgeable guides, exceptional scenery, and memorable experiences. Read on for a detailed look at the top five ways to explore Santa Barbara, with options suited to different interests and budgets.
1. City & Sand Electric Bike Tour
This electric bike tour takes you along Santa Barbara’s iconic beaches and through its lively downtown. For around $105, you’ll gain oceanfront views on the sand of East Beach, Butterfly Beach, and West Beach, all while cruising on a fat tire e-bike. The tour’s uniqueness lies in its focus on beach riding, allowing you to coast along the sand and water — a rare experience in city tours. You’ll also explore the promenade on State Street, where shopping, dining, and sights are at your fingertips.
The itinerary includes stops at the Santa Barbara Harbor, East Beach, Butterfly Beach, and West Beach, with the guide sharing insights into the city’s highlights. Many reviewers highlight the fun and easy ride on the pedal-assist bikes, with one noting it was “so beautiful and fun.” Guides like Colin and Andrei impress with their local knowledge and humor, making the experience both informative and lively.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beach lovers and those wanting a relaxed yet active way to see Santa Barbara’s coastline and city center. The tour offers excellent value for a 2.5-hour adventure with ocean views on sand and city streets.
2. Santa Barbara: Electric Bike City Tour
For an immersive scenic exploration, the Santa Barbara Electric Bike City Tour provides a detailed look at the city’s secrets and scenic outlooks. Priced at $95 per person, the 2.5-hour tour is highly rated for its flexible options—either a private tour tailored for your group or a shared group experience. The highlight is riding up to 20mph on high-end electric bikes, which makes covering Santa Barbara’s diverse neighborhoods effortless.
The route includes East Beach, Butterfly Beach, Stearns Wharf, and the Santa Barbara Harbor, with stops designed to showcase both notable landmarks and hidden gems. Guides like Bryce and Sergio receive praise for their local expertise and personalized attention, often customizing routes to match guest interests. One reviewer describes their guide as “passionate about sharing Santa Barbara,” emphasizing the personal touch. The tour’s combination of scenic water views and city streets makes it ideal for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of the area.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you prefer a private, customizable experience with modern e-bikes and in-depth local storytelling. Suitable for travelers who want to discover Santa Barbara at a relaxed pace.
3. Santa Barbara: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour
This 2.5-hour electric bike tour mixes scenic water views with historic landmarks, all while riding on bike paths, roads, and sand. For $115 per person, it offers a slightly more comprehensive experience focusing on the best biking trails and scenic turns. The itinerary features West Beach, Santa Barbara Harbor, Downtown, East Beach, Butterfly Beach, and even Miramar Beach in Montecito.
The tour is especially suited for those who want to glide along the water and learn about Santa Barbara from an expert local. The guide will take you on scenic rides along the water and through the city, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos. With reviews highlighting the beautiful scenery and “amazing views,” this tour is great for those who want a balanced mix of beach riding and city sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a scenic, well-rounded bike tour with a focus on beachside trails and historic landmarks. Slightly pricier, but the varied stops make it worth it.
4. Private Mountain and City Helicopter Flight Santa Barbara
If you’re seeking a once-in-a-lifetime view, this private helicopter flight stands out. For about $300 per person, you get a 25-minute aerial tour that captures Santa Barbara from above, including coastlines, downtown, and the Ynez Mountains. The highlight is flying through the mountains to Lake Cachuma, passing notable landmarks like Lizard Mouth Rock and following the Ynez River canyon.
This tour is perfect for those who want to see the region from a spectacular vantage point and capture unforgettable photos. Passengers rave about the “smooth ride” and the “service with a smile,” emphasizing how this experience offers panoramic views of beaches, mountains, and lakes in a short time. The only consideration is its higher price point, making it less suited for budget travelers but ideal for special occasions or those wanting maximum impact.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving breathtaking aerial views and a luxurious, private experience. Not a budget option but unmatched for visual drama.
5. Santa Barbara: City Highlights Bike Tour
If you prefer a more leisurely, guided ride through Santa Barbara’s key sights, this 2-hour bike tour offers a solid overview at $75 per person. It covers the waterfront and downtown, focusing on iconic spots like East Beach, Butterfly Beach, Stearns Wharf, and the Funk Zone. The tour is designed for intermediate-paced riding and includes stops where guides share rich stories about the city’s culture and history.
Many reviews emphasize how flexible the tour is—guests can add destinations they are particularly interested in, allowing for a personalized experience. The guide’s knowledge ensures you get insights into Santa Barbara’s hidden corners and popular landmarks. The short duration makes it a good option for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed, scenic ride.
Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers who want a broad overview of Santa Barbara’s waterfront and downtown in a comfortable, easy pace.
How to Choose the Perfect Santa Barbara City Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests and how you like to explore. If you want to combine beach riding with sightseeing, the City & Sand Electric Bike Tour offers an active, scenic adventure. For those seeking a comprehensive city overview with flexibility, the Electric Bike City Tour is ideal. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the shorter City Highlights Bike Tour, while thrill-seekers or special occasion visitors will appreciate the dramatic views from the helicopter.
Consider your fitness level, your interest in beaches versus city sights, and whether you’re looking for a private experience or a group tour. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
The Sum Up
Santa Barbara’s diverse landscape makes it a perfect spot for active exploration and scenic adventures. Whether you prefer the relaxed vibe of riding along beaches on an electric bike, discovering city secrets on a guided tour, or soaring above the mountains in a helicopter, there’s an option tailored for you. For most travelers, the City & Sand Electric Bike Tour offers a lively and memorable way to experience the coast, while the helicopter provides a luxurious, panoramic perspective for a special treat.
If you’re planning your trip, think about your interests—active beach riding, scenic photography, or helicopter views—and choose the tour that best matches your style. Booking early will help you secure your spot in these popular adventures, ensuring you don’t miss out on Santa Barbara’s unforgettable sights.