Santa Barbara Waterfront Tours and Tickets

Q: What’s the best way to experience the Santa Barbara Waterfront?

There are plenty of ways to experience the Santa Barbara Waterfront. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:<ul><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Barbara/Santa-Barbara-Trolley-Tour/d4372-163975P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Santa Barbara Trolley Tour</a></li><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Barbara/Santa-Barbara-Electric-Bike-Tour/d4372-5753EBT" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Santa Barbara Electric Bike Tour</a></li><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Barbara/Private-Kayak-Tour-of-Santa-Barbara/d4372-5753KAYAK" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Experienced Guide</a></li><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Barbara/Electric-Bike-Rental-Hourly/d4372-5753P10" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Electric Bike Rental in Santa Barbara</a></li><li><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Barbara/2-Hour-Santa-Barbara-Fun-Paddle/d4372-7270P12" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)</a></li></ul>

Q: Is there parking available near the Santa Barbara Waterfront?

Yes, there is parking available near the Santa Barbara Waterfront. Expect to pay around US$3.50 per hour, with a daily maximum of US$20–$40, depending on the lot. Stearns Wharf offers the first 90 minutes free, then about US$3 per hour, capped at US$30 per day.

Q: Can I take a water taxi at the Santa Barbara Waterfront?

Yes, the Lil’ Toot water taxi is a fun way to travel between the Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf. Keep an eye on the schedule; the water taxi runs hourly on Friday through Monday from 11:45am to 4:15pm. It offers 1-way narrated rides between the Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf, and reservations are strongly encouraged to avoid sold-out trips.

Q: Where can I go kayaking, paddleboarding, or see sea caves from the Waterfront?

The Santa Barbara Waterfront is a hub for water sports. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards right at the harbor and explore the coastline at your own pace. You can also book guided tours that take you out to the Channel Islands sea caves, where paddling through hidden grottos is a highlight.

21 results

Best Seller

Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

1 hour 30 minutes

4.6

(832)

from $28

Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(188)

from $59

Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Experienced Guide

Our Santa Barbara Kayak Tour can be a private tour or group tour experience. You choose your adventure! If you're looking for a more intimate Santa Barbara kayaking experience then our private kayak tour will be a perfect fit. If you're hoping to kayak Santa Barbara with other travelers and enjoy the sights with new friends then the group kayak tour is the way to go! Whichever kayaking tour you choose you'll be in the very capable hands of our friendly and experienced tour guides. Your local kayaking guide will show you the stunning boats in our harbor as well as introduce you to some cute and cuddly sea lions and seals! Prepare to take in views of Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Mountains, and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins! Your expert guide will share information about Santa Barbara's top attractions and customize the speed of the ride to suit your needs. Our goal is that kayaking Santa Barbara will be the highlight of your trip!

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Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Experienced Guide

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(438)

from $55

Sunset Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

Paddle into the sunset along the Southern California coast during this beginner-friendly, small-group kayaking trip from Santa Barbara. Watch the last rays of the day melt into the Pacific as you travel through the glassy waters of Santa Barbara Harbor. Pass by the historic wharf, keeping an eye out for marine life; a guide and all necessary kayaking gear are included to make logistics easy.

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Sunset Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(66)

from $89

The Original Group Electric Bike Tour of Santa Barbara

Come join us for the unique experience of exploring Santa Barbara on an Ebike. One of the most bike friendly cities in the nation. We're proud to be the original electric bike tour of Santa Barbara. After decades of designing the perfect tour we've found the best spots in town to show you. Other bike tours look similar for a reason, they've learned from the best! We're confident that our experience will make your bike tour the highlight of your trip. Unlike other tours our guides curate the tour to be customized to your interests and ability. The quality of our e-bikes is unmatched. We proudly offer the largest high-end electric bike fleet in California. After parking in our free parking lot your guide will greet you and provide an opening safety tutorial. If you don't love your ebike just let your guide know and we have many other brands you can try. We typically choose the easiest and most comfortable pedal assist ebikes but if you'd like a throttle we can switch that in easily.

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The Original Group Electric Bike Tour of Santa Barbara

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(6)

from $85

Cover more of Santa Barbara than you ever could on foot on an electric bike tour. Ride your easy-to-use beach cruiser to landmarks such as State Street and the Santa Barbara Mission as your guide shares stories you won't find in the guidebook. Have your camera ready as you glide along the renowned Pacific coastline. Group numbers are capped, ensuring personalized attention and a small-group experience.

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Santa Barbara Electric Bike Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(569)

from $85

Price varies by group size

Ride the sands, boardwalk, and promenade of Santa Barbara to explore town on your very own fat tire electric bike. This is the only tour that gives you oceanfront views right on the sand of the city's famous beaches. On the way, admire the Spanish-inspired architecture, swaying palm trees, and historic highlights. This must-do activity will show you everything on offer in "America's Riviera."

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City & Sand Electric Bike Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.9

(89)

from $105

5 STARS: "Where The Locals Go!" Nature-History Tour

Discover many of Santa Barbara’s key historical highlights—and most scenic vistas—on this private, half-day tour. Pick a time that works best for you, and set off to explore landmarks like the Santa Barbara Courthouse and Clock Tower, Mission Santa Barbara, and the More Mesa Preserve. You’ll also hike along the city’s seaside cliffs, will learn about the local Chumash people, will discover the Santa Barbara Harbor, and more.

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5 STARS: "Where The Locals Go!" Nature-History Tour

2 hours

4.0

(8)

from $95

Santa Barbara Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Rental

As the only water sports rental company on Santa Barbara's West Beach, we pride ourselves on the easiest kayak and paddle board experience you'll find. Safe and high-quality gear is paramount to our business, so we constantly update our kayak and paddle board inventory. The best part? Our helpful and friendly staff is ready to assist to ensure you have a smooth, fun, and memorable ocean adventure.

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Santa Barbara Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Rental

1 hourFree Cancellation

5.0

(28)

from $30

Per group

Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Santa Barbara CA

Step into the shoes of a newly-minted detective, tasked by Commander Mahoney to solve a gripping case... murder on the streets of Santa Barbara, CA. Throughout this crime-solving audio adventure, visit each of the 10 mapped locations. You'll have the option to explore the downtown area using the Walking Map or follow a Driving Map on the city's outskirts. Once you choose, the exact starting point will be revealed. *See images for route. Park or stop at each location, listen to the audio story, and put your detective skills to the test by gathering clues and piecing together the evidence. Finally, make your deductions and issue an arrest warrant. Your overall detective skills will be evaluated, culminating in a Case Performance Score to measure your sleuthing prowess. This game is suitable for solo detectives, dynamic duos, or groups of mystery enthusiasts, offering an immersive audio tale filled with intrigue.

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Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Santa Barbara CA

2 hoursFree Cancellation

2.0

(2)

from $15

Private Guided Tour in Santa Barbara on Electric Bikes

Our tour guides are locals and we know lots of fun facts and history of the sights we show. We do research on each point of interest in order to give you interesting stories. Because our tour is on bikes we can show you Channel Drive and State Street Promenade which can't be accessed by car. Our comfortable and fun electric bikes let you see more in less time. You'll love the 360 degree view of downtown and the coastline from the Courthouse tower and the story of how it was built. We'll tell you the story behind the sights including the interesting people involved. We love telling you about our favorite restaurants and ice cream stores. Some of them are off State Street and don't even have any signs. We ride right through the neighborhood our owner grew up in. Many people say our tours are the highlight of their trip to Santa Barbara.

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Private Guided Tour in Santa Barbara on Electric Bikes

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(98)

from $90

Santa Barbara Electric Bike Rentals

1 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

4.2

(6)

from $27

Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board Rental

1 hourFree Cancellation

5.0

(41)

from $15

Santa Barbara Private Tour

9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(5)

from $849

Per group

Lil’ Toot Santa Barbara Private Boat Tour

Step aboard Lil’ Toot, Santa Barbara’s happiest boat, and celebrate life’s special moments surrounded by family, friends, and the beauty of the harbor. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, or simply gathering your favorite people, this private one-hour cruise offers an intimate and unforgettable way to mark any occasion. With space for up to 19 guests, a dedicated captain and crew, and drinks and snacks available onboard, everything you need for a carefree celebration is waiting for you.

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Lil’ Toot Santa Barbara Private Boat Tour

1 hourFree Cancellation

4.5

from $395

Per group

Santa Barbara Bike Rentals: Electric, Mountain or Hybrid

Get around Santa Barbara with a 1- or 2-day bicycle rental that provides three options: an electric, mountain or hybrid bike. You can cover a lot of ground, including the city streets and coastline, without even pedaling, or explore the nearby hills or Santa Ynez Mountains on a mountain bike. Opt for a hybrid bike if you want to experience the speed of a road bike combined with the stability of a cruiser. Choose from a selection of models appropriate for both beginning riders and those with more advanced skills.

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Santa Barbara Bike Rentals: Electric, Mountain or Hybrid

1 dayFree Cancellation

5.0

(133)

from $60

Stand-Up Paddleboard Lesson in Santa Barbara

Learn to SUP, or stand-up paddleboard, in Santa Barbara during a 1.5-hour lesson at Leadbetter Beach. No matter your skill level, you’ll learn to stand up and kneel down, balance and paddle as you’re accompanied onto the water. A wetsuit is provided for this all-weather outdoor activity that gives you a glimpse of marine life and the Santa Barbara coastline. Your lesson is limited to 18 people to ensure more personalized attention from the expert instructor.

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Stand-Up Paddleboard Lesson in Santa Barbara

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(26)

from $85

Price varies by group size

Electric Bike Rental in Santa Barbara

1 hour to 1 dayFree Cancellation

5.0

(167)

from $50

Tours of Santa Barbara . ( Private ) 6 hours .

Tours of Santa Barbara offers the most comprehensive tour of, Santa Barbara in the World offering one and two day tours of, Santa Barbara . In this journey you'll see the region's finest places while discovering a portfolio of local and hidden attractions taking you to hot spots combined with unique landscapes and near breath taking panoramic views from all around in this tour . AGE RESTRICTED FROM 1 to 62 YEARS because of ext. walking, stairways and brief climbing .

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Tours of Santa Barbara . ( Private ) 6 hours .

6 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(20)

from $219

Likely to Sell Out

Historic Santa Barbara: Private Family Walking Adventure

Skip the crowds on this private tour just for your group! Discover where history, nature, and vibrant city life meet on our exclusive Santa Barbara journey. Start at the stunning Santa Barbara County Courthouse, admiring its Spanish Colonial Revival style and sweeping city views. Wander the peaceful Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens, a botanical haven with koi ponds. Dive into local heritage at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, uncovering stories that shaped the city. Stroll along State Street, the lively hub for unique shopping finds. Experience the iconic Stearns Wharf, feeling the pulse of the city’s favorite pier. End your adventure at Santa Barbara Harbor, framed by breathtaking mountains. This isn’t just a tour—it’s your story of discovery in beautiful Santa Barbara.

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Historic Santa Barbara: Private Family Walking Adventure

3 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

from $258

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Private Day Tour to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles

9 hoursFree Cancellation

2.0

from $985

Per group

What are people saying about Santa Barbara Waterfront

Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Alice_R, May 2026

Wonderful trolly ride.

A very pleasant and informative ride. The driver was very knowledgeable and well spoken. I would recommend everyone to take it if they can. My only recommendation is that there should be a poster or sign at the pickup location. We were the first ride and everyone was confused if that was the location. However there was one when we returned from our trip.

Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

Ellie_T, May 2026

We had a wonderful time...

We had a wonderful time on the kayaking tour with Adam as our guide. He was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and made the experience both fun and informative. We loved learning more about Santa Barbara while out on the water. Highly recommend!

Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Joann_B, May 2026

Awesome tour

The tour was very informative. The people I was with are from the area, and they also learned a lot. Joey was a great guide

Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Experienced Guide

Maureen_M, Apr 2026

Ryan with Cal Coast Adventures is the BEST kayak guide Ever!

Ryan was an excellent tour guide! He was full of interesting SB facts, really friendly and helpful in explaining how to maneuver the kayak. We highly recommend Ryan with Cal Coast Adventures. Definitely will be back again!

Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Robert_C, Apr 2026

Best $ spent in Santa Barbara on Vaca

Was not expecting anything great due to past experiences elsewhere with audio on buses low quality. Boy, Was I surprised! The sound system was excellent, and our tour guide/driver, Rusty, was the absolute best. It's not just a job to him, it's a passion. We saw and learned so much in an entertaining way. I would do it again.

Tours of Santa Barbara . ( Private ) 6 hours .

Cynthia_B, Feb 2026

Galentine’s Day Tour of Santa Barbara 2026

Felix was a highly knowledgeable and thoughtful tour guide. He made sure we had time at each stop, yet gave us space to explore through out the day. He provided great hints for what to look for as highlights at each stop. We had a delicious lunch at a nice picnic area near the ocean. The weather was beautiful and the tour experience was beyond our expectations and we recommend it for everyone. The only challenge we experienced was the walk up to the clock tower, which the stairs going up were steep. It was magnificent and worth every dollar.