5 Santa Barbara Harbor Cruises, Compared

1.Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 172 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $59Our pick

Paddle from Santa Barbara Harbor past Stearns Wharf, under the pier, and along the beach while watching for seals, sea lions, pelicans, seabirds, and sea stars. You receive a kayak, paddle, PFD, protective gear, and a safety lesson. Guides such as Paco, Nora, Spencer, and Dario are known for calm instruction and local stories.

“Great for guests at various skill levels! I have zero experience and am not super comfortable with water sports but our guide Dario was able to make adjustments to make it work for our family (two adults plus an 8yo). We saw starfish, crabs, sea lions, harbor seals, etc. Super fun!”

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2.Sunset Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 65 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $89

Start at Santa Barbara Harbor about two hours before sunset with safety instruction, gear, and a guide such as Asa, Luke, or Bret. Paddle a double or single kayak past Stearns Wharf and the waterfront while watching for seals, sea lions, birds, and changing sunset colors. No kayaking experience is required.

“Took my sister to Santa Barbara to celebrate her birthday and though the sunset kayak would take us both out of our comfort zone and offer and adventure. We loved it! I am planning to bring my son for his birthday in a few months. Casey Cleland is fantastic!”

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3.Private Harbor Cruise on Electric Boat in Santa Barbara

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 30 reviews · 1 hour (approx.)

Take a private one-hour cruise for up to six people aboard Whisper, Santa Barbara’s all-electric charter boat. Captain Charlie, Georgia, Dustin, or another local captain may guide your outing around the harbor and, in good conditions, Stearns Wharf. Bring your own appetizers, beer, or wine with no corkage fee.

“It was so much fun, bring sunglasses if you are going to be in the sun, and some sunscreen. My son loved it and enjoyed seeing the wildlife as well as my husband and I”

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4.Sea Lion Kayak Tour – Santa Barbara Harbor

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 28 reviews · from $70

Paddle from Santa Barbara’s harbor toward the green buoy, where sea lions often gather. Your local guide, such as Megan, Sienna, Jeff, Ceanna, Lydia, or Daphne, leads the way, shares wildlife and local history, and helps beginners feel at ease. Expect birds, boats, harbor views, and a chance of dolphins or migrating gray whales.

“Best way to see Santa Barbara and learn some interesting facts while also seeing the sea lions up close. Excellent staff. Awesome Guides.”

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5.1.5-Hour Harbor Kayak Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 10 reviews · 1h 30m · from $65

Launch from West Beach for a 90-minute guided kayak trip through Santa Barbara Harbor and the Channel. Your English-speaking guide leads you past sailboats, fishing vessels, sea lions, Stearns Wharf, and the Sandspit, while sharing local history and tips for fresh-caught seafood. Swimming ability is required.

“The group tour started on time, meeting location easy to find, community locker for belongings was watched while we were on the water, cool boats in the harbor, cute sea lions, guides were personable. This activity was our 1st time kayaking and would recommend it’s safe enough for other beginners too!”

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