Santa Barbara: All Day EBike, Hike, Kayak Excursion + Lunch

Travelers looking to pack a lot into one day will find this Santa Barbara experience appealing. Combining electric biking, hiking, and kayaking, the tour offers a well-rounded taste of the area’s natural beauty and local charm. It’s an active adventure that caters to those who want to see the sights from multiple angles—on land, water, and wheels—accompanied by knowledgeable guides who make the day both fun and informative.

What we really like about this tour is the flexibility in activities. The guided hike can be tailored to your preferred difficulty level, ensuring that everyone from casual walkers to seasoned hikers can enjoy the summit views. Plus, the packed lunch from a local deli provides a delicious break amidst stunning scenery. On the downside, this is a physically active day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with biking, hiking, and kayaking. If you prefer a relaxed day with minimal exertion, this might not be your first choice.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a hands-on, authentic taste of Santa Barbara’s outdoors. It’s perfect for active families, couples, or solo explorers eager to make the most of their time in this picturesque California city. Just bring your sense of adventure—and maybe your camera.

Key Points

• Variety of activities keeps the day dynamic and engaging
• Flexible hike difficulty ensures everyone can enjoy the summit views
• Local deli lunch adds a tasty, authentic touch to the experience
• Water-level exploration offers a fresh perspective of Santa Barbara’s coastline
• Guided expertise provides insider tips on local bites and scenes
• All-in-one adventure maximizes your day without the need for multiple bookings

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What’s this Santa Barbara tour all about?

This all-day tour from Cal Coast Adventures offers a full throttle outdoor experience in Santa Barbara. Think of it as a sampler platter of some of the best outdoor activities—e-bike riding, mountain hiking, and kayak paddling—all woven together into a seamless six-hour adventure. It’s a terrific way for travelers to see the coast, mountains, and harbor in one go, without feeling rushed or missing out on the area’s authentic charm.

Two things we really like? First, the guided nature walks that are adaptable to your fitness level, and second, the delicious packed lunch that adds a local flavor and sustenance for the day’s explorations. The only possible consideration? It’s quite physically active, so if you’re not comfortable with biking, hiking, or water sports, you might want to explore gentler options.

This tour suits those who love being outdoors, want a balanced dose of adventure and relaxation, and appreciate local insights from passionate guides. It’s perfect if you’re craving a comprehensive day that showcases Santa Barbara’s scenic diversity.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of biking, hiking, and kayaking is the main draw here. Each activity offers a different perspective of Santa Barbara—on two wheels along the coast, atop a mountain for sweeping views, and on the water paddling past the historic harbor. The guides’ local knowledge helps elevate the experience, revealing hidden spots and sharing tips on where to eat, drink, and explore further.

The e-bike ride is probably the highlight for many, allowing you to glide effortlessly along the beach or through hillside neighborhoods, feeling the wind and sunshine. It’s an accessible way to cover more ground than a typical walk, and the electric assist means you can focus on the scenery rather than the sweat. We loved the way the guides emphasized safety (helmet and water included) while making it fun and easy.

The hike to the summit offers a chance to step away from the bustling city and breathe in mountain air. The flexibility to choose your difficulty level is a big plus—whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more challenging climb. The packed lunch from a local deli contributes to the authentic experience, providing a satisfying break amid panoramic views.

Finally, the kayak tour around West Beach and Stearn’s Wharf offers an entirely different vantage point. Paddling past the harbor’s yachts and historic wharf, you get a close-up look at Santa Barbara’s coastline that many visitors miss. The included PFDs and options for tandem or single boats add comfort and convenience.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Morning: Electric Bike Exploration

Your day begins with a guided e-bike ride, lasting about 2-3 hours. You’ll start from a central location, where your guide will fit you with a helmet and show you how to operate your bike. Expect to cruise along the coast, feeling the warm sun and ocean breeze. The route may include scenic spots along the waterfront or hillside neighborhoods, depending on your group’s interests and fitness level.

This part of the tour is relaxed but active enough to get your blood flowing. It’s an excellent way to get a feel for Santa Barbara’s diverse landscapes without the fatigue of traditional biking. Plus, it’s suitable for most skill levels, thanks to the electric assist.

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Late Morning: Guided Hike to the Summit

After your bike ride, you’ll hop off at a trailhead to start your hike—lasting roughly 1-2 hours. The trail chosen will match your desired difficulty, whether a gentle ascent or a more challenging climb. The guide’s insights enrich the experience, pointing out local flora, wildlife, or interesting geology along the way.

Reaching the summit rewards you with sweeping views of the coast and mountains. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy the provided packed lunch—a sandwich, chips, and non-alcoholic beverage from a local deli—while soaking in the scenery. This pause offers a perfect balance of activity and relaxation, making the day feel well-paced.

Afternoon: Kayak Around the Harbor

The final adventure takes place on the water: a 1.5-hour kayak tour from West Beach. You’ll paddle past historic Stearn’s Wharf, watching boats bobbing nearby and possibly catching sight of local wildlife. The guide ensures safety with life jackets (PFDs) and provides tips for paddling, so even beginners can enjoy the experience.

Paddling along the coastline offers a refreshing perspective—close enough to see the colorful storefronts of Stearn’s Wharf, yet quiet enough to feel like a local. This activity is a perfect way to cool down after hiking and biking, and it provides a memorable finish to your day.

End of Day: Return and Local Tips

The tour concludes with a short bike ride back to the starting point. Your guide will share personalized recommendations for the evening—local restaurants, breweries, or scenic spots—helping you make the most of your time in Santa Barbara.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

Included are all equipment and safety gear—bike, helmet, water, PFDs for kayaking—as well as a delicious, locally sourced lunch. The tour lasts around 6 hours, making it a full but manageable day of adventure.

Remember to wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen, camera, and swimwear if you want to cool off in the water. Since smoking isn’t allowed, plan to enjoy your day without cigarettes.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One recent reviewer shared, “Thanks to Josh we had an amazing time,” highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable guide. The guide’s ability to tailor the hike difficulty and provide local tips enhances the overall value.

Another traveler appreciated the stunning views and the well-organized itinerary, noting that the activities flowed seamlessly. Such feedback underscores that this tour offers not just activities but a genuine, engaging experience with Santa Barbara’s natural landscapes.

Price and Value

At $250 per person, this tour bundles quite a bit into a half-day. When you consider the guided instruction, all equipment, a delicious lunch, and the chance to explore multiple outdoor settings, it’s a compelling value. The convenience of a private group often means a more personalized experience, which many travelers find worth the premium.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits active travelers who enjoy being outdoors and want to experience Santa Barbara from different angles. It’s ideal for those comfortable with biking, hiking, and kayaking, and who seek a full-bodied day of scenic exploration.

Families with teenagers, couples, or solo explorers looking to maximize their day will find this tour engaging and rewarding. If relaxation without exertion is your priority, you might prefer more sedentary options.

The Sum Up

This Santa Barbara experience offers a well-rounded, active day that highlights the city’s beaches, mountains, and coastline. With guided expertise and flexible activities, it’s a great way to see the area while staying engaged and energized.

The combination of stunning views, local food, and water adventures makes it especially appealing for travelers wanting an authentic, fun-filled day. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach amplify the experience, making it more than just a checklist of activities.

If you’re seeking a dynamic outdoor adventure that covers a lot of ground and delivers memorable sights and tastes, this tour is well worth considering. It’s best for those eager to explore actively and who value a personalized approach to discovering Santa Barbara’s natural beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-cyclists?
No, this tour involves riding a bike, so it’s best for those comfortable with cycling. The electric assist makes it easier, but some experience or willingness to ride is necessary.

Can I choose the difficulty of the hike?
Yes, the guide will tailor the hike to your preferred difficulty level, whether a gentle walk or a more challenging climb.

How long is the kayak tour?
The kayaking lasts approximately 1.5 hours, allowing you to paddle around West Beach and alongside Stearn’s Wharf.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, camera, comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and swimwear if you want to cool off.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a packed lunch from a local deli, including a sandwich, chips, and a beverage, is provided.

What is the group size?
The experience is offered as a private group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for active families, but children should be comfortable with biking, hiking, and kayaking.

This Santa Barbara adventure offers a lively, authentic way to experience some of the most beautiful parts of the city in a single day. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, local bites, or water-based fun, it’s designed to leave you with memorable stories—and maybe a few new skills.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby