The American Riviera
This Santa Barbara waterfront tour will provide an opportunity for you to view this wonderful city from a vantage point rarely seen by thousands of annual visitors. These excursions begin at various locations and times depending upon the day's weather and tide conditions. Most often this tour will originate at West Beach, adjacent to the harbor and without surf. Alternatively, we can launch at either Leadbetter or Arroyo Burro Beaches for a more extensive tour.
After a brief sea kayak orientation and introductory lesson from our guides, we'll launch our kayaks and paddle eastward toward the heart of the Santa Barbara waterfront, go under Stearns Wharf for a "backstage experience," and continue on out to sea. We'll head into the breeze for the first leg of our tour, so we can coast downwind on the way back. If there's time we'll cruize the harbor for a mellow finish to the day. You'll gain a unique appreciation for the panoramic views of the Channel Islands and the Santa Ynez hills, often referred to as the American Riviera, which provide a perfect backdrop to the Mediterranean-style city. The calm Pacific waters, breathtaking beaches, majestic views and mild weather lure make Santa Barbara's protected waters a favorite for kayakers. This excursion provides an excellent introduction to the secrets that ocean kayaking can unveil, and the pleasures of sharing a day exploring on the ocean alongside family and friends.
Price each: $79.
Trip time on the water is about 2 hours. Allow an additional 1/2 hour for instruction. Trips are scheduled on an on-demand basis. Minimum group size: 6 participants. No prior kayaking experience or special athletic ability is required.
The Gaviota Coastline
The Gaviota area is a series of small coves beginning about 10 minutes up the coast from the city of Santa Barbara. Lying at the western edge of the Los Padres National Forest, these wonderfully concealed beaches are located where the Santa Ynez Mountains drop directly into the Pacific Ocean. Convenient, yet little known access takes us to perfect starting points for our coastal kayaking excursions. Some of the beaches we pass can be reached only by ocean kayak, with some offering secluded shelter for a lunch break, exploratory walk along the shore or a simple break from paddling. Our journey often includes a visit from some of our ocean companions such as the Pacific bottlenose dolphin, California sea lion, harbor seal and, during migratory seasons, the gray whale. Large swells usually are blocked by the unique coastal geography -- the Channel Islands to the south, and Point Arguello and Point Conception to the northwest -- making this excursion perfect for both beginning and experienced kayakers who are looking for a day of ocean exploration. As always, a fun introductory kayaking lesson is included in all trips, and kayaking knowledge or special athletic ability are NOT required! The sheltered paddling areas usually have mild surf and are without strong winds.
Trip starting times vary throughout the year due to weather and tides, and the participants' convenience. Plan to spend half of the day (approximately 3 hours on the water, and 1/2 hour of instruction) following the group's whims regarding paddling speed, distance from shore, beach landings, and surf play.
Minimum group size: 6 participants.
Call us with your target dates and we'll help you fill the minimum.
No prior kayaking experience or special athletic ability is required.
Price each: $89.
Montana de Oro
State Park
A little over an hour's drive up the coast from Santa Barbara is the park called the "Mountain of Gold" for it's dazzling displays of wildflowers. The seven miles of coastline within this park varies from massive sand dunes to towering, ragged shale cliffs. Kayaks are perfect for exploring the small sea caves and arches from an ocean perspective. Enjoy lunch in a cove beneath the cliffs, inaccessible by land.
Spend the night in the hidden canyon campground and go for a second day's paddle across nearby Morro Bay to picnic on the secluded, miles-long Morro Dunes Sand Spit. These still waters are a major stopover to many species of migratory birds along the Pacific flyway.
Day-trip price per person for either location: $109 (four person minimum.)
Combine the locations for a two-day trip for an additional $69.
Guides and all kayaking gear are included. No prior sea kayaking experience or special athletic ability is required.
Central California's
Pristine Beaches
Santa Barbara From the Sea
Sea Kayaking
Channel Islands National Park
And the Central California Coast
Toll Free US & Canada: 800.773.2309
International: 805.968.7231
Address: 111 Verona Avenue
Goleta, CA 93117
