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Adventure · Santa Barbara

Top 9 adventure things to do in Santa Barbara

If your idea of a good day in Santa Barbara ends with sore legs and a great photo, start here. Treks, kayaks, ziplines, off-road runs and the occasional adrenaline-up — every operator below is licensed and safety-checked.

  1. High Ropes Adventure Course in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara1

    1. High Ropes Adventure Course in Santa Barbara

    5.0· 162 reviews· 2 hours

    Up to two hours of fun on a high ropes course with over 80 obstacles, reaching heights of 60 feet among the oaks.

    This experience was both thrilling and enjoyable. Safety was clearly a priority throughout, and they provided helpful information via email about a different entrance before my reservation. We received thorough safety instructions, along with a test fall and practice on using the click-it system, which boosted my confidence in the equipment. Rachel, our guide, accompanied us and shared valuable tips for overcoming some obstacles. I would definitely participate again and explore the other side of the course that I missed. I highly recommend this, especially for someone like me who has a fear of heights.Odyssey38927252117
  2. Zipline tour over Santa Ynez Valley near Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara2

    2. Zipline tour over Santa Ynez Valley near Santa Barbara

    5.0· 246 reviews· 2 hours

    Two-hour tour — glide across California's longest ziplines with valley views, flying over protea fields on a 1,200-acre ranch.

    For anyone seeking an enjoyable activity in the Santa Ynez Valley, this is the perfect choice. We enjoyed the zip line tour, though my daughter, a recent college grad, was also very interested in the obstacle course, which I didn't book for her. I wish I had known she would have liked all the activities. The safety measures were excellent, and the views from the top of the hill were stunning. The zip line experience was a blast, and our guides, Joey and Elijah, were both friendly and attentive.nicolh981
  3. Kayaking tour in Santa Barbara with experienced guides, Santa Barbara3

    3. Kayaking tour in Santa Barbara with experienced guides

    5.0· 438 reviews· 1.5 hours

    Two-hour kayak excursion in Santa Barbara’s harbour — experience local wildlife, including seals and sea lions, with an expert guide.

    Our kayak adventure with Ryan was fantastic. He guided us through the harbor, highlighted local wildlife, and pointed out attractions from the water.Z4915LLdorothyh
  1. Solvang ghost hunting and history tour, Santa Barbara4

    4. Solvang ghost hunting and history tour

    4.9· 314 reviews· 1.8 hours

    Two hours of ghost hunting through Solvang — use EMF meters and dowsing rods while exploring haunted sites and local folklore.

    John provided an entertaining experience, and the tools for paranormal activity were a fun bonus. We've participated in several ghost tours, but this one was truly unique.Katie_M
  2. Wildlife kayak tour in Santa Barbara Harbor, Santa Barbara5

    5. Wildlife kayak tour in Santa Barbara Harbor

    4.9· 190 reviews· 2 hours

    Two hours of kayaking led by local guides — enjoy marine wildlife and view Santa Barbara’s coastline from the water.

    Our kayaking tour with Adam as our guide was an outstanding experience. He was friendly and knowledgeable, making it both enjoyable and educational. We appreciated learning more about Santa Barbara while on the water. Highly recommend!Ellie_T
  3. Three-winery tour in Santa Ynez Valley with picnic lunch, Santa Barbara6

    6. Three-winery tour in Santa Ynez Valley with picnic lunch

    4.9· 105 reviews· 5 hours

    Visit three selected wineries over six hours, including transport and tasting fees, with a picnic lunch among the vineyards.

    We had a fantastic day exploring the Santa Ynez Valley. The wines were excellent, and our guide Kris was amazing. Our visits to each of the three wineries were truly delightful.John_F
  4. Sunset kayak tour in Santa Barbara Harbor, Santa Barbara7

    7. Sunset kayak tour in Santa Barbara Harbor

    4.9· 67 reviews· 2 hours

    Two-hour guided kayak tour — explore the scenic shoreline at sunset, suitable for all skill levels.

    Johnny was an excellent guide! As it was my first time kayaking and I was on my own, he helped me feel at ease and relaxed. The experience was incredibly enjoyable, and the sunset was stunning! I highly recommend this and advise checking the suggested options beforehand to ensure you have the right clothing and towel.Dream41815734337
  5. Chocolate-making workshop at Menchaca Chocolates, Santa Barbara8

    8. Chocolate-making workshop at Menchaca Chocolates

    4.7· 43 reviews· 1.5 hours

    Three hours of hands-on chocolate-making, including a factory tour and custom box design options.

    This location offers a fantastic experience. The staff and visitors are friendly, supportive, and enjoyable to be around. I highly recommend it for any group looking for a good time.Sara_D
  6. Santa Barbara wine and food walking tour in the Funk Zone, Santa Barbara9

    9. Santa Barbara wine and food walking tour in the Funk Zone

    4.5· 2 reviews· 3 hours

    Three-hour guided tour through Santa Barbara's Funk Zone — includes wine tastings at two boutique locations and local culinary bites, 2 PM to 5 PM daily.

    Lisa guided us through a wine tasting that felt laid-back and full of information. She is quite fascinating and shared many interesting stories.Erin_S

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