Santa Barbara is a scenic and welcoming destination that's wonderful to visit year-round. For those travelers enamored with architecture, fine dining, and shopping stops, the city has much to offer in the way of exciting landmarks. Just as intriguing is the outdoor scene in sunny Santa Barbara. Hosting wonderful weather year-round, visitors will find there's no shortage of outdoor Santa Barbara activities to elevate their California experience. Here are a few to add to your itinerary the next time you're in town.
The landscape that makes up the greater Santa Barbara region is wonderfully diverse and dynamic. One of the most unique and thrilling routes to discovering the beauty of this landscape for yourself is to plan a horseback riding adventure while you're here. From beach rides to backcountry paths, horseback riding is a one of a kind adventure to enjoy. For waterside rides, be sure to get in touch with the team at Santa Barbara Beach Horseback Rides located off of Highway 101. Whether you're looking for a romantic ride for two or can't wait to hit the beach with the entire family, rides can be customized to meet your every need. A comprehensive ride complete with gear and instruction begins at $150 per participant.
The waters that lap the shoreline of Santa Barbara are idyllic for those that love to surf, but even if you've never hit the waves with a board in hand, there's no reason not to try. Those visitors looking to learn a new skill alongside the pros will want to make sure to set up a lesson with the team at The Santa Barbara Surf School during their visit. Since 2002, this company has been providing comprehensive lessons that are sure to get you up and going with the safety instructions and gear you need to succeed in the water. Lessons can be booked as a private class or group experience upon request.
Adventures on the waves are fun but what lives below the waves off the coast of Santa Barbara can be just as intriguing! Whether you're an angling enthusiast or learning to cast a line, booking a chartered sail with Santa Barbara Sea Charters is sure to please. Sportsfishing charters come highly recommended with this company, but the team at Santa Barbara Sea Charters is also happy to offer up whale watching and sightseeing opportunities as well. Customize your time on the water and encounter some truly incredible marine creatures along the way. This type of fishing experience is ideal for the entire family and often ends with some savory delights.
Between the mountains, beaches, and forests that define the Santa Barbara landscape, there's no shortage of beautiful scenes to savor. One of the best ways to truly take it all in is to get up close by planning an incredible hike while you're here. Lace-up your boots and hit the Seven Falls trail when you're in the mood to enjoy a moderately difficult trek that ends with a stunning cascade! This trail is 2.5 miles roundtrip and the trailhead is accessible off of iconic Tunnel Road. Gentle inclines make the route manageable but if you do work up a sweat, there are options to take a dip in the pools that line the base of the cascade once you reach your destination.
Kayaking is one of the top Santa Barbara activities to enjoy during your stay and one that combines physical activity with opportunities to breathe in the fresh air and take in the sights all at the same time. The Paddle Sports Center of Santa Barbara is a good starting point when you're looking to rent a kayak by the hour or for the day. Paddling along the coastline offers up some truly scenic sights and makes for wonderful memories alongside friends and family too. IF you're looking for a more guided experience, this company also offers guided kayaking tours that incorporate wildlife and history lessons upon request.
Walking your way through new places promises to provide endless opportunities for eye-opening fun and adventure. A trip to Santa Barbara is no exception to the rule and those visitors looking to make the most of self-guided experiences outdoors will want to start with the Red Tile Walking Tour. Stop in at the visitor's center or print off the itinerary online which guides guests through downtown one historic stop at a time. You can customize your walk to fit your own pace, but the itinerary gives you the city highlights you won't want to miss. This car-free experience promotes healthy living, outdoor fun and a personalized way to make the city your own during a visit.
There's no reason to wait when you're ready to enjoy the fun of a Santa Barbara getaway. Contact the team at Paradise Retreats today to learn more about our many rental options in the city and to start planning your trip!
