Santa Barbara: Taco Tour!

Location: California, United States
Country: United States
Rating: 4.3/5 (based on 3 reviews)
Price: $145 per person
Duration: 2.5 hours

What This Tour Offers and Why You’ll Like It

If you’re craving authentic Mexican-style tacos amidst the beautiful streets of Santa Barbara, this walking tour delivers. For just under three hours, you’ll visit five award-winning taquerias nestled in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara—known affectionately as The American Riviera. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, you’ll enjoy a mix of delicious tacos, two complimentary drinks, and plenty of interesting facts about the city’s vibrant culture.

We especially appreciated how the tour balances tasty bites with cultural insights. The stops are carefully selected, and the guide, Samantha, was praised for her warmth and storytelling, making the experience feel both fun and educational. The fact that each taco is “a delight” and that you get to sample five different varieties—including Carne Asada, Shrimp, and Mushroom—means you’ll walk away with a real sense of the local culinary scene.

A small potential downside is that, at $145, this tour isn’t the cheapest way to eat tacos in Santa Barbara. However, when you consider the quality of food, guided experience, and additional perks like drinks and a special gift, many find it offers good value. This tour is best suited for food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet flavorful way to explore downtown Santa Barbara.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Tacos: Savor five different award-winning tacos, including Carne Asada, Shrimp, and Mushroom varieties.
• Local Beverages: Enjoy two complimentary drinks—beverages like margaritas, wine, or beer—perfectly paired with tacos.
• Expert Guide: Walk with an experienced guide who shares fun facts, history, and culture of Santa Barbara.
• Cultural & Culinary Blend: The tour combines tasty food with insights into Santa Barbara’s architecture and local stories.
• Convenient & Accessible: Lasts 2.5 hours, wheelchair and stroller accessible, suitable for most travelers.
• Special Gift: Each guest receives a gift from local shops, an extra touch of Santa Barbara charm.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Downtown Santa Barbara

The tour begins in the bustling heart of downtown Santa Barbara, a place renowned for its beautiful streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere. Here, your guide—perhaps Samantha—welcomes you and sets the tone for a laid-back, food-focused adventure.

The Taqueria Stops

Over the next 2.5 hours, you’ll visit five award-winning taquerias. Each stop offers more than just tacos; it’s a peek into Santa Barbara’s local food scene at its best. The tacos on offer are authentic and crafted with pride, with options like Carne Asada, Shrimp, Fajita Chicken, Mushroom, and Queso Birra.

We loved the way each taco was “a delight,” with the L.A. Times naming these as some of the best tacos in California. You might find that each spot has its own secret recipe, making each taste fresh and distinctive.

More Great Tours Nearby

Learning and Tasting Along the Way

Your guide will share fun facts about Santa Barbara, such as its vibrant architecture and history, enhancing the experience beyond just the food. For example, during the walk, expect to learn about local landmarks and the city’s cultural fabric—all while enjoying picturesque streets and lively neighborhoods.

Drinks and Pairings

Part of what makes this tour memorable are the two beverages included. You might find yourself sipping a well-crafted margarita or a generous glass of local wine, both thoughtfully selected to complement your tacos. The drinks add a relaxed vibe, perfect for savoring each bite and engaging in conversations.

Ending at Baja Sharkzee

The tour concludes at Baja Sharkzee, the last stop. After sampling their tacos, you’re free to linger or explore the vibrant downtown area. Some guests mentioned that the guide’s storytelling added a personal touch, making the experience feel more like a friendly exploration than a formal tour.

The Shopping Gift

Each guest leaves with a special gift from local shops—a small souvenir or treat—an appreciated gesture that keeps Santa Barbara in your mind long after the tour ends.

Authenticity and Value

While $145 might seem steep at first glance, it’s important to consider what you’re getting: five different tacos, two drinks, a knowledgeable guide, and a small gift. For those who enjoy combining food, culture, and a leisurely walk, the value quickly becomes apparent. You’re not just eating; you’re discovering local stories, hidden spots, and the city’s culinary gems.

What Do Past Visitors Say?

One reviewer shared, “Samantha was lovely. We enjoyed walking, eating, chatting, and learning about Santa Barbara’s architecture and history. It was a delightful experience.” This highlights how the tour offers more than just food—it creates a memorable, personable experience that appeals to curious travelers.

Another guest mentioned that the tacos were “authentic local delights,” and the guide “shared fun facts along the way,” making the tour both educational and tasty.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Arrive early to meet your guide and get settled.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be strolling through downtown streets.
• If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, let the tour provider know beforehand—they often accommodate.
• Be prepared to drink responsibly, especially if you plan to explore more afterward.
• Consider staying after the tour at Baja Sharkzee to soak up the lively atmosphere and perhaps order more tacos or drinks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for foodies eager to taste some of the best tacos in California, as well as those interested in Santa Barbara’s culture and architecture. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and enjoy guided walks. Because it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, it suits most mobility needs, making it a flexible option for families or individuals with accessibility requirements.

The Sum Up

The Santa Barbara Taco Tour offers a delightful way to explore the city’s culinary scene while soaking in its lively streets and stories. For $145, you get a well-rounded experience combining authentic food, local drinks, and insightful storytelling. The stops are carefully chosen, and the guides are praised for their warmth and knowledge.

If you love food adventures that mix flavor with culture, this tour is a smart pick. It’s especially ideal for those who want to enjoy Santa Barbara’s best tacos without the hassle of figuring out where to go or what to order. Plus, with its accessibility and relaxed format, it’s suited for a wide range of travelers.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, this tour offers a tasty, authentic taste of Santa Barbara in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a way to connect with local flavors and stories—an experience that will leave your palate and memory both satisfied.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

What is included in the price?
You’ll enjoy five award-winning tacos, two beverages (such as margaritas, wine, or beer), a special gift from local shops, and a professional guide.

Are drinks alcohol?
Yes, the two included beverages are alcoholic—margaritas, wine, or beer—paired to enhance your tasting experience.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.

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

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, parents should consider the alcohol provided and make arrangements accordingly.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
You might find the tour can adjust to certain needs—it’s best to notify the provider in advance.

Can I stay longer after the tour?
Absolutely, the tour concludes at Baja Sharkzee, where you’re free to linger and enjoy more food or drinks.

What makes this tour special?
It combines authentic tacos, local drinks, engaging storytelling, and a friendly atmosphere—giving you a genuine taste of Santa Barbara.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just wear comfortable shoes and come hungry and ready to learn about Santa Barbara’s culinary and cultural highlights!

In short, if you’re looking for a fun, flavorful way to explore Santa Barbara’s downtown, this taco tour offers a well-balanced mix of food, culture, and local charm. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic bites and engaging guides, making your visit both delicious and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: