Santa Barbara is a city built for exploring. With its stunning coastline, rich history, and thriving food and wine scene, it’s no wonder that guided tours flourish here. Whether you’re drawn to savor local food and wine, seeking outdoor adventure, or eager to uncover some ghost stories, Santa Barbara offers something for every type of traveler. We especially love the Downtown Santa Barbara Food & Drink Tour because it combines delicious bites with a walk through the city’s historic streets, and the Santa Barbara Electric Bike Tour for a lively ride along the coastline and past key landmarks. With options for kayaking, ziplining, and even ghost hunting, it’s a city that makes tour planning both fun and practical.
Quick Overview
Santa Barbara’s tour options range from gastronomic adventures like The ORIGINAL Downtown Santa Barbara Walking Food & Drink Tour, to outdoor pursuits such as Santa Barbara Electric Bike Tour. For wine lovers, there’s Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations and Santa Ynez Valley All-Inclusive Wine Tour. Adventure seekers can opt for High Ropes or Epic Zipline, while history fans might find Solvang Ghost Hunting intriguing. Keep reading for detailed insights into each.
1. The ORIGINAL Downtown Santa Barbara Walking Food & Drink Tour
At number 1, this food and drink tour provides a tasty, lively way to see Santa Barbara’s core. Over 3 to 4 hours, you’ll visit 5 to 6 eateries, sampling regional treats, and enjoy up to two wine tastings. The tour starts at a central, accessible location, making it easy to join with friends or family. Your guide shares stories about local theaters, plazas, and historic buildings, giving context to your culinary journey. Highlights include a visit to the El Paseo Building, a historic 1920s spot filled with local businesses and tasting rooms, plus a grazing box and wine tasting that make this experience both delicious and educational. Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and fun stories, calling it “the best food tour in Santa Barbara.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want to combine good eats with a bit of local history.
2. Santa Barbara Electric Bike Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Santa Barbara Electric Bike Tour. For around $85, you get a 2.5-hour ride along the coast on an easy-to-use beach cruiser. The electric motor makes covering state street, the Santa Barbara Mission, and the scenic coastline effortless. Your guide will highlight the city’s history and point out the funky Funk Zone, the historic Presidio, and picturesque beaches. This tour’s small group size (limited to five) ensures personalized attention. Reviewers mention how smooth and accessible the ride is, even for first-timers or those in their sixties. It’s an excellent choice if you want to see a lot with minimal effort, all while enjoying fantastic photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: The best way to combine sightseeing with light exercise and coastal views.
3. Kayak Tour of Santa Barbara with Experienced Guide
Coming in at number 3, the Kayak Tour offers a serene 1.5-hour paddle along the Santa Barbara coastline. Whether private or group, this tour is ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Your friendly guide shares local marine life secrets, and you’ll likely spot sea lions, seals, and dolphins. The tour’s small-group format and focused itinerary make it a personalized, intimate experience. Reviewers love the instructive guidance and the chance to see Santa Barbara’s natural beauty from a different angle. It’s perfect if you’re craving a quiet, nature-filled break from urban sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, wildlife-rich adventure that’s suitable for all skill levels.
4. Solvang Ghost Hunting with a Professional Investigator
Number 4 is the Ghost Hunting tour in Solvang, ideal for fans of the supernatural. Using EMF meters and dowsing rods, you’ll explore the town’s historic sites like the Mission and Danish streets after dark. The guide shares stories of Solvang’s ghostly residents and spooky legends, making it a fun blend of history and thrill. The tour lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes, and reviews praise the guide’s engaging storytelling and the opportunity to discover an eerie side of this charming town. If you’re into haunted tales or paranormal activities, this is a memorable way to experience Solvang.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those intrigued by ghost stories and local legends.
5. Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara
Number 5 is an exclusive wine tour that visits private vineyards often inaccessible to the public. For about $235, you’ll spend roughly 7 hours touring intimate wineries, often with winemakers providing behind-the-scenes insights. The small group size (up to seven) ensures a relaxed, personalized experience, with all tastings seated and often accompanied by local charcuterie. Guests rave about the “brilliant” guide and the chance to taste up to 4 wines from boutique producers. This tour suits wine aficionados who want to go beyond the commercial wineries and gain VIP access.
Bottom Line: A premium choice for wine lovers seeking exclusivity and a curated tasting experience.
6. Santa Ynez Wine Tour (All-Inclusive)
The Santa Ynez Wine Tour is a 5-hour journey that combines the beauty of California’s Central Coast with top wineries. For $239, you’ll visit three vineyards, enjoy a curated lunch among the vines, and learn about wine production from knowledgeable guides. Reviews highlight Johannes as a fantastic guide and praise the experience at boutique wineries, each with distinct character. This tour offers a good balance of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxed travel, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable wine day.
Bottom Line: An excellent all-in-one option for wine connoisseurs wanting a stress-free, scenic day.
7. The Original TACO TOUR Santa Barbara
Number 7 brings us to The Original Taco Tour. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit 5 popular taco spots downtown, tasting everything from carne asada to shrimp and mushroom tacos. Along the way, you’ll sip margaritas, wine, or beer at some stops. The tour offers a fun, informal way to explore Santa Barbara’s culinary scene and learn about its local food culture. Reviewers appreciate the variety of tacos and the lively guides. It’s a good pick for foodies who want to eat well and get a feel for the city’s vibrant core.
Bottom Line: Ideal for taco lovers wanting a casual, flavorful city tour.
8. Electric Bike Rental in Santa Barbara
Number 8 is a flexible option—bike rentals for a day or more. For $50, you get an electric bike, helmet, lock, and map, allowing you to explore at your own pace. It’s perfect if you prefer independence or want to combine multiple sightseeing spots in one day, from downtown to nearby hills. Reviewers mention how easy and fun the bikes are, with some even experiencing flats but appreciating the quick support. With multiple models available, this is a practical, budget-friendly way to see Santa Barbara on your own terms.
Bottom Line: A versatile, self-guided way to see Santa Barbara’s highlights.
9. Santa Barbara Trolley Tour
Number 9 is the 90-minute Trolley Tour, perfect for a quick overview. For just $28, you’ll drive past landmarks like Stearns Wharf, the Mission, and East Beach, with lively commentary from your driver. It’s an easy way to get oriented and decide which areas to explore further. The small-group setting and comfortable ride make it a popular choice for first-timers. Many reviewers note how well the tour covers key sights efficiently.
Bottom Line: Great as an introduction to Santa Barbara’s main attractions.
10. Santa Barbara Vineyard to Table Taste Tour by E-Bike
Number 10 combines bike riding with visits to vineyards, lavender farms, and Solvang. For $199, a guide leads you through scenic stops, including olive oil tastings and a gourmet picnic on a vineyard. The 7-hour day offers a comprehensive experience designed for those who want all-in-one relaxation, scenery, and taste. Reviewers mention the “spectacular views” and the well-paced stops, making it ideal for couples and small groups wanting an immersive day.
Bottom Line: A full-day, multi-sensory tour perfect for wine, food, and scenery lovers.
11. Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)
Number 11 is the Wildlife Kayak Tour. For $55, spend two hours paddling in calm waters, spotting seals, sea lions, and other marine life. Suitable for beginners, the tour includes instruction and eco-facts from knowledgeable guides. Reviewers mention how engaging and friendly the guides are, making it a memorable nature experience. Perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, eco-focused outing and a fresh perspective on Santa Barbara’s coastline.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, wildlife-packed kayak trip suited for all skill levels.
12. High Ropes Adventure Course near Santa Barbara
Number 12 offers an adrenaline rush at the High Ropes Adventure Course. For $35, you’ll spend up to 2 hours conquering 80+ obstacles at heights up to 60 feet. With routes suited for different skill levels, it’s an excellent choice for active travelers and families seeking a challenge. The course is built within an old-growth oak grove, adding to the adventure’s atmosphere. Reviews highlight the fun and safety of the setup, making it a popular choice for those craving a physical challenge.
Bottom Line: An exciting, physically engaging outdoor experience for adventure lovers.
13. Epic Zipline Tour near Santa Barbara
Number 13 is the Zipline Tour, where you can soar over the Santa Ynez Valley. With three zip lines, this 2-hour adventure costs $139 and is ideal for thrill-seekers. The tour is intimate, limited to eight people, and offers stunning views you won’t get from the ground. Reviewers say it’s a “great experience” that combines fun with spectacular scenery. If you crave a rush and a different way to see the landscape, this tour is a perfect pick.
Bottom Line: A high-flying way to see Santa Barbara’s beautiful valleys and enjoy a bit of adrenaline.
14. Santa Barbara Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Estates & Wineries
At number 14, this private winery tour specializes in exclusive visits to small, family-owned wineries. For $235, the tour emphasizes behind-the-scenes access, often with winemakers, and offers personalized tastings. Many reviews mention the attentiveness of guides like Steve, and the chance to taste premium wines away from crowded tasting rooms. Suitable for serious wine enthusiasts who want a tailored experience, this tour offers a luxurious, intimate insight into Santa Barbara’s boutique wine scene.
Bottom Line: A top-tier choice for wine aficionados seeking exclusivity and authenticity.
15. Solvang Santa Ynez Valley Small Group All-Inclusive Wine Tour
Number 15 offers the Solvang & Santa Ynez Valley in a manageable 5-hour format. For $170, you customize your itinerary with a guide, visiting boutique wineries, olive oil tastings, and local farms. Reviewers appreciate the “character” of the small wineries and the flexible approach. It’s perfect if you prefer a personalized experience with the ability to choose your stops and include a local lunch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a flexible, personalized wine tour with food pairings.
16. Santa Barbara Bike Rentals: Electric, Mountain or Hybrid
Last but not least, bike rentals let you create your own Santa Barbara adventure. For $60, you can rent an electric, mountain, or hybrid bike for a day or more. This is perfect if you prefer a DIY approach, exploring beaches, hills, or city streets at your own pace. Reviewers love the flexibility and ease of the bikes, making it the most budget-friendly and adaptable option on our list.
Bottom Line: The best choice for independent travelers wanting control over their sightseeing.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Santa Barbara, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. Foodies should lean toward food and drink tours, while active travelers might prefer bike rentals, ziplining, or outdoor kayaking. For wine lovers, both private estate tours and all-inclusive trips provide different levels of exclusivity. If you prefer a quick overview, the trolley tour is a practical, laid-back option. Book early, especially for popular tours, to ensure your spot.
In Santa Barbara, there’s a tour for every traveler—whether you’re after a culinary adventure, an adrenaline rush, or a deep dive into local wines. For a relaxing day with friends or a thrill-seeking experience, these options offer a taste of Santa Barbara’s unique charm. Pick your favorite, plan ahead, and get ready to enjoy this beautiful California city to its fullest.