California Sea Lions
Paddle toward the harbor entrance where sea lions frequently rest on navigation markers, vocalize, and watch harbor traffic pass by.
Santa Barbara Harbor Adventure
Fun for couples, families, and groups!
Duration 2 Hours
Location Santa Barbara Harbor
Start Times 10:00 AM & 1:00 PM
Experience No Experience Needed
Best For Families, Couples & Visitors
Santa Barbara Harbor Adventure
See Santa Barbara from the Best Seat in the House
Glide across the protected waters of Santa Barbara Harbor, visit California sea lions at the harbor entrance, and paddle beneath the historic Stearns Wharf on a relaxed, locally guided adventure.
Framed by Santa Barbara’s beaches, waterfront, and coastal mountains, this two-hour tour gives you a completely different view of the American Riviera. Your guide will introduce you to the harbor’s wildlife, maritime history, and hidden marine ecosystem along the way.
Tandem kayaks make the experience comfortable and approachable for beginners, families, couples, and anyone looking for a memorable outdoor activity without committing to a full day.
- ✓ Visit the harbor’s sea lion buoy
- ✓ Paddle beneath Stearns Wharf
- ✓ Beginner and family friendly
- ✓ Local guide and equipment included
- ✓ Small two-person tour minimum
- ✓ Convenient harbor departure
What You’ll Experience
Wildlife, Waterfront History and an Unforgettable View
More than a kayak rental, this guided journey connects Santa Barbara’s most recognizable waterfront landmarks with the wildlife that calls the harbor home.
Historic Stearns Wharf
See one of Santa Barbara’s best-known landmarks from below and discover the marine life living around its pilings.
Coastal Birdlife
Look for brown pelicans, egrets, herons, cormorants, and seasonal migratory birds throughout the harbor.
Kelp and Marine Life
Your guide will help you spot sea stars, fish, rays, and other marine life beneath and around your kayak.
American Riviera Views
Take in Santa Barbara’s palm-lined waterfront and coastal mountains from a perspective unavailable from shore.
Local Stories
Learn about Santa Barbara’s maritime history, harbor environment, and the coastal ecosystem from a knowledgeable local guide.
Your Two-Hour Journey
A Relaxed Adventure Through Santa Barbara Harbor
Conditions and wildlife guide every outing, but a typical tour follows this scenic harbor route.
1
Meet Your Guide
Check in at Paddle Sports Center and get fitted with your equipment.
2
Harbor Launch
Begin with paddling instruction in the protected harbor.
3
Sea Lion Buoy
Paddle toward the harbor entrance to observe sea lions from a respectful distance.
4
Stearns Wharf
Explore beneath and around Santa Barbara’s historic wooden wharf.
5
Return Paddle
Enjoy the waterfront and mountain views as you return to the harbor.
Local Since 1991
More Than 30 Years on the Santa Barbara Waterfront
Paddle Sports Center is a family-owned Santa Barbara company with decades of experience helping visitors and local families enjoy the coast safely, comfortably, and responsibly.
- ✓ Family Owned and Operated
- ✓ Experienced Local Guides
- ✓ Beginner-Friendly Equipment
- ✓ Small-Group Experience
- ✓ Convenient Harbor Location
- ✓ Responsible Wildlife Viewing
An Adventure for Everyone
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
Families
Couples
Wildlife Lovers
Photographers
First-Time Kayakers
Santa Barbara Visitors
★★★★★
“My wife and I had a great time on the guided tour. We received a lot of information regarding the history and ecology of the Santa Barbara area. Well worth the money.”— John S., Paddle Sports Center guest
We Make It Easy
What’s Included
We provide the essential paddling equipment and instruction so you can arrive ready to enjoy your time on the water.
- ✓ Kayak
- ✓ Paddle
- ✓ Personal flotation device
- ✓ Paddling instruction
- ✓ Local guide
- ✓ Wildlife and history tour
Choose Your Adventure
Harbor Tour or Full-Day Island Expedition?
Start with Santa Barbara’s most accessible guided kayak experience—or make the leap to a full-day Channel Islands adventure.
Experience
Harbor Adventure
Epic Sea Cave Combo
Duration
2 Hours
Full Day
Departure
Santa Barbara Harbor
Oxnard Harbor
Experience Level
Great for Beginners
Easy to Moderate
Primary Experience
Sea Lions, Harbor & Wharf
Sea Caves, Boat Trip & Snorkeling
Best For
Families and Short Visits
Full-Day Adventure Seekers
Looking for an even bigger adventure?
Explore sea caves and kelp forests in Channel Islands National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Know Before You Go
No. This tour is designed to be approachable for first-time kayakers. Your guide will provide basic instruction before you begin paddling.
Yes. The protected harbor setting, tandem kayaks, and two-hour duration make this one of our most family-friendly guided experiences.
Sea lions are commonly seen near the harbor entrance, but all wildlife is wild and sightings can never be guaranteed. Your guide will select the best route for the day’s conditions.
You should expect some paddle splash and water around your feet. Dress in comfortable layers that can get damp and avoid bringing items that are not protected from water.
Yes, but it should be protected by a secure waterproof case or dry bag. Any item brought onto the water is carried at the owner’s risk.
Ocean and harbor conditions are monitored by the Paddle Sports Center team. Routes, start times, or departures may be adjusted when necessary for guest safety.
Check in at Paddle Sports Center, 117 Harbor Way, Suite B, in Santa Barbara Harbor near Brophy Bros. and the Santa Barbara Fish Market.
Your Santa Barbara Adventure Starts at the Harbor
Spend two unforgettable hours paddling to sea lions, exploring beneath Stearns Wharf, and experiencing the American Riviera from the water.
2-Hour Guided Tour Adults $85
Reserve Now 