Santa Barbara

Sailing trips & boat tours

Day 1: LOS ANGELES – SANTA BARBARA – 17 MILE DRIVE – CARMEL Depart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara. Visit a Spanish Mission and continue to Solvang, a quaint Danish community to browse in the local shops. Head north to the world-famous Route #1 where you'll get to see the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full-size coaches will travel the 17-mile drive exclusively). Visit the town of Carmel and enjoy some free time to stroll in town before departing to reach your hotel at the Spring Hill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport. Day 2: SAN FRANCISCO – BAY CRUISE – GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE – CHINATOWN Start your tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world-famous bay. See great views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island on your way to Sausalito. Return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union square, Chinatown, and Nob Hill. Stay overnight in Modesto. Day 3: MODESTO – YOSEMITE Summer Route: Head east through the farmlands of the Joaquin Valley to Yosemite National Park. Stop at El Capitan, Bridal-Veil Falls, and Half Dome. After a beautiful day in the park, head to Stevenson Ranch and stay the night at the Comfort Inn and Suites Stevenson Ranch. Day 4: STEVENSON RANCH – LAS VEGAS Head east through the desert and Death Valley to arrive at the gambling capital of the world: Las Vegas. Stop for lunch at the outlet mall in Barstow and in the evening, take a tour of the strip to see some amazing hotels such as Caesar’s Palace, Luxor, Mirage, Paris, Venetian, Bellagio, New York New York, Treasure Island, and more. Stay overnight at the Harrah’s Hotel. Day 5: LAS VEGAS – GRAND CANYON – PAGE Start the day traveling through the desert and through the Navajo Indian reservation before you arrive at the south bank of the Grand Canyon. After lunch, continue along the canyon east stopping at some of the Indian market places to browse the handmade arts and crafts. Then, head to the Page and Lake Powell area for the evening where you will stay at the Quality Inn View of Lake Powell. Day 6: ANTELOPE CANYON – BRYCE CANYON Tour the Antelope Canyon and visit the spectacular dunes created by the wind, water, and sand. Then head west to Bryce Canyon, home to the most amazing natural sculptures in the world. Experience the unique changing of the colors during the sunset from one of the vista points in the park (this may change due to changing sunset times). After the visit, head towards the town of Kanab, where you will stay overnight at the Days Inn Kanab. On certain departures, the tour will continue to Cedar City for the night. Day 7: ZION PARK – LAS VEGAS Head into Zion Park and enjoy a short walking trail along the Virgin River that runs through the park. Arrive in Las Vegas and head towards Los Angeles for a late night.

Join a chocolate-making workshop in Santa Barbara. Venture into El Mercado to a chocolate shop hidden in a corner, halfway underground. Upon entering, hang your belongings, put on an apron, and make your way to the factory area. Find a variety of chocolate bar molds, a choice of 30 inclusions, and 3 chocolates – 60% dark, oat milk, and a flavored white (strawberry, mango, and lemon flavors). After designing your chocolate bar, pick the size of your wooden box and head over to The Art Bar to further your creativity. Allow the chocolate to harden while you add personal touches to the box. Paint, stain, stencil, stamp, and detail your wooden boxes with stickers, transfers, and washi tape to your heart's desire. Finish off by removing the chocolate from its mold, wrapping it in foil or biodegradable cello bags, and putting it in its newly created wooden box.

Explore Santa Barbara on a trolley tour. See the city's most iconic landmarks, including Stearns Wharf, East Beach, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Start your tour at Stearns Wharf, California’s oldest working wharf. Soak up the sun, salty breezes, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Next, head to East Beach, a favorite spot for locals for volleyball, skating, paddle sports, and art shows. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Santa Barbara mountains. Visit the Andrée Clark Bird Refuge, a 42-acre open space park that includes a 29-acre lake that is an artificially modified estuary that supports brackish wetlands. Stop at Butterfly Beach in the chic and laid-back village of Montecito. The beach’s pristine shoreline is ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. See the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, which has a rich history dating back to 1876. Exhibits and collections change throughout the year to educate and entertain children and adults alike. Visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara, a community of many parts, but one spirit. The Mission has served as a gathering place and spiritual home for many since its establishment in 1786. See the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, designed in the Spanish-Colonial style and completed in 1929. The fully operational Courthouse is an iconic Santa Barbara landmark with its distinctive four-faced clock tower, red tile roofs, elegant arches, and verdant sunken garden and grounds. Stop at the El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, a 5 1/2-acre park that preserves the site of the last Spanish fortress, or presidio, founded in Alta (Upper) California in 1782. Finally, visit the Santa Barbara Harbor, where you will find interesting stores, delicious seafood restaurants, and the occasional celebrity yacht.

Meet your guides at the boat launch at Santa Barbara Harbor, where they outfit everyone in paddle jackets and PFDs. Guides will give a basic paddling demonstration and safety talk before setting out on the water. The launch is easy, right out of the boat launch. This is a great introductory lesson to kayaking or a nice relaxing kayak for more experienced paddlers. Once on the water, paddle approximately 1-2 miles along the coast surrounded by beautiful beaches and marine life. The group will continue through the harbor, paddling past boats, through the historic wharf, under the pier, out to buoys, and along the beach.  Keep a look out for wildlife along the way such as harbor seals, sea lions, brown pelicans, sea stars, cormorants, and seagulls.  Guides will offer insight into the history of the region as well as local marine ecology. Enjoy a relaxed pace and incredible marine life as well as taking in the views of Santa Barbara from the water.

Biggest and Fastest Ziplines in California! Fly with a friend side-by-side down 3 different dual ziplines, each one faster than the last! Tours last between 1.5 – 2 hours with a maximum of 8 guests per tour Check in at Basecamp to sign your waiver and verify eligibility Zipline Guides will help you gear up, then go over key guidelines during a 10 minute ground school Enjoy a scenic ride to the top of the ranch in a 4×4 Humvee as you cruise over 1000 ft of vertical Soak in the breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Valley as you soar over fields of protea flower at speeds up to 50+ mph on our 3 epic ziplines ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST MEET THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS TO RIDE: Must weigh between 75 – 275 lbs Must be in reasonably good health, with ability to decend 5ft ladder Must have use of both arms and legs Must wear closed-toe shoes and dress as if you are going on a hike Long hair must be tied back and loose accessories removed Pregnant woman may NOT participate World-renowned zipline system developer, Skyline Ziplines Ltd., designed and constructed this custom zipline course for by combining our unique topography with the safest zipline innovations in the industry. With the highest-rated gear, a redundantly fail-safe brake system, and a solar powered safe launching mechanism - all riders can be assured their safety comes first with every leap.

This scenic flight will gracefully navigate along the California coastline, treating you to panoramic views that showcase the area’s finest attractions. From the stunning expanse of UCSB’s campus and the serene embrace of Campus Lagoon to the rugged beauty of Goleta Point and the inviting shores of Goleta Beach, every landmark is a brushstroke in this aerial masterpiece. Amidst this captivating scenery, the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains stand tall, framing the horizon with their awe-inspiring presence, adding a touch of grandeur to your journey.

Discover the beautiful landscapes of Santa Barbara on a relaxing sunset kayak tour. You will watch a basic paddling demonstration and hear the safety talk before setting out on the water. Spend 2-hours on the water exploring the Santa Barbara harbor and the shoreline. Watch the sun as it settles over the sea, creating a gorgeous backdrop of the city and the Santa Ynez Mountain range. Enjoy paddling along the coastline and soak in the stunning surrounding views of the sea. Immerse yourself into a dream-like nature experience for all sea kayaking skill levels, including beginners to advanced.

Discover the most iconic highlights of California, as well as some lesser-known gems, on this 3-day tour from Los Angeles. Drive the renowned 17 Mile Drive, explore Santa Barbara, and visit Yosemite Valley National Park or Hearst Castle. Enjoy 2 nights of accommodation and a bay cruise in San Fransisco included. Day 1: Los Angeles – Santa Barbara – 17 Mile Drive – Carmel Summer RouteDepart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara. Visit a Spanish Mission and learn how these religious outposts were key in the development of the entire region. Continue to Solvang, a quaint Danish community to browse in the local shops. See the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full-size coaches will travel the 17-mile drive exclusively). Visit the town of Carmel, home to the actor Clint Eastwood. Enjoy some free time to stroll in town before departing to reach your hotel at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport. Winter RouteDepart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara. Stop at the heart of downtown at the “state street promenade” and stroll through the exclusive shops and restaurants. Continue to Santa Barbara beaches and Stearns wharf to “walk on the water” and enjoy the beautiful view of the ocean. Finish your visit at the Spanish Mission Santa Barbara and continue to Solvang, “the Danish capital of America” a quaint Danish community at the heart of California. After your lunch break, head north through Silicon Valley before departing to reach your hotel at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport. Day 2: San Fransisco – Bay Cruise – Golden Gate Bridge – ChinatownSummer RouteStart your tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world-famous bay. Enjoy great views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Next, return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union square, Chinatown, and Nob Hill. Stay overnight in Modesto. Winter RouteStart your tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world-famous bay. Enjoy great views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz island. Then return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union square, Chinatown, and Nob Hill. Stay overnight at the Springhill Suites Oakland Airport. Day 3: San Fransisco – Yosemite – Los Angeles Summer RouteHead east through the farmlands of the Joaquin Valley to Yosemite National Park. Stop at El Capitan, Bridal-Veil Falls, and Half Dome. See the highest waterfalls in North America, Yosemite Falls. Then head back to Los Angeles in the evening. Winter RouteStart the day with a visit to Monterey including the wharf and Cannery Row. Continue your tour of the beautiful California Coast with a visit to the town of Carmel-by-the-sea. Then head south to the world-famous Route #1 where you'll see the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full-size coaches will travel the 17-mile drive exclusively). Then drive back to return to Los Angeles.

Day 1: LOS ANGELES – SANTA BARBARA – ROUTE 1/17 MILE DRIVE – CARMEL Summer Route: Depart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara. Visit a Spanish Mission, then continue to Solvang, a quaint Danish community to browse the local shops. After, see the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full-size coaches will travel the 17-mile drive exclusively). Visit the town of Carmel home and enjoy some free time to stroll in town before departing to reach your hotel overnight at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport. Winter Route: Depart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara. Start your tour and stop at the heart of downtown at the “state street promenade.” Stroll through the exclusive shops and restaurants in this beautiful part of town. Continue to Santa Barbara beaches and Stearns Wharf and finish your visit at the Spanish Mission Santa Barbara. From the mission, continue to Solvang, “the Danish capital of America.” Enjoy the Danish-style architecture while browsing in the local shops and restaurants. Then head north through Silicon Valley before departing to reach your hotel at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport. Day 2: SAN FRANCISCO – BAY CRUISE – GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE – CHINATOWN Start your tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world-famous bay. Marvel at views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. Return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union square, and Chinatown. Summer Route Overnight: Modesto – Modesto Hotel Winter Route Overnight: San Francisco - Springhill Suites Oakland Airport Day 3 SAN FRANCISCO – YOSEMITE Summer Route: Head east through the farmlands of the Joaquin Valley to Yosemite National Park. Stop at El Capitan, Bridal-Veil Falls, and Half Dome. After a day in the park, head down to Stevenson Ranch for the evening. Winter Route: Start the day with a visit to Monterey and see the wharf and Cannery Row. Continue your tour of the beautiful California Coast with a visit to the town of Carmel-by-the-sea. Enjoy some free time to stroll in town and enjoy the beautiful boutiques and galleries. Head south to the world-famous Route #1 and spend your evening at Stevenson Ranch. Day 4: STEVENSON RANCH – LAS VEGAS Summer & Winter Route: Arrive in Las Vegas and take a tour of the strip to see some of the truly amazing hotels and fantasies that are built in the middle of the desert, such as Caesar’s Palace, Mirage, Luxor, Paris, Mandalay Bay, New York New York, Treasure Island and more. Stay overnight at Harrah’s Hotel. Day 5: LAS VEGAS – HOOVER DAM – LOS ANGELES Summer & Winter Route: After a leisurely breakfast, leave Las Vegas and make your way to the Hoover Dam. Then head west and cross back into California. Your tour ends back in Los Angeles.

Learn to surf at Mondos Beach with a private 1.5-hour beginner's surf lesson. Take advantage of the more gentle waves and generous space at Mondos Beach as you pick up the techniques and etiquette of surfing. Meet your instructor at the surf van located on Mondos Beach and get suited up in a wetsuit. Grab a longboard and walk to the sand for beach instructions. You'll be briefed on water and surf safety, etiquette, and proper technique before jumping into the ocean to catch some waves. Follow your instructor as they coach and push you into waves to give you an experience that will last a lifetime. Enjoy the gentle long breaking waves of Mondo Beach lending itself to longer rides for you. Your lesson is private so you or your group can have their own instructor and a more personalized experience.