Santa Barbara Harbor is a vibrant coastal destination offering a wide range of waterfront activities, scenic views, and ocean adventures along California’s Central Coast. Located steps from downtown Santa Barbara and Stearns Wharf, the harbor is home to whale watching tours, sailing charters, kayak and paddleboard rentals, parasailing, sport fishing, and Channel Islands excursions. Visitors can explore the working marina filled with boats and yachts, enjoy fresh seafood at harborfront restaurants, or stroll the palm-lined waterfront while taking in panoramic views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and Pacific Ocean. Known as a gateway to outdoor recreation, Santa Barbara Harbor attracts travelers searching for boating experiences, harbor cruises, whale watching in Santa Barbara, and family-friendly coastal activities. With easy access to beaches, bike paths, and local outfitters, the harbor serves as a central hub for adventure tourism and relaxed sightseeing. Whether planning a romantic sunset sail, a day trip to the Channel Islands, or a casual harbor walk, Santa Barbara Harbor delivers one of the most iconic oceanfront experiences in Southern California.
Channel Islands Adventure Company offers unforgettable guided kayaking and snorkeling tours on Santa Cruz Island within Channel Islands National Park, one of California’s most spectacular coastal destinations. As an authorized park concessioner, the company specializes in sea cave kayak tours that take visitors through dramatic arches, caverns, and hidden passages, all within a protected marine sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity. Tours are led by experienced guides and are designed for all skill levels, making them ideal for first-time kayakers, families, and adventure seekers alike. In addition to kayaking, Channel Islands Adventure Company provides guided snorkeling experiences and outdoor educational trips for school and group programs, combining recreation with hands-on learning. Guests regularly encounter wildlife such as sea lions, dolphins, whales, island foxes, and vibrant marine life within towering kelp forests. With all gear included and access to the scenic Scorpion Anchorage area, the company is a top choice for anyone seeking a bucket-list sea cave kayaking or snorkeling adventure in the Channel Islands.
Channel Islands Expeditions is a guide-owned and family-operated charter business since 1991, offering private charters and vessel-supported expeditions to Channel Islands National Park from Oxnard. They provide custom itineraries for groups, including kayaking, snorkeling, sea cave exploration, SCUBA diving, team building, and catering, using boats like the 49-passenger USCG-inspected M/V Sunfish.
Santa Barbara Sportfishing Charters offers fantastic half day coastal fishing charters and full day 10 hour island excursions aboard the custom-built 36′ fishing boat 'Loose Cannon'. Captain Tony, a professional fisherman with thousands of trips in Santa Barbara waters, customizes trips for families and friends, targeting the best fishing spots and sharing his passion with kids and adults. Additional custom charters include island kayaking trips, small bachelor parties, free diving on the kelp forest, sightseeing, ashes at sea, and more.
Explore specific ocean adventures and services available in Santa Barbara