Whale Watching Santa Barbara
Whales from grey whales to humpbacks migrate up and down the west coast year long. Whale watching trips depart daily in the summer months from Santa Barbara wharf and we can assist with pre-booking a shared or private experience.
Area
California
The Santa Barbara Channel is home to more than 30 species of whales, dolphins, seals, sea otters, sea birds and sea lions that visit throughout the year. It is one of the most consistent locations found anywhere to offer blue whale watching, gray whale watching and humpback whale watching.
Private charter trips are available offering a personal and close encounter experience. Please enquire if of interest as charters are priced on application depending on your requirements.
Please note that bookings generally open 6-8 weeks prior to departure.
Tours Featuring This Experience
Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.
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View TourJust Us: Californian Honeymoon
On this luxury escorted USA tour, you can indulge in a stylish journey through California, where your guides will take you to exclusive locations in LA and San Francisco. You'll also stay at the finest hotels, including an extraordinary retreat on Big Sur, take a trip to the stunning Sonoma Valley and experience coastal life in Santa Barbara.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationHotel Californian
Enviably located just steps from the beach, Hotel Californian is a celebration of Spanish Colonial architecture and modern style and design. Featuring a rooftop pool with panoramic ocean views, there's no better place to experience the American Riviera.
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View AccommodationThe Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
Located near exclusive Nob Hill and close to the heart of downtown San Francisco and Union Square, the historic Ritz Carlton offers guests a timeless escape into luxury. With a cable car stop right outside it's also perfectly placed for exploring too.
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View AccommodationCarmel Valley Ranch
Carmel Valley Ranch is nestled between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the leafy vineyards of Carmel. An ideal base to explore the Carmel and Monterey region, the resort offers both a superb chance to relax and explore.
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View AccommodationSun Rose West Hollywood
Sophisticated and playful in equal measure, this hotel is the epitome of laid-back California cool with a prime location on West Hollywood’s iconic Sunset Boulevard.
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View AccommodationEl Encanto
A historic Mediterranean-style Santa Barbara retreat with romantic bungalows, spa, coastal dining, and easy access to beaches, wine country, and the Channel Islands.
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View AccommodationFour Seasons Napa Valley
As Napa’s first resort set within a world-class vineyard, the Four Seasons Napa Valley offers a seamless and integrated grape-to-glass experience, along with glorious views, well-appointed accommodation, superb dining, two pools, spa, and fitness room.
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View AccommodationPost Ranch Inn
Perched 1200 feet up on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Post Ranch Inn is an architectural gem, and seamlessly blends understated rustic luxury, immaculate cuisine and astounding service.
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View AccommodationStanly Ranch
Stanly Ranch is a 21st century luxury resort, winery and residential community set in over 700 acres of rolling green vineyards.
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View AccommodationThe St. Regis San Francisco
Located in San Francisco's trendy SoMA district, St Regis San Francisco is a luxurious city hotel with a contemporary edge. Boasting stylish interiors and well-appointed lavish suites, the St Regis is perfect for families exploring the city by the bay.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View Experience
Private Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure
Embark on a thrilling private offshore adventure from Newport Beach in search of whales and marine life.
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View ExperiencePrivate Joshua Tree Hike
Explore Joshua Tree’s wild beauty on a 1-6 mile off-trail adventure. Hike through canyons, towering rocks, and surreal vistas while your guide shares history, geology, and wildlife insights—plus optional rock scrambling!
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View ExperienceHelicopter Tour with Malibu Landing and Picnic
Fly over LA's iconic landmarks, including the Hollywood Sign and Beverly Hills, then land in Malibu for a private picnic with stunning views before returning to Burbank.
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View ExperienceAmerica's Cup Yacht Sunset Sailing Excursion
Enjoy a 2.5-hour sunset sail on an authentic America's Cup yacht. Join the crew, learn sailing, or relax as you explore the Bay, guided by expert captains. Snacks, water, and gear provided!
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View Experience
Beekeeping Experience at Carmel Valley Ranch
Embark on a VIP apiary tour in Carmel Valley, donning beekeeping gear to explore a hive of 60,000 Italian honeybees. Learn about their social structure, sample fresh honey, and take home a special gift.
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View Experience
Yosemite Wade Fly-Fishing Excursion
This morning, meet your Orvis-endorsed guide for a 4-hour fly fishing trip in Yosemite Valley. Learn techniques, catch and release trout, and enjoy the serene beauty of nature while honing your skills. Return to your vehicle after the adventure.
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View ExperiencePrivate Tour in Hearst Castle
Enjoy a private, half-day tour of Hearst Castle, bypassing lines for exclusive access to this opulent estate. Tailored to your interests, explore lavish rooms, gardens, art collections, and breathtaking views.
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View ExperiencePrivate Insider Architecture Tour
Dive into Palm Springs' mid-century modern scene on a private tour. Explore iconic homes, admire interiors, and learn about architects like Wexler and Frey. See outdoor art and celebrity estates on this insider’s journey!
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View ExperienceBeachside Horseback Ride and Scenic Picnic Lunch
Soak in breathtaking views as you embark on a guided horseback ride along Santa Barbara’s sun-drenched coastline.
Call us on +852 3579 2478 to start planning