Your free time in Santa Barbara - Scott Dunn suggests
Santa Barbara is the 'American Riviera' with a beautiful sunny climate and Pacific Ocean breeze. Get out on the water by catamaran, see whales and dolphins around the Channel Island National Park and cycle along the palm-lined promenade on a cruiser.
Area
California
Type
Community & Culture
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Teens
Difficulty
Leisurely
Duration
Full Day
Get out on the water with the Santa Barbara Sailing Center on kayaks or Catamarans, or take a trip out to the Channel Islands with its unique flora and fauna best seen by boat or kayak. For whale and dolphin watching trips, we recommend Condor Express for twice daily summer trips from the wharf. Cycling is the favourite way to get around, and bikes can be found at Wheel Fun (22 State St) where you can choose from classic cruisers to mountain bikes. Or for lazy beach days head to Arroyo Burro (Hendy's Beach) near the junction of Cliff Dr and Las Positas Rd, with free parking and a restaurant.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
-
View AccommodationHotel del Coronado
Designated a historical landmark, the legendary Hotel del Coronado is set on 28 acres of Coronado Island beachfront. The beach cottages and villas are an ideal choice for families wanting a luxurious base from which to visit theme parks and attractions.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
View AccommodationHotel Casa del Mar
Once an opulent beach club for Hollywood stars of the 1920s, Casa del Mar oozes old school glamour and relaxed sophistication. Sitting on the golden sands of Santa Monica beach, the hotel has uninterrupted ocean views and a delightfully decadent décor.
-
View AccommodationStanly Ranch
Stanly Ranch is a 21st century luxury resort, winery and residential community set in over 700 acres of rolling green vineyards.
-
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.
-
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.
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.
-
View Experience
Private Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure
Embark on a thrilling private offshore adventure from Newport Beach in search of whales and marine life.
-
View Experience
Yosemite Hiking Excursion
This morning, explore Yosemite's Mariposa Grove on a private guided hike. Marvel at giant sequoias on a tailored 4- to 5-hour trek or shorter 2-hour walk. Learn their ecology, capture stunning photos, and enjoy lunch back at your hotel afterward.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
View ExperienceDisneyland Private VIP Tour
Experience the magic of Disneyland with a VIP guide, skipping queues and customizing your day! Meet Disney characters, enjoy top attractions, and access exclusive parade and show viewing areas.
-
View ExperiencePrivate Sailing Charter: Sausalito to San Francisco
Set sail on a private 3-hour charter from Sausalito to San Francisco, enjoying stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city's iconic skyline.
-
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!
Call us on 020 8682 5030 to start planning