Santa Barbara’s best city tours pack the highlights of this gorgeous coastal town into efficient 2-2.5 hour excursions. Three bike tours stand out: the classic City Highlights ($75), plus two electric options – City & Sand and Electric City tours ($95-115). I especially love the electric bike tours, which make exploring the hilly terrain a breeze while covering more ground. All routes hit the must-sees like Stearns Wharf and the harbor, with guides sharing cultural insights you won’t find in guidebooks. These are the top tours worth your time and money in Santa Barbara.
Key Points
- Santa Barbara offers a variety of bike tour options, including City Highlights, City & Sand, and Electric Bike City Tours, providing different experiences and durations.
- The tours feature key landmarks like East Beach, Stearns Wharf, and the Santa Barbara Harbor, offering cultural insights and scenic coastal views.
- Experienced local guides lead the tours, ensuring rider safety with safety briefings and providing high-quality electric or cruiser-style bikes.
- The tours are suitable for most individuals who can ride a bike, but not recommended for those with mobility impairments or exceeding the weight limit.
- The tours consistently receive positive reviews, with the City & Sand and Electric Bike City Tours rated highly for their unforgettable and enjoyable experiences.
Santa Barbara: City Highlights Bike Tour
The Santa Barbara: City Highlights Bike Tour offers visitors a leisurely and engaging way to explore the city’s waterfront and downtown areas.
This 2-hour tour, priced at $75 per person, takes participants on a journey through Santa Barbara’s top landmarks, including East Beach, Butterfly Beach, Stearns Wharf, West Beach, the Santa Barbara Harbor, and the Funk Zone. Along the way, a veteran guide provides insight into the city’s rich history and culture.
The tour features a safety briefing and offers a choice of 7-speed beach cruiser or hybrid-style bikes. Riders can expect an intermediate-paced, flexible itinerary that allows them to add destinations and explore specific areas of interest.
Included in the experience are water, helmets, and quality bikes, ensuring an enjoyable and comfortable ride. The tour is suitable for individuals who can ride a bike, but not recommended for those with mobility impairments or weighing over 287 lbs.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: City Highlights Bike Tour Review
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Santa Barbara: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour
For those seeking a more adventurous way to explore Santa Barbara’s coastal sights, the Santa Barbara: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour offers an exhilarating and immersive experience.
Priced from $115 per person, this 2.5-hour tour allows participants to glide along bike paths, roads, and even sandy beaches on electric bikes, taking in scenic views of the city’s coastline.
Accompanied by an expert local guide, riders visit key landmarks like the West Beach, Santa Barbara Harbor, downtown, and Butterfly, Secret, and Miramar Beaches.
The tour also includes a stop at the Rosewood Miramar Hotel for stunning beach vistas.
With a safety briefing, water provided, and flexible booking options, this tour caters to a range of visitors, though it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.
Based on 5 reviews, the Santa Barbara: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour has earned a perfect 5/5 rating, praised for its knowledgeable guides and unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: City & Sand Electric Bike Tour Review
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Santa Barbara: Electric Bike City Tour
Although priced from $95 per person, the Santa Barbara: Electric Bike City Tour offers an exhilarating 2.5-hour adventure exploring the city’s scenic coastal landmarks and historical attractions.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour covers a comprehensive itinerary, including highlights like East Beach, Butterfly Beach, Stearns Wharf, and the Santa Barbara Harbor. Participants will also discover the city’s downtown, De La Guerra Plaza, El Presidio, and the iconic Arlington Theater, as well as the vibrant Funk Zone.
Equipped with high-end electric bikes, riders enjoy a safety briefing before setting off on the guided tour. Helmets and water are provided, making the experience comfortable and carefree.
With the option to choose between private or shared group tours, the tour caters to various preferences. Backed by a 4.9/5 rating based on 17 reviews, this electric bike tour promises an enjoyable and informative exploration of Santa Barbara’s top sights.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Electric Bike City Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows customers to cancel their tour reservations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations or no-shows may result in a fee or forfeiture of the tour price.
Are the Tours Suitable for Young Children?
Many city tours are suitable for young children, with engaging activities and educational content. However, it’s best to check the tour operator’s policies as some may have age restrictions or require adult supervision for younger participants.
Can the Tour Guides Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?
Many tour operators can accommodate special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Guests should inform the tour company of any dietary needs when booking to ensure the guide is prepared to cater to their preferences.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to the Starting Point?
Many tours offer transportation to the starting point, so guests don’t have to worry about getting there themselves. However, it’s always best to check with the specific tour company to confirm if transportation is included.
Are the Tour Guides Knowledgeable About the Local History?
Tour guides are generally knowledgeable about local history, providing insightful commentary and context to enhance the visitor experience. They can share details about the area’s past, landmarks, and cultural significance that enrich the tour.
The Sum Up
Santa Barbara offers a variety of engaging city tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s highlights, from its historic architecture to its stunning coastline. Whether you prefer a classic bike tour or an electric bike adventure, these tours provide an immersive and convenient way to discover the best of Santa Barbara’s charming streets and beautiful landscapes.