Wine tours in Santa Barbara give you all the fun with none of the hassles. The region’s best offerings include personalized estate visits and scenic cycling routes through wine country, complete with no-fuss shuttle service between stops.
I especially love the intimate private tours where you’re treated like family at smaller estates – they give you real face time with winemakers. The bike tours are another favorite, combining exercise with excellent tastings (and the scenery is absolutely stunning).
Let’s explore the top wine tours that make Santa Barbara a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.
Key Points
- Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour offers a comprehensive wine tasting experience with door-to-door transportation, family-owned wineries, and a 97% recommendation rate.
- The Small-Group Wine Tour provides a personalized experience with a maximum of 7 travelers, luxury transportation, and an organic lunch.
- The Funk Zone Wine and Sushi Tour combines wine tasting with an interactive sushi-making demonstration, offering a unique culinary experience.
- The Private Estates Tour offers an intimate setting with premium tastings and organic meals, with a 99% recommendation rate.
- The Biking and Wine Tour features e-bike exploration, wine and olive oil tastings, and a 95% recommendation for its personalized approach.
Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour
The Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour offers visitors a guided exploration of the region’s renowned wineries. With a 97% recommendation rate from travelers, this tour showcases the best of Santa Barbara’s wine scene.
Guests can expect door-to-door transportation, tastings at 3 family-owned wineries, and a gourmet picnic lunch – all for ₹17,396.03 per person. The tour runs from 10:00 am and is suitable for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners.
Traveler feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, intimate winery experiences, and scenic views. Whether visiting for a special occasion or a must-do activity, the Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour provides an exceptional introduction to the area’s vibrant wine culture.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Wine Country Tour Review
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Santa Barbara Wine Country Vineyards & Villages Tour
Offering an in-depth exploration of Santa Barbara’s wine country, the Santa Barbara Wine Country Vineyards & Villages Tour showcases the region’s renowned wineries and charming towns.
Over 6.5 hours, guests can visit up to three wineries or substitute stops in Solvang and Los Olivos. Traveling in a Mercedes Sprinter van, the tour provides ample time for wine tasting, shopping, and sightseeing.
Customization options include selecting wine tasting flights or individual glasses, and purchasing gourmet sandwiches or salads. With a maximum group size of 10, the tour ensures a personalized experience.
Plus, the tour offers flexibility with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, making it an attractive option for wine enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara Wine Country Vineyards & Villages Tour Review
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Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara
Setting out on a Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara provides an exclusive opportunity to explore the region’s renowned vineyards and savor premium wines.
This highly praised tour accommodates a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring personalized experiences and intimate settings. Guests can expect pickup and drop-off in a luxury Mercedes, small production wine tastings, and a customized organic lunch.
The tour’s moderate physical fitness requirement and non-accessibility for those with medical conditions or back problems should be considered.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour promises an educational and memorable exploration of Santa Barbara’s wine country.
Read our full review: Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara Review
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Santa Barbara: Funk Zone Wine and Sushi Tour
Exploring the vibrant Funk Zone of Santa Barbara, this wine and sushi tour immerses guests in the area’s thriving culinary scene.
Over 4.5 hours, visitors discover the neighborhood’s eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and locally-sourced eateries.
The tour includes stops at several renowned wineries, where guests can sample a variety of Santa Barbara’s finest vintages.
Complementing the wine tasting is a sushi-making demonstration, allowing participants to learn the art of rolling their own sushi.
With a new activity rating, this comprehensive experience offers an excellent introduction to the Funk Zone’s vibrant culture and flavors.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Funk Zone Wine and Sushi Tour Review
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Santa Barbara Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Estates & Wineries
What better way to experience the idyllic wine region of Santa Barbara than on an intimate small-group tour to private estates and wineries?
This tour, rated 99% recommended by travelers, offers access to off-the-grid winemakers and scenic vineyard picnic settings.
With a maximum of 8 guests, you’ll enjoy premium wine tastings, an organic lunch, and a cheese platter, all while being driven in a luxury Mercedes.
The knowledgeable guides provide informative and friendly commentary, allowing you to connect with passionate winemakers and learn about sustainable wine production.
At $226.98 per person, this tour delivers an exceptional value for the experience.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Estates & Wineries Review
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Funk Zone Taco Tour and Wine Tasting
Visitors can dive into the vibrant flavors of Santa Barbara’s renowned Funk Zone on this captivating 4.5-hour taco tour and wine tasting experience.
Priced from $150 per person, the tour offers two wine tastings, a meal at five family-owned restaurants, and the chance to savor more California wines.
Guests will embark on a 2.5-mile walking tour, led by a live guide providing insights in English, and have the flexibility to use gift cards at 16 local bars, shops, and wineries.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the Funk Zone’s culinary and wine scene.
Read our full review: Funk Zone Taco Tour and Wine Tasting Review
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Santa Ynez Valley Biking and Wine Tasting Tour
This full-day Santa Ynez Valley Biking and Wine Tasting Tour offers an exhilarating way to explore the region’s stunning landscapes and renowned wineries.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour provides a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide with sommelier expertise.
Highlights include 2 wine tastings, an olive oil tasting, and a gourmet picnic lunch, all while cycling through picturesque vineyards, lavender fields, and olive groves on e-bikes or gravel/road bikes.
Rated 5.0 from 96 reviews, this tour is perfect for all fitness levels and promises an exceptional experience exploring the best of Santa Barbara’s wine country.
Read our full review: Santa Ynez Valley Biking and Wine Tasting Tour Review
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Santa Barbara: Private Wine Country Tour
Oftentimes, travelers to Santa Barbara embark on a private wine country tour to enjoy the region’s renowned vineyards and exceptional winemaking.
This 5-hour tour offers pickups from several locations, allowing guests to explore three local wineries at their own pace. Visitors will enjoy 75-minute tastings at the first and third wineries, as well as a 2-hour lunch and tasting at the second.
A knowledgeable guide provides insights into the area’s wine history while travelers savor locally-sourced cuisine and cold beverages.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required, this tour provides a flexible and all-inclusive wine country experience.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Private Wine Country Tour Review
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Wine Tasting Tour in Santa Ynez Valley (All-Inclusive & Full-Day)
A full-day wine tasting tour in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley takes travelers on an immersive exploration of the region’s renowned vineyards and exceptional winemaking.
Priced at $239 per person, the tour includes tastings at three wineries, a delicious locally sourced lunch, and pickup/drop-off service.
Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the winemaking process and regional history.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience. Highly rated by past participants, the tour boasts a 95% traveler recommendation.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals and strollers.
Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Wine Tasting Tour in Santa Ynez Valley (All-Inclusive & Full-Day) Review
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Santa Barbara: Wine Country Tour With Lunch
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Santa Barbara’s renowned wine country can embark on a comprehensive 6-hour tour that showcases the region’s boutique, family-owned wineries.
Priced from $250 per person, the small-group tour (limited to 9 participants) includes door-to-door transportation, guided visits to a mixture of vineyards and tasting rooms, and a gourmet picnic lunch with vegetarian, vegan, and meat options.
Participants can savor a variety of fine wines while enjoying an educational vineyard tour.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews, the tour offers intimate experiences with winemakers and is suitable for all levels of wine enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Wine Country Tour With Lunch Review
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Solvang Valley Small Group All-Inclusive Wine Tour
Solvang Valley’s small group wine tour offers an all-inclusive experience, guiding visitors through the region’s renowned wineries.
The 5-hour excursion, limited to a maximum of 8 people, showcases three local wineries known for their diverse varietals. Guests enjoy wine tastings, a picnic-style lunch, and the expertise of a private guide.
Pickup and drop-off are provided within the Solvang/Santa Ynez Valley area. With a 94% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour delivers an intimate and tailored wine experience.
While some reviewers mention minor issues, overall feedback highlights knowledgeable guides and excellent wine selections at the scenic wineries visited.
Read our full review: Solvang Valley Small Group All-Inclusive Wine Tour Review
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Santa Barbara: Sparkling Wine Walking Tour
Explore Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown on this 3-hour Sparkling Wine Walking Tour.
You’ll visit two unique boutique wine tasting rooms showcasing the area’s best sparkling wines. Along the way, indulge in two tastings of artisanal chocolates.
The tour also includes a guided exploration of landmarks like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and State Street. You’ll gain insights into the local winemaking industry, history, architecture, and culture.
This small-group tour is limited to 6 participants and is wheelchair accessible. Flexible reservations and free cancellation make planning easy.
At $135 per person, it’s a delightful way to experience Santa Barbara’s sparkling wine scene.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Sparkling Wine Walking Tour Review
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All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour From Santa Ynez Valley
This all-inclusive full-day wine tasting tour from Santa Ynez Valley offers a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts.
With 88 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour provides three winery visits, a deli-style picnic lunch, and transportation in a deluxe touring vehicle.
At $209 per person, the tour includes tasting fees, pickup and drop-off, and gratuities.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals and those near public transportation.
Guests praise the exceptional guides and flexible itineraries, though some report transportation issues.
Read our full review: All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour From Santa Ynez Valley Review
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Full-Day Inclusive Wine Tasting Tour From Santa Barbara
The Full-Day Inclusive Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Barbara offers wine enthusiasts a delightful opportunity to enjoy the renowned vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley.
Priced at Kč 5,457 per person, this 7-hour tour includes pickup from Santa Barbara hotels, visits to 3 wineries, and a deli-style picnic lunch. Guests can sample award-winning wines while enjoying grape-themed insights from the knowledgeable driver/host.
The tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation and a reserve now & pay later option, makes it a convenient choice. With an overall rating of 4.8/5, the tour provides excellent value for money, highlighted by positive feedback on the delicious food and enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: Full-Day Inclusive Wine Tasting Tour From Santa Barbara Review
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Private Sidecar Winery Tour Through Santa Barbara
Although the Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Santa Barbara offers a unique and scenic way to explore the city’s renowned vineyards, some travelers have reported issues with reliability and a discrepancy between the advertised and actual tour details.
The tour, which includes wine tastings at two wineries, has received mixed reviews, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable and friendly drivers, as well as the beautiful views.
However, concerns have been raised about cancellations, no-shows, and a lack of communication from the tour company.
Travelers are advised to verify the tour details before booking and to be flexible with their plans, as reliability issues have been reported.
Read our full review: Private Sidecar Winery Tour Through Santa Barbara Review
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Santa Barbara: Cupcake and Wine Country Tour
Travelers seeking a delightful blend of sweet treats and award-winning wines can opt for the Santa Barbara: Cupcake and Wine Country Tour.
This 5-hour excursion takes guests through the scenic Santa Ynez Valley, where they’ll visit three premier wineries for tastings paired with locally-sourced cupcakes.
The tour includes a delicious lunch on weekdays, as well as transportation and insights from a knowledgeable guide.
Priced from Kč 6,172 per person, the tour accommodates up to 14 participants and offers flexible booking with free cancellation.
With a 4.8/5 customer rating, this experience promises an unforgettable pairing of flavors and regional exploration.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Cupcake and Wine Country Tour Review
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Santa Ynez Valley Cupcake & Wine Tour (All-Inclusive & Full-Day)
Embarking on the Santa Ynez Valley Cupcake & Wine Tour promises an all-inclusive, full-day experience that delights the senses.
For $259 per person, travelers will enjoy a curated tour that includes wine tastings at three local wineries, a delicious lunch, and a cupcake flight.
The tour accommodates up to 14 travelers and boasts a 4.4-star rating based on 25 reviews.
While some guests noted crowded conditions at the last winery, the overall feedback praises the knowledgeable guides and memorable pairings.
With pickup available throughout Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez Valley, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the region’s culinary and vinous delights.
Read our full review: Santa Ynez Valley Cupcake & Wine Tour (All-Inclusive & Full-Day) Review
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Santa Barbara: Wine Country Tour
For those seeking to enjoy the picturesque wine country surrounding Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour offers an exceptional opportunity.
Priced at $239 per person, the 5-hour tour provides access to 3 local wineries, with ample time for tastings and a 2-hour lunch in the serene Santa Ynez Valley.
Travelers are picked up from 7 convenient locations and transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned van.
With a small group size limited to 14 participants, the tour promises a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.
Customer reviews highlight the tour’s value, transportation, and overall enjoyment, making it an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts visiting the region.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Wine Country Tour Review
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Electric Bike Adventure in Santa Barbara Wine Country
Situated in the heart of the picturesque Los Olivos region, the Electric Bike Adventure in Santa Barbara Wine Country offers a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the local vineyards.
With 22 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, this tour is the #1 biking destination in the area. Guests can enjoy the centrally located starting point, with easy access to Solvang, Santa Ynez, and Buellton.
The tour includes bottled water, helmet, lunch, and gratuities, with optional wine tastings available at the vineyards. Guests should be aware of the moderate physical fitness requirement and age restrictions.
Read our full review: Electric Bike Adventure in Santa Barbara Wine Country Review
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Santa Ynez Wine Country Shuttle
The Santa Ynez Wine Country Shuttle offers visitors a convenient and efficient way to explore the renowned wineries of the Santa Ynez Valley.
For $129 per person, this shuttle service provides pick-up from hotels, transportation to select wineries, a knowledgeable guide, and lunch.
The shuttle accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, with a minimum of 4 required for operation.
Guests can expect to visit notable wineries like Brick Barn, Koehler, and Refugio Ranch, while learning about the region’s winemaking history.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 36 reviews, the Santa Ynez Wine Country Shuttle offers a hassle-free and enjoyable wine tasting experience in Santa Barbara.
Read our full review: Santa Ynez Wine Country Shuttle Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Wine Tour?
Generally, you can bring your own food on wine tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have policies about outside food and drink. They may also offer catering options or recommend local eateries to enhance your experience.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Most wine tours are wheelchair accessible, providing ramps and elevators to accommodate guests with mobility challenges. Visitors should check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the specific tour they’ve chosen can accommodate their needs.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From My Hotel?
Most wine tours offer transportation to and from your hotel as part of the package. This provides a convenient and hassle-free experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the wine tasting without worrying about driving.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Wine Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Some tours may have stricter policies, so it’s best to check with the operator before booking.
Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?
Yes, you can typically customize wine tours to your preferences. Many tour operators offer the flexibility to adjust the itinerary, tasting schedule, and other aspects of the tour to suit your interests and needs.
The Sum Up
Santa Barbara’s wine country offers a variety of engaging tours for visitors. From small-group excursions to private estates to all-inclusive experiences, there’s a tour to suit any interest. Visitors can explore the region’s vineyards, villages, and even the Funk Zone on foot, by bike, or via shuttle. With so many options, travelers can easily find the perfect way to discover the best of Santa Barbara’s renowned wine scene.