Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking to combine your love of the outdoors with a taste of California wine, this Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting Tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, scenery, and sophistication. Promoted by Captain Jack’s Santa Barbara Tours, this experience promises a day of panoramic views, expert guidance, and delightful tastings, all packed into about six hours.

What makes this tour especially appealing are two standout features: the 90-minute horseback ride through a canyon and along a river with ocean vistas, and the visits to two distinct Santa Ynez Valley wineries. These elements add an authentic, active dimension to what could otherwise be a typical wine tour.

However, a potential consideration is that lunch is not included—though there’s the option to purchase it at the first winery—and the tour is priced at $510 per person. For some, this might seem steep, but when you factor in door-to-door transportation, expert guides, and included tastings at two wineries, it begins to look like good value for what you get.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and wine culture, especially those who appreciate guided experiences that take care of logistics and enrich your understanding of the region.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: Door-to-door transportation, tastings, and expert guidance make planning simple.
• Authentic scenic experience: A 90-minute horseback ride through a canyon with ocean views offers a memorable outdoor component.
• Curated wine visits: Two carefully selected wineries provide diverse tastings, often with knowledgeable guides sharing fun facts.
• Flexible options: Pickup from anywhere in Santa Barbara and a private tour format ensure a personalized experience.
• Timing and duration: About six hours from start to finish, making it doable as a day trip without feeling rushed.
• Value for money: Includes all tastings and bottled water, with positive reviews praising the guides and scenery.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: Santa Barbara

The tour begins with pickup from your Santa Barbara accommodation or designated meeting point, usually between 8:45 and 9:30 am. This door-to-door service is a real plus, saving you from navigating unfamiliar roads or public transit. Once on the bus, you’re comfortably delivered to the horse ranch—an authentic setting that immediately hints at a rustic, outdoor adventure.

Horseback Riding through a Canyon

The real highlight is the 90-minute horseback ride. As you saddle up, the guides set the tone for a relaxed yet exciting journey. We loved the way the ride takes you through a canyon featuring a seasonal waterfall, adding an element of natural beauty that varies with the time of year.

The trail offers stunning views, and riders of all levels will appreciate the gentle pace and friendly horses. The top of the trail provides a spectacular overlook of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands, which makes for excellent photo ops—an aspect praised by past guests who found the scenery “amazing” and “Instagram-worthy.”

The Santa Ynez Valley Vineyards

After the ride, the tour continues into the Santa Ynez Valley, a renowned wine region known for its diverse wineries and scenic charm. The two vineyard visits are a key part of the experience. Tastings are included in the price, and guides often go beyond just pouring wine—they share stories, insights, and fun facts about the local wine scene, as one reviewer noted, “Meredith was well versed in the history of Santa Ynez and gave us lots of fun facts.”

The wineries are described as top-rated, with a focus on quality and atmosphere. Guests can purchase lunch at the first winery if they wish, but it’s not included, giving flexibility for those who prefer to dine elsewhere or bring snacks.

The Final Touch: A Surprise Stop

Many reviews mention a “surprise stop” at the end of the tour, which adds a layer of personalized touch and makes the entire day feel exclusive and intimate, especially since most groups are small (sometimes as few as four people).

Returning to Santa Barbara

The tour wraps up around 5:00 to 5:30 pm, with a comfortable return back to your hotel or designated drop-off point. The timing allows for a full day without feeling overly packed, giving you ample time to relax afterward or explore more of Santa Barbara.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Multiple reviewers praise the guides, especially Meredith, for her extensive knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. One said, “Meredith was the best tour guide we ever experienced,” highlighting her storytelling and the personal attention she provides.

Guests also rave about the views and the wine. “The wineries were awesome and the horseback riding was so much fun,” one reviewer shared, emphasizing the balance of outdoor activity and wine appreciation.

The value also receives praise, considering the included tastings, transportation, and guide. For some, it’s a splurge, but most agree that it’s worth the expense for the experience and convenience.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation

The door-to-door pickup is a major time-saver and adds comfort. You’ll be picked up in Santa Barbara, then transported comfortably to the ranch, and back again. This service means you can relax and enjoy the scenery, knowing logistics are sorted.

Duration and Group Size

Spanning roughly six hours, the tour is manageable for a full day but not so long as to cause fatigue. It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience. The small group size, combined with expert guidance, makes for a more engaging day.

Cost and Value

At $510 per person, the tour may seem pricey, but when you consider the all-inclusive nature—transportation, tastings, and guided commentary—it offers good value. Plus, the outdoor horseback ride and the variety of wineries provide an authentic taste of Santa Ynez that you’ll likely remember long after.

What’s Not Included

Lunch isn’t included, giving you the freedom to choose your own or enjoy it at the winery. Water and alcoholic beverages are provided, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Most travelers can participate, with the minimum drinking age being 21. Service animals are permitted, and the experience is private, accommodating various needs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous wine lovers who want to combine outdoor activity with tastings. It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate the personal touch of a guided tour, especially with hosts who are knowledgeable and friendly. If you enjoy scenic drives, stunning ocean views, and authentic winery visits—all wrapped into one memorable day—this tour will suit you well.

On the flip side, if you’re on a tight budget, or if you prefer purely leisurely activities without physical exertion, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting Tour offers an engaging and well-rounded way to experience Santa Barbara’s natural beauty and wine culture. The combination of a scenic canyon ride with visits to top wineries creates a memorable day that balances active adventure with relaxing tastings. Guided by personable and knowledgeable hosts, you’ll gain insights into the region’s landscape, history, and wines—delivered with humor and authenticity.

For those seeking a unique, all-in-one experience that captures the essence of Santa Ynez, this tour provides great value for the comfort, convenience, and quality it offers. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to add some outdoor excitement to a wine-focused trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes door-to-door transportation from anywhere in Santa Barbara, making the day stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately six hours, starting around 8:45 am and returning by 5:00-5:30 pm.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can purchase it at the first winery if you like.

What’s the minimum age to participate?
The minimum drinking age is 21 years old, though most travelers of various ages can enjoy the outdoor parts.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity is recommended, especially for the horseback ride. Closed-toe shoes are best.

Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, providing a more personalized experience.

This tour offers a great way to see, taste, and experience Santa Barbara’s scenic and vinicultural offerings without the hassle of planning every detail. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day out, it’s worth considering.