Santa Barbara might be famous for its sunny beaches and lively downtown, but for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s also a treasure trove of hiking and trekking options. The nearby hills and forests offer a chance to escape the crowds and learn about California’s natural beauty.
Whether you prefer a gentle forest walk, a bike ride along scenic trails, or a full-day adventure combining kayaking and hiking, Santa Barbara has something for every kind of explorer.
I particularly like the 【Guided Hiking Experience in Ojai】because it lets you enjoy the peaceful forest and learn from local guides, all while avoiding the busy town areas.
If you’re after a more active day, the 【Santa Barbara: All Day EBike, Hike, Kayak Excursion + Lunch】 combines several outdoor pursuits into one balanced trip, making it perfect for those who want variety. And for the thrill-seekers, the 【Guided Hiking, Biking and Tennis】 tour offers a customized experience with biking, climbing, and local tasting stops.
This list aims to cover a range of interests and fitness levels, helping you find the perfect outdoor adventure in Santa Barbara.
Quick Overview of Santa Barbara’s Top Hiking & Trekking Tours
In this guide, you’ll find a mix of half-day and full-day tours. From peaceful forest walks in Ojai to full-day excursions that include biking, kayaking, and even hot springs visits, each experience offers something special. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a small group, these tours provide both adventure and insight into the region’s natural highlights.
To see the options in detail, check out the 【Guided Hiking Experience in Ojai】, 【Guided Hiking, Biking and Tennis】, 【Santa Barbara: All Day EBike, Hike, Kayak Excursion + Lunch】, and 【Santa Barbara: Surf, Yoga, Hike, Hot Springs, and City Tour】.
1. Guided Hiking Experience in Ojai
For around $100, this private hiking experience takes you into the tranquil hills of Ojai Valley, just outside Santa Barbara. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and is perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy Southern California’s natural beauty without the crowds.
The guides are local experts who will lead you through peaceful forest trails, pointing out native flora and fauna along the way. You’ll take breaks by small creeks, savoring snacks and refreshments provided by the guides.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on serenity and local knowledge. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a short, relaxing escape into nature.
The reviews highlight how accommodating the guides are, with one saying, “Our guide was very accommodating, and went out of her way to make things work for us, we really appreciated the extra effort.” The experience is suitable for all fitness levels, and since snacks and water are included, you won’t need to bring much.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an authentic, quiet hike through beautiful forest with expert guidance—perfect for those wanting a peaceful break from town.
2. Guided Hiking, Biking and Tennis
For about $160, this multi-activity tour combines biking, hiking, and rock climbing, making it a full day of outdoor fun. The itinerary includes a 16-mile bike ride along the Ojai Valley Bike Trail to Ventura State Beach, a hike on a moderate trail in Los Padres National Forest, and a guided beginner-to-intermediate rock climbing session.
All gear—bikes, helmets, climbing ropes—is included, which means you don’t have to worry about bringing your own equipment.
What makes this tour unique is its customizable approach. The guide will tailor the activities to your group’s interests and skill levels, and they also offer recommendations for local dining, spas, and hotels.
During the bike ride, you’ll pass through orange groves and taste fresh olive oils and vinegars at an Ojai olive oil farm, making it a tasty part of the adventure. The climbing component lasts about 3.5 hours, offering a chance to learn knots, belaying, and rappelling.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for active travelers who want a well-rounded day of biking, hiking, and climbing with expert guidance and local flavor.
3. Santa Barbara: All Day EBike, Hike, Kayak Excursion + Lunch
Priced at $250 per person, this full-day outdoor extravaganza packs in e-bike riding, hiking, kayaking, and a delicious packed lunch from a local deli.
Starting with a wind-in-your-hair ride along Santa Barbara’s beaches, you’ll cruise on an electric bike on a scenic route that’s perfect for all levels. Afterward, you’ll hike a trail that offers stunning views, culminating in a meal at the summit or during the hike.
Later, the tour moves to the harbor for a paddling session, where you’ll kayak alongside Stearn’s Wharf and around the breakwaters. The guide will tailor the hike to your preferred difficulty, making it suitable for a range of fitness levels.
This tour is perfect for those who want to sample multiple outdoor activities in one day, with the added bonus of insider tips on the best local bites and spots in Santa Barbara.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a comprehensive outdoor experience with flexibility and excellent scenery.
4. Santa Barbara: Surf, Yoga, Hike, Hot Springs, and City Tour
At $130 for a full 6-hour day, this multi-faceted tour combines surf lessons, a hot springs hike, and a scenic city visit. You’ll start with a professional surf instructor teaching you the basics in the Pacific, then hike to a nearby hot spring for a relaxing soak.
The tour also includes a quick visit to the Santa Barbara Mission and Rose Gardens, plus a pass to a well-known yoga studio for a post-activity stretch.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on combining active pursuits with relaxation and cultural highlights. Guests appreciate the variety, with one reviewer noting the “breathtaking view of Santa Barbara from a scenic overlook” during the hike. The hot spring soak offers a unique chance to unwind after physical activity, and the yoga pass rounds out the experience with some mindful relaxation.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing, especially those interested in surfing and hot springs.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. The 【Guided Hiking Experience in Ojai】 is ideal for those seeking a quiet, guided nature walk, while the 【Guided Hiking, Biking and Tennis】 offers a more active, multi-sport day.
For a full-day adventure that includes paddling and scenic views, the 【Santa Barbara: All Day EBike, Hike, Kayak Excursion + Lunch】 is a great pick.
If you want a mix of adventure and relaxation with cultural highlights, the 【Santa Barbara: Surf, Yoga, Hike, Hot Springs】 tour covers all bases.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, and always double-check the weather forecast to make sure outdoor plans go smoothly. For a perfect balance of outdoor fun and local flavor, these tours provide plenty of options to make the most of Santa Barbara’s natural beauty.
Final Thoughts
From peaceful forest walks to full-day multi-activity adventures, Santa Barbara’s hiking and trekking tours cover a wide range of interests and fitness levels. If you’re after tranquility and local insights, the 【Guided Hiking Experience in Ojai】 is hard to beat.
For those craving a bit more action, the 【Guided Hiking, Biking and Tennis】 offers a full day of outdoor pursuits, while the 【Santa Barbara: All Day EBike, Hike, Kayak Excursion + Lunch】 is perfect for active explorers who want variety.
Lastly, for a mix of adventure, wellness, and sightseeing, the 【Santa Barbara: Surf, Yoga, Hike, Hot Springs】 tour balances physical activity with relaxation.
No matter your style, these tours are a great way to see Santa Barbara from a different perspective. Be sure to book early — these outdoor adventures fill up fast, especially in good weather. Happy hiking!