Santa Barbara: Surf, Yoga, Hike, Hot Springs, and City Tour

Santa Barbara: Surf, Yoga, Hike, Hot Springs, and City Tour

When you’re planning a trip to Santa Barbara, there’s no shortage of options to fill your day with adventure and relaxation. This particular experience, offered by Barbarians Cave, promises a mix of surfing, hiking, natural springs, and local sights—all wrapped into a six-hour package. It’s designed for those who want a bit of everything, with active moments and calm, scenic views.

What caught our eye? First, the chance to learn to surf with a professional instructor—imagine catching your first wave on the Pacific. Second, the hike to a local hot spring with a soak that sounds perfect after a morning in the water. The inclusion of a scenic overlook of Santa Barbara and visits to the Mission and Rose Gardens also helps round out the experience.

One thing to keep in mind: the rating for this tour is quite low at 2.3, which might raise a few questions. While the description promises a lot, reviews note inconsistencies in quality and organization. So, if you’re expecting a polished, seamless experience, this might not be your top pick. But if you’re flexible and open-minded, it could still give you a memorable day.

This tour seems best suited for travelers looking for a low-key, activity-packed day with plenty of opportunities for photos and outdoor fun. It’s also a good choice if you enjoy trying new things like surfing or want to explore Santa Barbara’s natural beauty and landmarks.

Key Points

• Learn to surf with a professional instructor in the Pacific Ocean, which is perfect for beginners wanting a safe intro.
• Hike to a hot spring and enjoy a relaxing soak in natural waters—an uncommon and calming activity.
• Enjoy stunning views of Santa Barbara from a scenic overlook, ideal for photo ops and taking in the city’s charm.
• Visit iconic sites like the Santa Barbara Mission and Rose Gardens for a quick cultural and botanical experience.
• Receive a yoga studio pass to Yoga Soup, offering a chance to unwind after active pursuits.
• Small group setting (limited to 6 participants) ensures more personalized attention, but the experience can vary in quality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Meeting Point and Start

The tour generally kicks off downtown at Barbarians Cave, which sets the tone for a laid-back yet adventure-filled day. You’ll select your personal surfboard and get fitted for wetsuits—this personalized approach is nice, especially if you’re new to surfing. The group then heads down the coast in a surf buggy, a fun ride that gets you close to one of Santa Barbara’s well-known surf breaks.

Surf Lesson

The highlight for many will probably be the full surf lesson on the sand and in the water. Your guide will teach you about tides, currents, paddling, and how to stand up. The hands-on assistance from the instructor helps build confidence, even if you’re just a bit nervous about getting on a board for the first time. Multiple paddle assists mean you’ll get plenty of support, and the chance to catch a wave is genuinely exciting.

The Hot Spring Hike

After surfing, the group drives into the Santa Barbara mountains for a 30-45 minute hike to a local hot spring. This part of the experience offers a refreshing change of pace—trekking through nature to reach a peaceful, multi-pooled spring. The hot spring is described as uncrowded and multi-pooled, making it a lovely spot to unwind. Reviews mention that the springs are a highlight, providing a nice sense of seclusion and natural beauty.

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Scenic Overlook

Post-soak, you’ll drive through Montecito to a breathtaking overlook. This stop offers some of the best views of Santa Barbara, perfect for snapping pictures and just soaking in the scenery. It’s a brief stop but worth it for the stunning vistas.

Santa Barbara Mission and Rose Gardens

Next, the tour takes you to the Santa Barbara Mission and nearby Rose Gardens. These sites offer a quick walk-through of local history and flora. While brief, it’s a good way to add some cultural flavor to your busy day.

Ending with Yoga

Back at Barbarians Cave, everyone receives a pass to Yoga Soup, a well-known Santa Barbara yoga studio. It’s a nice touch that allows you to wind down and stretch after your active day.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $130, this tour provides quite a packed schedule for a half-day adventure. The cost covers surfboard rental, wetsuits, the guided lesson, the hike, the hot springs, city sights, and the yoga pass. When you break it down, it’s a fair price considering the variety of activities. However, the quality of the experience might be inconsistent, given the low provider rating. If smooth operation and high-quality instruction are your priorities, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re open to a more casual, local-flavor experience, this could be a fun way to spend a day in Santa Barbara.

Practical Considerations

• Transportation to the meeting point is not included; you’ll need to organize that yourself or opt for the pickup option if available.
• The experience is weather-dependent; poor weather might result in rescheduling or cancellations.
• Bring essentials like sunscreen, water, snacks, swimwear, and a hat. Also, pack a change of clothes and a bag for wet items.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s ideal for active travelers who want a mix of water sports, nature, and cultural sights. If you’re comfortable swimming and moderate hiking, you’ll likely enjoy this. It’s not suitable for children under 9, pregnant women, or those with back problems, reflecting the physical nature of the activities.

Final Thoughts

This Santa Barbara tour offers an engaging blend of outdoor activities and sightseeing, perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation. The surfing lesson is a genuine highlight—learning a new skill or just trying it out in the waves is hard to beat. The hot springs hike adds that peaceful, scenic element that many visitors crave. And the views from the overlook, combined with the quick visits to local landmarks, give a well-rounded taste of what Santa Barbara has to offer.

That said, keep in mind the mixed reviews and relatively low provider rating. The experience might not be seamless, but if you’re flexible and looking for a day filled with varied activities, it could very well be a memorable part of your trip. Just be prepared for the possibility that things might not run perfectly, and manage expectations accordingly.

This tour suits adventurous souls eager to combine physical activity with sightseeing. It’s a day designed to leave you with stories—about catching your first wave, soaking in a natural spring, and taking in panoramic views of one of California’s most charming coastal towns.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for first-time surfers?
Yes, the tour includes a full guided surf lesson, making it accessible for beginners. The instructor provides hands-on help and paddle assists to make sure everyone gets a chance to ride a wave.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
Participants should be able to swim, as water activities are part of the experience. If you’re comfortable in the water, you’ll enjoy the surfing and hot spring soak more.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes for hiking and water activities. A change of clothes and a wet bag are also recommended for after the hot springs.

Is transportation included?
Transportation to the meeting point at Barbarians Cave is not included, but pickup options may be available. Once there, you’ll load into the surf buggy for the coastal trip.

How long is the hike to the hot springs?
The hike lasts around 30-45 minutes and is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. The trail offers a peaceful walk and scenic views.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process also allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

If you’re looking for a day that combines some of Santa Barbara’s best outdoor spots with active adventures, this tour might just be worth considering. Just keep expectations in check, and you’ll be set for a memorable day exploring this beautiful California coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: