Montecito Peak

Length: 5.8 miles

Level: Moderate to Difficult

This long and windy trail starts in near Cold Springs Creek and goes up the canyon before ascending up Montecito Peak. While the views are good along the way, the 360-degree panorama view at the top makes it all worth it. On a clear day, one can see many of the Channel Islands out to the west and all the way to Ventura down south, making it one of the most expansive views of the best Santa Barbara hikes.

Potato Harbor

Length: 5 miles

Level: Moderate

This is definitely the most unique and stunning trail on our list. To start this hike you need to take Island Packers Ferry from the mainland to Santa Barbara’s offshore islands: The Channel Islands. (While you are there be sure to kayak in the sea caves as well!) Starting at Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island, this hike follows the cliff side and offers unparalleled coastal views. This trail can be done as an out and back passing Cavern Point, or as a loop to the Upper Campground. You will most likely see the resident Channel Islands fox (about the size of a house cat) on the way, found nowhere else in the world. Walking from Scorpion Anchorage to Cavern Point and on to Potato Harbor, one has almost continual cliff side views, perfect for a chance to see some marine animals and snap scenic photos. The view over Potato Harbor looks like you are much closer to the tropics, with crystalline waters below and incredible rock formations jutting out of the coast. This hike is definitely one not to miss! Planning a day at the Channel Islands? Join us for sea cave kayaking in the morning and a hike to Potato Harbor in the afternoon! For other hikes on the Channel Islands, check out the National Park hiking guide.

Inspiration Point

Length 3.75 miles

Level: Moderate

This one is a Santa Barbara hiking classic. It starts with at Tunnel Road with a moderate uphill through the Santa Ynez Mountains up to Jesusita Trail. The trail leads to panoramic views of both the ocean and downtown Santa Barbara. This is a great trail to really get a feel for the area and learn where you want to go next. This is the #1 iconic Santa Barbara hike, especially at sunrise!

Lizard’s Mouth

Length: 0.5 miles

Level: Easy

This short hike leads to a unique rock formation (which the hike is named for) that overlooks Santa Barbara. The path wanders through boulders and brush before leading to “the lizard”. Nearby boulders make this a lovely area to lounge and enjoy the view. Fan of bouldering? Lizard’s Mouth is a climbers’ paradise with numerous routes to test your skills (don’t forget a crash pad!).

Saddle Rock Trail

Length: 3 miles

Level: Easy to Moderate

There are a couple different ways to do this hike. The trailhead is in Montecito and winds between a neighborhood before you take a right at the trail. Start by going up to Castle Rock with incredible views of the ocean above Montecito and a perfect rock to sit on (with the iconic heart shape below you). Then, decide if you’d like to carry on to the entire Hot Springs or Cold Springs trail, you can follow the hills for as long as you’d like. Check out the view of the Channel Islands (dubbed the “Galapagos of North America”) out in the distance.

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According to the National Park, in general, the islands have a coastal Mediterranean climate year-round. Temperatures are relatively stable, with highs averaging in the mid-60s (°F) and lows in the low-50s. However, there are seasonal differences that visitors should take into consideration when visiting the park. In addition, visitors also should be aware that ocean and weather conditions vary considerably from day-to-day and island-to-island.

Summer

Summer time around the Channel Islands is the peak season to visit. Thus, visitors will want to book well in advance to ensure they have a spot on the ferry (see: Island Packers), a spot on a much coveted guided kayak tour, or even campsite. Holiday weekends especially book up well in advance!

During the bustling summer months, there is typically ample sunshine and most days are around 70 degrees. Early summer can bring gray weather (*see: may gray, june gloom) and cool, often misty conditions. Afternoon winds are common, although these winds usually don’t pick up until after most kayak tours have ended. Fog tends to diminish near midsummer. Calm winds and seas become more frequent near the end of summer and continue through October.

Ocean temperatures begin to warm, reaching the high 60s by end of summer. Underwater visibility also increases into the summer. The ocean is often the calmest in summer and fall, although we experience swell from the south during the summer which influences many caves at Scorpion Anchorage.

Summer is a very busy time for tourists, swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Fall

Fall brings dry, hot days and often the calmest ocean, when the Santa Ana winds are not blowing. The temperatures are often warmest in the fall months and, since it’s shoulder season, the crowds have thinned out. Late fall starts to bring swell to the region.

Fall brings the highest likelihood of warm weather, calm winds, and seas. However, beginning around October, strong east or Santa Ana winds (hot and dry winds) are possible. Ocean temperatures may reach 70°F in early fall and visibility is often best during the fall.

Winter

In the winter, which we consider low season, the island conditions can be rough. Air and water temperatures are cold during the winter. The water temperatures are often in the mid- to high- 50s (°F). Wetsuits are required and provided as part of your tour. Most rain falls between December and March. Nevertheless, we still experience beautiful, sunny, clear winter days between rainfall. Visitors to the National Park will want to speak with the office at Island Packers (phone: (805) 642-1393) ahead of their trip and should monitor weather conditions as big swell and windy conditions are more frequent this time of year. We will also reach out via email should weather impact the status of your trip.

Spring

Spring time! With a green, lush island that is bountiful with flowers comes rain and wind.

Although spring temperatures get warmer after a cold winter, strong winds often occur during this season. Spring is most known for wind events that bring rough, white-capped seas. Dense fog is common during the late spring as we approach the summer, and often into summer. Ocean temperatures range from the mid 50s to low 60s (°F). There are some nice weather windows in spring, but this shoulder season tends to result in weather cancellations.

Another great weather forecast resource is NOAA National Weather Service. Here is the weather for Prisoners Harbor and Scorpion Anchorage.

For more information about seasonal weather at the Channel Islands National Park, click here!

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Here are our top ten favorite unique ideas for spending time together outside on Mother’s Day:

(1) Explore Santa Cruz Island’s Incredible Sea Caves

Come explore Channel Islands National Park with the Channel Islands Adventure Company! We’ll spend a half-day exploring the sea caves around Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island. No other area of the park offers as many sea cave kayaking opportunities. Book a tour online.

(2) Discover Santa Ynez Wine Country by Sprinter Van or Bike!

Join us on Sunday, May 12th to cheers mom on a wine tour! We’ll visit three local wineries and have lunch in the Santa Ynez Valley. Groups often enjoy a barrel room tour and explore the small town of Los Olivos. Your guide will discuss local history and insights into the Santa Ynez wine region along the way. Book a tour online using the coupon code: MOMSROCK before Mother’s Day for any of our wine country tours and you’ll receive 10% off. Coupon good for all wine tours before June 15th.

(3) Take a Hike And Enjoy the View Together

Why not hike to Inspiration Point with someone who has been an inspiration in your life? The hike is only 3.5 miles with an elevation gain of 800 feet and offers incredible views of the American Riviera. There are also some great hiking opportunities on Santa Cruz Island in the Channel Islands National Park. Pssst: Mom wants you to pack some snacks for the summit! More information on the trail  here.

(4) Get Cultured with an SB Architectural Walking Tour

Experience Santa Barbara, its past and its architecture with a small group walking tour through the downtown area. Led by knowledgeable docents of the Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara, tours are abound with sights, secrets, and stories of the unique Santa Barbara architectural landscape. Tours leaves from the downtown public library entrance courtyard on Anapamu Street. Tours are leisurely and last approximately 2 hours. Suggested donation of $10. For more information email: info@afsb.org or call 805-965-6307

(5) Volunteer To Make A Difference

Explore Ecology will be hosting an Arroyo Burro beach clean-up on Mother’s Day from 10am-12pm. Meet at the Watershed Resource Center at Arroyo Beach just before 10am. If you like, bring your own bag, bucket, and gloves. If you don’t have them, they’ll have supplies. You can find more details here.

(6) Run a Half-Marathon in Wine Country!

Bring your family and friends to enjoy a weekend full of activities in this bucolic setting and celebrate in style at the expanded post-race Wine & Music Festival in Solvang Park. Register with code SBWINETOUR15 for an exclusive 15% off your half marathon or half marathon relay registration.  Discount valid through May 3, 2019. The day before or after, join us for a wine tour around the valley! 

(7) Tour Local Art Studios Together

The annual Carpinteria Artists Studio Tour takes place each May during Mother’s Day Weekend. Join for the inside scoop when dozens of local professional artists open their doors for a glimpse behind the scenes where the creative experience unfolds. The event is from 10-5pm and is free to the public! More information here.

(9) Explore the Treasures of the Santa Barbara Mission

Learn about the Mission’s architecture, beautiful artwork, and view some of its greatest treasures in areas not normally open to the public.Tickets are $20 per person and space is limited so call 805-682-4713, ext. 166 or email museumtours@sboldmission.org to book.

(9) Soak in Sunday Polo at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club

Don a hat this Sunday from 2:30-5:30pm and to join in the fun on Mother’s Day at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club! Tickets start at $10 and can be purchased online. Don’t miss the “Overtime Party” a social after-party beginning immediately following the trophy presentation at Sunday Polo in the main clubhouse and on the field where guests can enjoy dancing and live entertainment.

(10) Enjoy a Sunset Kayak in the SB Harbor Together

End the evening celebrating mom with a beautiful sunset backdrop. Our Harbor Sunset Kayak is the perfect surprise for mom before or after dinner. The trip includes 2 hours on the water paddling around as you learn about marine ecology and local history. It’s a great way to end a full day of celebrating mom. Book online or call our office (805) 884-WAVE.

No matter how you decide to celebrate the incredible women in your life, we hope you have a wonderful time together making memories. Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers near and far.

If we missed any great ideas for celebrating mom outdoors in the local area drop us a comment!

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Visiting Channel Islands National Park should be on everyone’s bucket list. This island destination off the coast of California offers world-class kayaking, tranquil camping, and several hiking options for outdoor enthusiasts. If you are unsure how to plan your day on the island, here are a few great options!

1. Sea Cave & Ocean Kayaking

With amazing coastal bluffs and some of the largest sea caves in the world, the Channel Islands are a great place to go kayaking. Scorpion Anchorage is one of the most popular areas of the park for kayaking because it offers several sea caves to explore and has easy access to the water. Prisoners Harbor is another popular destination. Guests can see areas of Santa Cruz Island protected by the Nature Conservancy, offering amazing marine and wildlife. You can look at all of our Channel Islands kayaking options here. 

2. Hiking

There are several great hiking trails on the islands, including a few short strolls to amazing vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Be sure to pack water, snacks and a watch for hiking – you want to make sure you don’t miss your ferry home. 

3. Snorkeling

After your Channel Islands Sea Cave kayak tour, you are welcome to rent snorkel equipment from us at our island storefront! Your guide can get you outfitted in our snorkel wetsuits and get you a snorkel mask and fins. You can also welcome to bring your own equipment if you would like. The area surrounding the island is a marine sanctuary full of healthy kelp forests teeming with seals, colorful fish, and crab.

4. Bird Watching 

Channel Islands National Park is recognized as an important breeding and resting area for a variety of land birds, shorebirds, and seabirds. The area is an essential feeding and nesting ground for many sea birds and is home to the only breeding colony of California Brown Pelicans in California! 

5. Photography 

Don’t forget your camera if you are planning a trip to the Channel Islands. There are numerous places to snap photos of the bluffs and the Pacific Ocean. There are also lots of beautiful and unique creatures including Island Foxes, Island Scrub Jays and California Brown Pelican. If you have a waterproof camera, you’ll be able to capture photos of colorful fish and crabs as well.

Whether you are staying for a few hours or a few days, there are lots of wonderful outdoor options when visiting Channel Islands National Park. The park includes five beautiful and diverse islands and is surrounded by an incredible ocean environment. We hope you have a great visit! Feel free to call our office at (805) 884-9283 to ask about all tour options on the islands.

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Have you made any plans for Fathers Day? Is your dad an adventure junkie, an outdoor enthusiast or just a nature lover? Father’s Day is fast approaching and it’s time to make some plans. Why settle for a backyard BBQ, when we have lots of amazing adventures for the whole family in Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez and at Channel Islands National Park. Here are 5 suggestions for making this June 21^th a very special and exciting Father’s Day for you and your dad.

Father and Son Surf Lessons
Has your Dad ever wanted to learn how to surf? Surprise him by booking a surf lesson this Father’s Day. Spend this Father’s Day on the beach with knowledgeable and friendly guides while enjoying comprehensive instruction and a delicious lunch. All equipment is included and instructions includes a comprehensive briefing focusing on the fundamentals of reading water, paddling, etiquette, catching waves and riding. A surf lesson is the perfect way for kids to bond with Dad and create a memorable day this Father’s day.

Hike Inspiration Point
This is one of Santa Barbara’s many great hiking trails. Bring some water, snacks, sunscreen and a hat for this 3 mile round trip hike. The trailhead is located at the end of Tunnel Rd, just 10 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara. The hike is moderate, crossing creeks and climbing through the chaparral. The elevation gain is about 800ft and when you reach the summit you will be treated to amazing panoramic views of the coast. For more detailed information check out Santa Barbara Hikes.

Family Mountains to Shore Bike Ride
Feel the wind in your hair as you descend almost 4000ft through the Santa Ynez mountain range. Fully guided by expert staff and including a delicious picnic lunch, this ride is truly breathtaking and covers 13-15 miles of Santa Barbara’s best scenery. This trip caters for all skill levels and is a great opportunity for the whole family to share some adrenaline with Dad this Father’s day.

Whale Watching
Explore the Santa Barbara channel and catch a glimpse of some amazing marine mammals. Father’s Day is a great time to whale watch in Santa Barbara with humpback and blue whales sighted often along with the year round resident common dolphins, sea lions and harbor seals. Treat your dad to an unforgettable sea adventure this father’s day.

Kayak and Camp at Channel Islands National Park
Explore Santa Cruz Island on an incredible day trip. The island offers sea kayaking, amazing hiking vistas and a serene tranquility found few places on Earth.  Let Santa Barbara Adventure Company take care of the details while you relax and enjoy the scenery.

There are a few great suggestions for an adventurous Father’s Day.

What is your best father’s day adventure?

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