Santa Barbara & the Channel Islands Family Multi-Adventure Tour
Beaches, Islands & Mountains on California's Central Coast
The American Riviera meets the Galapagos of North America. Hike, paddle and bike from coast to valleys. Unveil island secrets. Classic adventure—sun-splashed, scenic and effortlessly cool.
We rate our trips based on a range of activity levels from 1-5.
See this trip's Activity Options & Terrain for more details.
From $5,299 - $5,699/person
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Kayak around Santa Cruz Island, where rugged cliffs, pristine beaches and dramatic sea caves shelter seals, dolphins and whales
- Bike along the coast to the famous Ventura Pier for scenic views of sand and sea
- Explore Santa Barbara, known for its stunning coastline, Spanish-style architecture and food and wine culture
- Hike a favorite local trail through a canyon shaded by oak trees for superb vistas out over Santa Barbara, the Pacific and the Channel Islands
- Unwind at the marvelously relaxing Ojai Valley Inn and Ritz-Carlton Bacara, where pampered tranquility meets refined luxury
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start Santa Barbara Airport & Travel Details
- Welcome to sunny Santa Barbara!
- Admire the city's characteristic Mediterranean and Spanish revival architecture during an invigorating bike ride through downtown’s palm-lined streets
- Pedal along a paved bike path to Goleta Beach for your first glimpse of the mystical Channel Islands in the distance
- Enjoy the views on a coastline spin to our luxurious hotel
- Lace up for a trek through Rattlesnake Canyon that leads to gorgeous views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and Pacific Ocean
- Treat yourself to some R&R back at the hotel.
Nights 1-2
Luxury Hotel
An exquisite 78-acre property at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, featuring sea views, infinity pools and a decadent spa. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Head out on a ride from the peaceful shaded foothills of the Santa Ynez mountains to the Pacific Ocean, past golden beaches and laid-back seaside communities
- Enjoy lunch at the historic Ventura Pier, an iconic spot since 1872
- Soak up the sun and relaxed vibes at our hotel, which lays claim to the best beach in California.
Night 3
Deluxe Hotel
This laid-back, all-suites beachside hotel is the perfect place to unwind after a day of biking. (pool)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Set sail for Santa Cruz Island, the largest of the Channel Islands
- Scan the island’s colorful rocky coastline and famous sea caves from your kayak
- Learn about Santa Cruz’s fascinating ecology and rich geological past
- Shuttle to artsy Ojai and settle into our iconic hotel, a draw for Hollywood A-listers and sports celebs for a century
- Bike through the beautiful countryside surrounding Ojai
- Stop for a picnic and tasting at the Ojai Olive Oil Company, a third-generation, family-owned organic farm
- Spend the afternoon browsing Ojai’s shops and galleries or kick back at the hotel
- Cap off your adventure with a serene hike in Fox Canyon to one last stunning ocean vista.
Nights 4-5
Luxury Hotel
Where Hollywood’s glitterati come to be pampered! This stylish and historic resort offers something for everybody—including a luxurious spa and award-winning restaurant—in a beautiful park-like setting with hillside views in every direction. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End Santa Barbara Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 2-4
The hiking routes on this trip include coastal and mountain paths that vary from level to hilly terrain with some steep ascents and descents, uneven sections and potentially muddy conditions in the spring.
All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Fully equipped Backroads titanium bike, Wahoo GPS device, helmet and accessories
Bike fitting and equipment support throughout your trip
Lightweight carbon hiking poles
Backroads On Trip App with route maps, elevation profiles, daily snapshots and more
Additional local guides and experts, plus equipment for included activities as detailed in your itinerary
Exclusive activities, tours and cultural experiences, as detailed in your itinerary
All luggage transfers and porterage during your trip
Snacks and beverages between meals
Private cocktail and wine receptions on the first and last nights of your trip
Choice of Backroads cycling jersey, t-shirt or hat, plus water bottle and luggage tag
Detailed Travel Planner with destination tips and pre-trip information
