Best Places to Kayak Near Santa Barbara, CA

8 public launch points within 50 miles of Santa Barbara, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.

8 nearby3 Oceans3 Lakes2 Bays
← All paddling in California

Top Picks Near Santa Barbara

a couple of people in a kayak on a body of water1

Channel Island Landing

Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding

BayBeginner33 mi away
a man riding a paddle board on top of a body of water2

Ventura Harbor

Open-water sea kayaking access on the bay

BayBeginner28 mi away
a couple of people in a kayak on a body of water3

Santa Barbara Harbor

Well-equipped launch with boat ramp, parking, restrooms

OceanBeginner1 mi away
a couple of people in a kayak on a body of water

Santa Barbara Harbor

California · 1.2 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
Paddleboarder on clear blue ocean water with coastal hills

Goleta Beach County Park

California · 7.1 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
person in black shirt and black shorts riding on white and red kayak on blue sea

Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

California · 17.9 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a man on a paddle board

Lake Casitas Recreation Area (West) (Coyote Boat)

California · 20.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A couple of people on water skis in the water

Lake Casitas Recreation Area (Santa Ana)

California · 21.1 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a man riding a paddle board on top of a body of water

Ventura Harbor

California · 28.0 mi

BayKayakingSUPBeginner
Paddleboarder on clear blue ocean water with coastal hills

Gaviota State Park

California · 29.9 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
a couple of people in a kayak on a body of water

Channel Island Landing

California · 32.8 mi

BayKayakingSUPBeginner

Paddling Near Other Cities

Widen your search to towns within an hour of Santa Barbara.

Summerland, CA6 miCarpinteria, CA11 miGoleta, CA19 miOak View, CA23 miSanta Ynez, CA25 miVentura, CA26 miOjai, CA26 miSolvang, CA27 mi

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to kayak near Santa Barbara, CA?

Top picks near Santa Barbara include Channel Island Landing, Ventura Harbor, Santa Barbara Harbor. In total there are 8 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on oceans, lakes, bays.

What types of paddling can I do near Santa Barbara?

Near Santa Barbara you'll find opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Most locations offer beginner-friendly conditions with public boat ramp access.

Are there free kayak launches near Santa Barbara?

Yes! Most public boat ramps near Santa Barbara are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.