Category: Blog

Blog entries by the SBACo Team.

horse back riding in california

Tips for Horseback Riding

There is nothing quite like riding down a trial on the back of a beautiful stallion. But if it is your first time riding a horse, the idea might be a little scary. Horses are power and amazing creatures – it is important to understand the animal you are on and to respect its strength.…

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Events and Activities in Santa Barbara

5 Places to See in Santa Barbara

You’re shuttling the family down the Pacific coast in a last-minute attempt to soak up that glorious California sunshine, and experience firsthand the laid-back, “it’s all good,” forever-tan coastal communities that the state is famous for. You’ve finally made it to the unique, culture-rich bubble that is Santa Barbara, but you’ve only got a few…

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surfing santa barbara

7 Surf Spots around Santa Barbara

Surfing and Santa Barbara go hand in hand! Santa Barbara is famous for its beaches and there are several surfing spots that are popular with surfers. Since 1998, Santa Barbara Adventure Company’s surfing trips have been a great way to experience this exciting sport! Our knowledgeable guides focus on the fundamentals–reading water, paddling, etiquette, catching…

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Interview with our Field Coordinator Laird Riddell

When did you first start working for Santa Barbara Adventure Company (SBACo) and how did you find you way here? I started working for SBACo in 2011 after moving to Santa Barbara in 2010. I knew I wanted to live and work in Santa Barbara so I researched several outdoor companies, with SBACo on the…

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santa barbara weekend planner

48 Hours in Santa Barbara

Are you visiting Santa Barbara for the weekend? Check out this itinerary of an adventurous fun-filled weekend featuring a few of our favorite activities and restaurants! Saturday Breakfast: (8:00 am – 9:30 am) Enjoy breakfast at the Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach. This local’s favorite is tucked away at Hendry’s Beach. The view from this restaurant on…

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Meal Planning on the Channel Islands

Because the time available to you for explore the Island is precious and limited, don’t let it be consumed by chores. To make the most of your time, it is recommended you minimize campsite food preparation to the greatest degree possible by doing everything you can in your kitchen ahead of time (washing, chopping, sautéing,…

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california drought

10 ways to Save Water in this California Drought

As the drought gets worse in California, we must all do our part to make a difference and cut our water usage. At our office, we have low flow appliances and have stopped washing vans before all trips (sorry, if they don’t look shiny and new for each trip). Our island guides have stopped showering…

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Rowdy Goes Kayaking!

Santa Barbara Adventure Company recently hosted Rowdy, the official mascot of the Dallas Cowboys, for a kayaking adventure. The Cowboys are training for the new season at the Dallas Cowboys Training Camp in Oxnard, CA. Rowdy, along with his film crew, enjoyed a Santa Barbara Harbor Kayak Tour with experienced guide Laird Riddell. During the…

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hike in santa barbara ca

6 Tips for Hiking Safely

Here at Santa Barbara Adventure Company we love to go hiking. We know that hiking can take you to see some of the most beautiful sites, like views of the Channel Islands or of our city, waterfalls, rivers, and even old castle ruins. It also offers a fantastic opportunity to get in shape and a…

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how to prepare for sea kayaking gear

How to Prepare for a Sea Kayaking Trip

For many of our clients, sea kayaking is an entirely new experience, often leaving them unsure how to best pack and prepare themselves for their big adventure. While we provide all of the kayaking gear needed for a day on the water, you will still need to bring a few things to make the day as comfortable and…

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