kayak tour santa barbara

5 of the Best Santa Barbara Kayaking Tours

The coastline around Santa Barbara is beautiful, especially when viewed from the Pacific Ocean on a kayaking tour. Here are some great options.

(Photo: Viator.com)

Lofty palm trees, rolling hills dotted with white buildings, marinas full of yachts and plenty of marine life make Santa Barbara a particularly special stretch of Californian coastline. The laid-back atmosphere is perfectly conducive to a peaceful paddle out onto the Pacific Ocean in a canoe or kayak. Luckily there are a number of tour companies that have realized that and offer a variety of excellent trips, many of which are guided. These five are among the best, based on multiple factors, including value for money, duration, and the health and safety precautions taken.

Santa Barbara Kayak or SUP Rental

For a simple kayak rental without the guided tour element, there’s a place right on the beach in Santa Barbara, beside the pier. Head out to the buoys where the sea lions like to congregate. Rental fees are for an hour and the options are limited to a tandem kayak for two people or single kayaks for a group of four. A minimum of two people is therefore required to rent here, partly for safety reasons. Each person needs to be able to swim, as the chances of ending up in the water are high and part of the fun. From $30 per group.

Book at Viator.com

Santa Barbara Guided Kayak Tour

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

The best kayaking options in Santa Barbara involve following a knowledgeable guide in order to have the highest chance of interacting with marine life and getting the best views back to shore. This two-hour kayaking tour follows a two-mile route along the California coastline, with exceptional views of the beaches, hills and palm trees back on shore. You’ll paddle back through Santa Barbara Harbor and under the pier. Keep an eye out for marine life and birds, such as pelicans and sea lions. From $55 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Harbor Wildlife and History Kayak Tour

If you want to get a closer glimpse of the remarkable marine life that calls the Pacific Ocean in these parts home, without disrupting their daily business, this two-hour kayak tour is a wonderful and unobtrusive way to do so. Look out for herons and pelicans in the skies, and sea lions and dolphins in the water. During the right migration seasons, you may even spot a gray whale or two. As with all tours on this list, departures are available on almost every day of the year, aside from some major holidays. From $60 per person.

Santa Barbara Sunset Kayak Tour

As if the natural beauty of Santa Barbara and the bounteous marine life all around wasn’t enough, a chance to paddle out onto the Pacific during the golden hour is a memorable experience. The kayaking tour follows a similar route to the tours listed above, a few miles through the harbor and historic wharf, past boats, under the pier and out along the beachline. The difference being that the sun will be setting over the ocean as you do so. As with all kayaking excursions on this list, participants are given a life jacket and the paddle and boat hire are included in the fee. From $89 per person.

Refugio Beach State Kayaking Trip

A few miles west of Santa Barbara is a gorgeous, even more idyllic stretch of coastline known as Refugio State Beach. This is a great tour for those who want a more immersive (not literally) kayaking experience. You’ll paddle for three miles (4.5km), looking out for dolphins, exploring kelp beds and learning all about ecology from your guide. Lunch on a secluded beach is included in the price, plus the chance to go for a swim before paddling back. From $122 per person.

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Santa Barbara Kayaking Tours

Questions about tours? Call us at 805-884-9283.

• Starting Point Santa Barbara Harbor
• Starting Time 10am and 1pm
• Tour Time ~1.5 - 2 hours
• Level of Difficulty Easy ~1 - 2 miles paddling For ages 5+
• Starting Time 2 hours prior to sunset
• Tour Time ~2 hours
• Level of Difficulty Easy - Moderate ~1 - 2 miles paddling For ages 5+
• Starting Point Haskell's Beach
• Starting Time 9:30am
• Tour Time ~2.5 hours
• Level of Difficulty Easy - Moderate ~3 miles paddling For ages 5+

There’s no better way to experience Santa Barbara’s raw beauty than from the water!

Our coastal tours are great for seasoned kayakers and first-timers alike. Dolphins, seals, sea lions, sea stars, crabs, and birds-a-plenty are common sights. Our experienced guides love to share kayaking tips, facts about local marine life, and stories about our region’s rich history.

Soak in breathtaking views of the city and Santa Ynez Mountain Range on our Harbor Wildlife and Sunset Kayak Tours or join our guides on a paddle through kelp forests along pristine coastline on our popular Gaviota Coast Kayak Tour.

Disclaimer: Pricing is subject to change at any time. Some dates may be unavailable. Additional fees may apply. 

Santa Barbara Sunset Paddle

Take a world class sunset to the next level!

$88/adult $55/child

• Launch an hour before sunset.
• Enjoy the beautiful colors from the ocean.
• One of the best sunsets in California!
• View marine wildlife as you kayak through the harbor.
• No experience necessary.

Select your trip dates

Santa barbara harbor.

Varies by time of year

Group Minimum

No Experience Required – Great for Families

The sunsets in Santa Barbara are unique as the coast faces South, so the sun sets over land most of the year. The colors of the evening blend into the hills and the harbor is the best place to see the glow of the American Riviera… it really is incredible! Experience it for yourself on this Sunset Harbor Santa Barbara kayak tour !

What to Bring

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated!
• Sunscreen, sun protection (hat, UV shirt), sunglasses (available at the shop)
• Waterproof case (available at the shop) or waterproof camera

We’re conveniently located in the Santa Barbara Harbor next to the Fish Market and Brophy Bros. Our paddlers frequently see Pelicans, Sea Lions, Dolphins & Whales!

You can easily walk or bike to the Harbor from the many hotels in downtown Santa Barbara or right off the 101. Feel free to call, email or stop in with any questions.

OUR REVIEWS

We loved our kayaking trip with Ryan as our guide. The ferry ride was awesome, food was great and our kayaking through caves very exciting! Lots of swells.

-Karen R. | TripAdvisor

We contacted the Sports Centre late with a large group wanting to do a quick paddle arounf the harbour. Jordan looked after us, made sure we had everything we needed, and had a great time with the kids paddling around the harbour. Great for kids aged 5 up.

-Dean E. | TripAdvisor

I was so glad to have gone there for paddle board lessons with my granddaughter. Terrific instruction and really nice people and facilities.

-Beryl K. | TripAdvisor

We loved our kayak tour with Adam. He was really knowledgable and friendly and ensured that we had a great time (despite the rainy and cold weather).

-Heather S. | TripAdvisor

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Paddle Sports Center

117 Harbor Way, Ste B Santa Barbara, CA 93109

(805) 617-3425

​[email protected]

Quick Links

• Sign Digital Waiver
• Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals
• Memberships
• Paddle Sports Blog

Guided Experiences

• Guided Kayak Tours
• Ocean Explorers Camp

© 2024 Paddle Sports Center.

• Sea Lion and Wharf Kayak Tour
• SUP Lesson and Tour
• Sunset Paddle
• Full Moon Paddle
• PSC Lifetime Member
• Fitness Dues “365”
• Fitness Dues “Limited”
• Paddle Safety Demonstrations
• Health – Safety – Service Policies

Channel Islands Kayak Tours

California’s Channel Islands, located just off the coast of Santa Barbara and Ventura, are a National Park dream-come-true for marine nature lovers. The crystal clear Pacific channel waters, breathtaking cliffs, abundant wildlife, and mild weather combine to lure expert kayakers and novices alike to explore their natural wonders. Check out our tours below!

Adventure Sea Caves Kayak Tour

OUR MOST POPULAR TOUR!

Overview Experience the stunning beauty of Channel Islands National Park on our Adventure Sea Caves Kayak Tour at Scorpion Anchorage. On this tour, you’ll spend 2.5-3 hours exploring the unparalleled natural wonders of this unique area. With more sea cave kayaking opportunities than any other part of the park, Scorpion Anchorage is the ultimate destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and kayaking enthusiasts.

Availability The Adventure Tour meets on Santa Cruz Island daily at 10:30am and select days at 9:30am

Tour Time (~4 hours) ~1 hr – Orientation, gearing up, and paddle talk ~2.5-3 hours – Kayaking

Paddling Distance 2.5-3 miles

Level of Difficulty Beginner through advanced levels. Children under age 5 not permitted.

Ferry Tickets The 10:30am tour requires a ferry departure of 9am or earlier from Ventura Harbor. The 9:30am tour requires a ferry departure of 8am. Check-in is one hour prior to departure.

Ferry return times vary daily and will depart anywhere between 3:30pm and 5:00pm (arrival in Ventura between 4:30pm and 7:00pm). If you would like to know your exact ferry return time for a specific date, please call or email us.

Questions? Visit our FAQ’s page .

Public tours: $205 per adult + ferry transportation ($66)* $187 per child 12 and under + ferry transportation ($52)* Private tours: $1,640 (1-8 guests) + ferry transportation* $2,992 (9-16 guests) + ferry transportation* $4,488 (17-24 guests) + ferry transportation* Tours often sell out. Please book in advance. *Ferry tickets must be purchased to get to the island. You’ll have the option to add your ferry ticket to your cart. If you already have ferry tickets directly through Island Packers you can select to not add ferry tickets to your cart.

• Preparing for your trip

Discovery Sea Caves Kayak Tour

Overview Our Discovery Sea Caves Kayak Tour is a shortened version of our Adventure Sea Caves Kayak Tour. For 1-1.5 hours you’ll kayak through stunning sea caves, kelp forests, and pristine coastlines. Perfect for first-timers visiting the island, this tour allows you to pack in multiple experiences into one day, from hiking and snorkeling to birding and exploring endemic species. Don’t miss out on the rich history and breathtaking scenery that this national park has to offer.

Availability February-November: Most days

Meets on Santa Cruz Island at 9:30am and/or 10:30am as well as 12:30pm and/or 1:30pm (meet times depend on the ferry schedule to Santa Cruz Island – Scorpion Anchorage)

Tour Time (~2.5 hours) ~1 hr – Orientation, gearing up, and paddle talk ~1-1.5 hours – Kayaking

Paddling Distance 1.25 miles

Ferry Tickets The 9:30am tour requires an 8:00am ferry departure (7am check-in time). The 12:30pm tour requires a 10:00am ferry departure or earlier (check-in is one hour prior to ferry departure). Ferry options typically will be 8:00am, 9:00am or 10:00am. The 1:30pm tour requires a 4:30pm or later return from the island.

Public tours: $145 per adult + ferry transportation ($66)* $127 per child 12 and under + ferry transportation ($52)* Private tours (Phone bookings only): $1,160 (1-8 guests) + ferry transportation* $2,032 (9-16 guests) + ferry transportation* $3,046 (17-24 guests) + ferry transportation* Tours often sell out. Please book in advance. *Ferry tickets must be purchased to get to the island. You’ll have the option to add your ferry ticket to your cart. If you already have ferry tickets directly through Island Packers you can select to not add ferry tickets to your cart. Private tours available. Email [email protected] for pricing and more info.

Ultimate Sea Caves Kayak Tour

Overview The longest of our kayaking tour options, the Ultimate Sea Caves Kayak Tour is for the true ocean adventurer. We’ll explore incredible sea caves and kelp forests along our route to the famous Potato Harbor, a remote area of the park that allows for a truly breathtaking and memorable experience with its aqua-colored cove and pristine shoreline.

This tour is best for 1. Intermediate-Advanced kayakers who are looking for a longer day on the water, must have 8am ferry departure and 4:30pm return 2. Campers on their 2nd day at the island, so they can enjoy a first full day exploring the island on land

Availability This tour is offered on Friday-Sunday and Wednesdays from May through November. Meets on Santa Cruz Island at 9:30am.

Tour Time (~5 hours) ~1 hr – Orientation, gearing up, and paddle talk ~3-4 hours – Kayaking

Paddling Distance 4-5 miles

Level of Difficulty Intermediate – Advanced

Ferry Tickets This tour requires a ferry departure of 8am (check-in at 7am) or prior nights camping on Santa Cruz Island. This tour also requires a 4:30pm or later ferry return.

Ferry return times vary daily, departing at 4:30pm or 5:00pm (arrival in Ventura between 6:00pm and 7:00pm). If you would like to know your exact ferry return time for a specific date, please call or email us.

Public tours: $275 per person + ferry transportation (adults $66 / children 12 and under $52)* Private tours (Phone bookings only): $2,200 (1-8 guests) + ferry transportation* $4,240 (9-16 guests) + ferry transportation* $6,360 (17-24 guests) + ferry transportation* Tours often sell out. Please book in advance. *Ferry tickets must be purchased to get to the island. You’ll have the option to add your ferry ticket to your cart. If you already have ferry tickets directly through Island Packers you can select to not add ferry tickets to your cart. Private tours available. Email [email protected] for pricing and more info.

Snorkel & Sea Caves Kayak Tour

Overview Explore Channel Islands National Park both above and below the ocean’s surface on our expert-led Snorkel & Sea Caves Kayak Tour at Scorpion Anchorage. Kayak through vibrant kelp forests, sea caves, and the island’s pristine coastlines. Our knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey through marine ecology and the rich history of the island. Get up close with sea life and leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the underwater world.

This tour is best for

1. Guests who already have previous kayaking and snorkeling experience. Guests should be comfortable in the ocean and comfortable swimming with a snorkel. 2. Campers who are already on the island and want a full day of adventure on & in the water

Availability Our Snorkel & Kayak Tours run every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 9:30am from mid-June through September 30th on days when there is an 8am ferry departure

Snorkel & Sea Caves Kayak Tour Time (~5 hours) ~1 hr 45 min – Orientation, gearing up, and paddle talk ~1-1.5 hr – Kayaking ~15 min – Lunch ~45 min – Snorkeling ~30 min – Gearing down

Level of Difficulty Intermediate through advanced experience levels recommended. Minimum age 10; children 12 and under must be escorted by an adult guardian on the tour. All guests  MUST  know how to swim. Prior snorkeling experience is  REQUIRED .

Includes • Snorkel & Mask* • Fins • 3-piece, 7mm Wetsuit • Snorkel flotation device • PFD (personal flotation device) for kayaking • Ocean kayak** • Knowledgeable guide(s) on exploring sea caves as well as the local natural history and marine ecology

*We do not have prescription masks. If you have contact lenses, you should wear them. *We provide wetsuits and snorkel masks; however, if you would like to bring your own, you are more than welcome to do so. **By default, even-numbered parties will be paired in a tandem (2-person) kayak. For single or odd-numbered parties, single (1-person) kayaks will be provided.

Ferry Tickets This tour requires an 8am ferry departure (7am check-in) or prior nights camping on Santa Cruz Island. This tour also requires a 4:30pm or later return.

When booking ferry tickets on our website, the return times vary daily and will depart anywhere between 4:30pm and 5:00pm (arrival in Ventura between 5:00pm and 7:00pm). If you would like to know your exact ferry return time for a specific date, please call or email us.

Happy Adventurers

You have fun. We’ll handle the rest.

An Awesome Time!

Thanks for an incredible sea kayaking adventure on Santa Cruz in Channel Islands National Park! Well worth the money, especially with the wetsuits and extra outfitting that made paddling super comfy. "

One of the Best Family Days!

"Six of us went Kayaking in the Sea Caves and loved every minute. Our guide was fun and knowledgeable and was incredibly enthusiastic about the adventure. On the way home, we saw two whales and two pods of dolphins. Cannot imagine a better day!"

A Bucket List Adventure!

"An awesome adventure! While the Painted Cave is the highlight of the tour all of the caves are incredible. The wildlife is amazing along with the plants and everything else. The guides were super friendly and very informative."

Kayak Rentals

Get up close and personal with the santa barbara harbor.

Head out to the Sandspit in the Santa Barbara Harbor, circle the sea lions sunbathing on the buoys, or check out the famous Santa Barbara Wharf. Choose from group or private guided tours, or head out on your own and explore the hidden sights of the Santa Barbara coastline.

A kayak gets you up close and personal with the Santa Barbara Harbor. Head out to the Sandspit in the Santa Barbara Harbor, circle the sea lions sunbathing on the buoys, or check out the famous Santa Barbara Wharf. Choose from  group or private guided tours , or  head out on your own  and explore the hidden sights of the Santa Barbara coastline.

As you paddle, keep an eye out for the plant and animal life that makes our coastline so special. You will see pristine kelp beds, the harbor, and secluded beaches. Seagulls, cormorants, brown pelicans, and even dolphins will often tag along and make your day on the water even more memorable.

You can choose between single or double kayaks. Life vests and paddles are included with all kayak rentals. 

Ability to swim is required.

Single Kayak

Double kayak, rowing scull 1 person capacity.

Pricing does not include California state sales tax, port tax, or insurance.

Paddle Club Membership

Imagine going for a paddle before or after work, on weekends, or even during your lunch break – no buying, storing, or transporting – just hop in and go. Sunrise to Sunset access to all kayak and SUP equipment. 

Unlimited 3 hour rentals

Interested in a Guided Tour?

If you would like to have a professional kayak guide with you as you explore the Santa Barbara coastline, this option is the way to go. Guided SUP Tours and Guided Kayak Tours are the best way to improve your paddling skills with instruction from a trained professional. They are a great option for both novices and experienced paddlers. Your guide will show you the best local spots to view wildlife and might even help you catch a few waves!

$64 per person (2 person minimum, 6 person maximum)

Pricing does not include California state sales tax or port tax.

*It is customary to leave your guide a gratuity if you enjoyed your excursion.

Want Unlimited Rentals?

Imagine going for a paddle before or after work, on weekends, or even during your lunch break – no buying, storing, or transporting – just hop in and go. Sunrise to Sunset access to all kayak and SUP equipment.

Planning a party?

What’s more fun than a birthday, graduation, bachelor or prom party as you cruise the Santa Barbara Coastline? Hosting up to 49 people, the Double Dolphin’s fifty-foot length and catamaran design make her both roomy and stable for all.

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USA TODAY 10Best

Go on epic expeditions with the best adventure tours of 2024

June 5, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors June 5, 2024

Summer is calling, and adventure awaits at every turn. Imagine the spray of water on your face as you navigate the rapids, the thrill of reeling in a catch on a sunlit sea, or the wind in your hair as you cycle through scenic trails. This season, embrace the call of the wild with our guide to the most amazing summer activities, from serene boat tours to heart-pounding white water rafting.

To help you plan your greatest adventure yet, we asked readers to cast their votes for the best outdoor adventures across nine categories, and the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

Advertisement Advertisement

Best Adventure Tour Operator: Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Full list of winners: Best Adventure Tour Operator »

Best Aerial Adventure Park: Botanical World Adventures in Hakalau, Hawaii

See Hawaii from a new perspective as you zoom across eight zip lines that run above and through Botanical World Adventures' rainforest canopy. Fly over waterfalls, pools, and flowering trees, and view exotic plants in the gardens.

The zip lines get faster and longer as you fly through the jungle, and the ride includes two side-by-side ziplines that allow you to race your friends to the finish! This experience is great for both young and old and all expertise levels of “zipping.”

Full list of winners: Best Aerial Adventure Park »

Best Bike Tour: Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds offers multiday, inn-to-inn bicycle tours to destinations largely around the eastern United States, with all bicycle vacations providing a nice balance between physical activity and relaxation.

From flat and easy to hilly and challenging, there are bike routes to choose from for all levels of riders. Guests stay at boutique hotels and country inns, with breakfasts and most lunches and dinners included.

Full list of winners: Best Bike Tour »

Best Boat Tour: Chicago's First Lady Cruises in Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is led by highly trained docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you'll hear highlights of the city's history, including stories about the visionaries who shaped Chicago's skyline. Options include both daytime tours and evening cocktail cruises.

Full list of winners: Best Boat Tour »

Best Fishing Charter: Hubbard's Marina in Madeira Beach, Florida

In business since 1928, Hubbard's Marina is one of the top authorities for water-based recreation along Florida's Gulf Coast. Fishing trips range from half-day jaunts to 44-hour marathon excursions under the glow of the full moon. Beyond the realm of the reel, guests can also take part in sunset cruises, dolphin tours, and even camping trips on stunning Shell Key.

Full list of winners: Best Fishing Charter »

Best Helicopter Tour: Island Helicopters Kauai in Lihue, Hawaii

There are few things more scenic than seeing the world from a helicopter, and the splendor of Kauai provides an ideal backdrop. Experienced pilots with Island Helicopters share facts about Kauai as you enjoy a bird's-eye view of lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, coastlines, and famous landmarks.

Full list of winners: Best Helicopter Tour »

Best Hot Air Balloon Ride: Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park, Colorado

Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park offers year-round flights above spectacular Colorado scenery. Views include the Continental Divide and Rocky Mountain National Park, with the chance to fly low and spot local wildlife or splash and dash in a nearby pond or river.

Full list of winners: Best Hot Air Balloon Ride »

Best Kayak Tour: Santa Barbara Adventure Company in Santa Barbara, California

Renowned for its balmy Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is the perfect city for a lengthy kayak tour. Outdoor adventure aficionados can book both wildlife and sunset excursions along the coast with Santa Barbara Adventure Company, and as an added bonus, there’s no shortage of voyages to nearby Channel Islands National Park.

Full list of winners: Best Kayak Tour »

Best White Water Rafting Tour: Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours in Durango, Colorado

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours leads rafting trips in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, with a river for just about any thrill level and trips lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Full list of winners: Best White Water Rafting Tour »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers' Choice Awards.

Go on epic expeditions with the best adventure tours of 2024

S ummer is calling, and adventure awaits at every turn. Imagine the spray of water on your face as you navigate the rapids, the thrill of reeling in a catch on a sunlit sea, or the wind in your hair as you cycle through scenic trails. This season, embrace the call of the wild with our guide to the most amazing summer activities, from serene boat tours to heart-pounding white water rafting.

To help you plan your greatest adventure yet, USA TODAY 10Best asked readers to cast their votes for the best outdoor adventures across nine categories, and the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

Best Adventure Tour Operator: Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Full list of winners: Best Adventure Tour Operator »

Best Aerial Adventure Park: Botanical World Adventures in Hakalau, Hawaii

See Hawaii from a new perspective as you zoom across eight zip lines that run above and through Botanical World Adventures' rainforest canopy. Fly over waterfalls, pools, and flowering trees, and view exotic plants in the gardens.

The zip lines get faster and longer as you fly through the jungle, and the ride includes two side-by-side ziplines that allow you to race your friends to the finish! This experience is great for both young and old and all expertise levels of “zipping.”

Full list of winners: Best Aerial Adventure Park »

Best Bike Tour: Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds offers multiday, inn-to-inn bicycle tours to destinations largely around the eastern United States, with all bicycle vacations providing a nice balance between physical activity and relaxation.

From flat and easy to hilly and challenging, there are bike routes to choose from for all levels of riders. Guests stay at boutique hotels and country inns, with breakfasts and most lunches and dinners included.

Full list of winners: Best Bike Tour »

Best Boat Tour: Chicago's First Lady Cruises in Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is led by highly trained docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you'll hear highlights of the city's history, including stories about the visionaries who shaped Chicago's skyline. Options include both daytime tours and evening cocktail cruises.

Full list of winners: Best Boat Tour »

Best Fishing Charter: Hubbard's Marina in Madeira Beach, Florida

In business since 1928, Hubbard's Marina is one of the top authorities for water-based recreation along Florida's Gulf Coast. Fishing trips range from half-day jaunts to 44-hour marathon excursions under the glow of the full moon. Beyond the realm of the reel, guests can also take part in sunset cruises, dolphin tours, and even camping trips on stunning Shell Key.

Full list of winners: Best Fishing Charter »

Best Helicopter Tour: Island Helicopters Kauai in Lihue, Hawaii

There are few things more scenic than seeing the world from a helicopter, and the splendor of Kauai provides an ideal backdrop. Experienced pilots with Island Helicopters share facts about Kauai as you enjoy a bird's-eye view of lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, coastlines, and famous landmarks.

Full list of winners: Best Helicopter Tour »

Best Hot Air Balloon Ride: Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park, Colorado

Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park offers year-round flights above spectacular Colorado scenery. Views include the Continental Divide and Rocky Mountain National Park, with the chance to fly low and spot local wildlife or splash and dash in a nearby pond or river.

Full list of winners: Best Hot Air Balloon Ride »

Best Kayak Tour: Santa Barbara Adventure Company in Santa Barbara, California

Renowned for its balmy Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is the perfect city for a lengthy kayak tour. Outdoor adventure aficionados can book both wildlife and sunset excursions along the coast with Santa Barbara Adventure Company, and as an added bonus, there’s no shortage of voyages to nearby Channel Islands National Park.

Full list of winners: Best Kayak Tour »

Best White Water Rafting Tour: Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours in Durango, Colorado

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours leads rafting trips in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, with a river for just about any thrill level and trips lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Full list of winners: Best White Water Rafting Tour »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers' Choice Awards.

This article originally appeared on 10Best.com: Go on epic expeditions with the best adventure tours of 2024

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Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids, tweens and teens. While most are free, nursery programs can cost extra. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship (and line) for your travel style. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with land vacations at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- every extra.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their stateroom location but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors – that is staterooms over suites.

Cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes even lower.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

While being flexible date wise will always get you the best last-minute cruise deals, it's particularly helpful if you live near a cruise port and can quickly drive there. That way you'll probably be able to jump on those deals that might pop up just a week or two before the ship is scheduled to sail.

Or if you don't have flexibility with either departure dates or embarkation locations, be willing to compromise on exact destinations. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or so-called shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise is and costs on average, so both are already on your radar. When you see it drop, pounce! (Many cruise lines update pricing several times per day, so preparation is crucial.)

Best cruises in 2024

There's truly a cruise style and ship for everyone, and that has never been more the case than in 2024, as vessels continue to come in an array of sizes – from riverboats and expedition vessels to the largest-ever mega ships. And it's not an exaggeration to say some are loaded with so many activities that you couldn't possibly enjoy them all in a single sailing.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations themselves. The Caribbean is always a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, is also a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and even Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line for a great multi-generational voyage.

Or on the smaller side, by comparison, river cruising remains a hot ticket item this year, with exciting routes that send eager guests down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to lesser-frequented locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam, or soon the Magdalena River in Colombia. Popular river cruises embark in timeless cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. River cruise lines to consider encompass Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises, Tauck, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Riverside Luxury Cruises, as well as American Cruise Lines for a domestic alternative.

If you're an adventurer at heart, an expedition cruise might be best for you. These voyages, often onboard small ships (only a few hundred passengers tops), offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world – from pole to pole – including the Arctic, Alaska, Australia, Greenland, the Galapagos and, of course, Antarctica. Passengers will spend their time zodiacing, kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Ponant and Quark Expeditions, as well as an ever-expanding list that now even extends to Seabourn and Viking.

But for the most decadent form of travel, luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard small to median-sized ships (usually under a thousand passengers) with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service, not to mention the finest dining at sea. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be on the smaller size, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships simply cannot access -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Explora Journeys, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and upcoming Four Seasons Yachts.

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