Activities and Adventure

Southern California Coast Lodging

Something for everyone isn’t just a saying at El Capitan Canyon—it’s our mantra. Our spectacular southern California coast lodging with magnificent views of the Gaviota Coast, Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains provides a myriad of opportunities for activities, recreation and adventure.

Lodging guests have unique opportunities to commune with nature for exploration, entertainment and, of course, relaxation. Some activities are complimentary, while others carry a small fee. Additionally, our staff will gladly arrange off-site day trips with our local tour and adventure partners so you can experience all that Santa Barbara has to offer.

Santa Barbara Coastal Beach Camping

Throughout the seasons, guests can hike the canyon, explore the beach and surrounding areas on trails and bike paths or just relax and enjoy Santa Barbara coastal beach camping at its best. Or try your hand on our challenge ropes course with both low and high ropes, a great confidence building exercise.

Santa Barbara’s famous wine country is less than an hour’s drive from El Capitan Canyon so be sure to schedule in some tasting time.

On property, we offer activities such as yoga, story-telling, Saturday night barbecues and concerts in the summer, stargazing, etc. Or, perhaps perfect the art of doing absolutely nothing at all but getting lost in a great novel, lounge by the heated swimming pool or indulge in a massage treatment.

Hike El Capitan Canyon!

Register for docent-led hikes along the historic Bill Wallace Trail at El Capitan Canyon. The Bill Wallace Trail Access Program is a partnership of California State Parks, El Capitan Canyon, Friends of Channel Coast State Park, and Land Trust for Santa Barbara County . This initiative was developed to help promote public access to the 2500-acre El Capitan Canyon backcountry. After checking in at the Kiosk and parking, hikers meet at the El Capitan Canyon Market on Saturdays at 9:00 a.m. Hikes will last three to four hours. To schedule a docent led hike, call (805) 733-1303 or email: wallacetrail@elcapitancanyon.com. A printable brochure is available by clicking here.

Canyon Concert Series

Saturday evenings, May through October, guests and neighbors gather at the Creekside Green for a night of blues, jazz and bluegrass. Admission is free to guests staying overnight in the Canyon, and a fireside BBQ dinner is just $18 per person ($12 per child). Click for a schedule of performers.

Beach Cruiser Bikes

Complimentary adult-size beach cruiser bikes are available for guests on a first come, first served basis. Call the Canyon Kiosk at (805) 685-3887 x 533 with any questions.

Other Activities

Are you feeling adventurous? How about ocean kayaking, horseback riding, or taking surfing lessons? Or perhaps you’d like to spend the day whale watching or wine tasting. Whatever you’re in the mood for, many area businesses are available so that our guests may enjoy a taste of the California lifestyle! Please contact each business for more information on rates and availabilities.

Segway of Santa Barbara

You’ve seen them on TV, and you’ve always wanted to ride one. Here’s your chance to ride a Segway, the two-wheeled self-balancing human transporter that goes where you lean. After a brief lesson, take one for a ride on your own, or on a guided tour of Santa Barbara. Lots of fun! Website: www.segwayofsb.com

Santa Barbara Adventure Company

Guided hiking, biking, rock climbing, surfing, sea kayaking, wine-country tours, ropes course facilitation and even teambuilding exercises—all yours to experience at the premier adventure travel outfitter on the central coast. Knowledgeable, safe, and friendly guides provide guests with unforgettable experiences that capture the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside and coastal waters. Website: www.sbadventureco.com

Cloud Climbers Jeep Tours

From off-road trails to lush valley vineyards, invigorating hikes to romantic sunsets and spectacular, mountain to ocean vistas memorable experiences and unique adventures await. Cloud climbers experienced drivers and guides will pick you off and drop you off rich at El Capitan Canyon. Website: www.ccjeeps.com

Boat Charters & Whale Watching

Blue whales, humpback whales, sea lions, sunset cruises, day sails and so much more. See each company’s website for specific information.
Sunset Kidd Sailing Charters: www.sunsetkidd.com
Santa Barbara Sailing Center: www.sbsail.com
Condor Express: www.condorcruises.com
Capt. Don’s: www.captdon.com

Golf

Glen Annie Golf Club: www.glenanniegolf.com
Ocean Meadows Golf Club: www.oceanmeadowsgolf.com
Rancho San Marcos Golf Course: www.rsm1804.com
Sandpiper Golf Course: www.sandpipergolf.com

Entertainment & Performing Arts

Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts www.pcpa.org
Ensemble Theatre of Santa Barbara: www.ensembletheatre.com
Santa Barbara Bowl: www.sbbowl.com
Chumash Casino: www.chumashcasino.com

Kayak, Canoe, Outrigger & Water Sports

Santa Barbara Adventure Company: www.sbadventureco.com
(also offering Wine Tasting, Horseback Riding, Hiking and Bicycling)

Glider Rides

Windhaven Glider Rides: www.gliderrides.com

Scheduled Retreat Events

El Capitan Canyon is the perfect backdrop for natural events and retreats. See each company’s website for specific information and dates.
A Woman's Journey to Wholeness Retreats: www.awomansjourneytowholeness.com