Business Details
35 Years
experience
Premier Kayak & SUP Rentals in Santa Barbara
Paddle Sports Of Santa Barbara has been a family-owned and operated business since 1991, dedicated to providing exceptional watersports experiences in Santa Barbara Harbor. Our team combines decades of local expertise with a passion for ocean stewardship, offering premium kayak and paddleboard rentals, guided tours, and youth summer camps. We prioritize safety, education, and accessibility, ensuring visitors of all ages can enjoy Santa Barbara's coastal beauty.With over 30 years of community engagement, we maintain a commitment to quality equipment, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive programs that foster lifelong connections to marine environments. Our operations emphasize sustainability, customer satisfaction, and creating memorable adventures for both locals and visitors.
Services
Guided Kayak Tours
Paddleboard Rentals
Ocean Explorers Camp
SUP Lessons
Wildlife Viewing Trips
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1991 with deep local watersports expertise
- Pet-friendly rentals with complimentary dog life jackets
- Certified guides with specialized coastal ecology knowledge
- Award-winning summer camps serving Santa Barbara families since 2011
- Comprehensive safety programs with free orientation resources
What people say
Amazing experience
Knowledgeable guides
Great for kids
Excellent instruction
Unforgettable adventure
Services
Guided Kayak Tours
Explore Santa Barbara's coastline with expert-led kayak adventures. Our certified guides share marine ecology knowledge while navigating to sea lion haul-outs, kelp forests, and hidden coves. Trips accommodate all skill levels with safety-focused instruction and premium equipment. Specialized options include sunset paddles and full moon excursions.
Ocean Explorers Camp
Educational youth programs combining watersports with marine science. Certified counselors lead daily activities including kayaking, paddleboarding, and ocean safety instruction. Camps operate 8:30 AM-3:00 PM with wetsuit provision and scholarship opportunities. Designed for ages 5-13 with emphasis on environmental stewardship.
Paddleboard Rentals
Flexible stand-up paddleboard rentals with 1-hour to all-day options. Equipment includes adjustable paddles and leash systems. Staff provides basic instruction and route recommendations. Pet-friendly rentals available with complimentary dog life jackets. Online reservations offer 10% discount versus walk-in rates.
SUP Lessons
Beginner-friendly lessons covering balance techniques, paddling strokes, and safety protocols. Certified instructors provide personalized guidance during 2-hour sessions along Santa Barbara's waterfront. Includes equipment rental and route navigation tips. Designed for first-time paddlers seeking confidence-building experiences.
Wildlife Viewing Tours
Specialized tours focusing on marine wildlife observation. Visit sea lion colonies at navigation markers, dolphin habitats, and kelp forest ecosystems. Guides share ecological insights while maintaining respectful viewing distances. Available as sunrise, sunset, or full moon paddles with photography-friendly pacing.
People
Garrett Kababik
Owner, Guide, Divemaster
Co-owner with 20+ years in recreational management. Former University of New Hampshire internship manager, Appalachian Trail hiker, and Leave No Trace educator. Specializes in island programs and environmental stewardship initiatives.
Kaia Kababik
Owner, Lead Counselor
Co-founder of Ocean Explorers Camp and former non-profit director. Marine conservation advocate with freediving expertise. Developed curriculum combining ocean education with youth development programs since 2011.
Ashley McKoane
General Manager
Seasoned operations leader with extensive watersports experience. Oversees daily operations while maintaining hands-on involvement in youth programs and customer service training initiatives.
Questions
What are your operating hours?
Open daily 8am-6pm June-September, 8am-4pm weekdays and 8am-5pm weekends October-May. Closed Mondays off-season.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! We provide complimentary dog life jackets for rentals. Pets welcome on all kayak and paddleboard rentals with safety briefing.
Do you offer military discounts?
Active duty, veterans, and first responders receive 10% off rentals with valid ID. Discount applies to online bookings using code STUDENT-MILITARY-10.
Are reservations required?
Recommended but not required. Reservations guarantee equipment availability and expedite check-in. Walk-ins accepted based on daily capacity.
What safety equipment is provided?
All rentals include Coast Guard-approved PFDs, whistles, and leash systems. Free safety orientation covers harbor navigation, re-entry techniques, and emergency procedures.
What's the cancellation policy?
Full refunds available for cancellations made before rental day. No same-day cancellations permitted. Online bookings receive 10% discount versus walk-in rates.
