Santa Barbara, the “American Riviera”, sits along a spectacular west-east reach of the Southern California coastline, with the sparkling Pacific Ocean beckoning along the mountain-backed beachfronts. This makes it, without question, one of the best places in the world for watersports.

And with boutique accommodations at Mar Monte Hotel—just steps from that surf-kissed Santa Barbara sand—you couldn’t be better situated for taking advantage of those marvelous waters of the Southern California Bight sprawling southward on the skyline.

From sportfishing and whale-watching to swimming, surfing, and diving, there’s no shortage of water-based activities to enjoy as a guest of ours here at our Hyatt Unbound Collection hotel. In this blogpost, though, we’ll narrow things down and spotlight three fabulous local watersports outfitters well worth checking out during your next stay with us!

Paddle Sports Center (117 Harbor Way, Suite B)

Established in 1991, the Paddle Sports Center is one of Santa Barbara’s go-to destinations for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The company offers a variety of paddling tours, including Full Moon and Santa Barbara Sunset outings and the popular Santa Barbara Sea Lion & Wharf Tour, which nabs you up-close looks at California sea lions, harbor seals, and Santa Barbara’s historic Stearns Wharf.

The Paddle Sports Center also rents out equipment, including single and tandem kayaks, paddleboards, and surfboards.

iSurf (370 N. La Combre Rd)

Celebrating 10 years in the business this year, iSurf is a standout Santa Barbara surf school. Here in Southern California, you’re on hallowed ground when it comes to wave-riding, of course, and this World Surf League-endorsed outfit can help you experience it firsthand—whether you’re a complete newbie or a surfer looking to hone your skills.

iSurf’s lessons include not only traditional surfing but also Lift eFoils: thrilling electric hydrofoil boards that make you feel as if you’re flying over the water. The company also rents out surfboards as well as wetsuits and boogie-boards.

Santa Barbara Sailing Center (302 W. Cabrillo Blvd)

Among the biggest accredited American Sailing Association schools in the U.S., the Santa Barbara Sailing Center has been introducing folks to the joys of wind-powered touring since way back in 1967.

The Sailing Center offers a wide variety of experiences, including sightseeing cruises, skippered and bareboat charters, and all manner of sailing lessons, not to mention boat rentals and kayak/SUP excursions.

Enjoy World-Class Watersports on the Pacific Coast of the American Riviera on a Mar Monte Hotel Getaway

With year-round opportunities to get out on the ocean, Mar Monte Hotel near the Santa Barbara beachfront is the perfect destination for watersports enthusiasts. Come find out precisely why with a stay in one of our Unbound Collection rooms or suites!

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