Sunset cruises and sails
A sunset cruise is the easiest way to make an evening feel special. Boats leave from Santa Barbara Harbor and sail along the coast as the sky changes color, with the mountains on one side and the Channel Islands in the distance.
The Double Dolphin sunset sail
The Santa Barbara Sailing Center, a long-running harbor business, runs a two-hour sunset cruise year-round on its 50-foot sailing catamaran, the Double Dolphin. A catamaran is a wide boat with two hulls side by side, which makes it roomy and stable. The crew says guests often see sea lions, dolphins, and coastal birds along the way. There's a bar on board with wine, beer, and snacks. Outside alcohol isn't allowed on public cruises.
- Price: in fall 2026 the sunset cruise was on a winter special of $50 per person (October 1 to May 17), with taxes included.
- Booking: reservations are required, and tickets are non-refundable (you can get a credit with 72 hours' notice).
- Arrive: 15 to 20 minutes early to check in. Harbor parking is a city lot, $3.50 an hour, with a $20 daily max.
Planning something big, like a proposal or a group outing? The Sailing Center also offers private charters, and it's a great date night.
Prices and schedules change. These were current in October 2026, and departure times shift with the season. Check the operator's website before you book.
The best free sunset spots
Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry's)
A local favorite on the west side of town, a sandy beach below the bluffs. It has a beachfront restaurant and snack bar, so grab a bite and a blanket. The county park is open until sunset.
Douglas Family Preserve
The open bluff top above Arroyo Burro gives you the same view from higher up, with wide ocean views and room to spread out. It's very dog friendly, too.
Shoreline Park
A grassy park on the bluff overlooking the beach and harbor, with restrooms and a playground. It's a relaxed, family-friendly spot to watch the sky change color.
Stearns Wharf
Walk out over the water at the foot of downtown for a sunset with the city and mountains all around you. The wharf has restaurants and a wine tasting room, so you can turn it into dinner.
Sunset tips
Look up the sunset time for your date, arrive 20 to 30 minutes early, and don't rush off when the sun disappears. The sky often keeps changing color for a while afterward.
FAQ
How long is a Santa Barbara sunset cruise?
The Santa Barbara Sailing Center's sunset cruise on the Double Dolphin is two hours. Private charters can be arranged too. Check the operator's website for current times.
How much is a sunset cruise in Santa Barbara?
In fall 2026, the Double Dolphin sunset cruise was $50 per person on its winter special (October 1 to May 17), taxes included. Prices change, so check before you book.
Where is the best place to watch the sunset in Santa Barbara?
Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry's) and the Douglas Family Preserve bluff above it are local favorites. Shoreline Park and Stearns Wharf are easy picks closer to downtown.
Where do sunset cruises leave from?
Santa Barbara Harbor. Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to check in, and allow time to park in the harbor's city lot.
What should I bring on a sunset cruise?
A warm layer, sunglasses, and your camera. Outside alcohol isn't allowed on the Double Dolphin's public cruises, but there's a bar on board. Ask your pharmacist about seasickness options if you need them.
Before and after
Spend the afternoon at a beach or in the Funk Zone, then catch the sunset. See our one-day itinerary or whale watching guide for more time on the water.