Painted Cave Kayaking Kayaking the Channel Islands

Channel Islands Kayaking Experts


In July 2012, CIO was featured on the Travel Channel's "Off Limits". Watch the video by clicking the image above.

One of the first at Channel Islands National Park
The Channel Islands National Park is emerging as one of the Nation's most astounding (and best kept secret) wilderness attractions. It is the ONLY National Park that isn't open for vehicle traffic and does not charge an entrance fee. Channel Islands Outfitters (CIO) is your connection to experiencing this natural amusement park in comfort and class.

Quality Water-Sport Equipment Rentals and Memberships
Since 1993 Paddle Sports of Santa Barbara has been the premier rental and demo center on the Santa Barbara Waterfront. In 2010 CIO began operating the Paddle Sports Center in the Santa Barbara Harbor and began offering monthly membership plans to members of the Santa Barbara Community. Our equipment is comfortable and modern and our staff is friendly and helpful. Getting on the water in Santa Barbara is one of the most fun things to do for locals and visitors. Come visit us and discover the CIO experience!

Mission Driven
Channel Islands Outfitters (CIO) is an employee owned and operated company, and we love what we do! We are a family of adventure enthusiasts who share a passion for the Channel Islands, Santa Ynez Mountains, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. Each of us has our own story and path that brought us to be adventure leaders at CIO. The guides and advisory board of CIO have been serving Santa Barbara Community and the Channel Islands National Park guiding kayaking trips, sea cave explorations, hiking and backpacking expeditions, and multi-sport adventures for over 20 years! Come meet our guides








Life on Scorpion Rock

As I approached the west end of Scorpion Rock, I could see the swift rippling current sweep down coast.  Then without warning a gray whale breached about 60 feet from me, its wake tipping my kayak back and forth, its mouth agape and flushed with seawater.  If that wasn’t enough, a second gray breached but … Read more

Posted on 22 March 2013 | 10:45 am