Guides

We are a group of adventurous people, musicians, biologists, physicists, environmentalists, animal lovers and people who care about our beautiful outdoor world. We love spending time at the Channel Islands and are excited to share this incredible, special place with you. Whether this is your first time to the island or your 20th, we are happy to see you and show you this remarkable place.

Michael Cohen

25 Years of guiding experience

Owner/Director

Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Michael started Santa Barbara Adventure Company in 1998 with the goal of offering local adventures of the highest quality and led by incredible guides. In his years of outdoor leadership experience, Michael has worked as a guide and trip leader for several well known outfitters in the west and abroad, always returning to his hometown between seasons.

Michael’s past leadership experience includes working as a river guide and trip leader in many of the western United States’ most loved sections of river: Idaho’s Middle Fork and Main Salmon, American, Tuolumne, Rogue and he rowed baggage on the Grand Canyon. He also enjoyed leading multiday self-supported sea kayaking trips in Belize, and spent two winters as a diving instructor and underwater videographer in the British Virgin Islands. Before opening the doors of his own business, he worked as a manager for one of California’s largest outdoor education outfitters.

“Growing up in Santa Barbara I would look out at the channel islands and dream of exploring their shores. When Channel Islands National Park was founded in 1989, that dream took on a new meaning -- every day our team has the privilege of taking tourists and travelers from around the world to see these special islands. It has been our mission from the beginning to connect our guests with nature and inspire conservation of our outdoor spaces. Our guides are special individuals, who share this common mission. Come spend the day with us and explore this national treasure."

Aubrie Fowler

5 Years of guiding experience

Education:
B.S. and M.S. in Biological Sciences with an emphasis on Marine Biology and Fisheries

Leadership Background & Experience:

My favorite leadership experience is leading collaborative beach cleanups at the Channel Islands to remove lobster traps and other marine debris.

Favorite Adventure Trip:

Channel Islands Adventure kayak tour

Other Than Guiding:
Tide pooling while taking long walks on the beach!

Favorite Piece of Gear:
My hat – to keep the sun off and to look cool, obviously 😉

"We loved Aubrie and our sea cave kayaking experience. She had so much info about the ocean, wildlife, Chumash, etc. It was like getting two tours in one. "

"Our guide, Aubrie, was amazing. She was totally in control, knowledgeable, and wonderful to all of us."

"Marc and Aubrie were our guides and they were fantastic. They were very knowledgeable and made the trip fun and relaxing. My boyfriend and I are not very experienced, especially with ocean kayaking, and our two guides were great at ensuring our safety and making the experience great. We saw a variety of sea wildlife, kayaked through caves, and had a great time. I would highly recommend this company and these guides! If you are going on a trip to the Channel Islands, make sure you book a kayaking trip. It is definitely worth the money and you get to experience the island in a very unique way."

"Aubrie was great. Super knowledgeable and easy to work with and talks with all. She even remembered our names. Great guide."

Marc Kaplan

9 Years of guiding experience

Leadership Background and Experience

My life outside started when I was young. I went on my first backpacking trip when I was in the second grade. I started surfing when I was 13 and I’ve been rock climbing since college. I kayak surf or free dive when the waves are too small for regular surfing and I’ve traveled across the globe in search of good waves in exotic locales. I’m SCUBA and Apnea certified and a Wilderness First Responder. I’m at home in the ocean or in the outdoors.

Favorite Adventure Trip

I have two favorite trips, they were both so amazing that I can’t decide. One was the first time I did some real caving, underneath Crazy Horse Buttress in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It’s hard to describe how thrilling it is to rappel 100 feet into complete darkness. My other favorite trip was surfing at Lakey Peak in Sumbawa, Indonesia; what a great wave.

Favorite piece of gear

My favorite piece of gear is a Surfboard (of course) and the reason is that it’s the best way to connect with the ocean’s energy (and thus, the energy produced by the star at the center of our solar system!)

"Marc was an excellent guide. We learned about the wildlife and other history, he was so knowledgeable. We were really nervous, but knew we were in good hands! We would definitely do the kayak guided tour again and we have told others about our memorable crazy fun experience!"

"Our kayak guide, Marc, was very friendly and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this trip and our specific guide to any friend of mine. "

"A fantastic day learning to surf with Marc and Rachael. Both great instructors, never been surfing before and managed to catch a few waves at the end of the day."

"Marc "with a c" was our guide. He treated us like we were his friends, taught us about the area, taught us how to master the caves, and just made the entire experience exciting and fun. He was a fabulous positive guide who made the experience easy, safe, yet pushed us to try some new things and kept it exciting and interesting at all times."

"None of us had ever done it before yet we were able to have a successful experience due to the patient instruction and support from our wonderful guides Marc and Dani!! We really can't say enough about the experience and staff."

Kyle Fischler

9 Years of guiding experience

Education

B.A. in Environmental Studies and Communication and an A.A. with an emphasis in Social and Behavioral Studies

Leadership Background and Experience

Eagle Scout and UCSB’s Leadership Training course. I serve as staff with UCSB’s Adventure Programs primarily teaching rock climbing, head lifeguard and 8+ years as a trained lifeguard with CPR/AED for the professional rescuer, 4+ years experience as a Water Safety Instructor, Wilderness First Aid certified, multiple club officer and organizing positions in college, treasurer and board member with California Student Sustainability Coalition.

Favorite Adventure Trip

My 2006 and 2007 trips to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico due to the weeks of camaraderie built between scouts from around the country while constructing hiking trails and exploring the surrounding mountainsides. Each week of hiking consisted of 70+ miles across forested and deserted stretches with one highlight being the Super Black Death challenge – summit seven peaks within 24hrs.

Other than guiding

I spend my free time hiking, climbing, cooking, playing board and computer games, exploring the wilderness in my Jeep, learning Polynesian dance styles, and connecting with people/organizations that preserve the environment for future generations to relish.

Favorite piece of gear

My Spyderco Salt I knife! Handy and rustproof.

“Meeting Kyle from SB Adventure Co. early in the am was a great intro to our day. Kyle explained everything that was about to take place throughout the day. Our ferry ride to Santa Cruz was a little bumpy, but expected with the tide and wind. Kyle led us to the base camp where we were given explicit instructions about safety and risks for our kayak adventure. You can see quickly how much Kyle loves what he does. He is so attentive and patient. Our trip included several stops outside, inside, and through some really cool caves. Kyle checked out everything first before we were allowed to go anywhere. This created a feeling of confidence and everyone with different skills did well while under Kyle’s watch.”

"Our tour guide Kyle was excellent. It was a small group being our family of 4 plus 1 other kayaker. He made sure we all experienced what we had on our agenda. We would recommend and do it again."

"Our guide Kyle was terrific. Felt safe on the water, welcome, and learned a lot. Would recommend."

Ricardo Filipouski

12 Years of guiding experience

Education Background

I graduated in Hospitality by the Associcáo de Ensino de Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Leadership Background and Experience

I was an outdoor guide on Campeche Island in Florianópolis, Brazil for 3 years leading archeological hikes. I worked as a sailing instructor and kayaking guide in Mission Bay, San Diego for 6 years.

Favorite Adventure Trip

Sea Cave Kayaking at the Channel islands

Favorite Piece of Gear

Kayak and a paddle. Kayaking is my favorite thing to do on the water!

"Great wine tour full of fun for anyone! Ricardo was such a great tour guide and he definitely went over and above to ensure our entire group had the best time. He was knowledgeable of the area and has a wonderfully warm personality. Thank you, Ricardo!"

"It was the most AMAZING experience ever! I would highly recommend Ricardo."

"Caco was an excellent kayak guide!!"

Jim Isaac

14 Years of guiding experience

Education
B.A. in Environmental Studies from U. C. Santa Barbara.

Leadership Background
I worked for the Santa Barbara County Park Department starting as a seasonal lifeguard and retiring as Deputy Director. I have worked for eight years as a kayak guide leading tours at Channel Islands National Park.

Favorite Adventure Trip
Going on a long-range fishing trip to catch Yellowfin Tuna in the 100 to 200 pound plus range.

Other Than Guiding
Bodysurfing, swimming in the Santa Barbara Master’s Program, fishing from boats and from my kayak. Any time on or in the ocean is good time. Lastly, I enjoy living in Santa Barbara’s beautiful south county area.

Favorite Piece of Gear
My bodysurfing fins. They have propelled me into countless waves.

"Jim was the best in the west! So glad I finally got out there. Can't wait to go back!"

"Jim was my guide and he was amazing!!! I really learned a lot about the island and the caves. He was patient and encouraging and friendly and just an excellent guide."

"Our guide Jim was great! Very personable and enjoyed his guidance."

"Jim was an experienced and terrific guide."

"Everything was great, it was a wonderful experience! Jim was a great guide."

Chuck Graham

21 Years of guiding experience

Education
B.A. In History from Westmont College, and an Honorary Masters degree in Photography from Brooks Institute of Photography.

Leadership Background
Chuck has been leading guided kayak trips at the Channel Islands NP for 16 years. He’s also been a beach lifeguard in Carpinteria for 25 years.

Favorite Adventure Trip
A 2-week rafting trip through the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) from the North Slope of the Brooks Range to the Arctic Ocean in Northeast Alaska.

Other Than Guiding
Traveling, taking incredible scenery & wildlife photos (check out his Instagram account @chuckgrahamphoto or website: www.chuckgrahamphoto.com)

Favorite Piece of Gear
My old Canon EOS III film camera and a Canon 7D digital camera

“Our guide, Chuck, was very engaged with the environment and so enthusiastic which made the trip even more fun.”

"Chuck was absolutely fantastic and knowledgeable. I have never had such a kind tour guide for any tour I've ever done. I would recommend him to all of my friends."

“Chuck was knowledgeable, safety-conscious and fun. Knew all about birds and other wildlife on the island.”

"Our guide Chuck was the best. His knowledge of the islands, wildlife, and history of the area and Native Americans made the trip even more interesting. His experience with kayaking, tips for maneuvering through technical spots, and safety reminders gave me confidence and helped me feel very safe. He also gave us a good recommendation for a hike afterwards."

"Chuck was an awesome guide. His calm demeanor, vast experience and knowledge with interesting stories, dry humor and personality were perfect!"

John Bridley

20 Years of guiding experience

Education
Graduate of University of Minnesota , BA Degree in Public Administration/Urban Planning.

Leadership Background & Experience
Waterfront Director/Harbormaster for City of Santa Barbara, retired in 2001. Worked as a manager for the City for 30 years, extensive experience at supervising staff, emergency response and project management.

Favorite Adventure Trip
Surf trips to Nicaragua with my son.

Other Than Guiding
… surfing, fishing, swimming, water polo, stand-up paddling, sailing, pretty much anything that gets me in or on the water.

Favorite Piece of Gear
Sun hat to keep my bald head from getting sunburned…😎

"I would like to thank John for his great guide and teaching. It was fun! We really appreciate it."

"We had a great trip with John- such a unique experience. While more pricey than I’d normally want to pay, I absolutely understand that the logistics of running a business on an island comes with a price. I’ll recommend the kayak trip to anyone out there!!"

"The kayak trip was wonderful! Our guide, John, did a great job describing the caves and the wildlife. He really made the trip more enjoyable."

"We thoroughly enjoyed our 3-hour kayak tour with John. Even though we've been here before, we learned so much!"

Kim Vawter

6 Years of guiding experience

Education
B.A. in Psychology/Photography from Purdue University & Masters in Urban Education from Loyola Marymount University

Leadership Background & Experience
After graduating from Purdue University, where I had been involved in numerous on and off campus leadership opportunities, I joined Teach For America – Los Angeles. I had the opportunity to teach a mixture of middle school Math & Science for 4 years and then embarked on the school leadership path ultimately becoming a school principal. During my time in education I was a Teaching Policy Fellow with Teach Plus as well as a LENS Fellow through Building Excellent Schools. I am now working as Office Manager for Santa Barbara Adventure Company and love being able to get others exciting about exploring Channel Islands National Park.

Favorite Adventure Trip
In 2016, I thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail for 5 months traveling 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada–definitely a once in a lifetime experience! It is going to be hard to beat that…prior to that trips to Alaska, Nicaragua and Honduras had been my favorite outdoor adventure trips

Outside of Work Enjoyment
I love trying to not kill everything in my garden, I’m an avid beer & wine taster as well as a big foodie, meaning I enjoy going out to eat as well as whipping up new recipes & treats at home. I am also Director of Content for the adventure blog, Bearfoot Theory and love my role helping to support beginners dive into the outdoors.

Favorite Piece of Gear
That’s a really tough one….I’m going to go with Helinox camp chair, give me a glass of wine and a great book and I’m one happy camper in my chair!

"Kim was genuinely brilliant as a guide." - John

"Our guides Kyle and Kim managed our group with expertise and patience and were quick to share of their knowledge of the local geology and flora and fauna." - Paul

Dustin Harris

5 Years of guiding experience

Education Background:

B.S. in Chemistry and Biochemistry from UC Santa Barbara.

Leadership Background and Experience:

I have instructed kayaking and guided outdoor trips with UCSB Adventure Programs, worked as a summer camp director and counselor, and graduated from my high school’s Outdoor Leadership Program. I am also certified for SCUBA, life guarding and am a Wilderness EMT.

Favorite Adventure Trip:

Self-supported sea kayaking expedition along the Santa Barbara coast.

Other Than Guiding:

Photography, more kayaking, playing games and spending time with friends and family.

Favorite Piece of Gear:

My Nalgene bottle, with all of its imperfections from adventuring. And my camera!

"Dustin was our tour guide. I’ve been on multiple kayak tours in various places and I would rate him toward the top. He was very attentive to the group, safety-conscious, knowledgeable, and his enthusiasm was contagious!"

"Everyone in our family thoroughly enjoyed the kayak tour with Dustin. Our guide was very knowledgeable and took extra time to point out all kinds of marine biology. He also took time for pictures & allowed us to enter numerous caves. The weather was perfect, and the seas were calm, but Dustin made our trip absolutely perfect. I can't imagine a more beautiful place or a better guide. Thanks for such an incredible experience!"

"We loved this adventure! Caco, Kat and Dustin were fabulous. The rides up in the van and down on the bikes were both beautiful. On top of a super fun ride, your staff gave us a wonderful tour of Santa Barbara and great recommendations for restaurants. They recommended The Boathouse for breakfast and it was our favorite meal of the trip. Thanks for helping us create great memories with our 'kids."

Jeremy Carberry

3 Years of guiding experience

Education
Wildlife First Responder, National Association for Interpretation

Favorite Adventure Trip
Channel Islands Discovery Tour

Other Interests
Snorkeling, photography, dancing

Favorite Piece of Gear
Snacks

"Jeremy was excellent and exceeded our expectations. We had a wonderful and memorable day."

"My instructor was Jeremy, and he was totally awesome. Not only was he super informative about all of the caves, but also gave us interesting info about the entire island, including really taking the time to coach us on kayaking."

"Great fun! Jeremy did a great job and was so patient/knowledgeable. Thanks for a great day!"

Chantal Brose

2 Years of guiding experience

Education
Currently studying marine biology at Santa Barbara City College

Leadership Background and Experience:
In addition to guiding kayak tours with Santa Barbara Adventure Company, I am a wilderness first responder and a crew member aboard the Lil Toot water taxi tug boat service.

Favorite Adventure Trip:
Snorkeling and sailing in Puerto Rico

Other Than Guiding:
I volunteer with Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute (CIMWI) each week. I work in the rehabilitation center with seals and sea lions! Doing my best to help bring them back to full health so that they can be released back into the wild. It’s a very rewarding experience.

I also spend a good chunk of time doing hot yoga and of course, bringing my dog to the beach!

Favorite Piece of Gear:
My XTRATUF boots!

Carly Gammel

3 Years of guiding experience

Education

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Graduate with a BA in Experience Industry Management and a Child Development minor

Leadership Background and Experience

Kayak Guide for 2 years. 4 seasons of summer camp experience as activities leader and supervisor. Wilderness First Responder

Favorite Adventure Trip

Tied between any trip going up to Yosemite NP or the summer I worked in Jackson Hole, WY and I would end the work day paddleboarding with my friends in Grand Teton NP at sunset.

Other than guiding

Planning road trips. I’m a SoCal native who has a soft spot for the mountains, and I try to get up as often as I can! Hiking, biking, and jumping into some mountain lakes/rivers are some of my favorite things to do.

Favorite piece of gear

MCarly was an amazing guide and so was Jomel. We had such a fun time and were able to see many animals and learn so much! Thank you for the experience!y Nalgene that I can throw around and never dent! Always looking to add more stickers and the splash guard is essential. In the winter, I put a Nalgene with hot water in my sleeping bag to keep my toes warm!

"Loved every minute of our tour. Carly was amazing and super knowledgeable about our surroundings. She did a great job assessing risk and checking in with the group."

"Carly was an amazing guide. We had such a fun time and were able to see many animals and learn so much! Thank you for the experience!"

Parker Rhodes

2 Years of guiding experience

Education Background:
Currently a Student at Santa Barbara City College and completed my EMT course and UC Santa Barbara.

Leadership Background and Experience:
I began as a Junior Counselor at a local summer camp and seemed to fit the outdoor guiding world of Santa Barbara great.

Favorite Adventure Trips:
An amazing 1.5-week surf trip down to Costa Rica with some lifelong friends.

Other Than Guiding:
I enjoy anything ocean-related, rock climbing, riding dirtbikes, camping, snowboarding, and really any adventure I can get after.

Favorite Piece of Gear:
Anything to help to keep me from getting sunburnt!

"Parker was an amazing guide!! I loved hearing him talk about his passion for birds and learned many things I did not know about them. I’m glad he is passionate about his job, it made the tour so much fun!!"

"It was amazing! We really enjoyed our time on the water, and Parker was a great guide."

"We had Parker as our guide and we both thought he was great. He was very knowledgeable and personable from the start to the end of the tour."

Michelle Beebe

3 Years of guiding experience

Education Background:
B.S. in Psychology and Minor in Visual Arts from the University of California, San Diego
M.S. in Outdoor Leadership and Environmental Education from State University of New York, Cortland.

Leadership Background and Experience:
• Certified Wilderness Trip Leader
• Wilderness First Responder
• Backcountry guiding in Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks for 4 years with Southern Yosemite Mountain Guides.
• Guiding and Instructing Boojum for 4 years in CA National and State Parks and National Forests.
• Developing and managing (3 years) the swim program at Yipirinya School, for indigenous students in grades pre-k to 12th grade in the heart of Australia’s outback, Alice Springs.
• Kindergarten teacher in Abu Dhabi for 3 years at Al Diyafah School.
• 20+ years playing rugby in the US, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates combined.

Favorite Adventure Trips:
• Bushwacking up the Arroyo de la Zorro to the Sierra de la Laguna in Baja California Mexico for 10 days
• Hiking the Annapurna Trail in Nepal for 2 weeks
• Island hopping in the Philippines, with snorkeling and sketchy motorbiking on Palawan island being some memorable moments

Other Than Guiding:
• Photography (Instagram: @miche_mosh_shots)
• Swimming, surfing, biking, running, writing, reading, listening to music, appreciating nature, traveling, gardening, painting, pottery, yoga, and road trips in the Taco

Favorite Piece of Gear:
Nikon Z6II camera and Garmin watch

"This was the best tour I have ever been on! We loved every minute and are so grateful for the experience. Michelle was amazing. Thank you!!!"

"Great trip! Michelle did a wonderful job making it fun and educational."

"Michelle was our guide. She was wonderful! We had an amazing experience, saw lots of interesting things for the first time, and learned a lot about the Channel Islands - geology, wildlife, history, etc. This was a highlight of our 5-day stay in CA."

Forrest Van Stein

2 Years of guiding experience

Education Background:

Graduated from UC Davis in 2021 with a BS in Neurobiology, Physiology, & Behavior, and earned EMT certification in Fall 2021

Leadership Background and Experience:

I have been a Senior Lifeguard in Carpinteria for 5 years and a supervisor for the last 2-3 years, during which time I’ve been responsible for training new lifeguards and returning guards. I was also a team captain for varsity water polo for two years.

Favorite Adventure Trip:

Backpacking 105 miles from Carpinteria to the Carrizo Plains with Chuck Graham and 2 others. It was brutal and epic.

Other Than Guiding:

I love getting into the mountains, climbing, hiking and backpacking, as well as playing music and eating food with friends.

Favorite Piece of Gear:

My favorite piece of gear is my Patagonia R1 Fleece, I’ve had it since 2019 and it is always useful, always comfy, and never smells as bad as I think it should.

"Our guide Forrest was outstanding in his knowledge of the environment and obvious love for the island. Really ALL the staff from check in to ferry to gearing up on the island were warm and welcoming. Really great experience."

"Forrest is a terrific guide, we appreciated both the kayaking instruction and the naturalist information about the flora, fauna, and geology of the island!"

"Forrest was absolutely fantastic! I can't imagine that there is a better guide than him as he was perfect."

Happy Adventurers

You have fun. We’ll handle the rest.

An Awesome Time!

Thanks for an incredible sea kayaking adventure on Santa Cruz in Channel Islands National Park! Well worth the money, especially with the wetsuits and extra outfitting that made paddling super comfy. "

Emily R.

One of the Best Family Days!

"Six of us went Kayaking in the Sea Caves and loved every minute. Our guide was fun and knowledgeable and was incredibly enthusiastic about the adventure. On the way home, we saw two whales and two pods of dolphins. Cannot imagine a better day!"

Allison S.

A Bucket List Adventure!

"An awesome adventure! While the Painted Cave is the highlight of the tour all of the caves are incredible. The wildlife is amazing along with the plants and everything else. The guides were super friendly and very informative."

Keith M.

Visit our parent company at

Channel Islands Kayak Tours
Snorkeling Tours
Educational Groups
Gift Certificates

FAQ’s
Trip Preparation
Contact

About Us
Blog
Guides
Employment