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The CIEx Difference

Celebrating 32 years – since 1991.

Our founders were some of the first to bring kayakers into sea caves in the 90s, we were the first to lead snorkeling tours in kelp forests, and the first AND ONLY to operate an all islands boat trip within Channel Islands National Park.

PROFESSIONAL CREW MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Channel Islands Expeditions is a guide-owned and operated company – we have been leading trips at the islands since the mid-90s’.

CUSTOM DIVE AND EXPEDITION FLEET

Our fleet of dive and expedition vessels offer guests a safe and comfortable way to experience Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary

CIEx TRIPS ARE THE PERFECT BLEND OF ADVENTURE AND SIGHTSEEING

Offshore islands present both unique opportunities for thrill seeking AND wildlife viewing. We appreciate both and we hope you will too! Each day at the Channel Islands is different and we take full advantage of the season, weather, and wildlife throughout the year.

SEE MORE, DO MORE, PLAN LESS…

If you are planning your trip to the Channel Islands National Park and overwhelmed with logistics and planning… ferries, campsites, tours, etc. you’ve come to the right place. All CIEx trips start and stop from the same land based location and we’ll take care of everything else you need!

Departure Landings

Santa barbara landing, santa barbara, ca, trips from santa barbara harbor.

Marine Emporium Landing, Oxnard, CA

Trips from channel islands harbor, oxnard.

We are a Family Owned and Operated Local Company

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(805) 899-4925

Departure Location Information

Be sure to check your confirmation email before leaving for your trip, these harbors are 45 minutes from each other!

Detailed Directions for Trips:

Departing Santa Barbara Harbor

Departing Marine Emporium Landing Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard Shores

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• EPIC Sea Cave Combo Day Trip Downwind Kayaking – Kelp Forest Snorkeling Departs from Oxnard Harbor on the 54′ SUNFISH
• Painted Cave Combo Day Trip Downwind Kayaking – Modified Snorkeling Departs from Santa Barbara on the 64′ TRUTH
• 5 Day Expedition National Park Adult Summer Camp The only all island National Park cruise that checks all of the boxes!
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• Santa Barbara Departures
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• SCUBA Dive Charters

We are a local, family-owned company that employs professional crew with decades of experience. As owner/operators we are engaged in our daily operations. It takes a lot of human power, planning, and training to operate a safe and sound fleet and team, and we take pride in the expeditions we run.

Traveling to the Channel Islands from the mainland is a distance ranging from 11 to 45 miles (one way) depending on where we depart from and where we go. This journey consumes both time and fuel. Crew and fuel costs account for 50% of the cost of our operations. We operate in US Waters and our vessels are inspected semi-annually by the United States Coast Guard. 

In 2022 we underwent 3 USCG full-vessel inspections (top and bottom side) with ZERO MAJOR* deficiencies and one vessel with ZERO overall deficiencies (TRUTH). Our commitment to running the safest small boat expedition fleet in the world requires resources, and our safety record indicates our resources are going to the correct places. 

Here’s a simple breakdown of the costs per ticket:

The number of passengers on the vessel does affect this breakdown, and so if you’re choosing an expedition or a summer camp with a 24 passenger load, this is why your ticket cost is higher than a full capacity expedition.

Thank you for understanding and supporting these amazing California Expeditions!

CIEx Family

*Minor deficiencies must be corrected within 30 days, major deficiencies must be corrected before carrying passengers again. We correct minor deficiencies as soon as possible.

Expedition Blue Season Pass – 2023 Season

• 2 redemptions for any “Boat Trip Only” ticket per month
• 1 redemption for any “Kayak Expedition” ticket per month
• 1 redemption for any “Snorkeling Expedition” ticket per month
• 4 redemptions for “Santa Barbara Sunset Boat Cruise” per month
• 10% discount on the “Ultimate 5 Day”
• 10% discount on the “Ocean Explorers Liveaboard Camp”

Value – over $3,000 for the season!

Cost – only $399/person/year.

Only Sold Through May 1, 2023

Cortes Bank

Cortes Bank is a chain of underwater pinnacles and plateaus located 137 nautical miles (nm) South by Southeast from Santa Barbara and about 40 nm Southwest of San Clemente Island. Bishop Rock is one of the peaks in the underwater mountain chain that rises to within 6 feet of the surface and is marked by a nearby warning buoy. It was named for the clipper ship Stillwell S. Bishop that struck the rock in 1855 and with a patched hull limped its way back to San Francisco. Nine Fathom spot is about 4.5 miles Northwest of Bishop Rock and rises to about 60 feet below the surface. Both are noted scuba diving locations featuring clear water and abundant sea life.

Scuba diving Cortes Bank with Channel Islands Expeditions is a truly unique experience. It is an open water seamount where currents sweep clean ocean water over the spot and invertebrates cling to the rocks. Sea palms ( Postelsia palmaeformis ) fixed to the rocks provides shelter for smaller fish and invertebrates that hide amongst its fronds. Large clusters of purple hydrocorals can be seen throughout the area as well as tuna, yellowtail, large schools of baitfish, sea lions, and occasional sharks. Large black and white sea bass are common sights as well California sheep head. Lobster divers continue to make this spot a top priority to visit during season and free divers frequent the area in the spring and summer for yellowtail, white sea bass, and tuna. Wreck diving can also be done at this location on the  Abalonia .

Diving at Cortes Bank can be spectacular but anyone who ventures out there needs to be mentally and physically prepared. On any open ocean dive location, one needs to understand that ocean swells and currents are normally present. A flat calm day is rare. When you get good conditions at “The Bank” it will be a dive you will not forget. Sometimes it can be frustrating to get to the bank, but when you do, it can be well worth the effort.

In 1969 a group of promoters bought the World War II surplus troop ship SS  Jalisco , renamed her USS  Abalonia , and sailed her to the bank intending to sink her in shallow water to form a tax-free island nation and shellfish processing plant. But during the sinking, rough seas broke a mooring line and pushed her into deeper water. Another company planned to build a platform on the bank and form a nation called ‘Taluga,’ but the US government declared that the bank was part of the continental shelf and was US territory. The wreck of the  Abalonia  today lies in three pieces in about 30 to 40 feet of water. Now, only scuba divers and the vibrant marine life are citizens of this almost-nation.

On November 2, 1985, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS  Enterprise  struck Cortes Bank about one mile east of Bishop Rock during exercises, putting a 40-foot gash in her outer hull and damaging a propeller. She continued operations then went into dry dock at Hunter’s Point Shipyard in San Francisco for repairs.

Tanner Bank

Tanner Bank is a chain of underwater pinnacles and plateaus located 120 nautical miles (nm) south by southeast of Santa Barbara, California, and 35 miles West by Southwest of San Clemente Island This bank rises within 80 feet of the surface and is considered one of the best advanced open water dive locations on the California coast. Like Cortes Banks, this seamount is open ocean with exposure to wind, current, and swell. Timing is everything when it comes to a successful day of diving this spot.

Scuba diving with Channel Islands Expeditions at Tanner Bank offers no protection from the weather so anchoring overnight is truly rare. Diving the bank is generally done on a multiple day liveaboard trip when you can take advantage of a weather window and dash out for a day. This dive location is so far offshore and exposed to the elements, so a diver can get a true feeling of open ocean diving that you cannot get next to land.

Under most circumstances this is considered advanced diving. It is deep and there can be current and surge, but the payoff can be huge. Like any other open ocean dive spot, you must be willing to roll the dice and see what Mother Nature will dish out.

This is an open water seamount, so currents sweep clean ocean water over the spot. You’ll find that everything that lives here clings tightly to the rocks. Palm kelp fixed to the rocks provides shelter for smaller fish and sea life that hide amongst its fronds. Large clusters of purple hydrocorals can be seen throughout the area as well as tuna, yellowtail, large schools of baitfish, sea lions, and occasional sharks. Lobster divers have scored well in this location at times and many a sea story have been written once aboard the Truth and Vision.

Santa Catalina Island

After Alcatraz, Santa Catalina Island is probably the best known of any of California’s islands. This island’s proximity to Los Angeles transformed it into a popular tourist destination, evidenced by its one million visitors each year. The island is 22 miles long and eight miles across at its greatest width. The highest point on the island is Mt. Orizaba 2,126 feet. The island was widely developed as a resort by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. Now, ninety percent of the island is owned by the Catalina Island Conservancy, with the remainder of the island under the ownership of private entities.

The island is a rugged terrain of ridges and canyons with a few valleys inland and on its coastal fringes. The island is a semi-arid with only 12 inches of rainfall each year, though the marine climate does moderate temperatures during the summer and winter. The majority of the terrain here is characterized by chapparal vegetation with pine forest interspersed in canyons and at higher elevations.

Catalina Island is well known for its calm, clear, and warm waters. Even though Catalina is the most populated dive site of any other Channel Island, it is still sought out by scuba divers around the globe. Any trip with Channel Islands Expeditions is sure to encounter verdant kelp forest full of garibaldi, yellowtail, kelp bass, white seabass, giant black sea bass, and leopard sharks, as well as many other intriguing species. Photography and sightseeing are especially good in these clear waters, though free divers enjoy the possibility of spearing yellowtail and white seabass. Channel Islands Expeditions makes this destination part of its itinerary on the southern islands multi-day dive excursions, mostly during the summer months.

Scenic coastlines and warm waters make for the perfect opportunity to paddle, swim, and snorkel away an afternoon in beautiful surroundings. Your expedition leader will choose amongst the variety of sheltered coastal paddling opportunities that may present themselves on an adventure to Catalina Island with Channel Islands Expeditions.

There are many hiking trails along Catalina Island. Beach walking is allowed for anyone, but a permit is required for any back country travel. Permits can be acquired through the Catalina Island Conservancy. A point of pride for the island is the Trans-Catalina Trail, a recently finished 37.2-mile track that spans from Avalon on the east end of the island, past the isthmus, and ending at Starlight Beach on the west end.

Human History

Archaeological evidence shows Catalina was occupied by ancient cultures at least as far back as 6,800 years ago. The most recent native peoples to occupy the island were of the Tongva culture, whose languages and traditions were distinct from the Chumash of the northern Channel Islands. The Tongva referred to the island as “ pimu ” and to those that lived there as “ pimuvit .” Large settlements dotted the coastline of  pimu , and the pimuvit were renowned for the quarrying and trading of soapstone, which they excelled in carving.

The island would be discovered on Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s foundational voyage of exploration in 1542. The colonization of California by the Spanish brought about the swift disintegration of the Tongva people, including those that resided on Santa Catalina Island. Over the years, the island would change hands and small ranchos were established, but it was not until the turn of the 20th century that anyone would have designs on turning Catalina Island into a tourist destination. A real estate developer from Michigan named George Shatto created the settlement that would become Avalon and built its first hotel and pier.

William Wrigley Jr. acquired the majority of the Catalina Island Company in 1919, when he bought the island as an investment, but was so enamored by it he decided to keep it and develop the island so as to make it accessible to anyone that might like to visit. Wrigley subsequently, invested millions of dollars in the island, building and modernizing utilities and buildings in and around the now famous city of Avalon. He made it the spring training location for the Chicago Cubs built the iconic Catalina Casino building in 1929. The Wrigleys later donated 42,000 acres of land to the Catalina Island Conservancy for preservation.

Natural History

Santa Catalina Island’s diversity in flora and fauna is second to only Santa Cruz Island in the Channel Islands chain. Its proximity to the outflows of the Los Angeles, San Gabriel, and Santa Ana river basins opens the island up to a higher probability of species “rafting” over to the beaches of Catalina. This naturally leads to isolation and speciation, and as a result, Catalina is home to five native land mammals: the Santa Catalina Island Fox ( Urocyon littoralis catalinae ) being the most well-known among them. It is home to a diverse array of endemic birds, reptiles, insects, and plants. Interestingly, it is the only Channel Island to have a native rattlesnake population.

DDT, a pesticide that was outlawed in 1972 wreaked havoc on California’s marine ecosystem and was especially consequential for the island’s native population of Bald eagles. DDT was absorbed by the birds’ major prey, fish, and then ingested by the eagles. It caused the eagles to lay eggs with weakened shells that cracked under the adults’ weight during incubation. DDT poisoning eventually extirpated the Bald eagle from California’s Channel Islands. The Catalina Island Conservancy and the Institute for Wildlife Studies (IWS) have been working in a long-standing relationship to restore Bald eagles to the island for decades. To assist the eagles, IWS biologists began retrieving the fragile eggs, hatching them off-site in incubators and returning healthy chicks to the nests, where the parents accepted them back and raised them. In 2007, DDT levels had finally decreased enough to allow bald eagles to successfully hatch eggs in the wild, when five eagle chicks hatched naturally – the first time an eagle had successfully hatched in over 50 years! By 2009, all nests on Catalina were left to natural hatching and incubation, and in 2014 and 2020 four more Bald eagle chicks hatched and fledged in nests around the island.

A herd of American Bison were supposedly first imported in 1924 for the silent film version of Catalina Island resident Zane Grey’s western novella, “The Vanishing American,” still roam the island. Over the decades, the bison herd grew to as many as 600 individuals, though the Catalina Island Conservancy concluded that a population of 150-200 individuals would reduce the impact of these non-native animals on the native flora and fauna to a sufficient degree. The herd was managed to the point where only 100 animals remained in 2020. To bolster the herd’s genetics, the Catalina Island Conservancy introduced two pregnant females in 2020.

SANTA BARBARA ISLAND

Santa Barbara Island (639 acres) is 1.67 miles across at its longest point and lies 73 nautical miles (nm) Southeast of Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara Island is the smallest of all of California’s Channel Islands and the southern-most member of the Channel Islands National Park. Like most of the Channel Islands, it can be seen from the mainland on exceptionally clear days usually in winter, though the island’s profile is markedly lower than those of its bigger counterparts. The highest peak on the Santa Barbara Island is Signal Hill, at 634 feet. Despite its volcanic composure of Miocene basalts, Santa Barbara Island is not a volcano. The steep wave-cut cliffs of its shoreline indicate that erosion is still in its formative processes; this is one of the younger Channel Islands. Signs of a rising and falling ocean are marked into the basalt cliffs. Six wave-cut marine terraces can be found, an indication of both changes in sea level as well as tectonic uplift and subsidence (called porpoising). A 130 ft. arch dominates the aptly named Arch Point on the northeast corner of the island. Extensive colonies of birds reside on the volcanic cliffs of Santa Barbara Island as well as the two nearby offshore rocks: Shag Rock off the northerly shore (1 acre), and Sutil Island off the southwest end (12 acres). The steep cliffs and isolation from mainland predators provide safe breeding sites for thousands of sea birds. Santa Barbara Island, although small by any standard, boasts an impressive diversity in its habitats, with a few narrow rocky beaches, six canyons, and a badlands area.

Santa Barbara Island is known for its large rookery where you can spend hours diving with sea lions. Photographers get more opportunities to photograph these animals up close here than any Channel Island. The playful, curious pups will pose and frolic in front of a diver’s lens as long as one can stay in the water.

Diving Santa Barbara Island with Channel Islands Expeditions will take you to a host of incredible sites around the island, including the famous undersea “Arch.” The top of the reef just breaks the surface at low tide and the bottom of the arch lies in 40 feet of water. One of the more unique underwater arches in the world it makes the perfect backdrop for photographers. In addition to the “Arch,” there are many offshore pinnacles that are home to shear walls along with some of the largest clusters of purple hydrocoral found anywhere.

Santa Barbara has long been a prime destination for spearfishing. Warm southern currents coupled with lush kelp beds make this island attract a wealth of game fish. Calico bass, white sea bass, yellowtail, and an occasional tuna are among the species that can be found in the waters surrounding this island. As with all Channel Islands, a healthy spiny lobster population makes this a favorite destination during season.

Santa Barbara Island can offer some of the best scuba diving found in Southern California but if conditions are rough there are not many places to go.

Similar in many ways to Anacapa Island, kayaking Santa Barbara Island offers the perfect setting for this water sport. Weather permitting, your expedition leader may decide to attempt a complete circumnavigation of Santa Barbara Island. Wind and swell can be a factor, so attempting this trip is best done on one of Channel Islands Expeditions multi-day adventures. Kayaking long distances with a support vessel offers an added layer of safety for an unforgettable journey around this hidden gem of the Pacific.

Hiking on Santa Barbara Island will provide you with one of the most remote island hiking experiences of any of the Channel Islands. Don’t be fooled, the steep incline of this island can offer a challenge to just about anyone, but just beyond that you will find five miles of hiking trails with gentle rolling hills and breathtaking panoramic ocean views.

Though is thought to have never been permanently inhabited, Santa Barbara Island may have played a crucial role in the lives of the island peoples who occupied the surrounding Channel Islands for well over 10,000 years. Archeological evidence suggests that Santa Barbara Island may have been a convenient stopover on inter-island trade routes, a testament to its central location in the Channel Islands chain. The rich marine life found here may have drawn people to seasonally harvest the shores of this island for shellfish, seals, and fish. Recent studies indicate this may have begun about 4,000 years ago.

The first European visitor to the Channel Islands in 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, a Portuguese explorer, made no mention of this island. Sixty years later, the island was named by Spanish explorer Sebastian Vizcaino, who visited the island on December 4, 1602, the feast day dedicated to Santa Barbara. The island was infrequently visited in subsequent years, owning largely to its sparse vegetation and lack of a reliable water source. Santa Barbara Island did play host to an assemblage of seal hunters, squatters, fishermen, and the occasional whaling ship off its shores.

A few notable individuals eked out a living here, chief among them the family of Alvin Hyder. After a winning bid of $250 in 1916, Hyder and his family assumed ownership of the island and were the first to establish a residence of any permanence there. Hard work and a constant struggle to maintain a supply of fresh water were trademark features of a tough existence on this island. Santa Barbara Island would become a part of the Channel Islands National Monument in 1938 and was utilized as Coastal Lookout Station during WWII. Santa Barbara Island became part of the Channel Islands National Park upon its establishment in 1980.

Santa Barbara Island is home to a large sea lion rookery and seabird nesting colonies, including three species of storm-petrel, three species of cormorant, and the once-endangered California brown pelican. It is also home to the largest breeding colony for the Scripps’s Murrelet, a threatened seabird species. Scripps’s murrelet is listed as vulnerable, and is mainly threatened by oil spills, as the population exists in such a small area and is adjacent to the heavily trafficked shipping lanes that connect to the Port of Los Angeles. Spring rains bring out the flowering plants, such as the Giant coreopsis, the endemic Santa Barbara Island live-forever (Dudleya traskiae), shrubby buckwheat, sea blite, and an annual poppy. There is a visitor contact station and museum on the island with exhibits, dioramas, and murals of the natural and cultural resources.

San Nicholas Island

San Nicolas Island is the most remote of California’s Channel Islands lying 78 nautical miles (nm) south by southeast from Santa Barbara and 53 miles from the nearest coastline. Rising out of the rolling Pacific swells, the 14,500 acre (23 square miles) island is defined by wave cut terraces and windswept, grassy hills. It is currently controlled and operated as a weapons testing and training facility by the United States Navy. The island has a small airport and the several buildings supporting the naval operation are affectionately referred to as ‘Nictown.’ Landing on the island is strictly prohibited and one of the offshore water areas is restricted from transiting or anchoring.

Channel Islands Expeditions travels out to San Nicolas Island during the summer and early fall to dive the iconic Begg Rock and some of the island’s nearshore reefs. Begg Rock is a small rock lying almost 8 miles to the west from the island and it is one of California’s most pristine dive locations. This is open ocean diving so wind, swell, and currents can make this a difficult area to scuba dive. When the conditions are right, this dive will not be forgotten. Shear walls covered in corynactis anemones paint this dive in a rainbow of colors. In the fall, the island itself is a popular lobster diving area when they are in season. Its remote location means that a trip to San Nicolas implies a chance of encountering unstable weather. A day of unfavorable conditions can result in tough diving in this open ocean environment. However, or those up for the adventure, a good day of weather will result in one of the most unique and unforgettable dive experiences you can have at the Channel Islands.

No kayaking is available due to a mandatory 300-yard distance from shore regulation.

No island hiking available as landing is prohibited.

San Nicolas Island shows signs of habitation that date back over 10,000 years. The native peoples that most recently occupied the island are referred to as “Nicholeños,” who had their own distinctive language and culture, though they were probably related to the Tongva people who lived on Santa Catalina Island. The name the Tongva have for San Nicholas is ‘Haraashngna.’ We do not know much of the language or history of the Nicholeños, as the large majority of their population was evacuated and assimilated into the California mission system. Their language became extinct soon after.

The person who would become the most famous resident of San Nicholas Island was left behind by the Franciscan padres who took the rest of the Nicholeños to the California missions. Juana Maria, as she would be known (though her real name was never found out), was the last surviving member of the Nicholeños. She lived alone on the island for 18 years, subsisting on shellfish and seal fat from the Northern elephant seals. Captain George Nidever found Juana Maria on the island in 1853, living in a crude whalebone hut. She was brought back to Santa Barbara, and was the object of much curiosity, becoming well-known for the beautiful songs she would sing. This would be short-lived though, as she died only seven weeks after her arrival to the mainland. Her story was the basis for Scott O’Dell’s Newbery Medal-winning 1961 novel Island of the Blue Dolphins. Academic curiosity about the “Lone Woman of San Nicholas Island” still persists, and after a 20-year search, archaeologists may have uncovered the cave she lived in in 2012.

The ecological diversity of San Nicholas was heavily impacted by sheep ranching for a period of over 80 years. The sheep removed much of the native ground cover until their removal in 1943. This in turn increased the rates of erosion and promoted non-native plant species to spread. Despite the degradation, three endemic plants are found on the island:  Astragalus traskiae ,  Eriogonum grande tamorum , and  Lomatium insulare .

The isolated beaches of San Nicholas are anything but lonely during the breeding season of one of the world’s largest seals. The Northern elephant seal ( Mirounga angustirostris ) hauls out here to breed each season, with an estimated 23,000 individuals occupying the beachfront to mate and give birth to pups. A bull elephant seal can weigh in at over 8,000 pounds and measure at up to 16 feet from nose to tail. The female is distinctively smaller, “only” weighing in at 2,000 pounds and measuring 12 feet in length. The island is home to about 30 percent of the wide-ranging California population

The dominant plant community on the island is coastal bluff scrubland, with giant coreopsis ( Coreopsis gigantea ) and coyote brush ( Baccharis pilularis ) the most visible components. The few trees present today, including California fan palms ( Washingtonia filifera ) were introduced in modern times. However, early written accounts and the remains of ancient plants in the form of calcareous root casts, known as ‘caliche,’ indicate that, prior to 1860, brush covered a portion of the island.

There are only three species of endemic land vertebrates on the island; the Island night lizard ( Xantusia riversiana ), deer mouse ( Peromyscus maniculatus exterus ), and island fox ( Urocyon littoralis dickey ). Two other reptiles, the common side-blotched lizard ( Uta stansburiana ), and the southern alligator lizard ( Elgaria multicarinatus ) were at one time thought to be endemic, but an analysis of mitochondrial DNA indicates that both species were most likely introduced in recent times.

San Nicolas Island is home to large populations of nesting birds. The two largest nesting populations are the Western gull ( Larus occidentalis ) and Brandt’s cormorant ( Phalacrocorax penicillatus ). These birds, along with the Island night lizard were threatened by a large population of feral cats, but after extensive eradication efforts by the US Navy and other organizations, the island was declared free of cats in 2012. The birds and once endangered Island night lizard populations immediately rebounded, and the night lizard was consequently taken off the endangered species list in 2014.

San Clemente Island

San Clemente Island is the southernmost of all eight of the Channel Islands and is located 113 nautical miles (nm) from Santa Barbara. It is 21 nm long and is 4-1/2 nm across at its widest point, with a total area of 57 square miles. The U.S. Navy acquired the island in 1934 and it has been owned and operated by various naval commands. San Clemente is also home to an auxiliary naval airfield, United States Navy SEALs training facilities, and the southern end of the island is the Navy’s only remaining ship-to-shore live firing range.

San Clemente Island is made of up of volcanic materials dating back to 5 million years ago. The terrain varies between exposed marine terraces and steep canyons dotted sparsely with freshwater springs. The island can be described as being on a ‘tilt;’ the north side rises dramatically out of the ocean (the highest point, Mt. Thirst, is 1,965 ft), while the south side has a much gentler slope to its rocky shores. With a frost-free, semi-arid climate, the island typically gets less than 6 inches of rain in a year.

Diving conditions at San Clemente Island are known for the clearest, warmest waters of all eight Channel Islands. Located in the southernmost region of California this island receives the warmest waters from the tropical currents from the south. Giant kelp beds, schools of fish, coral banks, and shear walls make this a diver’s paradise. Waters in the summer can reach over 70 degrees Fahrenheit and photographers flock to this island for some of the best wide-angle photography available in California.

Most of the prime scuba diving is located at each end of the island. The east end of the island is more protected and offers pinnacles, shear walls, and protected shallow kelp covered coves. San Clemente’s west end is more exposed to the westerly winds and swells but has some of the more prolific areas found off California. Nine Fathom Reef (it rises to 6 ½ fathoms) is a rocky structure with shear walls covered in purple hydrocoral. This is an open ocean diving location and is swept by currents and swells so diving this area can be tricky. Once dove, it is never forgotten.

Because of the military presence at the island, kayaking can be enjoyed near the boat only. As any on any of the Channel Islands, lush kelp beds, volcanic rock formations, and sea lions make kayaking well worth the effort. Generally, kayaking is done during one of Channel Islands Expeditions regularly scheduled liveaboard dive trips.

San Clemente Island is one of the best documented archeological settings in California. Archeologists have found traces of human occupation on the San Clemente Island dating back 10,000 years, a remarkable figure for an island 55 nautical miles out to sea, but consistent with results on other Channel Islands. The native inhabitants here called the island ‘ Kinipar ,’ and bore many cultural similarities to the nearby Nicholenos on San Nicolas Island. Travel between the islands was facilitated by the ‘ ti’at, ’ a plank canoe that enabled the islanders to cross wide channels and open ocean. Inhabitants here left trade materials from the northern islands and from the mainland, including Coso obsidian from the Mohave high desert. It has not been established what tribe the recent inhabitants belonged to, although the Tongva, from Santa Catalina Island and the Los Angeles Basin, are the most likely candidates. The Chumash who occupied the northern Channel Islands may have influenced the inhabitants.

The island was named by the mapping expedition Spanish explorer Sebastian Vizcaino, who spotted it on November 23, 1602; known as Saint Clement’s feast day in the Catholic tradition. The first actual visit happened much later in 1769, when the  San Antonio  of the Portola expedition anchored in Pyramid Cove on the south end of the island. Natives rowed out in ti’ats and exchanged gifts with the expedition, including two otter-fur robes. It was later used by ranchers, fishermen, and smugglers during the 19th century and into the 20th century. In the 1920s and 1930s the factory ships Lansing and California anchored off San Clemente Island, processing blue and fin whales, among other species, caught by their own fleets of steam-driven whale catchers.

In recent years effort has been made by several conservation organizations, including Channel Islands Restoration, to remove invasive species from San Clemente Island and promote the re-emergence of native and endemic flora and fauna. The removal of invasive ice plant has encouraged native plants, like the boxthorn ( Lycium spp .) to flourish. This is especially important as many endemic species of birds and reptiles use this native plant as cover and nesting habitat.

The San Clemente Island Loggerhead Shrike ( Lanius ludovicianus mearnsi ) is an endangered species that the Navy is taking steps to protect. The Island fox ( Urocyon littoralis ) and San Clemente Island brodiaea ( Brodiaea kinkiensis ) are notable examples of endemic species on the island. Feral goats roamed the island for centuries, reaching a population of 11,000 in 1972 when their effect on indigenous species was realized. By 1980 the population had been reduced to 4,000 and a plan for shooting remaining goats was blocked in court by the Fund for Animals, so the goats were removed with nets and helicopters.

Anacapa Island

Anacapa is a small volcanic island located 28 miles off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. The smallest of the northern Channel Islands, Anacapa was discovered by Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542. Later, in 1793, Captain George Vancouver christened the island Anacapa, a name derived from the Chumash Indian word, “’anyapax,” which means translates to ‘illusion’ or ‘mirage.’ The island’s name, the only one of the Channel Islands chain to maintain its original etymology, suits the place very well. The low rises of the sea cliffs can often be shrouded by marine haze or fog giving the island an air of mystery.

Anacapa is composed of three islets: East Island, Middle Island and West Island. Altogether, the islets make up a narrow island that is 5 miles long and only a ¼ mile wide. Ocean waves have eroded the perimeter of the island, creating steep sea cliffs towering hundreds of feet in height and exposing the volcanic origins of air pockets, lava tubes, and sea caves. At the east end of the island a natural bridge has formed in the ocean. The forty-foot-high Cabrillo Arch is a trademark of Anacapa and the Channel Islands National Park. The highest peak is Summit Peak 2 on West Island at 930 feet.

ATTRACTIONS

Lurking serpent.

• Anacapa is the only island to retain its Chumash nomenclature, “Eenapah” meant “island of illusion”. This was due to the inversion layer of the atmosphere that sits near the horizon some days and makes the island look much larger than it is. To us it looks more like a lurking serpent out on the Channel on clear days. Either way, the island is mysterious and has an interesting history.

Chumash Camp

• Anacapa doesn’t have fresh water and therefor the Chumash didn’t make permanent settlements there. However, there are very large “middens” or trash piles of shells and such that suggest that the Chumash did in fact camp there when making their trade journeys to the mainland.

Navigation Hazard

• The Chumash most likely used Anacapa as a navigational aid and resting point while traveling, however, the mysterious rock has met it’s share of unintended visitors, including the 300+ people aboard the  Winfield Scott in 1853 when it went aground at Middle Anacapa .

USCG Lighthouse

• In 1932 the Anacapa lighthouse was completed on the Eastern island, almost 20 years after it was begun. This light has been keeping sailors from meeting similar fates of the Winfield Scott since that time.

National Park And Marine Sanctuary

• In 1980 congress signed into law the Channel Islands National Park which included Anacapa and Santa Barbara Islands. It also established Marine Sanctuaries around both islands. 23 years later, in 2003, 13 marines protected areas were established, including the Anacapa Marine Reserve with more protection and enforcement.This protection has allowed fish species to rebound in diversity and density. Kayaking and snorkeling in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) is a profound example of how this protection has been effective and is important for overall ocean health.All of the kayaking and snorkeling on our tours take place in MPAs so you’ll get to see for yourself!

Diving at Anacapa Island is known for warmer waters as it is at the southern edge of the Northern chain of Channel Islands that receive tropical currents from the south. Many species that are found at the Southern chain of Channel Islands can be found at Anacapa. Lush kelp beds, Garibaldi’s, brittle stars, giant black sea bass, leopard sharks, and sea lions are common sights while scuba diving.

Photographers enjoy the clear waters and many student divers get their first island dive in its temperate conditions. Anacapa Island generally has calmer conditions as it is further to the east of the prevailing Northwest winds generated off Point Conception. Because of its proximity to the mainland, Anacapa is visited by more divers than any other island in the Northern chain of Channel Islands.

Kayaking at Anacapa is often the exclamation point at the end of a trip with Channel Islands Expeditions. Steep cliff faces, secluded coves, inlets packed with marine life, and beautiful sea caves are among just some of the sights you can explore with our expert guides. Kelp forests and sea grass flourish along this rocky coast, which serve as home and feeding ground for an abundance of wildlife. Though small in stature, Anacapa provides perhaps the most diverse sea cave experience of any of the Channel Islands. The basalt cliffs of the island are easily eroded over time by the sea, leaving spectacular geological formations that you’ll have to see to believe.

Landings are done at a pier in the landing cove at East Island. There is a staircase leading out of the cove up a steep cliff side that brings you to a figure eight-shaped trail system that is about 2 miles long. This trail will lead out to one of the most sought-after sea-scape overlooks in the national park, Inspiration Point. An interpretive trail guide is available on the island to interpret island resources. Middle and West Anacapa are not open to hiking as they are set aside for the island’s recovering sea bird populations.

Sea birds are the most conspicuous wildlife on the island. The largest breeding colony of the once-endangered California brown pelican ( Pelecanus occidentalis californicus ) is located on West Anacapa. Other sea birds include Western gulls ( Larus occidentalis ) and several species of cormorants. Scripps’s murrelets ( Synthliboramphus scrippsi ) and Cassin’s auklets ( Ptychoramphus aleuticus ) nest in sea caves and on isolated rocky shores. Anacapa’s rocky shores provide resting and breeding areas for both California sea lions and Harbor seals, two species you have a high likelihood of encountering while on the water with Channel Islands Expeditions. Springtime brings colorful flowers, including the strange tree sunflower called coreopsis ( Coreopsis gigantea ), a plant found only on the Channel Islands and a few isolated areas on the mainland.

On the night of December 2, 1853, the sidewheel steamer  Winfield Scott  running at full speed crashed into the rocks off Middle Anacapa in dense fog and sank. Invasive ship rats ( Rattus rattus ) are thought to have been introduced to the island from the wrecked ship. They had devastating consequences for the island’s seabirds and other native species, but were successfully eradicated in 2001–2002. With the rats gone, the number of nesting Scripps’s murrelets has increased by more than 80 percent in the last two decades. This is one of many recoveries following invasive species eradications from the Channel Islands.

A U.S. Coast Survey team visited the island in 1854 and concluded that although the island’s position at the eastern entrance to the Santa Barbara Channel was a natural choice for a lighthouse “it is inconceivable for a lighthouse to be constructed on this mass of volcanic rock – perpendicular on every face, with an ascent inaccessible by any natural means.”

As approximately nine-tenths of all vessels trading up and down the Pacific Coast passed inside the islands of the Santa Barbara Channel, the American Association of Masters, Mates and Pilots petitioned for a proper fog signal on the island. Funds for what would be the last major light station to be built on the west coast were finally allocated in the late 1920s.

The construction of the station was carried out in two phases and commenced in the spring of 1930. A landing dock, a hoisting crane and roads were added first, and then work began on the various station buildings. A thirty-nine-foot, cylindrical tower and a fog signal were built near the highest point on the eastern end of the island. Four Spanish-style, white stucco houses with red tile roofs were provided for the keepers and their families. Today, there is a museum on the island which houses the original crystal and brass Fresnel lens from the light beacon.

Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island is the largest island off the continental United States. Located 23 nautical miles (nm) off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, the island is 22 miles long, from 2 to 6 miles wide, and is 97 square miles in area. The Chumash that inhabited this island for well over 11,000 years call this island ‘limuw,’ meaning “in the ocean.” The island Chumash consider this island to be the cradle of their civilization; the birthplace of their people. The scenic beauty of Santa Cruz is reflected in its many landforms including its two rugged mountain ranges. The highest peak on the island is Devil’s Peak, at 2450 feet. Deep canyons, year-round springs and streams, plus 77 miles of craggy coastline cliffs, giant sea caves, pristine tide pools, expansive beaches, and a central valley are features of the unique island. The central valley splits the island along the Santa Cruz Island Fault with volcanic rock on the north and older sedimentary rock on the south. Lying directly on the boundary between cold northern and warm southern waters, this island hosts unique plant, animal, and marine communities representing nearly 1000 miles of marine diversity from California’s coastline.

Diving at Santa Cruz Island is probably the most diverse of all eight Channel Islands. Being on the break of the warm southerly and colder northern currents creates marine habitat for many different species. Being the largest of California’s Channel Islands, there is a wide variety of different dive spots to explore around Santa Cruz Island, each with its own unique characteristics.

The northwest section of the island is volcanic with steep faces and hosts some of the world’s largest sea caves. The southeast section is more sedimentary with large plateaus and thick kelp beds. Santa Cruz offers more places to find good diving during rough weather periods than any other island due to its size and many coves. Seals, sea lions, bat rays, and many schools of fish are common sights while scuba diving with Channel Islands Expeditions along this island’s shores.

Given it’s ample 77-mile coastline, Santa Cruz Island has vast number of kayaking destinations that you are able to visit with Channel Islands Expeditions. In fact, traveling with CIX is the only way to see a vast majority of the island’s scenic shoreline, as most of the island itself is closed to conventional tourism.

Santa Cruz Island has huge variety of flora and fauna that live on and around it’s craggy cliff lines and giant sea caves. The west end of Santa Cruz Island is where you’ll find one of the world’s biggest sea caves, Painted Cave – so named for the vibrant lichen growth on the cave walls. Measured at a towering 160 ft at its entrance, Painted Cave stretches back into the basalt cliff for over a quarter-mile before you reach its terminus. Expect to see plenty of playful sea lions and seals as well as a host of bird life here or anywhere else you paddle on Santa Cruz Island.

There are several hiking trails and roads that traverse the eastern portion of Santa Cruz Island that is part of the Channel Islands National Park. While visitors may explore this section, no hiking is allowed beyond the national park boundary onto The Nature Conservancy property to the west without first obtaining a permit. Landings onto Santa Cruz are either by pier or by skiff. Potential landing areas include Prisoners Harbor and Smugglers Cove.

Once on the Santa Cruz, a well-marked trail system will take you to several scenic overlooks of the island’s coastline, as well as to areas of natural and historical significance. Consult your Channel Islands Expeditions trip leaders as to what may be possible on your expedition, as there is such a vast array of options to explore on this island. Wherever you go, be sure to keep a sharp eye out for some of the island’s many endemic species found here and no where else in the world, including the Island scrub jay and the Island fox.

Archaeological investigations indicate that Santa Cruz Island has been inhabited for at least 10,000 years. Chumash of limuw had their largest village, swaxil, located near present day Scorpion Anchorage. The island had over 10 villages and was home to over 1,200 people. They developed a highly complex society dependent on marine harvest and craft specialization. The island Chumash produced shell-beads that they used for currency. This formed the backbone of an intricate inter-island and cross-channel trading system with the counterparts on the mainland. Their trade was made possible by  tomols , plank canoes constructed from driftwood and sealed with tar and pitch. In teams of as many as ten people, the Chumash would paddle across the channel and trade shell-bead money and island goods for food staples and other goods from the mainland.

Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo and his men made first contact with the Chumash of limuw in 1542. The journey would eventually be Cabrillo’s demise, as he is rumored to have died in the winter of 1543 on San Miguel Island, though some postulate we very well could have died on Santa Cruz. The explorers and missionaries that visited after him discovered the complex aboriginal society of the Chumash. Legend has it that on one such visit during a gift exchange, a staff with an iron cross atop of it was forgotten. The next day, the Chumash paddled in a tomol to the expedition’s ship and return it. From that day, the island was called “La Isla de la Santa Cruz,” meaning “the island of the sacred cross.”

By the early 1800’s the Chumash were said to have ‘voluntarily’ moved to the Santa Barbara and Santa Buenaventura missions. Thus ended 10,000 years of habitation by the Chumash on Santa Cruz Island. The Mexican government claimed the island as its own territory in 1821 before California’s independence movement began in 1838. Santa Cruz Island was gifted to Andres Castillero for his role in brokering a shaky peace in California. He would be the first of many private owners who would shape the island into what it is today.

The ranching period on Santa Cruz began with a small sheep ranching operation managed by James Barron Shaw and grew to be one a well-recognized operation by the 1860’s. Ownership of the ranch passed on to the businessman Justinian Caire in 1886, who had a vision to establish both sheep and cattle ranching on Santa Cruz Island as well as one of California’s first commercial vineyards. Caire’s legacy of ranching and land husbandry would remain until the National Park Service bought the east end of Santa Cruz Island from Caire’s descendants in 1980 and the last of the flocks of sheep were taken off the island in 1999. The Nature Conservancy came into full ownership of the west end of the island, including Main Ranch in the central valley in 1987.

Today, Santa Cruz Island is divided between The Nature Conservancy and the National Park Service. The Nature Conservancy owns and manages the western 76% of the island; the eastern 24% is owned and managed by the National Park Service.

Permanent and seasonal water sources, plus a number of microclimates, support over 650 species of plants and trees in ten different plant communities, from marshes and grasslands to chaparral and pine forests. Owing to millions of years of isolation, eight of these plants are “endemic”-they grow nowhere else in the world. Springtime is a patchwork of blooming annuals, sometimes seen from the mainland as bright splashes of color. Over 140 land bird species have been identified here. The Island scrub jay ( Aphelocoma insularis ), a Santa Cruz Island endemic, is a living example of “gigantism,” whereby some island animals evolve to a larger form. This bird is one-third bigger and much bluer than the mainland scrub jay. Other animals, like the Island fox ( Urocyon littoralis ) and Island spotted skunk ( Spilogale gracilis amphialus ), tend toward “dwarfism,” growing smaller over the ages. Eleven other mammal species including nine bats, deer and harvest mouse, three kinds of amphibians including the Channel Islands slender salamander ( Batrachoseps pacificus ), five reptiles including the Side-blotched lizard, Southern alligator lizard, Western fence lizard, Western yellow belly racer, and Gopher snake, might be seen by visitors.

Bald eagles ( Haliaeetus leucocephalus ) were once numerous on California’s Channel Islands, but because of eggshell thinning caused by the illegal dumping of the pesticide, “DDT,” and other factors, the last known successful Bald eagle nesting in the northern Channel Islands was in 1949. By the 1960’s, Bald eagles could no longer be found on any of the Channel Islands. Soon after, Golden eagles ( Aquila chrysaetos ) began nesting on the islands, and began hunting Island foxes until native fox populations declined to a threatened status. After successful trapping and relocating of the Golden eagles, the Institute for Wildlife Studies started a program in 2002 to reintroduce Bald eagles to the California’s Channel Islands funded by money from a $25 million fund to deal with the lingering effects of DDT dumped by the Montrose Chemical Corporation into the ocean near Los Angeles.

Between 2002 and 2006, 61 young bald eagles have been released on Santa Cruz Island. On March 17, 2006 wildlife biologists for the Institute announced that for the first time in over 50 years there has been a successful hatching on Santa Cruz Island. In April 2007, the Nature Conservancy announced another successful chick hatching. The chick broke free of its shell on April 13, 2007. The parents were one of the two nesting pairs who had returned to the island after making history the previous year. Both pairs were born in captivity. This second birth represented a turning point in the struggle to return the eagles to their former habitat on the island. Three nests have now been documented on Santa Cruz island as of the 2008 breeding season.

Painted Cave

Santa rosa island.

Santa Rosa Island is the second largest of the Channel Islands and lies about 26 nautical miles (nm) from Santa Barbara. The island is nearly 17 nm long, 10.75 nm wide at the widest point, and 53,000 acres or 83 square miles in total area. The island has a relatively low profile with the exception of a rugged central mountain range.

The highest peak in the range is Vail Peak, at 1589 feet.

It is a diverse island of grass-covered rolling hills, steep canyons, creeks, rocky inter-tidal areas and sandy beaches adorned with sand dunes and driftwood. The Chumash, the native peoples who inhabited the Channel Islands for well over twelve millennia called this island “wima,” the Chumash word for “driftwood.” It is thought that the island is so named for the driftwood (sometimes redwood) logs that would wash ashore here. They would use these logs to craft dugout canoes called “ tomols ” with which they would travel and trade from island to island and to the mainland.

In the 1970’s and 80’s scuba divers flocked to Santa Rosa to take advantage of the many species of game fish available. Talcott Shoals, which lies off the northwest section of the island, is a large plateau that offers various terrains for divers. The western section of Talcott becomes more dramatic in its topography and offers not only hunting opportunities for game-divers, but great underwater photography opportunities as well. The shipwreck of the Aggie , which lays in 25 to 50 feet of water along a ridge, is readily accessible to divers at Talcott. The east end of Santa Rosa has a wonderful assortment of pinnacles that are covered in corynactis (strawberry anemone) and large schools of fish. Santa Rosa Island lies at an intersection of warm-water and cold, nutrient-rich currents. A diverse web of marine life can be found and enjoyed in these pristine waters.

Kayaking at Santa Rosa Island is a fascinating way to experience a wild California seascape. The sandy beaches and cliffs are breeding and resting areas for sea birds and seals and sea lions. Kayaking will often give you views and access to wildlife that you might not get in any other way. However, being a wild place means that we are at the mercy of the wind and waves. There may be times when the conditions are not favorable for kayaking, or when kayaking at particular location may require you and your group to be experienced paddlers.

Hiking with Channel Islands Expeditions on Santa Rosa Island will lead you down some of the several trails and roads traverse the island, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the spectacular scenery Santa Rosa provides. These trails and roads range from the relatively flat route to Water Canyon Beach to the rugged, mountainous path to Black Mountain.

A variety of Torrey Pine ( Pinus torreyana var. insularis ) grows on the island. The population of this endangered species is estimated at approximately 1000 trees. This ancient grove is just a remnant of a much larger forest of Torrey pines that once existed in the Pleistocene era, some 12,000 years ago. A trail that leads to this exceedingly rare species of pine tree can be accessed from Becher’s Bay, the island’s main landing.

Keep a sharp eye out for the Island fox, Spotted skunk, and Munchkin dudleya ( Dudleya gnoma ); one of the six endemic plant species on the island. 

Archeological and paleontological sites are abundant on the island. In 1994, the world’s most complete skeleton of a pygmy mammoth ( Mammuthus exilis ) had been excavated; a dwarf species related to the Columbian mammoths. In 1960 archaeologists discovered humans remains dating back 13,000 years at Arlington Springs on Santa Rosa Island. These remains are among the oldest human remains in the Americas and were discovered by Phil C. Orr, curator of anthropology and natural history at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Orr believed the remains were those of a 10,000-year old man and dubbed them the “Arlington Springs Man”.

Santa Rosa Island was originally part of a Spanish land grant. The island was used as a sheep ranch during the mid-1800s by the More family. Then during the cold war the United States Air Force maintained a radar base on the island. In the late 1970s Mobil Oil Corporation was granted exploration rights on the island. Both explosive and vibroseis exploration methods were used. Extensive surveys and geological maps were made at that time. Finally, in 1980, Santa Rosa Island was included within Channel Islands National Park.

San Miguel Island

Wind-battered San Miguel Island is the westernmost of California’s Channel Islands lying 45 nautical miles (nm) from Santa Barbara. San Miguel is the sixth largest of all eight offshore islands at 9,500 acres or 14 square miles, including offshore islands and rocks. The island at its furthest extent is 8 miles long and 3.7 miles wide. The highest peak is San Miguel Hill, at 831 feet. Its maritime location makes San Miguel subject to high winds and lots of fog. The cold, nutrient-rich water surrounding the island supports a diverse array of sea life that is not found on the southern or eastern counterparts.

Channel Islands Expeditions can take you to this windswept tableland of lush grasses and wildflowers, with 27 miles of jagged, rocky coastline dotted with sandy white beaches. An impressive Caliche forest (sand-castings of an ancient forest) near Cuyler’s Harbor reminds us that San Miguel once supported much more varied plant life than it does now. The westernmost beach, Point Bennett, is the only place in the world where up to five different species of pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) can be found. When the weather permits, scuba diving and kayaking with these creatures is a truly unique experience.

San Miguel has some of the most spectacular scuba diving found anywhere off the coast of California. On a given day the water can be 10 to 15 degrees colder at San Miguel so proper equipment (7 mm wetsuit minimum or drysuit) is needed to enjoy this remote dive location. The topography at its offshore pinnacles makes a diver feel small. Mountainous pinnacles can go from 20 feet of water to 200 on some walls. More varieties of seals and sea lions can be viewed here than any other Channel Island. Protected coves, banks, offshore rocks and pinnacles make this a sought-after destination for scuba divers. Weather protects this island from too much human visitation so patience is needed to dive here on a nice day. A nice day at San Miguel is about as good as it gets.

Weather, weather, weather. Anyone who sets out to enjoy a day of kayaking around San Miguel Island needs to understand that the weather at this remote island can change in a minute. Generally, it would be considered a more advanced area to kayak but good weather periods do happen. The remoteness and wildlife at this island make kayaking incredibly unique. Large seal and sea lion colonies are spread out along the shores. Many varieties seabirds call this home and dolphins and whales are commonly sighted near shore. Special arrangements can be made on private charters for island to island kayaking. Advanced kayakers have found the downhill run in a northwest wind to be invigorating. Attempting this should be done by only those who have the skill and endurance along with support vessel assistance supplied by Channel Islands Expeditions on its multi-day liveaboard excursions.

There are several trails that traverse San Miguel Island providing a variety of hikes. Many parts of the island are closed to protect wildlife, fragile plants, and geological features, so hikes outside of the Cuyler Harbor beach, Cabrillo Monument, and Lester Ranch site are done with a qualified naturalist or Park Ranger. Longer hikes are available on Channel Islands Expeditions multi-day liveaboard excursions to San Miguel. A vigorous 16-mile hike to Point Bennett will take you to see one of the most spectacular wildlife events on our planet. Over 30,000 seals and sea lions can be hauled out on the point at certain times of year.

There is no pier on San Miguel Island so all landings are done by inflatable skiff at Cuyler Harbor. Landing on the island can be an exciting experience as the surf can make the landing challenging. Channel Islands Expeditions has developed a “launch line” procedure that has made this operation much safer for our passengers.

Being the most westerly of the Channel Islands, San Miguel Island is more prone to receive the brunt of any weather systems that move through the area. Most of the time a strong northwest wind blows across the island and these winds typically exceed 25 mph and can surpass 50 mph. When strong high pressure is over the mainland, the winds often cease creating a surreal environment. On warmer days the fog will burn off only to have the strong northwest wind blow in additional fog from the open ocean. On foggy days the temperature will rarely exceed 55°F.

The National Park Service maintains two airstrips, a ranger station and a research station on the island. San Miguel is normally staffed by a ranger who enforces park laws, while also sometimes providing interpretive services for public visitors. The island also hosts scientists that study pinnipeds and manage the Island fox (Urocyon littoralis) captive breeding program that is conducted on the island. Volunteer interpretive rangers often fill in for regularly paid rangers due to budget deficits within the park. Park employees and researchers are flown to the island by Channel Islands Aviation. Public visitors are not permitted to fly in.

Archaeological research has uncovered over 600 fragile and relatively undisturbed sites belonging to the native peoples that once lived here. Some have been radio-carbon dated to 11,600 years ago. Because the northern Channel Islands have not been connected to the adjacent mainland in recent geological history, the paleoindians who first settled the island clearly had boats and other maritime technologies. Rough seas and risky landings did not daunt the Chumash who lived there in later times, nor did they deter the first European explorer, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, in 1542, who first claimed the island for the Spanish crown, named it “La Posesion.” San Miguel is also rumored to be Cabrillo’s burial place (there is a monument there in his honor).

Ranchers raised sheep from 1850 to 1948. One of the longest homesteaded ranching families were the Lesters, a family of four that parted their way from the island during Pearl Harbor due to the dangers the war posed on them. The detailed information was written and published in a book called “The Legendary King of San Miguel Island,” by Elizabeth Sherman Lester. Later, the United States Navy used the island for a bombing range.

San Miguel is world famous for its pinniped viewing. In the winter, as many as 30,000 individual seals and sea lions of five different species can be seen at one time on Point Bennett, where they breed and birth their pups. Other wildlife includes the Island fox ( Urocyon littoralis ), a species that is found only on the Channel Islands. Over one third of the bird-life in the Channel Islands National Park lives here on San Miguel Island. Species like the California brown pelican ( Pelecanus occidentalis californicus),  cormorants, and Cassin’s auklets all breed on the island and its surrounding islets. Terrestrial birds include the Western meadowlark ( Sturnella neglecta ), Channel Islands song sparrow ( Melospiza melodia graminea ), and Peregrine falcons ( Falco peregrinus ).

A geologic feature called the caliche forest attracts many people. This ghost forest was formed by caliche sand castings of plant roots and trunks. Today the plants are long gone, leaving behind the eerie stone replicas. Come springtime, San Miguel’s wildflowers are spectacular due to the abundance of fog and moisture. Any one of these natural features is stunning in its own right. Together, they make for a photographer’s paradise.

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Channel Islands National Park & Visitor Center

The Channel Islands National Park, referred to as “The American Galapagos,” encompasses five remarkable and remote islands right off the Ventura coast: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara. The Channel Islands and encircling waters are home to over 2,000 plants and animals, of which 145 are found nowhere else in the world including the Island Fox. Established as a National Park in 1980, each of the islands is a fascinating world unto itself. World class diving, hiking, kayaking, sea cave exploration, photography, snorkeling, camping, wildlife and wildflower viewing, the Channel Islands offers uninterrupted time with family and friends while relaxing to the soothing sounds of the natural world.

The Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center features a bookstore, gift items, live tidal pool with daily talks, viewing tower, and exhibits featuring the unique character of each park island. The viewing tower offers one of the best views of Ventura Harbor, the Channel Islands, and the Ventura coastline.

Visitors can also enjoy the newly released high-definition 25-minute movie entitled, “Treasure in the Sea”, narrated by Kevin Costner.

View Transcript

New Ways to Visit Channel Islands National Park

Check out the  Channel Islands National Park digital app to enhance the visitor experience in the park that can also be used to take a virtual visit. The new mobile app is free and available at the   App Store  or on   Google Play .

Features in the app include exploring the islands through stories, sites, self-guided tours, and interactive maps, or finding favorite places, trails, and topics of interest. Visitors can use the app to create a collage of the images from your visit or to track a calendar of current conditions, events, or ranger programs. The app is fully accessible with audio description and alternative text for images. To learn more go to   NPS Channel Islands App .

Getting To The Islands And Camping

Island Packers , the official concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, offers both landing and non-landing trips to all five islands. Landing trips provide the perfect setting for island hiking, camping, and kayaking. Non-landing trips include whale watching into the waters of the Santa Barbara Channel and the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary to view the larger of the marine mammals, the Pacific Gray Whales and Humpback and Blue Whales. In addition, Island Packers also offers Wildlife Cruises featuring a three-hour narrated tour along the rugged north shore of Anacapa or Santa Cruz Island with highlights including sightings of sea lions, seals, and island birds.

For information, pricing, and reservations visit  www.islandpackers.com

Camping  in the Channel Islands National Park Reservations:  www.recreation/gov Camping Permits: 877.444.6777

World Class Diving

The Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary offers world-class diving options. Lush with kelp forests and teaming with marine life, diving at the Channel Islands – Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands are very accessible from the Ventura Coast out of Ventura Harbor.  Ventura Dive & Sport offers dive lessons and dive rentals on site at Ventura Harbor Village.  Several options are available from overnight boat trips to day dives.  A variety of dining options await you at Ventura Harbor upon return.  Overnight at Four Points by Sheraton or Holiday Inn Express and Suites in the Ventura Harbor before or after your dive trip.

www.peaceboat.com www.raptordive.com www.calboatdiving.com www.venturadive.com

Kayak Trips

Channel Islands Kayak Center arranges kayak tours or rentals to the Channel Islands, and is located next to Islands Packers in the Ventura Harbor. Join a kayak sea caving tour, or rentals include easy to use sit-on-top ocean going kayaks, a full safety briefing, map of the island caves and up-to-date weather information before your trip. For reservation information visit  www.cikayak.com .

Marine Sanctuary

Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary encompasses 1,470 square miles of the ocean environment surrounding five of the eight California Channel Islands – Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara. . Beautiful waters and pristine anchorages also make the sanctuary a popular year-round destination for recreational boaters and kayakers. Chartered sailing adventures are available out of Channel Islands Harbor and guided kayaking trips as well as rentals are available through the Channel Islands National Park’s visitor services page. SCUBA divers can enjoy word class dive sites and even view some of the protected wrecks within the sanctuary – check with local dive vessels for available trips and remember to please look but don’t touch. The sanctuary is also a popular destination for recreational fishing, with many chartered trips available out of local harbors. Know before you go: the sanctuary also has a network of Marine Protected Areas with 11 marine reserves that prohibit all fishing activities, and two marine conservation areas that allow limited take of lobster and pelagic fish.

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Adventure Sea Caves Kayak

Discovery sea caves kayak, ultimate sea caves kayak, guided snorkel excursion, snorkel & kayak tour.

OUR MOST POPULAR TOUR!

Experience the stunning beauty of Channel Islands National Park on our Adventure Sea Caves Kayak Tour at Scorpion Anchorage. On this tour, you’ll spend 2.5-3 hours exploring the unparalleled natural wonders of this unique area. With more sea cave kayaking opportunities than any other part of the park, Scorpion Anchorage is the ultimate destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and kayaking enthusiasts.

Availability Meets on Santa Cruz Island daily at 10:30am and select days at 9:30am.

Tour Time (~4 hours)

~1 hr – Orientation, gearing up, and paddle talk ~2.5-3 hours – Kayaking

Paddling Distance

2.5-3 miles

Level of Difficulty

Beginner through advanced levels. Children under age 5 not permitted.

Tours often sellout. Please book in advance. Compare All Tours

$205 per adult + ferry transportation ($66)* $187 per child 12 and under + ferry transportation ($53)*

*Ferry tickets must be purchased to get to the island. You’ll have the option to add your ferry ticket to your cart. If you already have ferry tickets directly through Island Packers you can select to not add ferry tickets to your cart.

Ferry Tickets The 10:30am tour requires a ferry departure of 9am or earlier from Ventura Harbor. The 9:30am tour requires a ferry departure of 8am. Check-in is one hour prior to departure.

Ferry return times vary daily and will depart anywhere between 3:30pm and 5:00pm (arrival in Ventura between 4:30pm and 7:00pm). If you would like to know your exact ferry return time for a specific date, please call or email us.

What if I want to snorkel? Snorkel gear is available for rent at our storefront on the island. Please note that there is no time for snorkeling during the Adventure Tour. However, you are welcome to snorkel before or after your tour if time allows. Please tell your guide at check-in if you are interested in snorkeling.

Snorkel rental pricing:* • Snorkel & Mask – $19 • Fins only – $19 • Snorkel, Mask and Fins – $37 • Three-Piece 7mm Wetsuit – $37 • Full package (mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit) – $69

*Our storefront accepts all major credit cards, but we do NOT accept cash for snorkel rentals. All snorkel rentals include a flotation belt.

More Details

Channel Islands Adventure Company is the sole kayak guide and outfitter concessionaire for the Channel Islands National Park at Scorpion Anchorage. We are the number one choice for Channel Islands National Park outfitting and tours. Dangerous conditions may exist at any time of the year, and we cannot guarantee cave exploration. This overview serves as a general guideline to you help plan your island trip and is subject to change on a day-to-day basis or at the guide’s discretion.

Visit our FAQ’s page .

“It was an awesome experience that allowed us to explore and enjoy nature while having fun.”

– Karen Hemkey

Owned and operated by Santa Barbara Adventure Company.

Our Discovery Sea Caves Kayak Tour is a shortened version of our Adventure Sea Caves Kayak Tour. For 1-1.5 hours you’ll kayak through stunning sea caves, kelp forests, and pristine coastlines. Perfect for first-timers visiting the island, this tour allows you to pack in multiple experiences into one day, from hiking and snorkeling to birding and exploring endemic species. Don’t miss out on the rich history and breathtaking scenery that this national park has to offer.

Availability February-November: Most days

Meets on Santa Cruz Island at 9:30am and/or 10:30am as well as 12:30pm and/or 1:30pm (meet times depend on the ferry schedule to Santa Cruz Island – Scorpion Anchorage)

Tour Time (~2.5 hours)

~1 hr – Orientation, gearing up, and paddle talk ~1-1.5 hours – Kayaking

$145 per adult + ferry transportation ($66)* $127 per child 12 and under + ferry transportation ($53)*

Ferry Tickets The 9:30am tour requires an 8:00am ferry departure (7am check-in time). The 12:30pm tour requires a 10:00am ferry departure or earlier (check-in is one hour prior to ferry departure). Ferry options typically will be 8:00am, 9:00am or 10:00am. The 1:30pm tour requires a 4:30pm or later return from the island.

What if I want to snorkel? Snorkel gear is available for rent at our storefront on the island. Please note that there is no time for snorkeling during the Discovery Tour. However, you are welcome to snorkel before or after your tour if time allows. Please tell your guide at check-in if you are interested in snorkeling.

The longest of our kayaking tour options, the Ultimate Sea Caves Kayak Tour is for the true ocean adventurer. We’ll explore incredible sea caves and kelp forests along our route to the famous Potato Harbor, a remote area of the park that allows for a truly breathtaking and memorable experience with its aqua-colored cove and pristine shoreline.

This tour is best for

1. Intermediate-Advanced kayakers who are looking for a longer day on the water, must have 8am ferry departure and 4:30pm return 2. Campers on their 2nd day at the island, so they can enjoy a first full day exploring the island on land

Availability This tour is offered on Friday-Sunday and Wednesdays from May through November. Meets on Santa Cruz Island at 9:30am.

Tour Time (~5 hours)

~1 hr – Orientation, gearing up, and paddle talk ~3-4 hours – Kayaking

Intermediate – Advanced

Summer tours often sellout. Please book in advance. Compare All Tours

$275 per person + ferry transportation (adults $66 / children 12 and under $53)*

Ferry Tickets This tour requires a ferry departure of 8am (check-in at 7am) or prior nights camping on Santa Cruz Island. This tour also requires a 4:30pm or later ferry return. 

When booking ferry tickets on our website, the return times vary daily and will depart anywhere between 4:30pm and 5:00pm (arrival in Ventura between 5:00pm and 7:00pm). If you would like to know your exact ferry return time for a specific date, please call or email us.

What if I want to snorkel? Snorkel gear is available for rent at our storefront on the island. Please note there is no time for those snorkeling if you are on the Ultimate Tour unless you are camping.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of kelp forests and pristine coastlines on our Guided Snorkel Excursion at Scorpion Anchorage. Our expert guides offer a wealth of knowledge on marine ecology and the natural history of the islands, allowing you to gain a deeper appreciation of the underwater world. Explore the island’s vibrant sea life and create lasting memories on this educational and scenic adventure.

Availability Our Guided Snorkel Excursion run every Sunday starting at 11am and 1:30pm from mid-June through September 30th.

Snorkel Snorkel Excursion Time (~3 hours)

~1 hr – Orientation, gearing up, and paddle talk ~1-1.5 hr – Snorkeling ~30 min – Gearing down

Intermediate through advanced experience levels recommended. Minimum age 10; children 12 and under must be escorted by an adult guardian on the excursion. All guests MUST know how to swim. Prior snorkeling experience is REQUIRED .

• Snorkel & Mask* • Fins • 3-piece, 7mm Wetsuit • Snorkel flotation device • Knowledgeable guide(s) on the local natural history and marine ecology *We do not have prescription masks. If you have contact lenses, you should wear them. *We provide wetsuits and snorkel masks; however, if you would like to bring your own, you are more than welcome to do so.

Guided Snorkel Excursions often sellout. Please book in advance. Compare All Tours

$151 per person + ferry transportation (adults $66 / children 12 and under $53)*

Ferry Tickets The morning excursion requires a 9:30am or earlier ferry departure (check-in 1hr prior to departure). The afternoon excursion requires a 4:30pm or later return from the island.

Ferry return times vary daily and will depart anywhere between 4:00pm and 5:00pm (arrival in Ventura between 5:00pm and 7:00pm). If you would like to know your exact ferry return time for a specific date, please call or email us.

What if I don’t want a guide but want to rent snorkel equipment? Snorkel gear is available for rent at our storefront on the island.

Explore Channel Islands National Park both above and below the ocean’s surface on our expert-led Kayak & Snorkel Tour at Scorpion Anchorage. Kayak through vibrant kelp forests, sea caves, and the island’s pristine coastlines. Our knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey through marine ecology and the rich history of the island. Get up close with sea life and leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the underwater world.

1. Guests who already have previous kayaking and snorkeling experience. Guests should be comfortable in the ocean and comfortable swimming with a snorkel. 2. Campers who are already on the island and want a full day of adventure on & in the water

Availability Our Snorkel & Kayak Tours run every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 9:30am from mid-June through September 30th on days when there is an 8am ferry departure.

Snorkel & Kayak Tour Time (~5 hours)

~1 hr 45 min – Orientation, gearing up, and paddle talk ~1-1.5 hr – Kayaking ~15 min – Lunch ~45 min – Snorkeling ~30 min – Gearing down

Intermediate through advanced experience levels recommended. Minimum age 10; children 12 and under must be escorted by an adult guardian on the tour. All guests MUST know how to swim. Prior snorkeling experience is REQUIRED .

• Snorkel & Mask* • Fins • 3-piece, 7mm Wetsuit • Snorkel flotation device • PFD (personal flotation device) for kayaking • Ocean kayak** • Knowledgeable guide(s) on exploring sea caves as well as the local natural history and marine ecology

*We do not have prescription masks. If you have contact lenses, you should wear them. *We provide wetsuits and snorkel masks; however, if you would like to bring your own, you are more than welcome to do so. **By default, even-numbered parties will be paired in a tandem (2-person) kayak. For single or odd-numbered parties, single (1-person) kayaks will be provided.

Ferry Tickets This tour requires an 8am ferry departure (7am check-in) or prior nights camping on Santa Cruz Island. This tour also requires a 4:30pm or later ferry return.

What if I don’t want a tour but want to rent snorkel equipment? Snorkel gear is available for rent at our storefront on the island.

Island Packers

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Channel Islands National Park & Visitors Center

Channel islands national park.

The Channel Islands National Park, referred to as “The American Galapagos,” encompasses five remarkable and remote islands right off the Ventura coast: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara. The Channel Islands and encircling waters are home to over 2,000 plants and animals, of which 145 are found nowhere else in the world including the Island Fox. Established as a National Park in 1980, each of the islands is a fascinating world unto itself. World-class diving, hiking, kayaking, sea cave exploration, photography, snorkeling, camping, wildlife, and wildflower viewing, the Channel Islands offers uninterrupted time with family and friends while relaxing to the soothing sounds of the natural world.

The Robert J. Lagomarsino

Channel islands national park visitors center.

The Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center features a bookstore, gift items, live tidal pool with daily talks, viewing tower, and exhibits featuring the unique character of each park island. The viewing tower offers one of the best views of Ventura Harbor, the Channel Islands, and the Ventura coastline.

- Free Admission

- open 7 days a week.

Free parking at Harbor Cove Beach on Spinnaker Drive.

Visitors can enjoy the newly released high-definition 25-minute movie entitled, “Treasure in the Sea”, narrated by Kevin Costner.

0:58 Out on the horizon, 1:00 a distant world shimmers. 1:08 Five islands and the seas around them. 1:13 A wilderness protected by wind and waves. 1:21 It is a place of solitude and adventure. 1:32 A glimpse of what California used to be. 1:39 Out past the edge of the continent, 1:41 out on the edge of the imagination, this lost world beckons. 2:08 Off the coast of southern California lie a group of islands cloaked in mist. 2:13 Channel Islands National Park. 2:16 It's just a short boat ride from one of the most populated regions on Earth. 2:20 But few travel here, out where the mainland ends. 2:25 Those who do 2:26 find a remarkable refuge. Half land, 2:30 half water. 2:32 Isolated, but overflowing with life. 2:39 Five islands and the sea that guards them. 2:45 Anacapa, 2:47 jutting out of the sea. Craggy and volcanic 2:55 with its iconic Arch Rock, 2:58 the historic lighthouse, 3:03 and wildflowers that bring the rocky soil to life. 3:12 Santa Cruz, 3:13 the largest and most of diverse of them all. A rough, mountainous island cut by a massive fault line. 3:23 Home to nearly 60 plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. 3:28 And for the many visitors who come from the mainland, 3:31 it is an island playground. 3:40 Santa Rosa, 3:44 a landscape that rolls from the mountains to the marshes, 3:48 sheltering rare Torrey Pines, 3:51 weathered sandstone canyons, 3:54 and vestiges of a ranching past. 4:05 San Miguel, 4:06 an island of extremes. 4:11 Wild, windy, and remote, 4:13 where isolated beaches protect one of the largest rookeriess 4:16 of seals and sea lions in the world. 4:19 And ancient dunes reveal the caliche forest, 4:23 fossilized trees from long ago. 4:33 Santa Barbara, the tiny tableland. 4:42 A mesa framed by twin peaks, and steep rock faces. 4:49 Where stunning wildflowers and nesting seabirds draw the occasional visitor from the distant mainland. 4:57 And all around, 4:58 an underwater national park. 5:01 A mile of sea on the fringes of the land. 5:07 One of the planet's great marine ecosystems, 5:11 flowing with life. 5:39 Harsh and lonely. 5:42 There is nothing easy about life on these islands, 5:46 yet people have been drawn here for over 13,000 years. 5:51 Some of the oldest human remains known in North America 5:54 were discovered here. 5:58 The native Chumash people were one of the 6:00 most advanced societies of their time. 6:06 They developed a complex society, 6:10 trading with the mainland in plank canoes, and using shell beads for money. 6:17 For thousands of years, they flourished. 6:20 Then, in 1542, the Spaniards arrived 6:24 led by explorer 6:25 Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo. 6:28 But the meeting of European 6:29 and native cultures 6:30 would be tragic. 6:32 The Chumash were exposed to new diseases, like the measles and smallpox , 6:37 that devastated their populations. 6:40 By the mid- 1800s, the Chumash were forced from their island homes 6:44 and into missions along the coast. 6:48 Despite these hardships, 6:49 the Chumash people have never given up their connection to this island homeland. 6:55 In time, others would come, 6:57 drawn by the rich resources: 6:59 Otter hunters, fishermen, 7:02 sheep and cattle ranchers. 7:07 Some manned the islands as military outposts. 7:13 Others ran the beacons to guide vessels through hazardous seas. 7:19 Over the years, the reasons for valuing these islands changed. 7:24 A new approach to stewardship would emerge, 7:27 to restore and protect them, 7:30 creating a national park, 7:32 an international biosphere reserve, 7:35 and a national marine sanctuary. 7:38 A place of research and recreation, 7:41 attracting a new type of traveler. 8:03 It's only an hour from the freeways of southern California, 8:08 but when visitors arrive, they can tell 8:10 this is a different world. 8:14 Millions of people may live less than a hundred miles away, 8:17 but here, you are alone. 8:23 This craggy coastline offers a chance to experience the land the way it once was. 8:29 The original California. 8:37 Female hiker : "Our family goes camping on the 8:38 Channel Islands 8:40 to get away from it all. 8:43 There's just something about this place. It feels so wild, so remote, 8:51 like you're in your own world." 8:55 Narrator: This is the rugged charm of these lonely islands. 8:59 The vistas to be discovered, 9:03 the journeys waiting to be undertaken. 9:08 It's a place of jagged beauty 9:13 where calm restores the spirit. 9:17 A quiet corner of the world. 9:42 Despite their closeness to the coast, 9:44 these islands have never been connected to the mainland. 9:48 This isolation has fostered the development of plants and animals that 9:51 exist nowhere else on the planet. 9:56 Nearly 150 unique species of flora and fauna. 10:02 Like the island fox, 10:04 one of the rarest mammals in North America. 10:09 The Torrey pines and the island oak, 10:12 some of the most distinctive trees in the world. 10:16 And the island scrub-jay, 10:18 found only on Santa Cruz Island. 10:23 These isolated Channel 10:24 Islands have been their refuge, 10:27 with miles of ocean to protect them, 10:30 strong winds and rough seas to shield them. 10:52 It starts in the waves themselves, 10:54 a rich web of life that reaches up from the sea. 10:58 Here, the cold currents of the north Pacific collide with 11:01 the warm waters of the south, 11:04 and combined with a great upwelling of nutrients from the ocean floor. 11:09 A living soup develops that supports more than 2,000 species 11:13 from tiny plankton, 11:15 to giant whales. 11:27 It's one of the most diverse marine environments on Earth. 11:51 No wonder divers and swimmers from all over the world come here. 11:56 It's like swimming in a great aquarium. 12:11 Others come looking for adventure along the coast, 12:14 to explore some of the largest sea caves on Earth, 12:17 the rock cathedrals, 12:19 where the ceilings soar. 12:23 Kayaker: "They call this the Painted Cave . 12:26 It's here on the edge of Santa Cruz Island. 12:31 It's an incredible setting. 12:34 Paddling through the water here lets me experience 12:37 the park in a completely different way. 12:39 I become immersed in the sea, 12:42 intimate with the coastline and the marine life." 12:53 Narrator: Life flourishes at the boundary between land and sea, 12:57 where tidepools 12:57 support a rich tapestry of life. 13:02 It's a place between two worlds, half land, half liquid, 13:08 battered by the waves 13:12 and baked by the sun. It's a world of extremes. 13:21 And those who come to visit find an entire universe at their feet. 13:43 This land -sea connection provides a refuge for birds as well. 13:47 They arrive in large numbers, 13:49 drawn by the isolation, 13:51 the lack of predators, and the food. 13:55 For thousands of sea birds traveling the Pacific, 13:58 these little pieces of land are key for survival. 14:02 Year after year, they come to breed, 14:05 to nest in secluded rookeries. 14:08 Pelicans and cormorants, 14:12 oystercatchers and western gulls. 14:16 This abundance of wildlife doesn't just make these islands an enjoyable place to visit. 14:21 For scientists, 14:22 it's a living laboratory, 14:24 a place to see how a small fragile pool species 14:28 can change and adapt. 14:30 And in this laboratory, 14:32 research is under way 14:34 in the giant kelp forest. 14:38 This is not just any seaweed. 14:41 This is a great rainforest beneath the waves. 14:45 Giant kelp is one of the fastest growing plants on Earth, 14:49 growing up to two feet a day. 14:54 Below the surface, light plays through these great strands like shafts of sunlight through stained glass. 15:01 But a quiet crisis is brewing here. 15:05 Many of the magnificent animals in the kelp forest 15:07 have disappeared, as a result of overfishing 15:10 and a changing environment. 15:13 Since the 1980s, teams of researchers have been diving here 15:16 to monitor the undersea life 15:18 and track exactly how it's doing. 15:23 Female Scientist: "Some creatures, like the abalone, were prevalent just a few decades ago. 15:27 but now, they're rare. 15:29 That's why this work is so important. To protect the ecosystem, you have 15:33 pay attention. You have to know its health. 15:36 That's why we're so committed to this work." 15:42 Narrator: This is all part of the longest running monitoring program in the national parks, 15:47 the model many others are based on. 15:50 Because this data is so extensive, 15:53 it was used to help establish marine reserves, 15:56 underwater refuges closed to fishing. 15:59 And the results are encouraging. There are now more fish, and bigger fish, 16:04 in these reserves. 16:06 For all the changes these submarine forests continue to harbor 16:10 a remarkable range of underwater life, 16:13 nearly a thousand species of plants and animals. 16:22 Scientists have also been documenting an amazing story of recovery and renewal 16:26 in one of the most isolated regions of the park. 16:30 San Miguel Island. 16:32 It is something that could have only occurred in a place as remote 16:35 and protected as this. 16:38 It was here that the northern elephant seal was hunted 16:42 to near extinction less than a century ago. 16:45 Today, however, things are different. 16:51 It is one of the world's great wildlife displays. 16:54 Tens of thousands of seals and sea lions are coming ashore, as they do each year. 17:00 The world's largest congregation of northern elephant seals, northern fur seals, harbor seals, and California sea lions all haul up on these sandy beaches to breed, pup, and molt. 17:17 Scientists will occasionally venture into the rookery to study their behavior 17:21 and monitor their health. 17:26 Scientist: "It's been pretty awesome 17:27 to witness this steady population increase for three decades. 17:41 It's a fairly uplifting thing because we've 17:43 also been studying other animals 17:45 that have been added to the endangered species list. 17:48 So it's been pretty wonderful to watch this. 17:53 Narrator: There aren't many places left in North America like this, 17:56 places secluded and inaccessible, 17:59 places that these animals can call home. 18:03 Scientist: "There's been a tremendous value of having 18:06 these islands protected, 18:08 remote, even though we've got fifteen million people less 18:12 than a hundred miles away. 18:13 The fact that these habitats were here 18:15 is the key factor 18:18 in their population success and recovery." 18:36 Narrator: Our national parks protect places like the Channel Islands, 18:40 offering a new approach to managing this fragile ecosystem, 18:44 one that is still recovering 18:45 from the unintended consequences of an earlier era. 18:50 Like the introduction of non-native animals, 18:52 which altered the islands, 18:54 devastating native plants and animals. 18:58 Over time, these non-native species have been removed, 19:02 and in just a few decades, 19:04 the islands have begun to turn a corner. 19:08 Signs of recovery can be seen 19:10 on islands from Santa Barbara to San Miguel. 19:15 Two of the great success stories are the recovery of island foxes 19:18 and bald eagles. 19:21 Not long ago, the island fox was on the brink of extinction, 19:26 with only 14 left on Santa Rosa, 19:27 and 15 on San Miguel. 19:30 And bald eagles had disappeared from the Channel Islands altogether. 19:35 Then a program to re-establish both species gradually rebuilt their populations. 19:41 Now both species are back from the edge of extinction 19:44 and out in the wild again. And they are not alone. 19:50 The once endangered northern elephant seals, California brown pelicans, peregrine falcons, 19:58 and island plant communities are all recovering 20:00 in this protected habitat as well. 20:04 The National Park Service is also studying and preserving important vestiges of our past, 20:08 to provide a greater understanding 20:11 of how people have adapted to these islands 20:13 for over 13,000 years. 20:17 From the long and unique tradition of island ranching, 20:20 to the shipwrecks 20:21 that reveal a maritime heritage, 20:24 to the earliest traces of the first island people. 20:27 All are preserved by this national park. 20:32 And today, those who trace their heritage to the islands 20:36 20:37 still feel the pull of this place. 20:39 Native Chumash Woman: "Our ancestors came from these islands, 20:42 and each time we come back, we can feel their presence here. 20:46 We walk in their same footsteps through this unspoiled natural landscape. 20:52 It's wonderful to know that our children will be able to come back 20:56 and know the beauty and significance of this place." 21:23 Narrator: And so today, the Channel Islands beckon us. 21:28 175 miles of untouched coastline. 21:34 The opportunity to see a vibrant world 21:36 teeming with life. 21:40 To make sure it stays that way 21:42 is a mission that continues. 21:45 To hold this land in trust for the generations to follow. 21:50 This is the calling of Channel Islands National Park. 21:59 For all, a place to study and cherish, 22:02 a place to experience and enjoy, 22:05 a place to conserve. 22:08 Out past the edge of the continent, it waits, 22:11 guarded by the wind and the waves, 22:14 this island world, a wilderness shimmering on the horizon.

New Ways To Visit Channel Islands National Park

Check out the Channel Islands National Park digital app to enhance the visitor experience in the park that can also be used to take a virtual visit. The new mobile app is free and available at the App Store or on Google Play.

Features in the app include exploring the islands through stories, sites, self-guided tours, and interactive maps, or finding favorite places, trails, and topics of interest. Visitors can use the app to create a collage of the images from your visit or to track a calendar of current conditions, events, or ranger programs. The app is fully accessible with audio descriptions and alternative text for images. To learn more go to NPS Channel Islands App .

Getting To The Islands & Camping

Island Packers , the official concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, offers both landing and non-landing trips to all five islands. Landing trips provide the perfect setting for island hiking, camping, and kayaking. Non-landing trips include whale watching into the waters of the Santa Barbara Channel and the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary to view the larger of the marine mammals, the Pacific Gray Whales and Humpback and Blue Whales. In addition, Island Packers also offers Wildlife Cruises featuring a three-hour narrated tour along the rugged north shore of Anacapa or Santa Cruz Island with highlights including sightings of sea lions, seals, and island birds.

For information, pricing, and reservations visit islandpackers.com .

Camping in the Channel Islands National Park Reservations: recreation.gov . Camping Permits: 877.444.6777

World Class Diving

The Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary offers world-class diving options. Lush with kelp forests and teaming with marine life, diving at the Channel Islands – Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands are very accessible from the Ventura Coast out of Ventura Harbor. Ventura Dive & Sport offers dive lessons and dive rentals on site at Ventura Harbor Village. Several options are available from overnight boat trips to day dives. A variety of dining options await you at Ventura Harbor upon return. Overnight at Four Points by Sheraton or Holiday Inn Express and Suites in the Ventura Harbor before or after your dive trip.

peaceboat.com raptordive.com calboatdiving.com venturadive.com

Kayak Trips

Channel Islands Kayak Center arranges kayak tours or rentals to the Channel Islands and is located next to Islands Packers in the Ventura Harbor. Join a kayak sea caving tour, or rentals include easy to use sit-on-top ocean-going kayaks, a full safety briefing, a map of the island caves, and up-to-date weather information before your trip. For reservation information visit cikayak.com .

Marine Sanctuary

Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary encompasses 1,470 square miles of the ocean environment surrounding five of the eight California Channel Islands – Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara. . Beautiful waters and pristine anchorages also make the sanctuary a popular year-round destination for recreational boaters and kayakers. Chartered sailing adventures are available out of Channel Islands Harbor and guided kayaking trips as well as rentals are available through the Channel Islands National Park’s visitor services page. SCUBA divers can enjoy word class dive sites and even view some of the protected wrecks within the sanctuary – check with local dive vessels for available trips and remember to please look but don’t touch. The sanctuary is also a popular destination for recreational fishing, with many chartered trips available out of local harbors. Know before you go: the sanctuary also has a network of Marine Protected Areas with 11 marine reserves that prohibit all fishing activities, and two marine conservation areas that allow limited take of lobster and pelagic fish.

Channel Islands National Park Visitor’s Guide

Book your stay, outdoor lovers of all ages welcome.

Channel Island National Park is an outdoor adventurer’s dream. The five islands — Santa Cruz, San Miguel, Anacapa, Santa Barbara and Santa Rosa — provide a peaceful escape from Southern California’s metropolitan areas, with miles of breathtaking coastal views, beautiful beaches, excellent hiking trails and more.

Explore The Treasures of Channel Islands National Park

The adventure begins with a scenic boat ride to the islands from Ventura County Coast , during which you might receive a warm greeting from whales or dolphins. Both 60- and 90-minute boat rides are available to the islands from Channel Islands and Ventura Harbors. Schedules vary depending on the season.

Once you arrive, try one of these exciting Channel Islands outdoor activities for an unforgettable adventure!

Take a dive!

With their giant kelp forests and marine life, Channel Islands National Park is a known playground for divers and offers a unique and memorable scuba diving experience. Channel Islands Adventure Company does a guided snorkeling tour along the gorgeous shoreline of Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island. It’s the perfect opportunity to see the beauty of the sea caves and sea life. Gear rental is included in the price of the snorkeling tours, which are open to all levels.

Hiking with a View

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the Channel Islands National Park. From easy hikes for beginners to advanced hikes for those who are more experienced, there is something for everyone. A popular hike is Smugglers Cove on Santa Cruz Island, which offers gorgeous views of the ocean, valleys, and mountains, and you’ll see the lush island plants and wildlife.

Over on Anacapa Island, guests can experience easier hiking trails with spectacular views. Anacapa is just an hour away from Ventura Harbor Village by boat, and the easy trails make it a great place for families. Camping is available as well!

Whale Watching

Channel Islands National Park is a premier destination for whale watching. Whales and dolphins put on quite the show for guests who board the tours that sail between Ventura County Coast and the Channel Islands. Island Packers offers tours that give guests a chance to see gray whales as they make their annual migration from late December through mid-April. In the summer months, humpback whales and occasionally giant blue whales can be seen on the tours.

Explore by Kayak

Kayaking is another great way to explore the spectacular sea caves at Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island. Santa Barbara Adventure Company ’s Adventure Sea Cave Kayak Tour meets twice a day on the island for kayaking excursions of up to three hours. Be sure to catch the ferry from Ventura Harbor no later than 9 a.m. to partake in this memorable experience!

With so many places to explore at Channel Islands National Park, you’ll certainly want to stay a while. Year-round camping is available on each of the islands, or you can catch an afternoon or evening boat ride back to the mainland and find great accommodations in Oxnard, Ventura, Port Hueneme or Camarillo.

Channel Islands Ferry

Both Ventura and Oxnard have a Channel Islands Ferry service through Island Packers. They offer daily trips to the islands with multiple excursions such as guided kayak tours, sea cave tours, and self guided hiking tours. You can also book a drop off and pickup ferry service to Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa and San Miguel Islands if you want to camp overnight.

See More of Ventura County Coast

Find amazing adventures and fun things to do in Ventura County Coast. Ready to book your stay? Find hotels in Ventura County ! Learn more about the National Park Service in Ventura County

Tag your Ventura County Coast photos with #VCCVibes for a chance to be featured!

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REMARKABLE EXPERIENCES

Ready to book your next adventure, visit these regions of ventura county coast.

Ventura County Coast

Port Hueneme

Channel Islands National Park

Ventura County Coast is a string of four communities that radiate warmth from welcoming people and California sunshine. The region embodies the casual and active spirit of classic, where the seafood is fresh, the beer is handcrafted and the weather is the kind you dream about. Spend the day exploring miles of beaches, incredible harbors or lush green golf courses. Hop on a boat for a day trip to the Channel Islands National Park, where you can see breathtaking views of the Southern California coastline. With a bustling culture, high end and vintage shopping, a lively culinary spirit and beautiful outdoor experiences, Ventura County Coast calls on every visitor to find their vibe. From hiking and biking to sailing and snorkeling, from shopping and dining to just plain relaxing, Ventura County Coast will fill your days with a lifetime of memories.

An hour north of Los Angeles, Camarillo is nestled at the base of the Conejo foothills surrounded by verdant green fields and cool ocean breezes. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, enjoy Camarillo alfresco. From outdoor shopping and concerts, to delicious dining and fun events, Camarillo has it all. With small town charm and a rich history, it is the place for romantic weddings and corporate venues. Visit the historical sites and museums during the day, and walk along Old Town for dinner and drinks at night. A great getaway for everyone, Camarillo is the ideal place to Come for the Sun, Stay for the Fun.

Rally your tribe and head for the Central Coast. California cool, panorama-perfect, culturally authentic and vibrant beyond measure. Oxnard is home to miles of pristine white sand beaches, electric nightlife, some of the best taquerias in the state, historic Victorian era architecture, the California Strawberry Festival, and an expansively picturesque harbor that serves as the closest access point to the Channel Islands National Park. Just sixty miles northwest of LAX and in close proximity to Santa Barbara and other major destinations, Oxnard is one of California’s best kept secrets.

A place that embodies a casual soul and unexpected allure, Ventura is a vibrant town that checks stress and pretense at the door.  Its artistic culture, enduring history and privileged locale is crazy-inviting, very much alive, and refreshingly human.

Just sixty miles northwest of Los Angeles, in the heart of the Central Coast, you’ll find Port Hueneme, the friendly city by the sea. Port Hueneme is the place for travelers looking to dig their toes in the sand, take a long walk, drop a fishing line off the pier or just kick back and relax. With walking and biking trails winding throughout the city and a perfect climate almost year round, you can revive your soul in Hueneme.

Channel Islands National Park is an American national park that consists of five of the eight Channel Islands off the coast of the U.S. state of California, in the Pacific Ocean.

Channel Islands Private Charter Boat Excursions

Book your adventure today:  (805) 450-7757.

Discover the Channel Islands with us!

The waters from Ventura County to the Channel Islands have a lot to offer us.  The discoveries and adventures at the islands are remarkable too. Our Channel Island adventure boat charters gets you up close with all the Channels Islands have to offer.

Whether you’re interested in fishing, whale watching, ocean picnics in secluded coves, viewing pods of dolphins or seeing the largest and deepest sea cave in the world – we get you connected with a customized trip just for your party.

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Channel Islands Tours  Marine Emporium Landing 3600 Harbor Blvd Oxnard , CA 93035   Questions and Info  (805) 450-7757   info@gotourchannelislands.com

Our Hours Open 7 Days A Week

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Channel Islands Tours  Marine Emporium Landing 3600 Harbor Blvd Oxnard , CA 93035   Questions and Info  (805) 450-7757

  info@gotourchannelislands.com

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Channel Islands National Park Boat Tours

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1691 Spinnaker Dr

Ventura, CA 93001

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Free Free Free! Donations generously accepted! Great spot if your at the Ventura Harbor. Great educational experience on how important it is to keep our oceans clean and learn more about the local islands creatures and climate. Lots of parking but never enough parking spots during great weather. However the parking is free. You can find by driving all the way to the dead end and it's on the right hand side. There is a store to buy souvenirs. Lots of picture ops. Great views to have a picknick and sightseeing. Most importantly this is a great spot to educate our children the importance on a eco friendly environment for our sea creatures and the local islands. There's a auditorium and a short clip constantly running, That's also free. There's a great sight seeing tower that you can walk up and get your stair climb on. There's also an elevator to get to the top as well.

See all photos from Gina T. for Channel Islands National Park Boat Tours

Happy to see that the displays and the gardens have been Updated. An enjoyable place to visit.

These are 60 foot boats. They have benches all around for sitting along the way over to the Channel Islands. There are some protected seats on the inside. Boat has a snack bar, and restrooms. The trip over depends, of course, on the weather. The channel can get rough, so I recommend you go during the morning when you have the chance for less bumps. We did have some whitecaps, and the ride was very bumpy at times. Be sure to take your seasick medicine, if you are prone, as this can be one ride with lots of motion. The boat worked, got us there, and came back to pick us up. What more could you ask for?

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WHALE WATCHING TOURS

Channel islands national park.

Channel Islands Gray Whale Watching Trips are Available from December through Mid April

Island Packers’ Gray Whale Watching departs from both the Channel Islands and Ventura Harbors. This 3-3.5 hour cruise takes you to the Southern California waters of the Santa Barbara Channel.

These waters are known for their marine mammal diversity and you may get to see other species of marine mammals along with the migrating Gray Whales. Seals, Sea Lions and several species of Dolphins along with occasional Orca Whale pods may also be seen on your trip.

Gray Whale Watching is a winter event and we encourage you to dress in layers of warm clothing, and wear comfortable flat shoes on your trip. Bring along your camera and binoculars for added viewing options.

Our captains have many years of experience sighting whales on the waters of the Santa Barbara Channel and will narrate and inform you about all the varieties or marine mammals seen on your cruise.

• Ventura Departure

VENTURA WINTER WHALE WATCH

Join us for a winter whale watching excursion looking for Gray Whales! Cruise and search for Gray Whales and other local marine life on this winter whale watching cruise.

• Adult (13-54): $45
• Senior (55 and up): $41
• Military (Active): $41
• Child (3-12): $32
• Infant (under 3): $0.00
• Users All Ages
• Clock 3.5 Hours
• Info Non-Landing Trip
• Oxnard Departure

OXNARD WINTER WHALE WATCH

• Reservations

Authorized Concessionaire in Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands Kayak Tours

Some of the most beautiful views in the world can be found in Channel Islands National Park. Let our experienced guides outfit you for a fun day of cave exploration. Rated Top 5 "Best Kayaking Tour" in the nation by USA Today!

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Channel Islands Snorkeling

Want to get a little closer to the marine life? Santa Cruz Island is surrounded by the Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary, creating a protected environment offering some of the best snorkeling in America. Reserve your snorkel gear online and explore the waters.

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Travel Tips

Preparing for your trip, island wildlife, don’t feed the birds (or foxes), 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. "

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!"

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."

Give the Gift of Adventure

Our gift certificates are perfect for anyone who loves kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife.

What makes our gift certificates so amazing?

• Choose any dollar amount Valid on any open date They never expire Create lasting memories Reduce waste, stress, & clutter Valid on all of our tours Supports local business

Adventure Awaits!

Come explore the Channel Islands with us — and create memories that will last a lifetime. #ciadventure

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1901 Spinnaker Drive Ventura, CA 93001

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The Spectre Dive Boat

Venture beneath the waters of anacapa and santa cruz islands, video of your dive day.

• Most Popular!

This is an all day diving trip to either Anacapa or Santa Cruz Islands. Dive locations are selected by best overall conditions for that day.

Starting at: $95/Snorkel and $149/Scuba

This is an all day scuba diving trip to either Anacapa or Santa Cruz Islands. Dive locations are selected by best overall conditions for that day. Depths typically range between 20 and 50 feet and are suitable for open water divers.

Dive Trip Calendar

• Chevron down Dive Information
• No one is closer to Channel Islands diving than the Spectre dive boat.
• Year-round day trips departing at 7 A.M.
• All ages and skill levels welcome. Dive, snorkel or relax in the hot tub.
• Rent gear online before your dive! It will be on the Spectre when you arrive.
• Remarkable meals, daily barbeque, drinks, snacks and dessert are included.
• Check our dive boat calendar for open dates and easy booking for securing your trip now!
• Chevron down Cancellation Policy

For full refunds or reschedules cancel by the following times:

Weekend dive trip – 7 days before departure. Weekday dive trip – 72 hours before departure. Rental equipment – 72 hours before departure.

“No shows” or last-minute cancellations are never refunded or rescheduled for any reason. The captain of a dive vessel may cancel a trip due to weather. In this case, refunds are always given. If you have any questions about cancellations please ask before you book a trip. We are here to help.

Gear Rental

• Rent gear online before your dive!
• It’ll be on the Spectre when you arrive. 
• Dives fill up quickly!
• Book online now to guarantee your spot.

Scuba & Snorkel Gear Rental

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#1 Tour in Ventura On TripAdvisor

As usual, the Captain and crew took care of us from the moment we stepped on the boat. The Captain found the best possible dive sites given the day's conditions. The crew kept things running smoothly, and jumped to help passengers sometimes before we knew we needed it. And of course the food was as tasty as ever. Another fun day of diving on the Spectre. I will definitely be back!

Fantastic outfit. Easy to use website for booking, big + comfortable boat, boat and equipment are in great shape, boat crew are super competent and friendly, the cook somehow conjures up tasty breakfast and lunch from a tiny galley… and the dive sites are beautiful. Go!

Top notch crew and boat! Dive sites were well chosen and effortlessly organized. Dive briefing was full of great and useful information. I will be recommending to all my dive buddies! Hot tub - need I say more?

Always goes to the best available dive locations. Every year when we make the trip out from Colorado to dive from the Spectre the boat always shows upgrades. Very clean, organized, and well managed. Food is delicious with generous portions. Good air fills and ready to dive at each dive site. We saw octopus, sea lion, Seals, and even a Mola Mola. Fantastic trip and a great way to spen three days diving.

Cal Boat Diving

Our aim at Cal Boat Diving is to ease you from your seat by the computer to a rocky reef beneath the kelp forests of the Northern Channel Islands. We are a specialized company devoted to getting you scuba diving under the waters of Anacapa and Santa Cruz islands. We take you to the best channel islands scuba diving sites available, deliver rental gear to the boat, and make this one of the most memorable dives of your life.

10 Things To Do Near The Channel Islands: Complete Guide To California's Hidden Natural Paradise

T he Golden State is perhaps best known for its alluring natural attractions, including its beautiful beaches, scenic mountain ranges, and treasured national parks. But, for a true trip to paradise, Channel Islands National Park is California's most exotic off-shore destination . The National Park consists of five of the eight Channel Islands — Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara — each one as breathtaking as the next.

However, when it comes to seaside adventures, there is a plethora of fun to be had along the California coast, too. Some of the closest cities to the Channel Islands, which include Port Hueneme, Ventura, and Santa Barbara, offer visitors a variety of exciting things to do, from touring museums to exploring state parks and much more.

Related: These Are The Most Unique Small Towns To Visit In California

Top Things To Do Near The Channel Islands

A magical time awaits on the Pacific Coast. Here are some of the best things to do near the Channel Islands for a fun-filled, California getaway.

Go Camping At Refugio State Beach

Many hidden gem destinations on the West Coast are in California, and Refugio State Beach is one-of-a-kind. Visitors can fall asleep to the sound of the waves with a camping trip to this coastal spot. The campground features 63 campsites for RVs, trailers, or tents, as well as three group sites, which can accommodate larger parties.

• Address: 10 Refugio Beach Rd, Goleta, CA 93117
• Cost: $45 per night ; $55 per night for premium sites; $235/$350 per night for group sites

Review campground rules and view a map of the area before booking. Reservations can be made online .

Enjoy Wine In Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is known for many things : its stunning coastline, its Mediterranean and Spanish-revival architecture, and, of course, its sweeping vineyards. Stop by one of the city's many world-class wineries and tasting rooms for a glass of red.

Check out this Google Maps listing for wineries in the area.

Hike Along The Lush Trails In Carpinteria

Take a peaceful walk through the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve for stunning views of the ocean and the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary, which is home to nearly 100 adult seals .

Some of the best trails in Carpinteria include the Tar Pits and Carpinteria Bluffs Trail, the Franklin Trail, and the Carpinteria Salt Marsh Trail, per AllTrails .

Hit The Waves At Faria Beach

Continue down the coast to Faria Beach for a chance to catch the ultimate wave. Faria is great for beginner surfers and also offers a spot for tent and RV camping .

• Address: 4350 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Ventura, CA 93001
• Hours : 7 a.m. to sunset

Check the current surf conditions at Faria Beach before visiting.

Go Kayaking In Ventura Harbor

Home to the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center , Ventura Harbor is the perfect place to explore near the Channel Islands. Stop by Ventura Boat Rentals to rent a single or double kayak to take out into the waters. The tour agency also offers stand up paddle board and pedal boat rentals , among others.

• Address: Ventura Boat Rentals, Dock C, 1575 Spinnaker Dr #10, Ventura, CA 93001
• Cost: Single kayak - $19 per hour (credit/debit) and $17 per hour (cash); double kayak - $26 per hour (credit/debit) and $23 per hour (cash)

Be sure to visit the Ventura Harbor Village for a variety of waterfront restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, a beautiful promenade, and more.

Tour The Museums Of Oxnard

In terms of proximity to the Channel Islands, Oxnard's harbor is actually the closest point to Channel Islands National Park. Featuring stretches of beach dunes, the city is sprinkled with historic Victorian-era architecture and several museums, including the Channel Islands Maritime Museum , Mullin Automotive Museum , and The Murphy Auto Museum .

For an exploration of Southern California's settlement and development, the Heritage Square Museum is also a must-see. It features eight historic, Victorian-era architectural buildings, including the Longfellow-Hastings Octagon House and the William Perry Mansion.

Stroll Along The Shores Of Channel Islands Beach

The sandy shores of Channel Islands Beach are one of the most beautiful West Coast beaches to add to your bucket list . Swim in the waters, catch surf, or enjoy an afternoon sunbathing on Silver Strand State Beach .

• Address: Silver Strand State Beach, Oxnard, CA 93035

Learn About Port Hueneme's Rich History

Perched along the Santa Barbara Channel adjacent to Channel Islands Beach, Port Hueneme is home to Ventura County's Navy Base. Visit the area's US Navy Seabee Museum and tour the Point Mugu Missile Park to see aircraft and missiles.

• US Navy Seabee Museum: 3201 S. Ventura Road, Naval Base Ventura County, Bldg 100, Port Hueneme, CA 93043 | Open Mondays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Free admission
• Point Mugu Missile Park : 10A Naval Air Rd, Port Hueneme, CA 93041 | Open sunrise to sunset | Free admission

Explore Malibu's Point Mugu State Park

Adventure awaits in the Santa Monica Mountains. Explore Point Mugu State Park's five miles of shorelines, which include sand dunes and rugged bluffs. Or, tackle the Park's over 70 miles of hiking trails, the options are endless.

• Address: 9000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
• Hours : Sycamore Cove, Mugu Beach, and La Jolla Canyon parking lots open from 8 a.m. to sunset
• Cost: Parking - $3.00 per hour; $12.00 per day

Visit The Iconic Santa Monica Pier

Behold Santa Monica's most treasured gem. From amusement park rides and arcade games to restaurants and souvenir shops, there are many exciting things to do on the Santa Monica Pier .

• Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
• Hours : Open daily from 6 am to 10 pm
• Cost: Access to the pier is free (attraction prices vary)

Best Time To Visit

When it comes to vacationing along the California coast near the Channel Islands, the summer months are very popular. However, the region is certainly breathtaking any time of year, with pleasant weather in the spring and fall, which also brings a chance of fewer tourist crowds.

Winter along the coast does get chilly — with average daily high temperatures of 65 °F in Ventura and Santa Barbara , for example. However, it's still a great time to explore all the natural wonders of the Pacific Coast.

Best Ways To Get Around

The California coastline is quite expansive, and the distance from just Refugio State Beach to Santa Monica is about 110 miles, which will take a little over two hours of driving if there's no traffic.

For this reason, those who want to explore many of the attractions near the Channel Islands at large will definitely need a car.

Where To Eat

The California coast has tons of excellent eateries. Here are the best spots to check out near the Channel Islands.

Mrs. Olson's Restaurant

• Address: 2800 Harbor Blvd, Oxnard, CA 93035

Hollywood Beach Cafe

• Address: 117 Los Altos St, Oxnard, CA 93035

True Food Kitchen

• Address: 395 Santa Monica Pl Suite 172, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Blue Plate Taco

• Address: 1515 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Rumfish y Vino

• Address: 34 N Palm St, Ventura, CA 93001

Boathouse at Hendry's Beach

• Address: 2981 Cliff Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

Moonshadows Malibu

• Address: 20356 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Duke's Malibu

• Address: 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Related: From SoCal To NorCal: Discover California's Pacific Coast Highway By Making These 10 Stops

Where To Stay

Staying on California's coast is always an enjoyable experience, and these accommodations make it even better.

Budget-Friendly Hotels

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, Ca - Beach

• Address: 443 Corona Del Mar, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, free parking, beach access

Ocean Park Hotel

• Address: 2680 32nd Street, Santa Monica, CA 90405
• Amenities: Free parking

Mid-Tier Hotels

Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach

• Address: 450 East Harbor Boulevard, Ventura, CA 93001
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, valet parking, beachfront, restaurant, and room service

Comfort Inn and Suites Ventura Beach

• Address: 2094 East Harbor Boulevard, Ventura, CA 93001

Upscale Hotels

Rosewood Miramar Beach

• Address: 1759 South Jameson Lane, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
• Amenities: Fitness center, laundry service, child pool, spa, parking

Shutters on the Beach

• Address: 1 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, coffee shop, beachfront, coffee shop, fitness center, bar/lounge, valet parking

Related: 10 Best Hotels In Southern California You Should Book

Tips To Know When Visiting

When it comes to exploring the fantastic wonders of California, there are a few tips to know, especially for first-time visitors. The first of which is that the state can be rather pricey. California has an incredibly high cost of living, so be prepared for higher prices when it comes to accommodations, attractions, and other travel-related expenses.

Secondly, the climate can vary greatly, especially on the coast. Although the summer months are quite warm, it can still get chilly near the water, so pack accordingly.

And, for those keen on visiting Channel Islands National Park, know that transportation over to the islands must be planned ahead of time. No entrance pass is required to visit the National Park, which is open year-round .

Related: Love Kayaking? Then Channel Islands National Park Is The Perfect Place For You

How To Spend The Perfect Day Near The Channel Islands

Ready to spend a wondrous 24 hours near the Channel Islands? Since the coast is so expansive, tourists will need at least three days to see much of what the area has to offer, so it's best to pick a few cities to explore each day.

Exploring the cities of Ventura, Oxnard, and Port Hueneme is a great start to any California getaway. After grabbing a nourishing breakfast at a local eatery, spend the day touring the many museums of Oxnard and Port Hueneme, including the latter's historic Heritage Square Museum.

After lunch, head to Ventura for an afternoon out on the waters of the harbor. Later, stroll the promenade in the Ventura Harbor Village before grabbing an early dinner at a local restaurant like Rumfish y Vino. And for a lovely end to the day, be sure to head back out to the beach to catch the sunset.

Channel Islands Kayaking Near Ventura, California

Kayaking inside the dripping sea caves of Santa Cruz Island is like entering the innards of some great sleeping beast. Welcome to Channel Islands National Park , your chance at a beautiful and mesmerizing sea kayaking adventure. 

A world of adventure awaits in the waters surrounding the five islands that comprise Channel Islands National Park . Over thousands of years, geological events and the ocean’s unending waves have created sea caves perfect for adventurers seeking a touch of adrenaline; most notably on Santa Cruz Island which boasts some 77 miles of craggy coastline and the highest density of sea caves in the world, including Painted Cave, one of the largest and deepest sea caves in the world.

Painted Cave is 160 feet tall and 1,300 feet deep– that’s nearly four football fields long.

Within Painted Cave there are multiple chambers, each narrower with less light, like descending into a beautiful puzzle. Colorful lichen and algae give Painted Cave its name.

A paddle through sea caves, combined with a paddle out under the sun — with glorious views of high cliffs, swaying kelp forests, and wide skies makes for an unforgettable kayaking experience.

There are three options available for kayaking at Channel Islands National Park.

• Visitors who prefer a guided kayak tour may book a tour with Santa Barbara Adventure Company or Channel Islands Kayak Center .
• Visitors with ocean kayaking experience who wish to explore the islands on their own may choose to rent kayaks from Channel Islands Kayak Center . All of these kayaks comply with Island Packers’ guidelines .
• Visitors who own kayaks and have ocean kayaking experience can choose to bring them on their trip. Personal kayaks must comply with Island Packers policies .

All guided kayaking adventures must be booked in advance as space is limited. All transporting of kayaks on Island Packers boats must also be booked in advance because kayak space is limited.

To help you decide which island to visit, specific island information is available here . Each of the islands is truly wild. All water, food, and snacks must be brought with you to the island you visit – and any trash and containers brought onto the island must be taken home with you. Pack it in, pack it out.

The most convenient (and safest) option for visitors wishing to explore the waters of Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary by kayak is via guided tour. Here’s what a guided tour with Santa Barbara Adventure Company in the waters of Santa Cruz Island would look like.

After an hour-plus boat ride from Ventura Harbor on a comfortable Island Packers boat, paddlers arrive at Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island and meet their kayak guides on the island. The guides provide each paddler with a wetsuit (sized according to information provided during the reservation process), safety helmet, personal floatation device, and booties, before kayaking. Guides also provide a brief demonstration of basic kayaking skills for a safe adventure. Belongings may be stored in on island storage lockers for safekeeping from curious island foxes and ravens. Helpful hints… You might want to consider using the restrooms aboard the Island Packers boat just before landing at Santa Cruz Island (everyone using the on island port-a-potties before the kayak tour slows the process of getting in the water). Also, a good idea to wear your bathing suit under your clothes so you don’t have to look for a place to change before you put on your wetsuit.

Once everyone is suited up, it’s time to explore the kelp forests and sea caves near Scorpion Anchorage. In addition to being skilled kayak paddlers, the guides are trained naturalists, pointing out wildlife, unique plant species, and rock formations. They also share fun facts about the island’s geology, ecosystem, and cultural history – when they’re not guiding paddlers through the sea caves and arches. Entering the sea caves is optional. It’s also subject to sea conditions; sometimes the guides opt not to take their charges in. It’s a decision based on experience. Sea cave kayaking is an adventure — but a safe one.

After kayaking, those who want an even closer look at the park’s underwater world are welcome to stay in their wetsuits and add snorkeling gear. Snorkelers often see various species of fish, urchins, octopus, and other wildlife near Scorpion Anchorage beach. Or you can choose to go for a hike before the Island Packers boat departs for Ventura. The hike to Cavern Point is a fun, scenic, roughly 45-minute loop that showcases spectacular views of sea cliffs, Anacapa Island, the mainland, seabirds, and, yep, occasionally, whales. There’s a short, relatively steep ascent to the top of the bluff and then the remainder of the hike is relatively flat.

And you’ll look down on sea kayaking waters now happily familiar to you.

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Get to know Ventura, and discover the best things to do around the city.

A Beginner’s Guide to a Day Trip at the Channel Islands

Santa cruz island, 5 things to do on santa cruz island, channel islands, paddle painted caves at channel islands national park.

View the current Ventura Inspiration Guide online . And prepare to be INSPIRED.

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