Overview / About the Park

Channel Islands National Park protects five remote islands off the coast of Southern California Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara.
Sometimes called “the Galápagos of North America,” the park shelters unique wildlife and landscapes found nowhere else.
Each island has its own personality, from rugged cliffs and sea caves to wildflower meadows and quiet beaches. With no restaurants, shops, or paved roads, the experience feels truly wild and peaceful.

Wildlife & Nature

More than 2,000 plant and animal species live here, and about 150 are found nowhere else on Earth.
Watch for island foxes, harbor seals, California sea lions, and flocks of brown pelicans.
The waters around the islands form part of a protected marine sanctuary, home to dolphins, whales, kelp forests, and colorful fish.
In spring, the islands burst with wildflowers, while seabirds nest along cliffs through early summer.

Experiences & Activities

  • Kayaking: Paddle through the world-famous sea caves of Santa Cruz Island, including the massive Painted Cave.

  • Hiking: Trails range from easy coastal walks to rugged backcountry routes. Anacapa Island offers short hikes to stunning lighthouse views, while Santa Cruz has longer trails through canyons and cliffs.

  • Snorkeling & Diving: Explore crystal-clear kelp forests teeming with marine life.

  • Camping: Each island offers primitive campsites for those wanting an overnight escape.

  • Wildlife Watching: Gray whales migrate offshore in winter; dolphins and sea lions are common year-round.

  • Photography & Stargazing: With no light pollution, the night skies are incredible.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is March through October.

  • Spring: Wildflowers and calm seas, ideal for kayaking.
  • Summer: Warm weather and clear waters for snorkeling and diving.
  • Fall: Excellent visibility for scuba diving.
  • Winter: Fewer visitors, whale watching season begins.

Weather can change fast, and ocean swells sometimes cancel boat trips, always check conditions before departure.

How to Reach & Park Entry

  • Access: The islands are only reachable by boat or small plane.

  • Main departure points: Ventura Harbor and Oxnard, California.

  • Boat service: Provided by Island Packers Cruises, trips take 1 to 3 hours depending on the island.

  • Entry fee: There’s no park entrance fee, but visitors must pay for boat transportation or flight service.

Where to Stay / Camping Options

There are no hotels or lodges within the park, only primitive campgrounds on each island:

  • Anacapa Island Campground, coastal cliffs with ocean views.

  • Santa Cruz Island (Scorpion Canyon), most popular, with drinking water available.
  • Santa Rosa and San Miguel Islands, remote and windier, perfect for experienced campers.
  • Campers must bring all supplies, including food, water (except on Santa Cruz), and fuel.
  • On the mainland, nearby Ventura offers hotels, hostels, and RV parks for easy access to boat departures.

Travel Tips / Safety Notes

  • Pack light but bring everything you need there are no stores or services on the islands.

  • Always check ferry schedules; weather can delay return trips.

  • Avoid feeding wildlife; the island foxes are curious and quick.

  • Bring sun protection shade is rare.

  • Keep a safe distance from cliffs and sea lion colonies.

  • Cell service is limited or nonexistent; plan ahead.

Packing List

  • Backpack with essentials (keep it compact and waterproof)

  • Reusable water bottles (at least 1 gallon per day per person)

  • Lightweight tent and sleeping bag

  • Food and cooking supplies

  • Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses

  • Hiking shoes or sturdy sandals

  • Rain jacket and extra layers evenings can be chilly

  • Snorkel gear or mask (optional)

  • Trash bags pack out everything you bring

  • Camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing

Visitor Statistics

Channel Islands National Park receives about 300,000–350,000 visitors per year, making it one of the least visited parks in California due to its remote access.
 Most visitors take day trips to Anacapa or Santa Cruz Islands, while a smaller number camp overnight for deeper solitude.

Conservation & Responsible Tourism

The park is both a National Park and a National Marine Sanctuary, protecting fragile island and ocean ecosystems.
 Efforts include restoring native plants, controlling invasive species, and conserving endangered wildlife like the island fox and brown pelican.

Visitors can help by:

  • Staying on marked trails.

  • Packing out all trash.

  • Avoiding disturbing wildlife or removing natural items.

  • Using reef-safe sunscreen when swimming or snorkeling.

Visiting the Channel Islands feels like stepping back in time raw, quiet, and wild. It’s a place where you can disconnect from noise, explore hidden coves, and rediscover what untouched nature feels like.