On a clear day you can see them from almost anywhere on the Ventura County coast — a chain of rugged islands floating offshore. That’s Channel Islands National Park, one of the least-crowded national parks in the country, and it’s reached from Ventura County’s own harbors. Here’s what it is and how to visit.
“The Galápagos of North America”
The park protects five islands — Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara — and the rich waters around them. Isolation has made the islands a haven for species found nowhere else on Earth, including the diminutive island fox, earning the park its nickname as the Galápagos of North America.
How to get there
There are no bridges and no cars. Island Packers, the park’s boat concessionaire, sails from Ventura Harbor and Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard; the crossing to the nearest islands takes about an hour, often with dolphins and, in season, whales alongside the boat. The park visitor center at Ventura Harbor is the place to start.
What to do out there
Santa Cruz Island, the largest, is the most popular day trip, with hiking to bluff-top views and the famous Painted Cave sea cave, plus world-class kayaking and snorkeling in its clear coves. Anacapa, the closest, offers a lighthouse, a cliff-top loop trail and huge seabird colonies. Wilder Santa Rosa and San Miguel reward those who want solitude and rare wildlife.
Plan ahead — there are no services
The islands have no stores, no food and no water for visitors — bring everything you need and pack out your trash. Day trips are easy; overnight camping is available on several islands by reservation. It’s an accessible adventure hiding in plain sight off the county’s coast.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Channel Islands National Park?
By boat with Island Packers from Ventura Harbor or Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard (small planes also serve some islands). The nearest island is about an hour’s crossing.
Which Channel Island is best for a day trip?
Santa Cruz Island for hiking, kayaking and snorkeling, or Anacapa for its lighthouse, cliff trail and seabirds — both are common day trips.
Are there services on the Channel Islands?
No — there are no stores, food or drinking water for visitors on the islands, so bring everything you need and pack out all trash. Camping is available by reservation.
Want to wake up near the harbor that takes you there? See our guides to Ventura and Oxnard.
