The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily, except Thanksgiving and December 25.
There is no entrance fee to Channel Islands National Park. However, you may need to pay for transportation to the islands and other services like camping reservations.
From Los Angeles, take US-101 north to Ventura. Depart from Ventura Harbor by boat, a scenic 1-3 hour journey to untouched islands. Spot whales, dolphins, and flying fish en route.
Free parking is available at the Ventura Harbor, including Harbor Cove Beach on Spinnaker Drive and outside Island Packers buildings. Limited space, especially for RVs; no specific size restrictions mentioned. Overnight parking permitted for campers with a pass. No parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Channel Islands National Park, off the southern coast of California, is a tapestry of untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage. This archipelago of five islands – San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa, and Santa Barbara – forms a biodiverse haven that beckons the discerning traveler.
Santa Cruz Island, the largest, boasts diverse landscapes from rugged cliffs to rolling hills, and is home to the endemic island fox. Here, you can hike the scenic trails of Scorpion Canyon or venture into the backcountry of Del Norte, surrounded by Seuss-like flora. The waters are a snorkeler’s and kayaker’s paradise, teeming with dolphins, seals, and an array of marine life.
Santa Rosa Island offers a blend of rolling hills, deep canyons, and pristine beaches, with a rich archaeological heritage that whispers tales of early Native American habitation. Anacapa Island, accessible from Channel Islands Harbor, is a haven for birdwatchers, with the Scripps’s Murrelet among its unique avian residents.
As the seasons change, the islands transform; spring brings vibrant wildflowers, summer invites warm days perfect for diving and boating, while autumn paints the landscapes with golden hues. Winter is a time for spotting whales and seabirds.
To explore these islands, travelers can depart from Ventura Harbor or Santa Barbara Harbor with Island Packers, which often provide opportunities to see marine wildlife en route. For a unique experience, visit The Painted Cave, the largest sea cave in California.
The park’s minimal facilities ensure a rustic, immersive experience. Each island has its own campground, offering a chance to sleep under the stars. Local outfitters like Island Packers and the National Park Service provide guided tours, including ranger-led kayak excursions and snorkeling trips.
This marine sanctuary, protected for six nautical miles around the islands, is a treasure trove of natural and cultural resources, making Channel Islands National Park an unparalleled destination for those seeking an authentic and luxurious outdoor adventure.
- Area (mi²)
- 390
- Annual visitors
- 323 000
- Established year
- 1980
Top 3 Facts about Channel Islands National Park
On Santa Cruz Island, Painted Cave is one of the largest sea caves in the world, spanning 1215 feet in length, equivalent to over four football fields.
This serene archipelago is home to 145 endemic species, including the island fox and the endemic island scrub jay. The waters teem with blue whales, fin whales, and humpback whales, while California sea lions, elephant seals, and harbor seals frequent the shores. Rare seabirds like the Scripps’s murrelet and California brown pelican can be spotted, and the flora boasts many rare and relict species, adding to the unique biodiversity of this isolated sanctuary.
Surrounded by cool, nutrient-rich ocean currents that swirl into abundant sunlight, these islands boast waters that are a vibrant azure, teeming with life from microscopic plankton to blue whales. The unique confluence of ocean currents and warm coastal waters accelerates photosynthesis, creating an exceptionally productive marine environment. Isolated at the border of two tectonic plates, the islands’ rugged landscape is shaped by persistent ocean upwelling, making this a paradise for divers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a 3-day trip in early fall for optimal water temperatures. Book the Island Packers ferry in advance. Pack hiking boots, sunscreen, and food. Visit the visitor center, hike to scenic points like Cavern Point, and rest at campsites. Enjoy sunset at Potato Point.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. For longer stays, include a tent, sleeping pad, and a first aid kit. Check the weather and season to adjust your gear accordingly. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle and a portable phone battery.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the islands’ unique flora and fauna by keeping a safe distance from wildlife, avoiding sensitive habitats, and not removing any plants or animals. Be mindful of seasonal nesting and breeding areas. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Exercise caution on trails, ledges, and near water. Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and park rules. For emergencies, call (805) 658-5730. Stick to designated paths and stay hydrated. Monitor weather changes and wildlife. Carry a map and emergency plan.
Seasons
Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, especially the Giant Coreopsis, which blooms from March to early April. Enjoy mild temperatures (mid 50s to low 60s°F) despite strong winds and occasional dense fog. Witness gray whales migrating north from February to May, and Pacific harbor seal pupping on San Miguel Island. A time for adventurers, but be prepared for weather cancellations.
Summer brings warm temperatures (60s-70s°F) and clear waters, ideal for kayaking through the Painted Cave or snorkeling in kelp forests. Witness the annual seabird nesting colony on Anacapa Island, a unique summer spectacle. Mild weather makes it a perfect time to hike and camp, though it can be busy.
Experience autumn’s mild 50-60°F temperatures and sunny days. Witness seabirds and elephant seals settling into nests, and enjoy prime diving conditions with clear waters. Gray whale migration begins in mid-December, but visit in September and October for optimal weather and marine life sightings.
Winter, from December to March, brings cooler temperatures (low 60s to high 30s) and stormier weather, but also vibrant wildflowers and the annual gray whale migration, making it a unique and invigorating time to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Channel Islands National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city is Ventura, California, which is 70 miles north of Los Angeles and 30 miles south of Santa Barbara. Ventura Harbor is the location of the main visitor center and the departure point for most island trips.
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The Scorpion Canyon Loop Trail on Santa Cruz Island is a good option for kids, as it is a 4.5-mile loop trail that is fairly easy with some steep climbs. The Cavern’s Loop Point Trail, a 2-mile hike, is also suitable for all skill levels and offers scenic views. Both trails are kid-friendly and can be adapted to your family’s hiking time.
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No, you cannot bring your dog to the park. Pets are not allowed to protect the island wildlife from diseases and parasites that dogs might carry. Only service animals are permitted.
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Yes, parking is free at the Ventura Harbor and Harbor Cove Beach on Spinnaker Drive near the visitor center.
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To make the most of your 24 hours, start with a boat ride from Ventura Harbor to Santa Cruz Island, where you can see dolphins, sea lions, and possibly whales. Once on the island, hike to Potato Harbor, a 2-hour easy hike with a great lookout spot, or Smugglers Cove, a slightly longer hike that takes about 4 hours round trip. You can also hike Scorpion Canyon for different landscapes and views, which takes around 2 hours. Additionally, consider snorkeling or sea kayaking for more island exploration.
