Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park protects five oceanic islands off the coast of Southern California and the surrounding marine environment. The park unit was established in 1980 to conserve island ecosystems and cultural sites.

The islands have long human histories including Native Chumash and Tongva occupation, European exploration and later ranching and military use; the national park designation built on earlier conservation efforts and National Seashore protections.

The islands lie in the Santa Barbara Channel off Southern California, west of the city of Ventura and Santa Barbara; distances to the mainland vary by island and all travel is by boat or small aircraft.

• Designation: The park comprises five of the eight Channel Islands off Southern California and was designated a national park unit in 1980.
• Access: Access is by scheduled passenger boat or small aircraft only; services are offered from Ventura, Oxnard and Santa Barbara and landings are weather-dependent.

What to See #

• Anacapa Island: Anacapa Island - a small, steep island famous for its sea cliffs, lighthouse remains, and seabird colonies; primary day-trip destination closest to the mainland shore.
• Santa Cruz Island: Santa Cruz Island - the largest of the park islands with coastal cliffs, sea caves, and significant archaeological and endemic plant sites; much of the shoreline is accessible by boat landings and guided tours.
• Santa Rosa Island: Santa Rosa Island - large and ecologically diverse, known for riparian canyons, endemic species, and backcountry hiking and camping opportunities.
• San Miguel Island: San Miguel Island - the westernmost park island featuring windswept coastal terrain, historic ranching sites, and seasonal wildlife viewing including seabirds and marine mammals.
• Santa Barbara Island: Santa Barbara Island - the smallest park island with steep rocky shores and important seabird nesting habitat; visits are limited and often arranged by park boat operators.