Top Things to do in Channel Islands National Park
Countries
Top 5 Islands in Channel Islands National Park, Channel Islands National Park
Discover the best top things to do in Channel Islands National Park, United States including Santa Rosa Island, Anacapa Island, Santa Cruz Island, Santa Barbara Island, San Miguel Island.
1. Santa Rosa Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By sondraw221 - Manhattan Beach, United States
I love the Channel Islands! It is the perfect way to escape the craziness going on in the mainland! The trip out is half the fun. We saw a group of about 100 plus dolphins that chased us for part of the ride, and then we saw a whale off in the distance. The island itself is beautiful! White sand beaches with turquoise waters, and best of all, no one is there! We originally went to see Lobo Canyon, but the timing for the day trip is not long enough (it is nine miles round trip). We had to pivot, and instead walked along a ~2 mile beach strip, which was entrancing. The island is truly special. We were then treated to an unexpected treat on the ferry home, and stopped for a quick photo shoot at the Painted Cave. Truly special day, and I would highly recommend it!
2. Anacapa Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 101 reviews
One of the five islands in the Channel Islands National Park, Anacapa is located an hour from Oxnard.
Reviewed By effervescent24 - Evanston, United States
I went for a 1 night camping trip here in October 2020. The Island Packers crew was great! We saw some whales on the way both to and from the island and we ended up spending around 10 minutes doing an impromptu whale watching tour! This site was great for an amateur camper like myself. The walk from the dock to the campgrounds isn't that far. Maybe a 15-20 minute walk but there are some steep stairs in the beginning. Great views around the island and if you camp here then you can see the gorgeous sunset and sunrise. The bathroom is extremely clean and well stocked. It's probably the best bathroom I've ever seen in a national park. Each campsite has its own picnic table and food storage locker. Some people went swimming in normal swimsuits (no wetsuits) but I thought it was too cold. The bad / minor annoyances: The campsites are super close to each other so it's too easy to hear other campers. Foghorn goes off every minute. It's quieter at night but it's still there, so bring earplugs. The island is pretty small. You can do a whole loop around the island in less than an hour.
3. Santa Cruz Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 302 reviews
Located off the coast of Santa Barbara, this island is a popular place for kayaking and exploring sea caves.
Reviewed By MichaelW166 - Los Angeles, United States
We booked a cruise from Island Packers to see Cueva Valdez and Painted Cave at Santa Cruz and we were amazed at all of the natural beauty. The shoreline was amazing and the hills were beautiful green. This place is pure magic and was certainly one of the best days trips I have been on in quite a while.
4. Santa Barbara Island
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
