A Two-Day Adventure Through Channel Islands National Park

Established in 1980, and located less than 20 miles off the Pacific Coast of Southern California lies Channel Islands National Park, commonly referred to as “The Galapagos of America.”

Comprised of 5 islands sitting within the Santa Barbara Channel, Channel Islands National Park contains some of the most unique flora and fauna in America, with many species existing solely within the islands!

So, are you ready to explore this incredible landscape in 2 days? Here we go!

The dramatic cliffs of Santa Cruz Island at Channel Islands National Park

Day 1: Head to Santa Cruz Island

First things first: You need to get to the island, and aside from owning a private boat the only way is to schedule a ride with Channel Islands National Park’s sole concessioner: Island Packers . Island Packers provides ferry rides from the Ventura Harbor to all the islands within the National Park. Be sure to schedule your ferry well in advance of your trip date as they fill up quickly.

Ok, so now that we know how to get to Channel Islands National Park, where should you go? Definitely start with the Scorpion’s Cove on Santa Cruz Island. Landing at Scorpion’s Cove provides you with an exceptional amount of land to explore on the largest island within the National Park and places you close to campsites if you choose to stay overnight on the island. There is also kayak/snorkel rentals available for some water exploration.

From the Scorpion’s Cove dock, you are immediately met with a variety of trail options as well as access to the visitor’s center on Santa Cruz Island (and bathrooms!). Once you get your feet on ground, the Cavern Loop is a short 2 mile loop which takes you to the northeast corner of the island and provides some of the best coastline views within the park!

One of the many vistas from the Cavern Loop Trail on Santa Cruz Island

Another great option to explore a larger area of this spectacular island is the Scorpion Canyon Loop Trail. Starting directly across from the Scorpion Cove Visitors Centers, the Scorpion Canyon Loop Trail takes you deep into the central namesake canyon of Santa Cruz Island and offers a multitude of spur trails to reach the southern coast, mountain summit, or head out into the western reaches of the island. This 5 mile trail is an excellent way to catch a glimpse of the elusive island scrub jay and the island fox, both of which are only found on Santa Cruz Island!

The Island Fox, the largest mammal within Channel Islands National Park, is no larger than a house cat!

After spending some time hiking around Santa Cruz Island, the beach near the Scorpion Cove dock offers an excellent spot to cool off before catching the ferry back to the Ventura Marina. While on the boat, be sure to keep an eye out for common dolphin, humpback whales, and seals as they are abundant within the Channel.

The grassy meadows atop Scorpion Canyon on Santa Cruz Island

Day 2: Head to East Anacapa Island

On your next day, head back to the Ventura Harbor and hop on the ferry to head to the striking Anacapa Island. Anacapa Island is separated into three islets: West Anacapa, Middle Anacapa, and East Anacapa. Ferry transportation only provides access to East Anacapa, which requires a short ladder climb to access the dock followed by a climb up several flights of stairs.

Welcome to East Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park

East Anacapa Island is just over 1 mile in length, and the Inspiration Point Trail is a must-see for any visitor to this incredible landscape. Note that Anacapa Island is also home to the world’s largest population of nesting western gulls during the spring season. These birds, which number in the 1,000’s will make their nest inches from the trail, and will repeatedly let you know that you are in their area as you navigate your way across the island!

Inspiration Point on East Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park

Aside from the Inspiration Point Trail, Pinniped Point Trail and the Lighthouse Trail offer excellent views of the southern cliffs and eastern edges of the island.

The Pinniped’s number in the hundreds at Pinniped Point on East Anacapa Island

As you leave East Anacapa, be sure to check the water in the cove for bright orange spots! These incredibly vibrant circles are Garibaldi, the state fish of California. Their glowing orange color can clearly be seen as they navigate the impressive kelp forests surrounding the island. Once you jump on the ferry, be sure to get a spot on the deck of the boat to catch incredible glimpses of Arch Rock, the striking sea arch sitting just off the coast!

Arch Rock at Channel Islands National Park

As you head back to Ventura Harbor, be sure to relax and reflect on your experience to one of the truly unique places in America, Channel Islands National Park!