Located just 25 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, Channel Islands National Park has been rated as one of the world’s top 10 cold water dive sites by the famous oceanographer and world-renowned SCUBA diver Jacques Cousteau himself, but you don’t need to be SCUBA certified to explore this magical island ecosystem. All you need is a mask, snorkel, pair of fins, and a wetsuit for those of us unaccustomed to cold water (myself included), and you’ll be seeing sea stars and spotting spotted harbor seals right away in the best California snorkeling destination!
I first fell in love with snorkeling in Hawaii while attending university for marine biology (you can see I love the ocean!), but upon returning from school, I missed exploring the underwater world! I’d grown up in Los Angeles, but had never snorkeled once. I didn’t even know it was a thing I could do.
My first time snorkeling in Channel Islands National Park was mind-blowing and, dare I say, even cooler than Hawaii?? There’s just something magical about swimming through a towering kelp forest that can’t be replicated, and now I can’t get enough!
Read on and discover how Channel Islands snorkeling represents the best of California snorkeling.
Additionally, I want so badly for you to share the experience I had, so I’ll make it as easy as possible! Below, I’ll explain how to get to the best islands for snorkeling, how to rent gear, how to find the best snorkel tours, and what to expect during your day in Channel Islands National Park.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, designed to allow The Unremarkable Climber (me) to earn a small commission if you choose to book through them, at no extra cost to you. This really helps support the site and lets me know you find this information valuable! That being said, all of the experiences I recommend, commission based or not, are genuine recommendations for some of my favorite activities, so I hope you enjoy them as much as I have! Feel free to contact me with any questions.
Why is Channel Islands NP the #1 California Snorkeling Destination?
Cleaner Water + Fewer People + SO MANY Sea Caves!
Channel Islands National Park is my favorite California snorkeling destination for a number of reasons. While on a Channel Islands snorkeling trip, you’ll be exploring a remote island ecosystem 10+ miles off the coast of California, which means you’ll experience cleaner water and fewer people and boats nearby.
Since you will be exploring the protected waters of Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary far from the influence of polluted runoff from dirty city streets, the water quality is incredible compared to other mainland beaches.
Another benefit to Channel Islands snorkeling over other California snorkeling destinations is that many of the islands are comprised of volcanic rock rather than fine sand or sandstone, which only adds to the water clarity. This means you’ll have the opportunity to explore healthy kelp forests teeming with wildlife as well as swim through one of the many volcanic sea caves and arches—unique to Channel Islands National Park.
The clear water, unique topography, and abundant wildlife coupled with fewer people due to the islands’ remote nature illustrate how Channel Islands snorkeling is far superior to other California snorkeling options!
What Wildlife Might I See?
Everyone is always so concerned about sharks. Will they see sharks? Are there sharks there? Yes of course! This is the ocean we’re talking about, and there are quite a few species of sharks and rays that make their homes in the kelp forests and eel grass habitats within the protected waters of Channel Islands National Park.
The most frequent visitors are leopard sharks and bat rays, and they are always a treat to see on a Channel Islands snorkeling adventure, though they tend to be fairly shy.
In terms of fish, you can see bright orange garibaldi wiggling around rocks protecting their little algae farms, giant black sea bass and California sheephead lurking in the depths, and plenty of opal eye and calico bass to go around!
Common invertebrates include spiny lobster, urchins, curious sea hares, and even an occasional colorful nudibranch dancing through the water.
However, a true California snorkeling trip isn’t complete without a visit from some of our favorite playful marine mammals: spotted harbor seals and California sea lions who absolutely love to swim right up to unsuspecting snorkelers!
California sea lions will swim face to face with you and show off their skills with underwater backflips, while spotted harbor seals will take a more stealthy approach—tugging on snorkel fins then quickly swimming off when discovered—masters at hide and seek!
Best Channel Islands Snorkeling Spots
First, let’s choose a location that meets your needs. My favorite Channel Islands snorkeling spots are located on Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands. These two islands are made of volcanic rock (clearest water) and will both offer you ample opportunities to explore kelp forests, swim through sea caves, and encounter local wildlife.
Anacapa Island Landing Cove: Best Kelp Forests + Very Remote
Anacapa Island—a tiny, rocky, ribbon-like island—hosts the healthiest and most easily accessible kelp forests in Channel Islands National Park. The rocky underwater terrain provides the perfect substrate for kelp to take hold and the clear water allows the sun’s rays to penetrate deep into the ocean depths and feed the massive kelp strands which can grow up to two feet per day!
The only easy access is just inside the landing cove where the Island Packers ferry drops you off. All you have to do is climb down a ten-foot ladder to experience the best of California snorkeling!
However, just because access is easy, doesn’t mean it’s for everybody. Weather conditions can change quickly and turn the swimming pool-like landing cove into a turbulent washing machine with strong currents. Therefore, I only recommend this Channel Islands snorkeling destination for those comfortable snorkeling in open ocean conditions.
** Although this guided tour doesn’t mention snorkeling, it is definitely an option as long as the sea conditions are right
Santa Cruz Island: Best Diversity
Located 20 miles off the coast of Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz Island is the largest island off the California coast and boasts hundreds of sea caves and arches stretching the span of its northern volcanic coastline. My three favorite spots are Scorpion Cove, Pelican Bay, and the Painted Cave area.
Whether you choose a self-guided Channel Islands snorkeling adventure at Scorpion Cove on the eastern end of the island, an adventurous hike-in option to Pelican Bay, or a guided kayak and snorkel near Painted Cave on the rugged west end, Santa Cruz Island offers the most diverse snorkeling options.
Snorkeling in Scorpion Cove: Cheapest + Beginner Friendly + Busiest
Scorpion Cove offers the most beginner self-guided snorkeling available in Channel Islands National Park. All you have to do is book a ferry ticket to Scorpion Cove on Santa Cruz Island, get geared up, and swim a few yards off the beach to find kelp forests teeming with life.
Scorpion Cove is within a marine protected area, which means all of the wildlife is safe from human fishing pressure. As a result, the fish are relatively friendly and rather large as well!
Scorpion Cove also offers guided kayak tours, plentiful hiking options, and a small visitor center. You can even rent snorkel gear on island!
In combination with the ease of access, all of this variety results in the largest crowds within the National Park. Scorpion Cove will be the busiest of the Channel Islands snorkeling options, with most visitors choosing this location.
**Local Tip: I’d highly recommend renting a kayak (must be done on the mainland) to access less crowded areas and explore awesome sea caves like the ones in Scorpion Rock and Cavern Point
Snorkeling in Pelican Bay: A Secluded Hiking + Snorkeling Adventure
Pelican Bay, located on The Nature Conservancy property, is a hiking destination in itself but is also one of my favorite Channel Islands snorkeling destinations! Though you won’t find many kelp forests here, you’ll find incredibly clear water where you’ll see plenty of garibaldi and purple urchins in the rocky habitat below!
This secret snorkeling spot can be found at the end of a 2.5-mile strenuous hike—one of my favorite hikes in Channel Islands National Park: the Pelican Bay Trail! The trailhead can be found by taking the Island Packers ferry to Prisoners Harbor for the day.
Although it requires tenacity, this snorkeling adventure will reward you with not one but TWO snorkeling options at the end: a secluded rocky beach (Tinker Beach) and the beautiful Pelican Bay.
I personally prefer snorkeling in Pelican Bay, but the barnacle-covered shelf (the only water access) makes getting out of the water tricky. Tinker Beach is also a great option with easy water access, and is a quick five-minute walk back up the trail.
Both require effort to find, so you most likely won’t have to share the beach with many others, which sets this secret spot apart from other California snorkeling destinations.
**Local Tip: If the effort turns out to be a bit too much for you, the snorkeling at Prisoners Harbor isn’t too bad either! Though the water isn’t quite as clear as Pelican Bay, the eel grass habitat is fun to explore and will often offer good looks at leopard sharks and bat rays!
Snorkeling West Santa Cruz Island: Guided Kayak + Snorkel Excursion near Painted Cave
The Painted Cave is one of the most magnificent destinations in Channel Islands National Park, made even more special by the difficulty in finding it! Without your own boat, there are only a few options to even catch a glimpse of this wonder of nature, but even with a vessel, the rough sea conditions along this rugged stretch of coastline can keep visitors away.
The only affordable option to explore this secluded area is to jump on a full-day excursion** with Channel Islands Expeditions, where you’ll spend the day snorkeling and kayaking through the pristine kelp forests and massive sea caves of west Santa Cruz Island!
** Although this guided tour doesn’t mention snorkeling, it is definitely an option as long as the sea conditions are calm
Planning the Perfect California Snorkeling Adventure
What to Expect on a Channel Islands Snorkeling Trip + Top Hazards
The reason Channel Islands National Park usurps even the best mainland California snorkeling spots can be attributed to its remote location, but this isolated destination requires a bit more planning to get to.
You can’t just decide to drive down to the beach on a whim, but instead must coordinate boat transportation, snorkeling gear, all food and water for the day, and even keep a close eye on local weather conditions to ensure your Channel Islands snorkeling adventure runs smoothly.
Additionally, you can expect to encounter temperate ocean conditions including cold water, wind, swell, and strong currents throughout your day.
If all this planning seems like too much, skip ahead to the guided tours section of this article and let someone else organize it all for you! If you’re up for the challenge, read on for the best tips for organizing your own Channel Islands snorkeling trip.
Best Time of Year to Plan a California Snorkeling Trip: September
I personally think the best time to plan any California snorkeling trip is September because the water and air are at their warmest, the weather is most agreeable, and the summer crowds have died down a bit.
Coastal air temperature is heavily influenced by ocean temperature which only varies by about 20°F throughout the year in Channel Islands National Park, so you can expect air and water temperatures to hover around the low 50s in the winter (February) and high 60s to low 70s by the end of summer (September).
In terms of stormy weather (heavy wind and swell), there is a chance of experiencing storm events throughout the year, but summer and fall are the calmest seasons weather-wise. You are most likely to experience high wind events from February through May.
However, with the right timing, you can snorkel year-round—so long as you have the right wetsuit!
Recommended California Snorkeling Gear: Preparing for Cold Water
If you’ve snorkeled anywhere before, you’ll know you need a mask, snorkel, and fins at the bare minimum.
Additionally, California snorkeling requires the use of wetsuits for most of the year for most people due to the temperate water conditions. Only on the warmest of days can I comfortably snorkel for 20 minutes without one.
If the water temperature is below 70°F, I’d recommend using a wetsuit. I’d recommend a 3-5mm wetsuit for 60°F to 70°F conditions, and a 5-7mm suit for anything colder. If the water is below 60°F, you might even need insulated booties, gloves, and a hood.
Convenient Rentals for a Channel Islands Snorkeling Trip
If you’re headed to Scorpion Cove on Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands Adventure Company offers $66 rentals for all required gear and wetsuits on island on a first-come first-serve basis.
If you are headed to any other self-guided Channel Islands snorkeling destination, Ventura Dive and Sport offers a snorkel package including a wetsuit, mask, fins, and snorkel for $50 per day.
More Channel Islands Snorkeling Tips
True to the national park spirit, there are no amenities on island except pit toilets and animal boxes. Here are some extra tips to make your day go smoothly:
- Use the provided dive flag if snorkeling near a pier (it lets passing boats know to look for you)
- If you dive down, look up before you surface so you don’t get tangled in kelp (personal experience)
- Bring all of your food and water for the day (you will be hungrier and more dehydrated than you’d expect)
- Prepare for lots of sun with sun protection (clothes, hats, and sunscreen)
- Wear layers (weather changes quickly)
- Use the animal boxes to store bags (foxes, ravens, and gulls will unzip bags to steal car keys, money, and food)
- Have fun!
Best California Snorkeling Tours
Snorkel tours are perfect if you don’t have the time and energy to coordinate all the rentals, don’t have experience in open ocean sea conditions, or want to learn a bit about what you’re seeing.
My #1 California Snorkeling Tour: West Santa Cruz Island Kayak + Snorkel Tour
This is my absolute favorite California snorkeling tour for a few reasons.
As I mentioned above, it’s almost impossible to get to the west end of Santa Cruz Island without your own private boat or super expensive charter. The lack of visitation keeps the kelp forest habitat pristine, and the volcanic cliffs that line the coast plunge straight down into exceptionally clear water below, making this a truly wild and remarkable place to explore.
Luckily, Channel Islands Expeditions offers this affordable guided kayak and snorkel tour to this seemingly untouched underwater wonderland!
This full-day tour** is a real adventure—including whale watching, sea kayaking, and snorkeling along a very remote stretch of Santa Cruz Island. Even without checking out Painted Cave, this rugged coastline is a destination in itself, but taking a peek in one of the largest sea caves on the planet is the icing on the cake!
** Although this guided tour doesn’t mention snorkeling, it is definitely an option as long as the sea conditions are calm
Anacapa Island Kayak + Snorkel Tour
If you want to explore the best kelp forests in Channel Islands National Park, but are uncomfortable going alone, I’d recommend this guided kayak and snorkel tour of Anacapa** with Channel Islands Expeditions!
Although the primary objective of this tour is kayaking, you can add on a snorkel package for only $10, and a wetsuit for $25 and have the peace of mind that comes with having experienced guides nearby. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy a downwind guided kayak paddle through countless sea caves and arches—the most notable being the famous 50-foot-tall Anacapa Arch!
** Although this guided tour doesn’t mention snorkeling, it is definitely an option as long as the sea conditions are right
Scorpion Cove Guided Snorkel Tour
Scorpion Cove is already a very protected area to snorkel, so someone with snorkeling experience will feel pretty comfortable here even without a guide. However, these snorkeling tour options at Scorpion Cove, guided by Channel Islands Adventure Company, are good options for those who want to learn a bit more about the marine life without worrying about any of the planning.
Keep in mind, though this is relatively beginner activity, you must know how to swim and use snorkel gear already. Additionally, make sure to book in advance because they sell out quickly!
More to Explore in Channel Islands National Park
Your adventure doesn’t have to stop here! Looking to explore more of Channel Islands National Park? Not only can you find the best California snorkeling spots, but you can also go whale watching, kayak through sea caves, hike to incredible vistas, see more of the 150+ endemic species that call the island home, and even camp overnight!
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