Channel Islands National Park is one of the least visited National Parks in the country, so I feel fortunate to have explored it so thoroughly! It’s a special place with countless endemic species and a rich cultural history not found anywhere else the world.
After spending six years working in the park, I can confidently say that these are my top 7 things to do 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.
7. Visit the Seabird Nesting Colony on Anacapa Island
There’s nothing that screams REMOTE ISLAND like a colony of nesting seagulls— western gulls to be more specific! And they do scream quite a bit.
I love visiting Anacapa Island in April and awakening my inner ornithologist as I carefully weave between camouflaged nests right next to the trail to Inspiration Point! Visiting in May is perfect for spotting fluffy adolescents chasing after mom and dad.
Consider bringing binoculars to spot more pelagic seabirds and even whales as you hike across this ribbon-like island!
6. Snorkel the Kelp Forests at Scorpion Cove
The Channel Islands are home to some of the clearest water and healthiest kelp forests in California. One of these kelp forests is a short swim from the beach at Scorpion Cove!
Bring gear from home, rent gear and wetsuits on Santa Cruz Island, or join a guided tour to catch a glimpse at bright orange garibaldi, vibrant purple urchins, giant California sheephead, playful harbor seals, and the towering kelp forests that they call home!
Personally, I think snorkeling in Channel Islands National Park is a must-do!
5. Camp on Santa Rosa Island
Santa Rosa Island is my favorite island in Channel Islands National Park. Unfortunately, the ferry ride is over three hours long, so your time on the island is very short if visiting only for the day.
Luckily, there are two fantastic overnight camping options available to you: Water Canyon Campground and Backcountry Beach Camping (August-November). The campground is a flat 1.25-mile walk while the nearest backcountry options begin around 6 miles from the pier, though the best spots are upwards of 10+ miles from the pier.
The minimum stay is two nights (check ferry schedule before booking a site) so you will have a full day to explore far and wide and fit in a few of my favorite activities like hiking Cherry Canyon Trail, hiking Torrey Pines Loop, and lounging on Water Canyon Beach! Just be aware, Santa Rosa is a notoriously windy island!
4. Visit Painted Cave
One of the most unique things to do in Channel Islands National Park is taking a peek inside one of the largest sea caves on the planet: Painted Cave!
While you can easily stay dry on an Island Packers charter from Prisoners Harbor, my personal favorite way to explore this massive sea cave is via guided kayak tour in the summertime!
The water clarity in the cave is unreal as are the natural colors. Plus, there’s something utterly wild about hearing sea lions bellowing from the depths of the cave while you paddle towards them deeper into the darkness.
3. Hike the Pelican Bay Trail on Santa Cruz Island
My all-time favorite hike on Santa Cruz Island is the Pelican Bay Trail. Although technically on private property belonging to The Nature Conservancy, this moderately strenuous trail offers shade in the summer, incredible flower displays in the springtime, and panoramic ocean views all year long!
For this activity, you’ll have to take the ferry to Prisoners Harbor for the day, and pack in all water for your time on the island. I’d also recommend bringing snorkeling gear if you’re a competent swimmer because two of my favorite snorkeling destinations are at the end of the trail!
If a strenuous hike isn’t your cup of tea, the moderate Potato Harbor Trail at Scorpion Cove is a close second and still offers breathtaking views over more easy/moderate terrain.
2. Look for Island Foxes at Scorpion Ranch
Island foxes are our most beloved recovery story here at Channel Islands National Park. Brought back from the edge of extinction through careful recovery efforts, they are now more abundant than ever!
The best place to spot foxes in Channel Islands National Park is in Scorpion Campground, a short walk from the pier at Scorpion Ranch.
These little predators wander through the campground and historic ranch complex in search of figs, bugs, and their easiest prey: human food.
They are often spotted sniffing around campsites and lounging in the sun while enjoying a midday nap!
1. Paddle Anacapa on a Sea Cave Kayak Tour
Of all the unique and fun things to in Channel Islands National Park, my favorite is paddling Anacapa Island via kayak!
Although this can be done on your own, I highly recommend a guided tour due to the strong currents and large swells common to this area.
On this tour, you’ll get to paddle through crystal clear water to explore the healthy kelp forests and rugged sea caves that line the Anacapa coastline.
Along the way, you’ll have a high chance of seeing California sea lions, and even get up close and personal with the famous Anacapa Arch!
My favorite part? This tour is one-way, which means you only have to paddle downwind and get picked up on the other end!
If you’ve read this far, you are now ready for seven days of rad adventures in Channel Islands National Park!
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