I had originally planned a boat ride from Ventura to Scorpion Cove with Island Packers Cruises, but the weather forecast predicted dangerous ocean waves the day of my trip, and so it was cancelled the day before. Bummer. When I went to the NPS visitor center, the ranger told me that if I wanted to see the ocean conditions myself, there was a viewing platform in the center a few floors up. Those waves looked super choppy! I was secretly glad the trip got cancelled as I tend to get motion sick... Otherwise, the rangers were very patient and helpful with all of my inquiries. It turns out that there used to be a flight service to two of the islands, but this was discontinued, and so the only way to get the the Channel Islands National Park is via boat. read more

National Park Service - Exterior signs - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

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We have had a great experience with the Park Rangers in this area. Especially at the Channel Islands visitor center. A treasure! Keep it safe and keep nature clean! read more

Here's what to get the person who has everything: a trip to Channel Islands National Park. This is one of the lesser visited national parks in America: you can't drive to it. Going to the visitor's center at the end of Spinnaker Drive doesn't really count, either: you must get on a boat and go 20+ miles west across the rough ocean. When you get there, you find a land where nature rules supreme. The five islands are certainly not untouched. But the NPS has made it a point to keep amenities to a minimum. In most cases, the amenities do not include electricity, running water, or cell phone reception. And the website tells you, strongly and in no uncertain terms, to bring everything you need, and if you run out of something, then you're sunk. For this reason, most people go to Channel Islands as a day trip. But there are the hardy souls (example: yours truly) who bring their camping equipment and stay for a night, or a few nights. This gets you far more in touch with the island than if you're there for only a few hours. I camped on Santa Cruz Island for two nights. If I'm paying this much for Island Packers to take me there and back, I want to experience as much of the island as I can. The Scorpion campground does have running water, so you're fine there. It is a good base for exploring the island: Cavern Point, Potato Harbor: a somewhat cliffside trail that reveals cliffs that beat Highway 1, if you can believe that. Smuggler's Cove: my favorite. The trail there is like driving I-5 from the Bay Area to Los Angeles, a whole lotta nuthin'. But when you see the cove, the light blue-green water with fishing boats, the olive trees, and Anacapa Island nearby, your heart beats more. Lots of shade and picnic tables here, a place to spend the day. Montañon Ridge: This is a tough hike. A crumbly foot trail runs at the top of the ridge, little shade. When it turns left, however, you look over the ridge and see the rest of the island, and it's awesome. If you have good boots, lots of water, and lots of nerve, the trail continues onto this part of the island. Sea caves: I did not kayak, but I've read that these are some of the best in the world. Or you can snorkel. Okay, about the wildlife: There is quite a bit of flora and fauna found on these islands and nowhere else in the world. The island fox, for example. You run into them a lot here, and only here. But although they're cute, they're also hungry. I saw two instances when the campers had left some food out, were busy talking somewhere else, and a fox came up and snatched the food. Also, the rangers said that ravens have been documented opening the zipper of a backpack in only a minute to take the food. So there are food lockers available. Use them. Remember, you can't drive to Burger King if all your food is eaten by the animals. Channel Islands is an outdoor lover's paradise. If you're more citified or not in much shape, then a day trip will expose you to its wonders. If you're a rugged individualist, this is the most remote place in the state, and you'll take on the island with gusto. It does take a bit of money and planning (and advance reservations) to come to any of these islands. But it is so worth it. read more

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This place is a gem. Docents are great. The video was awesome and so was the aquarium. Must do with kids.

AMAZING experience. THIS is how to view wildlife, not at an amusement park. The boat ride to the islands were a lot of fun as we got to see hundreds of dolphins, sea lions, birds, and whales! We followed several blow holes to 3 different types of whales including the biggest animal in the world, the blue whale! Also spotted a big pod of the rare white Risso's dolphins. Beautiful! No issues with flies like some mentioned here. Did not see a single fly. The only species flying were those playful dolphin pups jumping up in the air and the flock of seagulls and birds. We went August 1st with gorgeous weather, just a light breeze, but the sun did get really warm around 1pm so I highly recommend taking a hat and taking the morning tour instead of the afternoon tour. Friendly knowledgeable captain and crew on board the Island Packers ferry! Food, beer, wine, snacks on board were reasonably priced. The bottom deck is enclosed in all glass windows (still great views), air conditioned, and has tables and seatings. We started at the top deck and later went down for lunch. We enjoyed our lunch that we packed from home and ordered hot and cold drinks and snacks from the nice lady on the boat. Perfect day! read more

National Park Service - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

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We had a nice time during our visit. We meet a US Ranger ( Bonnie ) and she was very helpful and friendly in giving us details about The Channel Islands - best time to visit / activities and boat transportation to the islands. There is also displays depicting the types of wildlife and plants that inhabit the island. The overall visit: 5 STARS. read more

National Park Service - The displays of the Channel Islands. - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

PEDDLES, TROLLEYS, & AUTOMOBILES (SERIES) BACKGROUND: Channel Islands National Park offers a wide variety of recreation activities, kayaking through the Sea Caves being one of the most popular. Backpacking, camping, day hiking, scuba diving, and spearfishing are among the activities available to visitors. The Channel Islands National Park is renowned for its large number of complex, beautiful Sea Caves. Based on ocean conditions and ferry availability, Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island is the most visited area in the park for day and camping visitors. It is recommended that inexperienced visitors use caution when visiting the national park due to changing ocean conditions in this unique ecosystem. The National Park Service authorizes a small number of guide and outfitter services. STATS: Hours: 8;30 am - 5:00 pm daily Free parking across the street from visitor center Tour of the visitor center Film about the islands Tide pool talk Gift shop EXPERIENCE: Me and The Crew met at the Channel Islands Visitor Center where we were educated in sea life while standing around a small tide pool filled with starfish, fishes, other local marine life. Coming after the lecture we were shuffled into a viewing room where we observe a very educational flick about the channel islands, its original colonists, and its native creatures. Later we had the chance to listen to crew members for the islands speak about their watercrafts and their experiences on the water. Typically we find our hearts started first thing in the morning, this time our brains got a jump start. The staff here at the Visitors Center is personable and very knowledgeable. Great way to the beginning of an adventurous day, or any day for that matter. This also where you would board a boat for water activities. Look into their website for travel opportunities, bookings, payment options. #ventura #marinelife #culture #channelislands Review #2 read more

National Park Service - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

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I went camping on the Channel Islands. It was one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. It was an hour ferry ride from harbor in Ventura to the island. Because the wave was rough, I got a little ocean sick. However, right after I landed, I felt better. We were supposed to go sea cave kayaking on the arrival day, but we had to cancel due to the rough ocean condition. Instead we hiked to the another cove. It was so beautiful, and most of the time we were speechless. The ocean was very dark blue, the sky was clear light blue, and the hills were warm green. The second day , the ocean was even more rough and very windy, so we again canceled kayaking and went hiking. We hiked to the highest point of the island. It was a stunning 360-degree view. The third day, our final day of the stay, it was very clam and not windy, so we were able to go kayaking. We kayaked into the caves. It was very adventurous. I got a lump by bumping into rocks in the cave, but it was fun. In some caves, there were many seals. They were so cute. The water was crystal clear. The kayaking company we originally booked was not available on the third day, but they talked to another company and arranged for us. The rangers, the ferry company, and the kayaking company all work together to make sure nobody gets stuck on the island. They were super nice. We saw many animals, such as whales, dolphins, island fox, and birds. Some of them can be seen only on these islands. This is one of the most memorable camping experiences I have had. read more

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A nice day trip from LA. Beautiful scenery and views. We don't hike or camp but this is something worth seeing even if you're only here for a little bit to walk around and relax. Don't miss the visitors center and the great informative film they show about these fascinating Islands that even as a Californian, I knew little to nothing about. Plan to arrive early to get the most clear views and (free!) parking near the visitors center. read more

IN REGARDS TO ANACAPA ISLAND (5 stars and a meteor shower) Loaded a dive-boat (the spectra) off Ventura's docks at 5:30/6am to venture out 14 miles out in the Pacific Ocean TO SCUBA DIVE. Who would have thought Cali waters could be that blue and clear. Visibility was GREAT!!! THE ADVENTURE. 4 tanks, all day!!! Lots of Nitrogen entering the body but it is possible. I'm possible. The waves are huge so it is highly recommended to take Dramamine/Bonine the night before, when you wake up, and 30 minutes before setting sail. Motion sickness is no joke especially rolling on the big ocean waves for about 1hr. You start to see Anacapa Island from a distance and you can tell it's Anacapa by the arc rock formation. We dropped anchors and went to the bottom of the ocean to explore!!! ANACAPA ISLAND SCUBA DIVING The waters here can be a challenge and you should really know you skills before coming here. Especially your navigation skills because no MD goes with you. You are alone with whoever you are diving with. It's cold water but not as cold as Monterey. This place is by far my favorite diving location. I have dived in Carribean/Aruba, Hawaii, and Monterey and will say I blown away with what I had experienced. We dived at 4 different locations ranging different steepness and conditions. Drift here can difficult, if it wasn't for my dive buddies we'd be lost in the ocean forever. Fighting the drift was TOUGH. But if you manage to pass it the life below makes up for everything. HIGHLIGHTS - seals come play with you. They love divers. If conditions are good at this one dive location you get to dive where there's hundreds of seals around you. - underwater arc cave - we found one at the second site. It was creepy and dark but if you dive thru there's a way out and you start to see blue again. - kelp forest, huge fish, lobsters, crabs, Uni... The list goes on. It's so magical down below. there are sharks there and luckily I didn't run into them :) - my favorite... Brittle stars. They were delicate and beautiful and covered the bottom of the ocean floor. I swooped them up and tossed them and they dwindled back down in the ocean like fluorescent snowflakes. It was one of the most amazing things I've seen. It took my breath away. I wish I could share this with everybody reading this review. Only divers will get a taste of it. WILL I BE BACK? Yup. See you in a few weeks. JABA APPROVED. Until the next review. read more

One of the best hiking experiences of my life! Took Island Packers as a means to get to Anacapa and did the short day trip, which gave us just enough time for a hike around the island and about 40 mins of free time to hike back and enjoy the scenery. You have to climb 153 stairs to get to the island itself, but it's well worth the pain if you can do this. The views are OUTSTANDING and the sea is so beautiful and blue. On our way, we saw a school of ~50 dolphins and while on the island, we saw hundreds of sea lions, thousands of nesting seagulls (they were mean, but understandably so, considering we were walking right past their nests!), and even the pelicans soaring over from Santa Cruz Island. Next time, will be trying Santa Cruz for a longer trip. Exquisite!! This is such a cool, unique, amazing place right off California's coast. read more

National Park Service - Anacapa Islands with views of Santa Cruz, from Inspiration Point. - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

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Update 8/18/12 Photographed another wedding on Anacapa Island a few days ago, this time on an overnight camping trip. The island lacked the floral color of spring, but the light at sunset and sunrise made for some amazing photos. Very hot during the day due to lack of shade, and the sea gull noise made it difficult to sleep at night. Went to Anacapa Island to photograph a small wedding. It was early March, so the wildflowers were beginning to bloom and the birds were not as aggressive as I understand they can be later in spring. The Island is beautiful and I regret not having the opportunity to stay until sunset. Perhaps I can do an overnight camping trip next time. The boat ride is known to be chilly, so many people brought heavy coats. However, once on the island, it was quite warm. Bring a picnic since there is no food service on the island. read more

Absolutely Amazing! Two weeks ago I did the Anacapa and the Whale Watching Trips, both trips were fantastic! It was EASY to buy the tours online and the check in at the harbor was pretty QUICK! Very FRIENDLY and KNOWLEDGEABLE staff that made the trips super COMFORTABLE. We saw lots and lots of WILDLIFE! Three different types of Dolphins that jumped right next to the boat, Humpback Whales and a BLUE WHALE!! There are snacks and bathrooms on the boats, but I recommend to bring your own lunch ad enough water. There is no shop, trash can, or running water on Anacapa Island. No problem, just be prepared! I recommend the FREE guided tour with one of the Park Rangers. Very INFORMATIVE and fun! Don't forget an extra charged battery for your camera and lots of sunscreen! read more

National Park Service - Inspiration Point on Anacapa - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

Came to Anacapa Island during summer time with my broskies during early morning (9-10am) for a short hike and exploration. The Inspiration Point at the end of the island is awesome. Also there was a wooden trail that I thought was pretty cool, the light house near the entrance of the island was cool also. WARNINGS, get ready to cover your nose from the smell of the seagulls' "stuffs" near the light house and watch out for lots of flies flying around you on the boat and at the entrance (not because you stink but just because). But they're part of nature so it didn't really bother me much (it did bothered some elders tho). TIPS, try focusing and stare at the horizon if you start to feel sick on the boat ride (it helped me), I almost throw up on the ride there & back. DO look out for dolphins swimming next to the boat tho as some of the dolphins love to do so (if you're lucky enough you'll catch them doing some flying tricks and whales also :D) I went on a cloudy day so lighting was not so good, did quite an amount of post production on the shots. I attached them so enjoy! :) read more

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This review is for the visitor center only, since I haven't yet been to the Channel Islands. I did learn a lot about these amazing islands, and next time I'm in the area, I will be sure to visit them. Maybe take a kayak trip? The staff here are very helpful and knowledgeable. We had questions about the woman from the book "The Island of the Blue Dolphins," and they told us which island she and her tribe lived on, along with many other details. There is an observation tower where, on most days, you can see the Channel Islands. It was overcast on the day of our visit, so we couldn't see much. The view was still nice, though. read more

National Park Service - Channel Isl. Observation Tower - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

Very educational outing for the kiddos. They learned all about the Channel Islands, it's marine life, and land animals. There are picnic tables to enjoy a snack and restrooms onsite. The kiddie beach is just right across the street. After a tour of the center, we walked across the street and enjoyed the beach. read more

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I stopped here on a whim after seeing signs for Channel Islands National Park off of the highway. I'm really glad I stopped. After driving and driving out on a long pier following signs that say to the CINP, but not believing it because you've been driving so long and finally reaching the end of the pier, you reach the CINP visitor center. The VC is an older, wind and water weathered building that holds much information about the Channel Islands and their ecosystem. I had never heard of them before but I enjoyed learning about them and their role in the environment. When you're done reading about the islands and looking at 3D mock ups of the islands, you can climb a tower to see them. They are further away and larger than I expected. I would like to visit the islands sometime, but the Visitor Center is great to tell you why to visit them. read more

This is a wonderful park, but it's not easy to access. The park has done a wonderful job of bringing the Chanel experience to the mainland. Worth stopping through! Thank you, Rangers -- we're lucky to have you. read more

I had always wanted to come to Channel Islands National Park, but I finally made it out there recently. Wow! I was so impressed by the desolation, peace, blue waters, and wildflowers. Every scene at every turn was so colorful, and having the island to yourself was worth the $56 boat ride to get there. We visited Anacapa Island for a day and loved it. There are other islands to see, which I can't wait to visit later, but the Anacapa trip was a great introduction to the entire park. Don't be held back by fears of a boat ride, getting seasick, or the cost. Everything is worth it once the clouds burn off, you step food onto the island, breathe the clean air, and enjoy yourself. read more

Yes, yes, yes. We took an amazing trip out to Anacapa today and it was absolutely fantastic- it's true that Anacapa itself is very quiet (it's about 2 miles of trails, lots of gulls - which are nesting at this time of year, two restrooms, and some benches and picnic tables) but it is wonderfully peaceful, and filled with spaces for stopping to spot sea lions and dolphins below. My recommendation - the boat ride is about 45 min-1 hr; once you're there, take the guided tour with the channel island volunteer- it's an orientation to the history of the island- and once you're done (the tour ends at Inspiration Point) you can enjoy lunch, and you'll still have about two hours to explore on your own. Remember to bring lots of water (there's none on the island) and to bring sun screen (there's little shade out there). Shout out to the Island Packer folks- they are so professional, so organized, and so nice. read more

Spectacular preserved islands off the Santa Barbara Coast. You go to Oxnard to get a charter boat for the one hour trip to Anacapa. There are several islands you can visit for a half day or full day. A ranger/docent accompanies you, and gives you a nice talk about the islands and their history. A step back in time, as these islands show you what mainland California looked like 200 years ago. Great boat ride over (we went into a school of dolphins that dove under the boat). We went to the island of Anacapa, which is the smallest. Around Memorial Day weekend, the western sea gulls are having their chicks. They don't seem to mind people, as the trail you walk on is only 3-4 feet from them in places. We saw eggs and newly hatched spotted chicks. The island is very unique,and you can hike all around it. Take a picnic lunch and water. No food or water on the islands. A great way to spend your time in the Santa Barbara area. Unspoiled scenery, and a unique view of the Channel Islands. read more

I went to Anacapa Island for a day trip and wish it was 2 hours shorter. The island is really small (2 mi by 1/4 mi) so it doesn't take long to hike and explore it all, unless you plan on snorkeling. If I had friends/family visiting it would not be on the list of things to do. Beautiful views from the cliffs, but very brown in the month of November and not much to look at. Do not take kids---No rails anywhere near the cliffs, so very dangerous for little ones. read more

Bring water, sunscreen, hat that fastens (gets windy), comfy shoes. Layer your clothes. A lot of the stuff on the island appeared to be dead at first. I hiked up to the high points and enjoyed the views for the cliffs. It was beautiful to be surrounded by the vast sea. There is very little shade so plan accordingly. Bring your own food, there are no vending machines or restaurants here. There's a camping ground. I also saw kayakers. Seemed pretty cool. I took a day trip and hiked at least 4 miles. Stayed from 10 AM to 3:30 PM ish. Very quiet place with no cell phone reception. What a great way to tone my butt and consume lots of water, and get away from the world. read more

A gem of SoCal. snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, camping, kayaking, hiking, cooking, camping... Take a kayak tour and go through the caverns. That kind of thing is once in a lifetime. If you can arrange Jon T (with the goatee) as your guide, then your experience will be plussed and you'll learn a ton about the islands. read more

There are four main islands to visit and easiest access is by ferry. Our group used Islands Packers for ferry service to Santa Cruz island from Ventura (Channel Islands Harbor). Therefore, the best resource is to read reviews for the different islands specifically. Essentially, it would be unlikely that you could do more than one island in a day, so day-trippers need to choose which one to do. For Santa Cruz island, they offer camping, hiking, and private sea kayaking tours. Be mindful that camping is primitive here with a water spigot, outhouse, lock boxes, picnic tables, and that is about it. There are no flush toilets or showers. read more

Went camping to Santa Cruz island last week. I'm glad I did it but don't think I would come back again. Trip started with the Island Packers boat ride over. Went smoothly. You need to bring everything over with you except for drinkable water, which they have at the campground. They limit you to 3 items at 45 pounds max for each. We definitely had more than 3 items which they did not hassle us about at all but they were strict about the weight and had us re-organize to make it 45 pounds in each cooler. They actually even let us borrow one of their coolers to evenly distribute the weight. There was a school group on our boat ride which was extremely annoying since the kids were running around and so loud, but what can you do. Once we unpacked we "hiked" over to the campground (lower level) with all of our stuff. The path is flat and about a quarter mile away from the boat dock. Not bad! Got everything over in one go. Camp sites are large and we had one that was very close to the bathroom and water which was convenient. Bathroom is just an un-flushable toilet but surprisingly very clean inside. Has toilet seat covers, toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Found it annoying that we could not brush our teeth or clean anything with soap at the water fountain (because of bees and wasps being attracted to the soap). Growing up camping the camp fire at the end of the night was such a huge part of the experience so it was a total bummer that they do no allow fires. Once it is dark on the island you pretty much just go to sleep. Nice if that's your thing but not so much mine. Went on a few hikes which were actually great exercise with lots of inclines but very very boring. The island has no variety in plant life and is so dried out. Sad. No beaches to swim at either. All rocky and water is cold. Best part of the trip - the foxes. So cute! read more

Cool spot for a day trip. Definitely worth coming one time for the beautiful views and some of the species (the island fox that we saw lives only on this island), although there isn't much to do/see here other than that. I suppose that's kind of the point though - to hike, camp, and be one with nature. We hiked through the camping grounds which is a rather small area, so it's definitely for the type of people that like to camp near strangers and meet new people. There are bathrooms on the island (which was surprising to me) but not much else - so you need to bring everything that you need. It's pretty cool how remote it is and how it's not overrun with people / tourism. Beware the ticks and flies! read more

This is a great place for people that love wiggling their toes in the sand and it is also wonderful for people that don't like sand. One side is sandy while the other is grassy. This place has great views all around! The marina is full of boats, but across the way, you can sit and watch the waves crash on the rocks, read a book under a tree, or walk bare foot on the sand, play volleyball or swim. There is so much to do. Be careful and watch kids and pets, there is some construction going on, so there are some bulldozers and men at work. read more

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If you're in California and you don't experience this National Park, you're missing out! The smells, the views, the nature.... this is quintessential Calif experience. There's only 1 way to get here, Island Packers boat company runs day trips for a very reasonsable fee! Where in the world can you ride a boat across the pacific ocean for more than 3 hours for about $50 bucks a person ????!!! Drinks and food on board were $1 ??? Huh? Pack all your food, water, snorkeling gear. There's nothing to buy or rent on these islands. Plan for a day ... no matter what the paper says, you are out in the middle of the Pacific you know.... go with the flow. Just don't even think about coming back to the boat late. You'll be sleeping with the seagulls. Weekends sell out in advance to book early! read more

We stopped by the vistor's center for the first time and got a peck of this national park. There was a nice, informative exhibit on the Channel Islands and a cute gift shop. We will definitely need to take a boat ride around the islands soon. Don't forget to get a stamp for your National Parks passport! read more

National Park Service - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

Just got back from visiting Santa Cruz Island (via Island Packers) in an awesome, free National Park! This island has deceptively rugged hiking, and the best views I had all day were at Potato Harbor and Cavern Point. The island, even in summer can feel so remote at times, especially as you get away from the landing beach. Take tons of pictures, bring sunscreen, and expect amazing sights on the way to and from the island. Inbound and outbound, we spotted dolphins and humpback whales, even seeing a baby dolphin with its pod! -1 star for the time it takes to get there. It's over 3 hours (round-trip) on the boat, not including pre-boarding times. read more

This place hasn't received a review in awhile, so I thought I'd give you the 411 from my perspective. I visited here with family on December 28, 2013. It was my second time visiting the visitor center on the mainland in Ventura. I did not venture to the islands yet, but I did take some time learning about them with their 25 minute free movie and information center. Very interesting stuff. We saw their aquarium, wildlife displays and their books on sale. We looked at some of their exhibits and then watched the movie called, "Channel Islands - Treasures of the Sea". You can actually go to their website and stream the video to your home, so if you are unable to make it here, or miss the movie on your visit......you can check it out online. It was made in 2011 and is narrated by Kevin Costner. It was very beautiful and well done. Again, if you can't make it over to the Channel Islands, this is at least a good overview of what the islands are all about. The islands are really remote, and you have to do a little pre-planning if you want to visit them. They are filled with wildlife, volcanic rock sculptures, and hundreds of wild flowers. Marine Biologists will also take groups out for whale and dolphin viewing. The film taught me that San Miguel island has one of the more remote, but largest sea lion habitats in the world. The islands were also a refuge for the Chumash Native American people before the 1500's, so they are sacred to the Native American community. After the film in the very dark theater, one can take a walk up (or elevator ride) up to the lookout tower observatory. We saw pelicans, seagulls, and kayakers in the marina area. The harbor is gorgeous with all the boats, rolling hills, and palm trees. You will probably spot big pools of seal families swimming together. They are everywhere. I worry about them though, since this is a busy harbor port with lots of boats. This is a great place to visit and bring kids......plus next door is the Ventura Harbor Shops with is a lively place for fun in the sun too. read more

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Great place to visit with kids! Stunning views on a clear day. Great staff who are knowledgeable and friendly! We stumbled across this place and so glad we did. Kids learned all about the 5 Channel Islands and see some live under water creatures. Ventura is often overlooked in our book but I'm glad we took the time to stop in this time around. read more

National Park Service - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

why oh why? We live around the area for more than 10 years now, and this is our first time taking this trip. and we are all so amazed. From thousand of dolphins, birds flying over us, the island, and the whale the 3 hours trip is so worth it. And thanks to Island Packers too you guys are the best! read more

National Park Service - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

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Thanks to the very helpful park rangers on Santa Cruz island! There was a problem with my camping reservation and they sorted it out as I disembarked to get on the island! Later, I hurt my knee and they helped out again. Much appreciated! I was there in October for 2 nights and the weather was perfect. The individual camp sites were large, lots of shade from Eucalyptus trees and good water. The pit toilets were as clean as I have seen anywhere and smelled mainly of cleansing gel. The interpretive center is pretty new and very informative, and low key--self guided and worth an hour or so. Kayaking in the caves was fun, and since I injured my knee, I need to go back to hike the trails and see more of the island. read more

How many areas offer their very own set of islands? Go get burly. Be a man... or woman. Sail the seas, hike, camp, surf, kayak, fish, snorkel. It's the perfect little adventure getaway. The only thing that's a bummer is that you can't have fires (i.e. Camp fires). Otherwise there is plenty of outdoor adventure to be had. read more

Really cool National Park. Not my favorite, but pretty cool. Just be ready to be remote and have nothing to do but sit, hike, snorkel, kayak, and swim. read more

To get to the channel islands you have to take a boat ride that is wonderful. The captain will stop to look at the different marine life that life in the ocean. They also have a galley where you can get snacks and drinks on the way there and the way back. I went to the Santa Cruz islands and I was expecting it to be green but it was kinda dry but it has great hiking trails and you go kayaking and scuba diving. read more

National Park Service - Parks Near Me - Ventura, California

Completely amazing! We were so lucky to have perfect weather. The beach at Smugglers Cove is a little slice of heaven, even if you have to hike uphill for 3 miles to get there. GO, have a great time! Bring a camera and lots of water. read more

Read Adrienne M's yelp. She has it all covered. We kayak'ed the caves. The water is a beautiful emerald green, awesome. read more