The perfect outdoor adventure to complement your stay on Southern California’s Ventura County coast? Hands down, it’s a visit to Channel Islands National Park. With evenings spent exploring the vibrant town scene and restful nights in one of the area’s many hotels, a day spent exploring the park’s rugged beauty and rich wildlife is the cherry on top of the whole experience.

At the heart of any trip to the Channel Islands is an expert guide like Lisa Anderson. A longtime Ventura County resident, Anderson is an avid hiker, Ironman competitor, and year-round swimmer—she even braves the cold waters of the Ventura Pier during winter. You can also find her exploring Channel Islands National Park, where she has led thousands of outfitted expeditions. As the lead naturalist at Island Packers, she’s spent years sharing her love for the islands with travelers like you.

To get you started, Anderson shared some of her insider knowledge on how to make the most of your time in this breathtaking natural paradise and the nearby Ventura County coast.

Channel Islands National Park

Outside:What sets Channel Islands apart from other national parks?

Lisa Anderson: These islands are home to more than 2,000 plant and animal species, including 145 that are found nowhere else on Earth. Among them are the charming island fox, a tiny creature weighing only about three pounds and the size of a small house cat, and the vibrant island scrub-jay, which is bigger and bluer than its mainland relatives.

Why is Channel Islands National Park a perfect destination for multisport adventurers?

You can explore a range of activities on any of the five islands. Here are some of my favorites:

🥾 Hiking: When you step off the boat, grab a trail map and choose from easy strolls to more challenging hikes that offer stunning island views. There’s something for every skill level.

🤿 Snorkeling: A major portion of Southern California’s stunning kelp forests are found within Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary. These kelp beds are home to more than 1,000 species of plants and animals.

🌊 Kayaking: Paddling through the sea caves is a thrilling experience—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned kayaker. You can join guided tours at Santa Cruz Island’s Scorpion Anchorage, or if you prefer to go solo, you can also rent a kayak.

🦆 Bird-Watching: The islands are a critical stopover for land birds, shorebirds, and seabirds, with the island scrub-jay being one of the most iconic species. It’s the only place in the world where you can see this stunning blue bird.

How does transportation to and from the national park work?

Island Packers, located at Ventura Harbor and Channel Islands Harbor, has daily ferries to and from the islands. As the official national park concessionaire, Island Packers has been ferrying visitors to the Channel Islands since 1968.

From the harbor, you’ll take a one-hour boat ride that transports you across the Santa Barbara Channel, which separates the mainland from the islands. Seasonal upwellings, driven by local wind patterns, bring a variety of marine life into the area, including blue whales, gray whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and a host of pelagic seabirds.

You’re in for more than just a boat ride—it’s a wildlife adventure!

What essentials do you recommend packing? 

There are no services on the islands. Bring everything you’ll need, including food, a refillable water bottle, and any gear you may want. Water is available in the campgrounds (except on Anacapa and Santa Barbara islands), and there are clean pit toilets available as well.

Ventura County Coast

What mainland activities should every visitor experience as part of their getaway? 

Located in the picturesque Ventura Harbor, the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center is the perfect starting point. Inside, you’ll find a fascinating tide pool exhibit showcasing the kinds of creatures you might encounter while snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, or kayaking around the islands. Next, take your pick of the many attractions and activities on the Ventura County coast.

Tides and Trails

Port Hueneme Beach is one of the best spots along the coast for sunrise or sunset, whether you’re relaxing on the beach or soaking in the view from the pier. While you’re there, check out the iconic Port Hueneme Lighthouse.

The area also has a lot of hiking and biking trails, from the rugged beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains near Point Mugu to the peaceful, scenic routes of Harmon Canyon in Ventura.

History and Culture

If you’re looking to dive deeper into the area’s history and culture, here are some must-visit spots:

• Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum (Camarillo)
• Pleasant Valley Historical Society Museum & Garden (Camarillo)
• Olivas Adobe Historical Park (Ventura)
• Ventura Botanical Gardens (Ventura)
• U.S. Navy Seabee Museum (Port Hueneme)

 

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Fishing

Port Hueneme and Channel Islands harbors offer a range of sportfishing opportunities. You can go on a quick day trip or an extended overnight excursion in the Santa Barbara Channel or around the islands.

Surfing and Paddleboarding

Mondos and County Line are both ideal breaks for beginners, while C Street at the Ventura County Fairgrounds is perfect for advanced surfers. Paddleboarding is another accessible sport for newbies. With plenty of rental and surf shops around, you can easily find lessons to help you catch your first wave or improve your skills.

For travelers craving sunshine, good vibes, outdoor adventure, and family fun, Ventura County Coast has it all. The region encompasses four unique city destinations with surf-town vibes and small-town charm. Camarillo, Oxnard, Ventura, and Port Hueneme each convey the quintessential “California state of mind” without breaking the bank. Additionally, just a short distance off the coast, you can also explore and discover Channel Islands National Park, one of North America’s magical treasures.

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