Channel Islands National Park Kayaking Adventure
Nestled off the coast of Southern California, Channel Islands National Park is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to experience breathtaking natural beauty, unique wildlife, and a sense of tranquility rarely found elsewhere. One of the most exhilarating ways to explore this stunning national park is through a guided kayaking tour. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a first-time kayaker, this adventure promises unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Learn more about our Channel Islands kayaking adventure!
Discovering the Channel Islands
Channel Islands National Park is comprised of five remarkable islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara. Each island boasts its own unique landscapes, flora, and fauna, making every visit a new adventure. The park is often referred to as the “Galapagos of North America” due to its diverse ecosystems and the many endemic species found only in this region.
For our trip, we chose to visit Santa Cruz’s Scorpion Anchorage which tends to be the most popular destination for kayaking due to its abundance of sea caves. We visited via a day trip whereas others on the tour for us were camping on Santa Cruz or continuing on to other islands.
Your Journey Begins
Before you can begin your journey, you first need to book it! There are no kayak rentals on the islands and you must book a guided kayak tour ahead of time. Channel Islands Adventure Company is the only authorized tour provider for the national park and who we booked our tour through. There are various options for tours available based on how long you’re looking to kayak for. We opted to do the Adventure Sea Caves tour which had us kayaking for approximately 3 hours. This was a great experience and felt like the perfect amount of time on the water.
Your guided kayaking tour begins with a scenic boat ride from the mainland to one of the islands. We saw plenty of dolphins along the way and our ferry guide was also on the lookout for the occasional whale sighting. Boats leave from Ventura Harbor where there is free parking and a Channel Islands National Park visitor center. You can choose to purchase ferry tickets directly with your kayak tour booking, or separately through the ferry operator Island Packers.
Tips For Channel Islands Kayaking
- Safety First: Upon arrival, your experienced guides will provide a comprehensive safety briefing and equip you with all the necessary gear, including a kayak, paddle, life jacket, and helmet. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a novice, ensure you feel comfortable and confident before hitting the water
- Reservations: Guided kayaking tours are popular and fill up quickly, so it’s essential to make reservations well in advance.
- What to Bring: Dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof phone case/camera to capture the stunning scenery. Water shoes or sandals are also a must for walking the kayaks down to the water.
- Physical Fitness: A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the experience.
- Leave No Trace: Channel Islands National Park is a protected area, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.
More Than Just Kayaking on Channel Islands
Outside of kayaking, the Channel Islands offer great hiking, camping, and snorkeling options. Most guided tours include time on the island for additional exploring. You can also book options which allow you overnight camping stays. We opted to do a hike from Scorpion Anchorage up to Cavern Point and along the coast. This hike offered amazing views and could be extended further depending on how many miles you’re looking to get in. Check out the National Park’s site for more information on hiking Santa Cruz Island.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Channel Islands National Park offers something for everyone. So, grab your paddle and embark on a journey into one of California’s most captivating natural wonders with a Channel Islands National Park kayaking adventure. Check out our outdoor adventure posts for more tips and trip ideas.