Channel Islands National Park- Ventura County

Along the Santa Barbara Channel you can find Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary which is made up of five Channel Islands. These Channels are so very important to our area. They serve as our ocean environment and as a great resource to our community. Therefore, if you have not been to any of the park’s Channel Islands yet, make time this summer to come explore. Near Ventura, and close to Los Angeles, it is refreshing to visit and break away from the busy California city lifestyle.

The Channel Islands are San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa, and Santa Barbara. Between all of them, they are as an oceanic home to several hundred unique to the area species and over 2,000 plant and animal species, overall. However, one of the coolest ones is the Santa Barbara Channel because it happens to be home to over 30 marine mammals like whales, dolphins, and elephant seals!

Which Island to See First?

Each island is unique and has different qualities to offer. If you are looking for amazing views and rock formations that usually have cute sea lions propped on them, go to Anacapa. Anacapa is additionally well known for bird watching and wildflowers. If you are looking to kayak, snorkel, hike, or even camp, Santa Cruz is the most popular. Santa Rosa is known to be a private area with beautiful white beaches. It is also great for hiking and camping! Santa Barbara and San Miguel Islands however, are mostly used for rehabilitation and conversvation. Therefore, they are closed to the public at times.

Really anytime in summer is good to visit any of the islands. The blue and the humpback whales are out and moving for great whale watching opportunities. Check out the Channel Islands website here for additional information and openings. Just 14 miles from Ventura, and miles of fun for hiking, kayaking, camping, and general wildlife viewing.

This Channel Islands National Park- Ventura County information has been brought to you by: Dave and Pat Zumbrun, Your Ventura County real estate specialists.

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