Channel Islands National Park

These five islands off the Southern California coast comprise one of America’s most undeveloped—and utterly magical—national parks. Revered for its endemic plants and plentiful wildlife, the “Galapagos of North America” has no lodgings, stores, or restaurants—only a wild coastal landscape and come-hither scenery. At this ocean-bound preserve, the action centers around hiking, camping, wildlife-watching, and the chance to totally and completely unplug. 

How to Get to Channel Islands National Park

To reach the islands—Anacapa, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, San Miguel, and Santa Rosa—visitors need to take a ferry or plane. Ferries with Island Packers go to both Anacapa and Santa Cruz islands year-round and ride times range from one to three hours; service to the other three islands is seasonal. Travel to the islands by air can be booked through Channel Islands Aviation.

Things to Do at Channel Islands National Park

Just the trip to the Channel Islands is an experience itself, as whales or pods of dolphins can often be seen right from the boat. Once you’ve arrived, activities range from kayaking and hiking to whale watching and snorkeling. Read How to Explore the Channel Islands for more information on kayaking, wildlife viewing, and camping.

Check out the pages featured below for more in-depth information on how to get to Channel Islands National Park and what to do when you get there.