10 Best Things to Do in Channel Islands National Park

The Channel Islands are sometimes called the Galápagos of North America — five islands with unique plants and animals, reached only by boat. It's one of the least-visited national parks in California for its size, and this is how I'd rank what's worth the trip.

Best Time of Year to Visit, and Why

I'd go from April through October, with September as my favorite. The ocean is calmer, the boats run most often, and the weather is clearer. Spring brings wildflowers on the islands and whale watching on the crossing, and summer is best for kayaking and snorkeling.

Winter has big swells and fewer boats, but gray whale season is spectacular if you're not prone to motion sickness.

How Channel Islands Compares to Dry Tortugas

Both parks are island parks reached by boat, so here's how I'd choose.

	Channel Islands	Dry Tortugas
Headline	Five islands with hiking, kayaking, and sea caves	A 19th-century fort on a remote coral island
Access	1-hour ferry from Ventura or Oxnard	Ferry or seaplane from Key West
Hiking	Island trails and clifftops	A short walk around the fort
Best time	Apr–Oct	Dec–Apr
Best for	Hiking, kayaking, and wildlife	Snorkeling and history

If I could only pick one, I'd choose Channel Islands for the hiking and the variety. I'd choose Dry Tortugas for the snorkeling and the fort.

Hiking Checklist — Channel Islands National Park

Wind, sun, and no services drive my kit here:

1. All your water and food — there are no stores or fountains on the islands.
2. A windbreaker and warm layer — the crossing and the clifftops are windy and cold.
3. Motion-sickness medication — the crossing can be rough, and you take it before boarding.
4. Sun protection — the islands have almost no shade.
5. A reusable bag for trash — you must carry everything out.
6. A dry bag for your phone and camera — spray on the boat is common.

The 10 Best Things to Do in Channel Islands National Park

1. 1. Hike Cavern Point Loop on Santa Cruz

   A climb to a clifftop with a wide coastal view. 2 mi loop, moderate, 1–1.5 hrs.

2. 2. Kayak the sea caves at Scorpion

   A guided tour paddling into the island's sea caves, including the Painted Cave on some tours. Best in summer. 2–3 hrs.

3. 3. Walk the Inspiration Point Loop on Anacapa

   An easy loop to a lighthouse with a view of Arch Rock. 1.5 mi loop, easy, 1–1.5 hrs.

4. 4. Snorkel at Scorpion Anchorage

   Clear water and kelp forests in summer. Rent a wetsuit. 1–2 hrs.

5. 5. Watch for whales on the crossing

   Gray whales in winter and spring, and blue and humpback whales in summer. Dolphins nearly every trip.

6. 6. Hike to Potato Harbor

   A gentle coastal walk to a secluded cove. 5 mi RT, moderate, 2.5–3 hrs.

7. 7. Visit the Historic Ranch at Scorpion

   A small historic ranch near the landing with exhibits about the island's ranching past. 0.5 mi RT, easy, 20–30 min.

8. 8. Camp overnight at Scorpion Ranch

   A simple campground with a short walk from the landing, and a chance to see the stars. Reservations are required.

9. 9. Hike Smugglers Cove

   A long walk to a secluded beach on Santa Cruz's south side. 7.5 mi RT, strenuous, 4–5 hrs.

10. 10. See the island fox

    The small fox found only on the Channel Islands is often seen near the campground and trails. Keep your distance and don't feed them.

Ferry schedules, island closures, and weather conditions are accurate as of publication but change — always confirm current conditions, road status, and reservation rules at nps.gov/chis before you go.