Channel Islands National Park- CA

Are you tired of fighting the crowds at National Parks? Of course you are. Our National Parks are insanely beautiful, and very photogenic, so it is understandable that so many are overcrowded during peak season. 2015 saw 307.2 million park visitors systemwide; that number is sure to be surpassed in 2016. But all is not lost. Among the Yellowstones and Yosemites live lesser known gems, that you will practically have to yourself. A perfect example is Channel Islands National Park- a naturalist’s paradise located off the coast of Santa Barbara, California.

Channel Islands National Park consists of five islands off the coast of Southern California. The islands are home to over 2000 species of plants and animals, with 145 of those being unique to the islands, and found nowhere else on earth. The geology of the islands is equally impressive.

Biologists studying the islands in the early twentieth century recognized their extraordinary importance, and lobbied for protective status for the area. In 1938 Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed legislation designating Anacapa and Santa Barbara Islands as National Monuments, with full park status arriving decades later in 1980 under Jimmy Carter.  At that time, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz and San Miguel Islands were added, as well as the surrounding water.

Because of this early action, the islands are every bit as beautiful today as when they were first “discovered” in 1542 by Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. News of this discovery was probably shocking to the Chumash, the native inhabitants, who had lived on the islands for centuries. By the time Cabrillo arrived, there were already 21 villages on the larger islands.

Getting to the Channel Islands takes a bit of planning, but aside from that, it is pretty easy. Several ferries service the islands daily. The islands are all unique, so do a bit of research, and choose the experience that works for you. All islands are great for hiking. Santa Cruz, with over 100 sea caves, is ideal for kayaking. Anacapa’s kelp beds are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. The beaches of San Miguel are home to a lively bunch of elephant seals. Just remember, once you get there, there are no services, so bring everything you will need.

We gathered a few friends and took an early morning ferry over to Santa Cruz island for some kayaking. The ride was amazingly relaxing, wonderfully scenic, and filled with wildlife sightings. Right off the bow, flying fish kept pace with the ferry, seemingly gliding across the water on their tails. It was one of the coolest things I have ever seen, and worth the price of admission alone.

Almost immediately after arriving on the Island we were met by our outfitter, supplied with wet suits, and given kayaks. After a short safety class, we were on the water. You will be thankful for that wet suit, as the water is bracing. Okay, it is frigid. But the cold California current and its associated upwelling is what makes the water so productive and nutrient rich, so it is a necessary evil.

Kayaking around the island, through sea arches and into sea caves was one of best experiences I have ever had. Not only do you have a great view of the island and its wildlife from the water, the feeling of gliding into a darkened sea cave is not one you will soon forget.

You will have plenty of time after kayaking to explore the island on foot, even if you are only staying for the day. You can camp on Santa Cruz island, but the majority of visitors come for the day. The Cavern Point Loop trail is a relatively easy 2 mile track that leads to a bluff with magnificent views. It is perfect if you are pressed for time. You definitely don’t want to miss your ferry, or you will be camping without supplies until the next one arrives.

The ferry ride back might even be better than the morning trip, because in addition to all the aforementioned greatness, the bar is open for business. A perfect way to end your day. So in sum, the Channel Islands have everything that you could want in a National Park, with an annual attendance of only about 30,000. Perfect.