[FULL GUIDE] 100 Must-Do Activities at Channel Islands National Park

Key Takeaways:

1. Channel Islands National Park is a beautiful and secluded destination known for its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and outdoor adventures.
2. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or exploring the islands’ rich history, the park offers a variety of activities for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
3. As a protected haven, Channel Islands National Park provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness California’s marine and island ecosystems up close.

Channel Islands National Park, located off the coast of Southern California, consists of five islands—each with its own unique ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and pristine landscapes. Established in 1980, the park preserves a range of habitats, from lush coastal cliffs to desert-like terrains. The islands are often referred to as the “Galápagos of North America” due to their incredible biodiversity and the presence of numerous endemic species. Visitors come to explore the islands through hiking, kayaking, bird watching, and snorkeling, while also learning about the rich cultural history of the indigenous people and early settlers. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature or take part in educational programs, Channel Islands offers a truly unique experience.

100 Things to Do at Channel Islands National Park

#1 Hike the Scorpion Canyon Trail: This scenic trail on Santa Cruz Island offers spectacular coastal views and access to native plant species.

#2 Go Kayaking Around Anacapa Island: Paddle through the waters around Anacapa Island, where you can explore sea caves and enjoy incredible ocean views.

#3 Visit the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center: Stop by the center in Ventura for maps, exhibits, and helpful information about the park.

#4 Snorkel at Painted Cave: Explore the clear waters around Santa Cruz Island and discover marine life while snorkeling near one of the park’s most famous sea caves.

#5 Take a Boat Tour Around the Islands: Experience the beauty of the islands from the water, where you can spot sea lions, dolphins, and whales.

#6 Hike to the Top of Mount Anacapa: A moderate hike that takes you to the summit of Anacapa Island, offering panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands.

#7 Explore the Historic Anacapa Lighthouse: Visit the iconic lighthouse on Anacapa Island, which has been guiding mariners since 1932.

#8 Go Whale Watching from the Islands: During migration seasons, head to the islands for incredible whale watching opportunities as gray and humpback whales pass by.

#9 Take the Island Packers Boat Tour: Use the Island Packers tour to visit different islands within the park, with options for guided tours and wildlife watching.

#10 Watch the Sunset from the Anacapa Island Viewpoint: Enjoy a stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean from one of the best viewpoints on Anacapa Island.

#11 Explore the Sea Caves on Santa Cruz Island: Kayak or boat your way into the sea caves of Santa Cruz Island, famous for their unique rock formations.

#12 Go Hiking on Santa Rosa Island: Enjoy trails that take you through oak woodlands, grasslands, and coastal bluffs on Santa Rosa Island.

#13 Join a Ranger-led Program: Learn about the park’s unique ecosystems and history from knowledgeable park rangers through fun and interactive programs.

#14 Wildlife Watching at San Miguel Island: Spot seals, sea lions, and unique bird species on San Miguel Island, the most remote of the Channel Islands.

#15 Go Birdwatching on Santa Barbara Island: With its remote location, Santa Barbara Island is a haven for birdwatchers, offering views of rare species.

#16 Scuba Dive Around the Channel Islands: Dive into the protected waters around the islands, where you’ll find kelp forests, vibrant marine life, and clear visibility.

#17 Go Camping at Scorpion Ranch: Set up camp at Scorpion Ranch on Santa Cruz Island, offering beautiful views and easy access to hiking trails.

#18 Take the California Coastal Trail: Hike along the California Coastal Trail, which offers spectacular views of the coastline and opportunities for birdwatching.

#19 Snorkel at the Barracuda Reef: Explore this popular snorkeling site off Santa Cruz Island, where you can see colorful fish and marine life up close.

#20 Visit the Painted Cave: One of the largest sea caves in the world, Painted Cave is a must-see for its remarkable colors and dramatic rock formations.

#21 Take a Kayak Tour Around Santa Cruz Island: Explore the coastline and its sea caves on a guided kayaking tour of Santa Cruz Island.

#22 Go Fishing Around the Islands: Cast a line in the rich waters around the Channel Islands and try your luck at fishing for local species.

#23 Visit the Historical Ranching Sites on Santa Rosa Island: Discover the park’s ranching history with a visit to historic ranching sites on Santa Rosa Island.

#24 Take a Scenic Boat Ride to Channel Islands: A leisurely boat ride from Ventura or Oxnard offers fantastic views of the islands, perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

#25 Walk the Bluffs on Santa Cruz Island: Enjoy a relaxing walk along the bluffs of Santa Cruz Island, with views of the ocean and the island’s rugged cliffs.

#26 Join a Channel Islands Cruise: Take a cruise around the islands to learn about the area’s geology, wildlife, and history from local experts.

#27 Go for a Sunset Paddle: Kayak around the islands during sunset for a peaceful and picturesque experience on the water.

#28 Hike to Potato Harbor: This easy trail on Santa Cruz Island leads to the beautiful Potato Harbor, a perfect spot for picnicking and taking in the views.

#29 Go Wildlife Watching on San Miguel Island: Visit San Miguel Island for an opportunity to see seals, sea lions, and rare bird species in their natural habitat.

#30 Learn About the Islands’ Native Cultures: Participate in a ranger-led program to learn about the Chumash people and their history on the islands.

#31 Hike the Island Trail on Santa Rosa Island: This scenic trail on Santa Rosa Island offers views of the coastline, wildlife, and unique island plants.

#32 Explore the Island’s Rugged Coastlines: Walk along the rugged coastlines of the islands, where dramatic cliffs meet the ocean, offering excellent photo opportunities.

#33 Spot Dolphins and Sea Lions: Keep an eye out for dolphins and sea lions while boating or kayaking around the islands.

#34 Take a Photography Tour of the Islands: Join a guided photography tour to capture the natural beauty of the islands, from cliffs and caves to sunsets and wildlife.

#35 Explore the Shoreline on Santa Barbara Island: Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline of Santa Barbara Island, exploring its rocky outcrops and coastal views.

#36 Go Camping at Santa Rosa Island Campground: Stay overnight at the campground on Santa Rosa Island and enjoy the island’s natural beauty and solitude.

#37 Visit the San Miguel Island Lighthouse: Take a boat tour to visit the lighthouse on San Miguel Island, offering incredible views of the surrounding ocean.

#38 Take a Snorkeling Tour at Santa Cruz Island: Explore the rich underwater world of Santa Cruz Island with a guided snorkeling tour, where you’ll see kelp forests and abundant marine life.

#39 Go on a Guided Nature Walk: Learn about the unique flora and fauna of the Channel Islands on a guided nature walk led by a park ranger.

#40 Explore the Islands’ Historic Artifacts: Discover historic artifacts and remnants of early island settlements, giving insight into the human history of the area.

#41 Kayak Through the Channel Islands Caves: Paddle through the numerous caves along the islands’ shorelines, offering a unique perspective of the rugged coastline.

#42 Attend the Channel Islands Film Festival: If you’re in town during the festival, enjoy screenings and workshops celebrating the natural beauty of the Channel Islands.

#43 Visit the Old Ranching Structures on Santa Cruz Island: Explore the historic ranching sites and learn about the island’s agricultural history.

#44 Go for a Scenic Sunset Boat Ride: Take a boat ride at sunset around the islands for stunning views as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.

#45 Go Hiking on Santa Cruz Island’s Interior: Venture deep into the interior of Santa Cruz Island for a more remote hiking experience with stunning views of the island’s diverse ecosystems.

#46 Take a Whale Watching Boat Tour: Join a guided tour for the chance to spot whales during migration seasons off the coast of the islands.

#47 Explore the Flora and Fauna of Anacapa Island: Visit Anacapa Island, famous for its unique plant life and a sanctuary for seabirds and other wildlife.

#48 Go on a Cliffside Walk on Santa Rosa Island: Enjoy stunning views of the ocean as you walk along the cliffs of Santa Rosa Island.

#49 Take a Seaplane Ride to Channel Islands: For an unforgettable view of the islands, take a seaplane ride from Ventura or Oxnard to the Channel Islands.

#50 Join a Historical Tour of the Islands: Learn about the human history of the islands, from indigenous cultures to early European settlers, on a guided historical tour.

#51 Explore the Coastal Bluffs on Anacapa Island: Walk along the coastal bluffs of Anacapa Island and enjoy views of the ocean and rugged coastline.

#52 Go Tidepooling at Santa Barbara Island: Visit the tidepools at Santa Barbara Island to discover marine life such as crabs, starfish, and sea anemones.

#53 Hike the Middle Ranch Trail: This moderate trail offers great views of Santa Cruz Island’s interior and surrounding ocean vistas.

#54 Take a Picnic at Potato Harbor: Enjoy a peaceful picnic with stunning views at Potato Harbor, an idyllic spot on Santa Cruz Island.

#55 Visit the Marine Mammal Viewing Areas: Visit designated areas on San Miguel Island for the chance to spot seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals.

#56 Take a Guided History Walk on Santa Rosa Island: Learn about the island’s rich history and cultural significance with a guided history walk on Santa Rosa Island.

#57 Go for a Scenic Kayak Tour at Santa Rosa Island: Paddle through the waters around Santa Rosa Island, where you can enjoy the coastline and spot wildlife along the way.

#58 Explore the Wildflower Blooms on Santa Rosa Island: Visit in the spring to see the island’s stunning wildflower blooms, creating vibrant landscapes on the island’s hills.

#59 Take a Boat Trip to Santa Cruz Island’s Sea Caves: Explore the fascinating sea caves on Santa Cruz Island, one of the best ways to discover the island’s coastline.

#60 Join the Channel Islands Nature Festival: Participate in the annual nature festival, where you can enjoy educational programs, guided hikes, and activities for all ages.

#61 Hike the Scenic East Point Trail: A scenic trail on Santa Rosa Island that offers beautiful coastal views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

#62 Go Beachcombing at Frenchy’s Cove: Visit this secluded beach on Santa Cruz Island, perfect for beachcombing and relaxing by the ocean.

#63 Take a Whale Watching Tour from Ventura: Join a whale watching tour from Ventura and spot migrating whales as they pass near the islands.

#64 Explore the Anacapa Island Sea Bird Sanctuary: Visit the Anacapa Island Sea Bird Sanctuary, home to many species of nesting seabirds.

#65 Go for a Walk to the Lighthouse on Anacapa Island: Take a walk to Anacapa Island’s historic lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking views from the top of the island.

#66 Hike to the White Rock on Santa Rosa Island: Hike to this scenic point on Santa Rosa Island, offering panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and islands.

#67 Take a Scenic Boat Tour Around the Islands: Hop on a boat tour to see multiple Channel Islands from the water, offering a unique perspective of their stunning landscapes.

#68 Visit the Southern California Marine Protected Areas: Explore the marine protected areas around Channel Islands, ideal for snorkeling and wildlife viewing.

#69 Explore the Hidden Caves on Santa Cruz Island: Discover the hidden caves around Santa Cruz Island, perfect for adventurous visitors looking to explore the island’s underground.

#70 Go for a Wildlife Watching Tour: Take a wildlife watching tour to spot animals such as dolphins, sea otters, and sea birds around the islands.

#71 Hike the Mount Diablo Trail: A moderate trail that offers great views of the surrounding area and an opportunity to enjoy the island’s rugged terrain.

#72 Visit the Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary: Explore the protected marine waters around the islands, home to diverse underwater ecosystems and marine life.

#73 Go Scuba Diving off Santa Rosa Island: Scuba dive in the crystal-clear waters around Santa Rosa Island and discover its diverse marine species and vibrant kelp forests.

#74 Hike to the Blue Canyon on Santa Cruz Island: Discover the unique blue-hued rock formations in this secluded area of Santa Cruz Island.

#75 Explore the Fossilized Remains on Santa Rosa Island: Visit the island’s fossil beds, where you can learn about its ancient history and see fossilized remains of prehistoric creatures.

#76 Take a Photography Tour of Channel Islands: Join a guided photography tour that focuses on capturing the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and coastal views of the islands.

#77 Visit the Arch Rock on Santa Cruz Island: Hike to Arch Rock, one of the most iconic natural formations on Santa Cruz Island, and enjoy stunning views from the top.

#78 Enjoy a Sunset from the Santa Rosa Island Campground: Camp under the stars and enjoy a peaceful sunset over the ocean at the Santa Rosa Island campground.

#79 Go for a Scenic Walk along the Anacapa Island Cliffs: Enjoy a scenic walk along Anacapa Island’s dramatic cliffs, with breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding islands.

#80 Take the Channel Islands Harbor Boat Tour: Take a relaxing boat tour through Channel Islands Harbor, offering beautiful views of the coast and wildlife.

#81 Visit the Historic Arch Rock: Check out the natural Arch Rock on Santa Cruz Island, a stunning geological feature that frames the horizon.

#82 Take a Guided Geology Tour of the Islands: Learn about the islands’ geology, including volcanic formations, through an expert-led guided tour.

#83 Spot the Channel Islands Fox on Santa Rosa Island: The Channel Islands fox, a unique species found only on the islands, can be spotted on Santa Rosa Island.

#84 Join the Channel Islands Conservation Program: Get involved with the park’s conservation efforts through volunteering or learning about the programs in place to protect the islands.

#85 Take the Anacapa Island Lighthouse Tour: Take a historical tour of the lighthouse on Anacapa Island and learn about its history and significance to maritime navigation.

#86 Discover the Historic Ranching Sites on Santa Rosa Island: Explore the old ranching sites on Santa Rosa Island, where visitors can learn about the island’s agricultural past.

#87 Join a Birdwatching Tour on Santa Barbara Island: Santa Barbara Island is a birdwatching haven, offering an opportunity to spot seabirds, such as puffins and cormorants.

#88 Go for a Scenic Paddle on Santa Rosa Island: Kayak or canoe around Santa Rosa Island, enjoying its coastline and marine life along the way.

#89 Take a Historical Tour on Anacapa Island: Discover Anacapa Island’s rich history, from its Chumash Native American heritage to its role in maritime navigation.

#90 Explore the Gaviota Coast from Channel Islands: Take a trip along the Gaviota Coast, where you’ll see stunning coastal views and local wildlife.

#91 Hike the Point Bennett Trail: Explore Point Bennett, a remote part of San Miguel Island known for its pristine beaches and wildlife.

#92 Spot Migrating Birds at Channel Islands: The islands are an important stop for migrating birds, making them a great place for birdwatching throughout the year.

#93 Attend the Channel Islands Ocean Festival: If visiting in the summer, participate in the Channel Islands Ocean Festival, celebrating marine life and environmental conservation.

#94 Go for a Scenic Hike at the Hidden Valley: Enjoy a hike through Hidden Valley on Santa Rosa Island, an area known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning landscapes.

#95 Go On a Sunset Boat Cruise: Experience the islands from the water on a sunset boat cruise, capturing the stunning colors of the setting sun over the ocean.

#96 Go Whale Watching During Migration: Visit the islands during whale migration season for the chance to spot gray and humpback whales in the waters around the islands.

#97 Hike the Cueva Valdez Trail: Explore the Cueva Valdez Trail on Santa Cruz Island, known for its unique rock formations and rich history.

#98 Take a Seabird Watching Tour: Join a guided seabird watching tour around the islands, offering the chance to see a variety of bird species up close.

#99 Visit the Channel Islands Historical Sites: Learn about the cultural and historical significance of the islands by visiting various historical landmarks and sites on the islands.

#100 Go for a Scenic Walk on Santa Cruz Island’s Coastal Path: Enjoy a scenic walk along the coastal path of Santa Cruz Island, taking in the beautiful ocean views and spotting marine life.

Conclusion:

Channel Islands National Park offers a wide range of activities, from hiking and kayaking to wildlife watching and stargazing. Use PlanMyWeekend.ai to plan your perfect trip and ensure you don’t miss any of the incredible adventures this park has to offer.