On a recent trip to Santa Barbara, I had the joy of visiting Channel Islands National Park. The awe-striking Santa Cruz island combines the scenery of the Faroe Islands and Scotland. It also features jaw-dropping cliffs similar to those seen in Ireland.
If this is not reason enough to check out this wonderful national park, I would recommend the Channel Islands for a myriad of additional reasons. First, the remote nature-filled islands provide a unique experience unlike other national parks I have explored in the United States. Secondly, the boat ride to reach the island provides wonderful opportunities for whale and wildlife spotting without the added cost of a separate tour. Furthermore, the island hikes found near Scorpion’s Island anchorage are otherworldly.
How to reach Santa Cruz island?
In short, the islands can only be reached in by ferry. Island Packers cruises offer regular and reliable transportation to Santa Cruz and other islands (e.g. Santa Rosa, San Miguel, etc.) in the national park. Day-trip tickets as well as camping permits are available at the check-in kiosk located near the Ventura Harbor.
More information: https://islandpackers.com/
What to do in Santa Cruz?
In Santa Cruz, I would recommend a hiking loop that combines two trails. Through combining Cavern Point Loop and Potato Harbor Outlook for a moderately strenuous hike, you will see meadows, multiple vista points, and possibly some wild foxes and pelicans.
If you find you have added time on a day trip or multi-day adventure, I’d recommend adding the following:
- Montañon Ridge Loop Hike
- Chinese Harbor Hike
For more information:
https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/hiking-santa-cruz-island.htm
Have you been to Channel Islands National Park? Drop a comment and any advice you might have for fellow travelers 🙂 Safe travels! ~K
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