If you’re looking for a unique day trip in California, Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park is definitely worth considering. This small island (or series of islets), located just off the coast of Ventura, is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife. With only around 2 miles of trails, it’s the perfect destination for a day trip.
An Anacapa Island day trip is relatively easy from Ventura Harbor. The cost is usually around $60-70 round trip, and the journey takes around an hour each way. Once you arrive on the island, you’ll have around 4 hours to explore before returning to the mainland. While this might not seem like a lot of time, it’s more than enough to experience the island’s unique atmosphere and see some of its most impressive sights.
» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out all our guides to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and San Diego. Find the best beaches in Monterey, waterfalls in Southern California, and national parks.
During your visit to Anacapa Island, you can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and sea lions. The island is also home to a number of unique plant species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.
» Also read about Santa Rosa Island, another in the chain of Channel Islands.
Planning Your Anacapa Island Day Trip
If you’re planning a day trip to Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your visit.
The island is really three large islets named East Anacapa, Middle, and West Anacapa that are more or less end-to-end like a string of beads.
Getting There With Island Packers
To get to Anacapa Island, you’ll need to take a boat operated by Island Packers. Island Packers offers boat trips to the island from Ventura and Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. There are 3-7 trips per week, year round to Anacapa, but it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season. The trip takes about 1 hour. Tickets are $63 rt for adults and $45 for kids.
Once you arrive, you have to climb up about 157 steps at the boat landing, then you can head off to do whatever hiking you want for the 4 hours you have before the return trip.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Anacapa Island is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and dry. However, keep in mind that the island can get crowded during this time, so if you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in the spring or fall. Winter can be a bit chilly and rainy, but it’s still possible to visit the island during this time if you’re prepared for the weather.
I also am not a huge fan of the ride out there when the water is choppy, so I prefer to go on a nice, calm day. Be aware that trips get cancelled all the time due to weather, so always double check before you head out.
What to Bring: Essential Gear and Supplies
- Sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and wind
- Plenty of water and food, as there are no stores or restaurants on the island
- Sturdy shoes for hiking on the island’s trails
- Warm clothing, as it can get chilly on the boat ride and on the island
- A backpack or daypack to carry your gear
It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the park’s safety guidelines, which include staying on designated trails, not disturbing wildlife, and packing out all trash.
Activities on Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island, located in Channel Islands National Park, is a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The island offers a wide range of activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the top activities to enjoy on Anacapa Island:
Hiking and Trails
Anacapa Island has several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding islands. The most popular trail is the interpretive trail that leads to Inspiration Point, which provides stunning vistas of the two other parts of Anacapa.
The Anacapa Island Interpretive Trail is located on East Anacapa, one of the islets of Anacapa Island in the Channel Islands National Park. This trail offers about 2 miles of hiking paths in a unique figure-eight shape. The starts as you ascend the rugged cliffs using a stairway from the landing cove. The trail then meanders over gentle slopes, leading to dramatic overlooks and offering magnificent coastal views, including a view of the last permanent lighthouse built on the west coast.
An interpretive trail guide is available on the island, providing valuable insights into the natural and historical features of the island, making it not only a scenic hike but also an educational experience
The viewpoint looks over the middle island as it wraps around to the base of the west island. You can also see the silhouette of Santa Cruz in the background as well. The trail is relatively short, and the terrain is not too challenging, making it suitable for hikers of all levels.
Wildlife and Bird Watching
Anacapa Island is home to a wide variety of wildlife and seabirds, making it a paradise for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The island is home to several species of seabirds, including the Western Gulls, Pelagic Cormorant, and Brandt’s Cormorant. Visitors can also spot California sea lions, harbor seals, and occasionally, dolphins and whales.
Kayaking and Snorkeling
Kayaking and snorkeling are popular activities on Anacapa Island, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Visitors can rent kayaks and snorkeling gear from the mainland and explore the island’s sea caves, kelp forests, and rocky reefs. The waters around Anacapa Island are home to several species of fish, including Garibaldi, Kelp Bass, and Sheephead.
Unique Flora and Fauna
Anacapa Island has a unique ecosystem that is home to several rare and endangered plant and animal species. The island is home to the Anacapa Deer Mouse, which is found nowhere else in the world. Visitors can also see the Island Buckwheat, which is a rare and endangered plant species that only grows on the Channel Islands.
Lighthouse and Historical Sites
Anacapa Island has a rich history, and visitors can explore several historical sites, including the Anacapa Lighthouse, which was built in 1932 and is still in operation today. Visitors can also visit the historic Coast Guard buildings, which now house a small visitor center that features displays on the natural and cultural resources of the island.
Overall, Anacapa Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are interested in hiking, wildlife watching, kayaking, or history, there is something for everyone on this beautiful island.
Visitor Facilities and Regulations
Anacapa Island offers limited visitor facilities, which are managed by the National Park Service (NPS). It is important to familiarize yourself with the park’s regulations to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable visit.
Camping and Accommodations
There are seven camp sites on Anacapa, three sites that hold up to 4 campers and four sites hold up to 6 campers. If you’re planning to camp, you need a boat reservation and a camping reservation (booked in advance). The island as a whole isn’t very shaded, but there is no shade at all at the campsite. You also need to bring your own toilet paper. It’s about 1/2 a mile from the landing site to the campground.
Anacapa Island Lighthouse Keepers’ Quarters. This historic building has been converted into a guesthouse that can accommodate up to eight people. The quarters include a living room, kitchen, and bedrooms. Visitors must bring their own food and water, as there are no services on the island.
Picnicking and Day-Use Areas
Anacapa Island has several picnic and day-use areas where you can enjoy a meal or take a break from hiking. Picnic tables are available at the Landing Cove, which is the island’s main landing area. You can bring your own food and use the tables at the campground.
There are no restaurants or food services, and there is NO potable water on Anacapa Island, so bring your own food and water. Pit toilets are available at the campground and the Landing Cove.
Park rangers are available to answer questions and provide information about the island’s history and natural resources. Check in with the rangers upon arrival to obtain the latest information on park regulations and services.
Anacapa Island is a remote and rugged destination that offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Channel Islands National Park. By following the park’s regulations and respecting the island’s fragile ecosystem, you can help preserve this special place for future generations to enjoy.
Safety and Conservation
When visiting Anacapa Island, it is important to keep in mind the safety and conservation measures put in place by the National Park Service. The island is a protected area, and visitors are expected to respect the natural environment and wildlife. Park Rangers are available on the island to provide information and assistance, and it is recommended that you check in with them upon arrival.
On the northern side of Anacapa Island are four marine protected areas (MPAs) known as Anacapa Island State Marine Reserve (SMR), the federal Anacapa Island Marine Reserve (FMR), Anacapa Island State Marine Conservation Area (SMCA) and the federal Anacapa Island Marine Conservation Area (FMCA), along with Anacapa Island Special Closure, which encircles the entire island.
Cell service is limited on the island, so it is important to plan ahead and ensure that you have all necessary supplies and equipment. The boat ride to Anacapa Island can be bumpy, so it is recommended that you bring motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.
To ensure the safety of visitors and wildlife, there are several rules and regulations that must be followed. These include:
- Staying on designated trails and areas
- Not feeding or approaching wildlife
- Not removing any natural or cultural resources
- Properly disposing of all trash and waste
It is important to remember that Anacapa Island is a fragile ecosystem, and every effort must be made to preserve its natural beauty. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy this unique and beautiful island.
In addition to the rules and regulations, visitors should also be aware of the potential hazards that can be encountered on the island. These include steep cliffs, strong currents, and slippery rocks. It is important to exercise caution and use common sense when exploring the island.
Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again.
FOLLOW US on Pinterest and Facebook for more California travel inspiration and tips!
Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.
