The Diving

The Channel Islands can be divided into the southern islands and those that lie slightly to the north. The northern islands are San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz and Anacapa. To the south, you have San Nicolas, Santa Barbara, San Clemente and Catalina Island. There are regularly visited dive sites around most of the islands, We'll go through some of the top spots with you here.

San Clemente is one of the southern group of islands, and the sites here enjoy some of the best conditions in the Channel Islands Park. The waters are clearer and warmer than spots further north, the result of tropical currents from the south. In the summer water temperatures can be as high as 21 degrees. There are many sites to dive, especially when the weather is good and the seas are calm. Some of the more popular spots include the Fish Hook, the Boilers, Octopus Gardens, and the Weather Pane.

Bat Ray, Credit: Don Rhodes

Wreck diving fans will want to take in what remains of the John C Butler, found in the north west corner of the harbour. She rests on a sandy bottom at around 24m. Other wreck sites can be explored around the island. Wall dives are possible at San Clemente, and there are plenty of underwater caverns, pinnacles and rocky reefs to explore. Giant kelp beds are home to seals and Bat Rays, while lobsters lurk in the rocky crevices keeping a careful watch on the passers by.

Catalina Island also falls in the southern island group. Topside there are buffalo, Bald Eagles and Mountain Goats roaming the rolling hills, canyons and rocky crevices. But it's underwater where you will find the most fascinating marine life. The main site is Casino Point where large Black Sea Bass and Bat Rays are always on patrol. There is plenty of invertebrate life on display, and crustacean critters scurry nervously amongst the rocks. With reefs, walls, and underwater pinnacles, every level of diver will find a spot to enjoy.

Crab, Credit: Don Rhodes

In the northern island group, Santa Cruz and Anacapa Island are two of the top spots to visit. Santa Cruz has many protected coves that are sheltered from wind, currents and nasty weather. Sea urchins carpet certain sites, turning the bottom into a prickly rug of purple and red. California Sea Lions and Harbour Seals may slip alongside for a closer look at the tourists (that's you). More curious than confrontational, you should nevertheless exercise caution if there are pups around. Mums and Dads of most species are protective of their young!

Brittle Star in Santa Cruz , Credit: Don Rhodes

Anacapa Island is about a 40 minute ride from the mainland and has numerous dive sites to explore. The underwater environment is varied; there are shallow rocky reefs, and forests of kelp that seem to extend for miles. Being a protected area means that the Sea Bass and other fish around Anacapa are considerably larger than those you might see in other parts of the California Pacific. Seasonal lobster hunting and spear fishing is possible in certain months, outside of the reserve.

Advanced divers have a unique opportunity near the Channel Islands Park should they choose to accept. An oil rig rarely conjures up images of environmental conservation, however underwater the structure that supports the rig, also supports a variety of marine life. An artificial reef is created in much the same way as when a ship is sunk. This can be challenging diving, and live-boating is the only option, as it's too deep to anchor and tying on to the rig itself is prohibited. Once you do get in and down however, you're in for a treat. Everything from scallops, sea anemones and seals seem to be happy to call the rigs home. Be aware that navigation will be mostly visual. All that metal will play havoc with your compass!

Photo by: Don Rhodes

How to Get there

Ventura is the jumping off point for most trips to the islands whether for diving or topside exploration. Santa Barbara is also close by. The nearest international airport is Los Angeles (LAX) and Santa Barbara (SBA) is a less crowded domestic alternative. Renting a car is a good option, but there are frequent buses to the area from many major cities.

Public ferries shuttle visitors back and forth between the mainland and the islands. Private boats may be permitted to land on the islands, check with the park office for details.

Pelican near Anacapa, Credit: Don Rhodes

Where to Eat & Drink

In Ventura, The Jolly Oyster serves up some of the freshest, finest seafood in town, and a meal won't blow your budget. It is right on the beach, and as the name suggests, oysters raw, grilled, and pan-fried are the stars of the show.

There are BBQ grills set up so you can buy your seafood raw, and grill it on your own. BYOB and enjoy a delicious dinner as you watch the sun set. Lure Fish House also scores high marks if you want a more formal eating experience. There are bars, chain restaurants, and of course fast food options available in town as well.

Photo by: Don Rhodes

Other Activities

Ocean kayaking, snorkelling and fishing (outside of the park boundaries) are all popular pastimes. The islands themselves are beautiful to explore and it is possible to camp at several locations. The islands are home to well over 100 unique species that can be found nowhere else on the planet. Whale watching is a sensational albeit seasonal experience the whole family will enjoy. Pods of playful dolphins can often be seen frolicking alongside the ferries and dive boats as they make their runs between the islands and mainland. Rent a car or bike and explore the town of Ventura and the pretty nearby countryside.

Goby, Credit: Don Rhodes

Family Friendly

The whole family will find plenty to do in the Channel Islands. Snorkelling and kayaking trips will guide you into the caves and along the rocky shoreline of the islands. Teens who are certified divers are usually welcome to join beginner and intermediate dive sites (sometimes they must be accompanied by a parent). Ask at your dive shop as to what their policies are regarding non-divers or snorkellers who want to come along for the ride.

There are paths and trails on the islands to suit every hiker, regardless of ability. Whale and dolphin watching excursions are popular with families, and the park's visitor centre in Ventura is worth a visit. The beaches, and beach side restaurants are informal, and even toddlers will be welcomed at the majority of eating establishments. Many hotels are pet friendly, but require advance notice if you are planning on bringing the fur kids. Call your chosen hotel for details.

Ling Cod Credit: Don Rhodes

Tips

Ventura and Santa Barbara, California are both well-policed cities that are as safe as any American city. Obviously, keep your cars locked, and do not leave any valuables or cash in plain sight. Exercise the same caution when venturing out late at night as you would in any city with which you are unfamiliar.

Many consider late summer and fall as the best times to schedule a trip to the park. Visibility is usually good, and the water  is still warm by park standards. There are migrating birds to be seen, and Northern Elephant Seals may be spotted as they begin to gather at their favourite rookery spots.

Photo by: Don Rhodes