The Channel Islands off the coast of California are a popular holiday destination for adventure lovers and isolation seekers. The group of islands is part of a National Park and has lots of activities and adventures to offer. If you're planning your summer vacation then consider a trip to the islands if coming down to the coast.
Santa Cruz Island is the biggest one of the islands and the one easiest to get to. You can visit as a day trip or a long overnight camping adventure. Santa Cruz Island is offering the most recreational activities but like with all the islands it requires a lot of preparation and planning. No services are found over there. Food and other required items have to be carried with from the mainland.
There is however a visitors center and an adventure company located on the island. This is where you can get water as well. At Scorpion Anchorage is the historic ranch house where you can safely plan your trip.
Channel Islands Adventure Company is offering kayak and snorkel tours from Santa Cruz Island. When exploring the coastline by kayak one can see the most beautiful view in the National Park. And for those who would like to see and learn more about marine life, Snorkel trips are the best option. The Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary is offering some of the best snorkeling in the States.
Camping is available at Scorpion Canyon Campground. It is rather primitive but the best family-friendly campground on all of the islands. Backcountry camping is also allowed and possible all year around. For those wanting to embrace the full beauty of the island, an overnight stay is mandatory. You just can't see and experience everything in a few hours on a day trip.
For hikers, the island has several trails leading across the land. Some trails are well-maintained, rather flat, and signed while others are more or less unmaintained and bring you through the rugged area over mountainous paths across the island. Those trails are passing by some stunning viewpoints where one can enjoy an amazing view across the coastline or the island's scenery.
Scorpion Beach is a mixed sand and cobblestone beach which is popular for swimming, diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. The reason for its popularity is the easy access to the beach, the incredibly clear ocean, and the boat transportation which operates all year round. One can explore the impressive shoreline or sea caves along the beach.
There is a lot more to see and do on the island. Depending on your preferences and hobbies you can also go bird watching, find lovely blooming wildflowers during the various seasons, or simply enjoy your day on the beach.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip and head down to the Channel Islands!
Sources:
- National Park Service (https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/santa-cruz-things-to-do.htm)
- Island Kayaking (https://www.islandkayaking.com/)