Why you'll love it
- Sea caves. The coast around Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island is lined with sea caves, kelp forests, and clear water. The Park Service calls it a world-class kayaking spot.
- Island foxes. These cat-sized foxes live on the Channel Islands and nowhere else on Earth, and they're often out during the day.
- Wildlife on the way. The boat ride crosses the Santa Barbara Channel, and the captain will often slow down when dolphins or whales show up.
- Hiking. Trails from Scorpion run from easy canyon walks to clifftop routes high above the ocean.
- The views. Cliffs, coves, and blue water everywhere, with the mainland mountains across the channel.
Getting there: an easy, scenic drive
The park's official boat company, Island Packers, runs year-round from Ventura Harbor and Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. From Santa Barbara, it's a pretty drive down the coast on Highway 101, with the ocean beside you most of the way. Then it's about an hour on the boat to Santa Cruz Island.
Santa Barbara also has a mainland visitor center for the park, which makes a fun stop before or after your trip.
Best island for a first visit: Santa Cruz Island
The National Park Service calls Santa Cruz the easiest island to reach, with the best weather and the most to do. Most day visitors head to Scorpion Anchorage, where you'll find trails, a shady canyon, old ranch buildings, a rocky beach, and the sea caves. Prisoners Harbor is another stop on the same island.
Sea-cave kayaking
For most visitors, this is the highlight. The authorized outfitter at Scorpion runs guided tours all year, and many are beginner-friendly and open to ages 5 and up (kids under 12 share a double kayak with an adult). Your guide brings the gear, teaches you the basics, and picks the best caves for that day's conditions.
What it costs
Prices change. These were current in October 2026. Check the operator's website before you book.
| What | About how much |
|---|---|
| Ferry, Santa Cruz Island day trip (round trip) | About $70 adult, about $50 kids 3–12, under 3 free |
| Guided sea-cave kayak tour, half day (~4 hrs) | About $219 adult / $199 kids 12 & under, plus ferry |
| Shorter guided kayak tour (~2.5 hrs, Feb–Nov) | About $159 adult / $139 kids, plus ferry |
When to go
The islands are open all year. The Park Service says the seas are often calmest from August through October, and mornings are usually the calmest part of the day. Spring brings green hillsides, and summer is the most popular season, so book ahead.
FAQ
How do I get to the Channel Islands from Santa Barbara?
Take a short, scenic drive down the coast to Ventura Harbor or Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, then catch the park's official ferry. It's about an hour to Santa Cruz Island.
How long is the boat ride to Santa Cruz Island?
About an hour to Scorpion Anchorage. It's a little longer when the captain stops to watch dolphins or whales.
Can beginners kayak the sea caves?
Yes. Many guided tours welcome beginners and kids 5 and up, and the guides provide the gear and instruction.
Is a Channel Islands day trip good for kids?
Yes. Scorpion Anchorage has shady trails, a beach, and island foxes to spot. Just pack plenty of snacks and water.
What is the best month to visit the Channel Islands?
Any month works, since the islands are open year-round. The Park Service says August through October often brings the calmest seas.
Plan the rest of your trip
Back in Santa Barbara, catch a sunset or spend the evening in the Funk Zone. Want more ocean? Read our whale watching guide.