National Park · California
Channel Islands National Park
The "Galápagos of North America"
StateCalifornia
Best seasonSpring (flowers) & fall
Don’t missKayaking the Santa Cruz sea caves
TerrainIsland bluffs & sea caves
Five rugged islands off the Southern California coast, reachable only by boat — sea caves, endemic wildlife, and wildflower bluffs with almost no crowds. Spring for flowers, summer and fall for the calmest crossings.
What to see
- Santa Cruz Island
- Painted Cave kayak
- Anacapa Island lighthouse
- Inspiration Point
- Channel crossings & whale watching
Check the park’s official site for current entrance fees, timed-entry or permits, road and seasonal closures before you go.