Channel Islands in One Day

If you have a few hours or a day to visit the Channel Islands, start with viewing the exhibits at the Channel Islands Visitor Center in Ventura. Then cruise over to East Anacapa for sweeping views of Santa Cruz Island and the mainland—provided it's not too foggy—and hiking, the primary activity here. Wander through western gull rookeries or peer down from steep cliffs and watch the antics of sea lions and seals. Alternatively, zip out to Scorpion Landing or Prisoner's Harbor on Santa Cruz Island on a high-speed catamaran run by Island Packers for more extended hiking, snorkeling, or kayaking.