Top Reasons to Go

Rare flora and fauna: The Channel Islands are home to 145 species of terrestrial plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth.
Time travel: With no cars, phones, or services and away from hectic modern life, these undeveloped islands provide a glimpse of what California was like hundreds of years ago.
Underwater adventures: The incredibly healthy channel waters rank among the top 10 diving destinations on the planet—but you can also visit the kelp forest virtually via Channel Islands Live, a live underwater program.
Marvelous marine mammals: More than 30 species of seals, sea lions, whales, and other marine mammals ply the park's waters at various times of year.
Sea-cave kayaking: Paddle around otherwise inaccessible portions of the park's 175 miles of gorgeous coastline—including one of the world's largest sea caves.

Plants and Wildlife on the Channel Islands

Getting Oriented

Channel Islands National Park