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Santa Barbara Island |
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Santa Barbara Island General Information Santa Barbara Island is the only southern Channel Island in the park. This island is the smallest of the Channel Islands yet it is big on wildlife and adventure. Located about 55 miles from Ventura County travel time is 2.5 to 3 hours depending on which harbor the trip departs from. The longer channel crossing increases the opportunity to see a variety of wild life such as whales, dolphins, and seabirds. Visitors step from the boat onto a ladder and climb to a small dock. From the dock there is a steep trail that leads to the top of the island. There is no potable water and no shade trees on this island, so bring ample water, a hat or visor, and sunscreen. The isolation of this island makes it an ideal place for many species of nesting seabirds and also for breeding seals and sea lions. This small island is also rich in native flora, with a number of island endemics. Like the other Channel Islands, the spring wildflower bloom is exquisite, yet many of the endemic plants actually bloom in the summer and fall on this island. Though the island is only about one square mile in size one can easily spend an entire day hiking and enjoying the various coastal views all around the island. Kayaking and snorkeling are excellent in the Landing Cove and playful sea lions are almost always present. View the Santa Barbara Island hiking guide. |
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Camping Hike in camping is available on Santa Barbara Island and is accessed by a .5 mile steep narrow dirt trail leading from the Landing Cove pier. The campsites are located on an exposed coastal bluff. Bring a hat or visor because there are no shade trees on this island. Outhouse style restrooms are located adjacent to the campsites. There is no running or potable water. You must contain and pack out all trash. Island Packers will transport your camping gear but each packed bag must not exceed 45 pounds in weight. Water and any camping fuel should not be included in packed bags but may be carried onboard for special storage. No fires are allowed in the campground, but propane/gas camp stoves are permitted. Reservations are required and can made directly with the National Park reservations system at www.recreation.gov or for complete camping information in the Channel Islands National Park visit; http://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/camping.htm. Important, before you make your camping reservation you should secure transportation with Island Packers. |
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Watersports The only access to the water is from the Landing Cove where a ladder leads to water about 15 feet deep. Snorkeling gear and kayaks may be stowed on the Landing Cove dock. Water temperature ranges on an average from 55-68 degrees and is warmest during the long summer days. Anyone spending time in the water should dress appropriately for exposure in cold water, which includes some type of wetsuit. Please visit the watersports page for details including information on kayaking, kayak transportation and guided kayak tours, which are highly recommended. Also, for information on kayaking safety and regulations, see the park guidelines. There are is a marine protected area on the south east point of the island. Fishing outside of the Marine Protected Area is permitted. For more information on the Channel Islands marine Protected areas go to: www.dfg.ca.gov/mrd/channel_islands/index.html |
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Seasonal Highlights Just as the wildflower peak fades at the end of April, the island comes alive with the cry of western gulls guarding their nest of eggs. Chicks usually hatch about 5 weeks after the eggs are laid and then fledge the nest 6 -7 weeks after hatching. In summer and fall ocean conditions can be some of the best for kayaking and snorkeling. Due to the more southern location of Santa Barbara island visitors can experience with the some of the warmest and clearest waters in the park. |
| Santa Barbara Island |
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| Schedule of Fares | Adult | Child (3-12) | Senior (55+) | Other information |
| Day Trip | $60.00 | $46.00 | $55.00 | 3-4 hours on island |
| Camper | $90.00 | $72.00 | $85.00 | Use yellow baggage label |
| Kayak Transportation | If 13ft. Or less $7.00, over 13ft. Or if fiberglass $10.00. Kayak fare is the same for all islands. Kayak reservations required for kayak transportation. | |||
- Day visitors plan to check in at our office 1/2 hour before departure.
- Campers or anyone transporting a Kayak plan to check in at our office 1 hour before your scheduled departure and pre-board your equipment at the direction of the boat crew.
- Campers, no packed bag or any item may weigh more than 45 pounds.
- Keep fuel and water separate from packed bags.
- Kayakers visit the Watersports page for instructions on kayak transportation.
- Weather can be unpredictable at times; you can call our automated message system (805) 642-1393 after 5:30 a.m. the day of your trip that will inform you if there have been any changes to the days scheduled trips due to weather beyond our control.
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Island Packers
(805) 642-1393 |
Anacapa |
Santa Barbara
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