3 days on Santa Cruz in Channel Islands National Park
Experience the remote beauty and unique wildlife of Santa Cruz Island on this three-day camping excursion in Channel Islands National Park. Enjoy hikes, kayaking and snorkeling, tide pools, and the chance to see island foxes and migrating whales.
Day 1
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Getting there
Boat ride to Santa Cruz Island
Begin your adventure at the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center in Ventura, CA. Board the Island Packers ferry for a scenic ride to Santa Cruz Island. Arrive at Scorpion Anchorage and set up camp at the nearby Scorpion Canyon Campground.
Short hike and stargazing
Take an easy hike to Cavern Point Loop (2 miles roundtrip from Scorpion Beach) for stunning coastal views and prime whale-watching opportunities. Explore the historic Scorpion Ranch area before unwinding and enjoying the stars.
Day 2
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Exploring the island
Hike to Smuggler’s Cove
Start your day early with a moderate-to-strenous hike to Smuggler’s Cove (7.5 miles round trip). This scenic trail takes you through rolling hills. Bring plenty of water as there is none at Smuggler’s.
Wildlife watching and kayaking
Rent a kayak or bring your own to explore the sea caves along the coast. Paddle through the famous Painted Cave, one of the largest sea caves in the world. Alternatively, snorkel or scuba in the kelp forests teeming with marine life, including garibaldi fish and sea lions.
Sunset at Potato Harbor
For the avid hiker, go to Potato Harbor Overlook (5 miles round trip) for breathtaking sunset views over the rugged cliffs.
Day 3
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Sunrise, surf, and sand
Sunrise wildlife walk
Take a short morning stroll around the campground to spot the endemic island fox, one of the park’s most famous inhabitants. Birdwatchers can look for peregrine falcons and bald eagles soaring overhead.
Final adventure and boat ride back
Before leaving, take a quick hike to Scorpion Beach to explore tide pools filled with colorful sea anemones and crabs. Pack up and board the ferry back to Ventura, keeping an eye out for marine life on the return trip.
Optional add-on
A day in Ventura
Check out Ventura Harbor for great food (and ice cream), pedal boat rides, and stunning sunsets on Ventura Beach, a calm spot that’s usually not too crowded.
Visit Smart
Plan ahead
Book your ferry, campsite, and boat rentals in advance, as spots fill up quickly. There are no services on the islands, so bring all necessary supplies, including food and water.
Watch the weather
The islands can be windy and foggy, even in summer. Dress in layers and check conditions before departure.
Gear up
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and a dry bag for electronics if kayaking. Binoculars are great for spotting wildlife.
Leave no trace
Channel Islands National Park's landscapes are important to the Chumash and Tongva peoples. Be respectful of these fragile ecosystems and the species found there by packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife.
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