The great thing about Anacapa Island is that you’ll have some great views and scenery, but you can really cover everything there is to do on the island in a half day. There are only about two miles of scenic trails, but if you want to add kayaking to your agenda, you can make a full day of it. Make sure to see the beautiful Anacapa Lighthouse and Inspiration Point.

The island is surrounded by cliffs, so the only access to water is at the Landing Cove on East Anacapa. There you can kayak, snorkel, swim or scuba dive.

There are no facilities on the island and a small visitor center. If you’re looking to stay overnight, there are a limited number of primitive camping sites available for $15 per night. Make reservations. And you must bring your own food and water as none is available on the island. Also, pay attention to NPS warnings regarding Western Gull Nesting, which can result in “guano, strong odor, constant noise, bird carcasses, and birds protecting their territory. If visitors consider these conditions adverse,
it is advised that they visit another island.”

For the best weather and recreation opportunities, visit Santa Cruz Island. On the island you can rent equipment for kayaking and snorkeling. There are also plenty of opportunities to hike, from smooth flat trails to rugged mountainous climbs.

As with the other islands, there are limited facilities on the island and a small visitor center Scorpion ranch house. It’s the only place on the island to get water, other than some of the campsites. It also gives you some insight into the ranching that took place here in the past. If you’re looking to stay overnight, there are a limited number of camping sites available for $15 per night. Make reservations. It’s also recommended to bring your own food and water if possible.

Visit the Sea Caves by Kayak

You can spend an entire day on Santa Cruz Island, but you should also make time to kayak into the sea caves. It’s an experience unique to the park. Here you can spend hours exploring some of the world’s largest sea caves and see some of the park’s unique wildlife. You’ll leave from Scorpion Anchorage, where you can rent a kayak and set out on your own or choose a guided tour.

If you choose a guided tour, it’s likely to include your ferry ticket to the island. Guided tours take anywhere from 2.5-3 hours. You can reserve your spot with Channel Islands Adventure Company (https://www.islandkayaking.com/kayaking/).