Pristine, remote islands mere miles from America’s second largest city, accessible only by boat or plane. An uncrowded sanctuary for wildlife, empty beaches and uncrowded trails. A Mediterranean climate with year-round high temperatures in the ‘70s. Channel Islands National Park provides all of that and more.

Situated off the coast of Southern California, five of the islands make up the national park and are surrounded by the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Founded in 1980 and serviced by land or sea, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the diversity of the park and the islands. Since you’ll need transportation, plan in advance. Choose an island to explore and you can take in most of that island’s wonders in a single day, whether hiking, kayaking or snorkeling. Or bring your tent and spend the night without the crowds of some other parks.