Kayak Tour in California’s Channel Islands: Explore Sea Caves & Unique Wildlife

Like the towering limestone cliffs of Vietnam’s Hạ Long Bay and the glacier-carved Lofoten Islands in Norway, the Channel Islands jut dramatically from the sea. However, this natural wonder is closer to home, just 60 minutes by ferry from mainland California.

1. Overview of Channel Islands National Park

The Channel Islands’ striking appearance is only topped by the unique plants and animals that call the once-isolated archipelago home. This includes 23 endemic land animals that are now protected within Channel Islands National Park. More travelers come to hike along the islands and watch wildlife; nevertheless, the real adventure awaits on the water, where kayakers can explore sea caves and gaze up at the islands’ sheer cliffs.

2. Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Scorpion Anchorage, located on the northeast side of Santa Cruz Island, is a premier destination for sea kayakers. The rugged coastline is rich in sea caves, breeding seabirds, shorebirds, California sea lions, and harbor seals, providing a unique wildlife experience.

3. Kayaking Adventures

Channel Islands Adventure Company, an authorized concessioner for Channel Islands National Park, operates daily sea kayaking tours from Scorpion Anchorage. Their Adventure Sea Cave Kayak Tour combines 2.5 to 3 hours on the water, exploring sea caves and the rugged coastline. Moreover, the company suggests visitors snorkel in the bay’s clear waters, picnic on the beach, or hike the trails of Santa Cruz Island.

4. Preparing for Your Kayak Tour

Every Adventure Sea Cave Kayak Tour begins with paddling instructions and a safety briefing before guests are equipped with personal flotation devices and kayaks. If needed, the team can provide paddle jackets, helmets, and wetsuits, consequently ensuring a safe kayaking experience.

Before the tour, travelers must arrange a ferry ride to Scorpion Anchorage from Ventura Harbor, as ferry tickets are not included. Ventura, California, is approximately 1.5 hours away from Los Angeles. The Island Packers ferry runs daily between Ventura and Scorpion Anchorage. Those signed up for the 10:30 a.m. tour should leave Ventura by 9 a.m. and those joining the 9:30 a.m. tour need to depart by 8 a.m.

The Adventure Sea Cave Kayak Tour costs $186 per adult and $174 per child. Note that children under the age of 5 are not permitted on the tour. Additionally, private tours for one to 24 guests can be organized through Channel Islands Adventure Company. For further details, please visit islandkayaking.com.