How to Hike Anacapa Island in California

Anacapa Island is one of the easiest of the Channel Islands to hike, due to its relatively short distance of 12 miles from Port Hueneme. If you take a speedy catamaran boat the crossing time is down to about 35 minutes. On the cruise you're likely to see dolphins, sea lions, and perhaps even some flying fish. The two-mile trail features two overlooks at Cathedral Cove and Inspiration Point.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Binoculars
• Snorkeling gear

1. Secure boat transportation to Anacapa Island at Ventura Harbor, Santa Barbara Harbor, and Oxnard by reservation through Island Packers and Truth Aquatics.
2. Land at the island and climb up 154 metal steps on the island's cliffs, then walk to the visitor's center before embarking on the trail which tours the entire islet.
3. Use binoculars to see the seals and sea lions from Cathedral Cove overlook. Binoculars also come in handy for viewing Santa Cruz Island from Inspiration Point, as well as for watching nesting gulls in spring and summer.
4. Make time to include a kayaking adventure to discover some of the island's 130 sea caves. Snorkel gear is also recommended. However, beaches are not accessible due to the extremely high cliffs.

Tips & Warnings

• The area around the island is protected from fishing and hunting, making the waters wonderful for snorkeling.