Channel Islands Tours: Anacapa & Santa Cruz Island Charters

Just off California’s Ventura Coast lies the Channel Islands National Park, a rugged chain of islands carved from volcanic and sedimentary rock, home to unique wildlife and vibrant marine ecosystems. Operating from Oxnard, Channel Islands Tours offers an unbeatable way to experience this remote archipelago by sea, combining technical expertise with a deep local knowledge. Their tours—ranging from 2- to full-day private charters—navigate around Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands, highlighting iconic landmarks such as the Anacapa Arch Rock and the historic lighthouse perched on the rugged cliffs.

Each trip unfolds with encounters alongside pod dolphins cutting through the crisp ocean swell, playful seals basking on sheltered beaches, and pelicans gliding overhead. The islands are a sanctuary for endemic species like the island fox and rare seabirds, making the wildlife viewing exceptional. The volcanic cliffs of Anacapa rise sharply from the ocean, revealing dramatic blowholes and pristine coves where the water’s clarity invites underwater glimpses of kelp forests below.

These tours provide an intimate connection with both natural history and human heritage. The lighthouse on Anacapa Island, installed in the early 20th century, serves as a reminder of coastal navigation challenges along this stretch of the Pacific. Additionally, the Channel Islands area boasts archaeological sites with Native American origins, enriching the experience beyond the marine adventure.

Whether it’s a focused 2-hour tour or a full day schedule tailored to private groups, Channel Islands Tours delivers well-paced trips emphasizing safety, sustainability, and immersive interpretation. For anyone seeking to escape mainland crowds and access the wild seas around California’s offshore islands, this operator stands apart as a gateway. Their Oxnard base places them perfectly for swift crossings, blending reliable vessel operation with expert guides who bring the islands’ stories vividly to life.