As born-and-raised So-Cal natives, we’re embarrassed to admit that we’d never heard of Anacapa Island until this trip. Yep - hadn’t even heard of it. We’ve grown up going to Catalina Island, but we had no idea there were other Channel Islands that you could visit and explore.
While we were in Oxnard we left the kids with their grandparents and took a day trip to Anacapa Island—and it was a day we’ll never, ever forget. The wildlife, the rugged coastline, the views… It was unreal. Here’s all the details of what we did so you can do it too.
First things first—pack food and water. There’s no services (besides basic restrooms) on the island! And don’t forget sunscreen, there’s very limited shade.
The Island Packers ferry leaves at 9am out of Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. Get your tickets here in advance, and make sure you call ahead beforehand—if the water is too rough and choppy, the boat can’t leave. Thankfully we were there on a still, calm day, so we had no issues!
9 AM boarding in Channel Islands Harbor
It’s a little over an hour boat ride, complete with humpback whale spotting and fascinating narration about the wildlife in and around the island. (Don’t forget a jacket, it can be cold!) Pulling up to the island was like something out of a dream… The lighthouse peaking out from the fog, the water crashing against the rocks, the thousands of seagulls… it’s other-worldly.
The ferry will drop you off around 10:30-11ish and pick you up again around 3. Giving you plenty of time to hike and explore.
We almost don’t want you to see these pictures because part of what made it so incredible was that we didn’t know what we were in for. It’s a small island, so if you’re up for it you can basically see it all in a few hours. Here are the sights:
Cathedral Cove - A beautiful cove that we will kayak around on our next visit
Lighthouse - Hike to the historic lighthouse that has been illuminating Anacapa since 1932
Pinniped Point - a stunning spot on the bluffs where you can spot wildlfe
Inspiration Point - Seeing it for the first time was jaw-dropping. We had no idea the views we were in for. It’s a 1.5 mile hike round trip and should probably be the highest priority on your visit. We set up a picnic there and took in the views for hours.
Making friends with the seagulls.
Pinniped Point
Inspiration Point
Arch Rock and Bobby.
If you’re going to bring the kids, we’d say the minimum age is 5. Younger kids would be fine (especially if you wear them on a backpack), but use your best judgement. Our little Reese would probably have been fine being worn the whole time, but Jude would have been a challenge. Bobby would have ended up carrying him everywhere.
Overall, it was the most perfect day trip and getaway for us. Replacing Cocomelon songs and toddler tantrums with the soft melodies of Anacapa waves, wind, and wildlife was more life-giving than we could have imagined.
To summarize simply - Anacapa is a bucket-list worthy destination that is right here in Southern California. Go check it out!
