Just off the coast of Southern California lies Channel Islands National Park, a place often called “the Galápagos of North America” for its extraordinary biodiversity and sense of isolation. The park is composed of five rugged islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara. It protects over 249,000 acres of land and surrounding ocean. Sea cliffs rise dramatically from turquoise waters, kelp forests sway in the currents below, and untouched beaches stretch in quiet contrast to the bustling mainland just miles away.
The park’s isolation has created a natural laboratory for evolution, where nearly 150 species of plants and animals exist nowhere else on Earth. The diminutive island fox, colorful garibaldi fish, and rare island scrub-jay are just a few examples of life that has adapted to this delicate balance of ocean and land. Seasonal wildflowers paint the rolling hills in spring, while migrating whales, seals, and seabirds fill the surrounding waters with life year-round.
Conservation efforts at Channel Islands focus on restoring native habitats and protecting the fragile connection between land and sea. Decades of restoration work have removed invasive species, revived seabird populations, and reestablished native plants. Today, the National Park Service continues to collaborate with marine biologists, Indigenous communities, and local organizations to preserve this island ecosystem for future generations. Visiting the Channel Islands offers a glimpse into a wilder California — one that reminds us how thriving nature can be when given the space and protection to endure.
Our Experience
This was our first time traveling by ocean to get to a National Park! The ferry's took about 3-4 hours each and were a wonder in themselves! We saw our first whales, dolphins and sea lions out in the wild! We were even brave enough to snorkel in the Kelp Forest and coves. We were even lucky enough to spot the native Garibaldi fish of the island! We have plans to visit again so that we can backpack and stay longer on Santa Rosa Island!