Channel Islands Activities

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Diving

A good portion of Channel Islands National Park is underwater. In fact, almost as many visitors come to dive the waters as ever set foot on the islands. Divers come from all over to explore stunning kelp forests, pinnacles, and underwater caves, all with the best visibility in California. Everything from sea snails and urchins to orcas and great white sharks call these waters home.

Truth Aquatics, in Santa Barbara (tel. 805/962-1127; www.truthaquatics.com), is the best provider of single- and multiday dive trips to all the islands. They also offer single- and multiday hiking, kayaking, and fishing tours. Ventura Dive & Sport (tel. 805/650-6500; www.venturadive.com) also leads trips, including a Discover Program for novice and uncertified divers accompanied by an instructor. Channel Islands Scuba in Thousand Oaks (tel. 805/230-9995; www.cisdivers.com) and Pacific Scuba in Oxnard (tel. 805/984-2566; www.pacificscuba.com) also lead regular trips, as do boats from San Pedro and other Southern California ports.

Sea Kayaking

One of the best ways to explore the fascinating coastline of the islands is by sea kayak. The excursions allow you to explore sea caves and rock gardens. Fares generally run about $175 per person for full-day trips; channel crossing by charter boat, equipment, and brief lessons are included. Two- and 3-day adventures to Santa Rosa -- campsite, camp gear, and guide included -- are offered for $275 to $340 (you'll need to bring your own food, sleeping bag, and tent). Aquasports (tel. 800/773-2309 or 805/968-7231; www.islandkayaking.com) operates most trips out of Ventura Harbor, and Paddle Sports of Santa Barbara (tel. 888/254-2094 or 805/899-4925; www.kayaksb.com) leads similar excursions.

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