The Channel Islands, California is a great spot to snorkel. There are many aquatic animals that live on these islands, including harbor seals and California sea lions. These creatures can also been seen at Santa Cruz Channel Islands. In addition to seeing sea lions and other marine creatures, you can also see giant goldfish called Garibaldi.
Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island lies off the California coast and is home of a wide variety of wildlife. It's also a great spot for snorkeling. The ferry from Ventura and Island Packers will take you to Anacapa. The National Park Service recommends Anacapa Island if you're making your first trip to Channel Islands. This island boasts a historic lighthouse as well as great opportunities to spot wildlife.
Anacapa was the scene of a WWII torpedo-bomber crash landing on it in the early '50s. This happened while it was training. Fortunately, no one was seriously hurt. The plane can still be seen floating in the water about 120 feet below. Here you can snorkel and view sea lions and kelp as well as other marine life. The visibility is 20-60ft at this site, but conditions can be difficult.
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island is home to a variety of marine species that can be seen through its crystal-clear waters. Many marine species can be found on the island such as turtles and sharks. The island also has five miles long hiking trails offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Although the island lies on a cliff edge, the water there is warm enough for snorkeling and swimming. Visitors should be prepared for the strong winds that can occur on the island.
The Channel Islands house a remarkable array of marine species. A few of the most common sightings include California sea lions and leopard sharks. It is amazing to see the underwater world. Kelp forests have created huge forests that support more than 800 species marine life. Two currents help to support these unique ecosystems - the California Current and Davidson Countercurrent. This confluence allows for an amazing variety of marine life.
Gull Island
Gull Island is the best spot for snorkeling in California. This small rock island is only about a mile offshore and is a Marine Protected Area. You'll find excellent diving all around the island with depths ranging from 20' to 110' and excellent visibility. You will find a variety of underwater life, including rocky reefs and purple hydrocoral. The wreckage of the Guardian plane can be viewed close by.
Gull Island also has eleven species nesting shorebirds. In fact, 99 per cent of Southern California's shorebirds call the Channel Islands home. Their isolation provides ideal nesting habitats without predators or human disturbance.
Santa Barbara Island
If you enjoy snorkeling or diving, Santa Barbara Island is a great place to visit. The island has kelp forests as well as underwater arches and rock reefs. Its diverse ecosystem supports many species of marine life, including gorgonians, large schools of fish and invertebrates. There are many excellent dive locations around the island. One is particularly popular among professionals.
Santa Barbara Island is a small island of approximately one-square mile. It is part and parcel of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. It is located approximately 55 miles north of Ventura and 48 miles southwest of Catalina Island. It is popular for its variety of marine life and clear waters.
Santa Rosa Island
Santa Rosa Island is a channel island in Pacific Ocean. Popular activities include snorkeling and scuba diving. Large reefs can be found on the southeast side of the island, as well as kelp bed. There are many types of reefs, including low-lying rock reefs and large outcroppings of rocky material with small walls. These reefs support many marine species, including lobster and fish, because of their unique structure. These are also home to invertebrates such as gorgonians.
Water temperatures are generally pleasant and warm in summer, but can get colder in winter. You should wear layers or a light-weight sweater or jacket. Although the islands are blessed with warm water all year round, they can also experience rain.