California's Channel Islands is a great location for snorkeling. These islands host many aquatic species, including California sea Lions, harbor Seals, Leopard Sharks, as well as other animals like leopard sharks. You can also see these animals in the Santa Cruz Channel Islands. Garibaldi, a giant goldfish that is larger than a sea lion, can be seen in the Santa Cruz Channel Islands.
Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island is located just off the California coast. This island is home to an array of wildlife and is a great place 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 is home to a historic lighthouse and great opportunities to observe wildlife.
Anacapa was struck by a WWII-era torpedo aircraft in the early 1950s. It was being trained for a mission. Thankfully, nobody was hurt. The plane sits upright in water around 120 feet below. You can snorkel at this site and you'll see sea lions and other marine creatures. The visibility at this site is often 20'-60', but be aware that conditions here are poor.
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island is home to a variety of marine species that can be seen through its crystal-clear waters. There are many marine species on the island including turtles and sharks as well as elephant seals. The island also has five miles long hiking trails offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Although it is a cliff island the water here is warm enough to snorkel and swim. It is possible for strong winds to blow on the island so be prepared.
A wide variety of marine species can be found in the Channel Islands. Harbor seals, California sea lions, and leopard sharks are among the many common sightings. It is amazing to see the underwater world. Kelp forests have created huge forests that support more than 800 species marine life. Two currents support these unique ecosystems: the California Current as well as the Davidson Countercurrent. The resulting confluence of the two currents allows for a stunning variety of marine life.
Gull Island
Gull Island, California is one of the top snorkeling destinations. This small rock island is only about a mile offshore and is a Marine Protected Area. It offers great diving with visibility and depths between 20' and 110'. You'll find plenty of invertebrates, purple hydrocoral, and rocky reefs under the seafloor. It is also possible to explore the wreckage of the Guardian aircraft, located close to the island.
Gull Island will also be home to 11 species of nesting shorebirds. In fact, 99 per cent of Southern California's shorebirds call the Channel Islands home. The Channel Islands are ideal nesting habitats, as they are protected from predators.
Santa Barbara Island
Santa Barbara Island is great for snorkeling and diving. You will find kelp forests, underwater arches and rocky coral reefs on the island. Its diverse ecosystem supports many species of marine life, including gorgonians, large schools of fish and invertebrates. The island has many excellent dive sites, including one that is highly regarded by professionals.
Santa Barbara Island (one-square-mile) is an island that forms part of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. It is located approximately 55 miles north of Ventura and 48 miles southwest of Catalina Island. Because of its clear waters and diversity of marine life, it is a popular spot for snorkeling.
Santa Rosa Island
Santa Rosa Island is a channel island in Pacific Ocean. Popular activities include snorkeling and scuba diving. The southeast part of the island features large reefs and kelp beds. The reefs are of different types, including low-lying rocky reefs and large rocky outcroppings with mini walls. The structure of the reefs supports many species of marine life, including fish and lobster. Invertebrates can also be found here, such as gorgonians.
Water temperatures are generally pleasant and warm in summer, but can get colder in winter. Layers are recommended, as well as a light sweater or jacket. While the islands have warm water year-round, they also can get rain.