Drama-free at Sea

Kayak Channel Islands Harbor

06.02.2015
kayak channel islands harbor

For an adventure at sea without the drama of thrashing ocean waves, go kayaking in Oxnard's serene Channel Islands Harbor. The calm waters (shielded by the breakwater at the harbor's entrance to the ocean) make your kayaking trip a soothing afternoon outing. The protected harbor also makes a welcoming home for animals of all shapes and sizes. Say hello to the sea lions lounging on the docks and swimming right up beside you. Admire the cormorants, herons, and pelicans as they gracefully dive for their lunch. Paddle up next to the rocks on the perimeter and you can spot sea urchins, sea cucumbers, and sea hares—a snail-like species of sea slug—crawling around just beneath the surface. As you paddle out to the breakwater, you can see the ocean spread out before you, and Anacapa and Santa Cruz, the nearest of the Channel Islands, in the distance. If this relaxing kayaking experience has whet your appetite for something more, kick your next trip up a notch with an island kayaking tour.

BONUS: If you're less of a DIYer and more of a guided-tour aficionado, Channel Islands Kayak Center offers a History & Wildlife Tour in the harbor, which gives details of the area's history and some insight into its wildlife inhabitants.

Channel Islands Kayak Center offers single kayak rentals at $12.50 an hour. Their harbor History & Wildlife Tour is $79.95/person, which includes kayak rental for two hours.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View
  2. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View