Gulls Getaway

Wildlife Trip to Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park

The Anacapa wildlife spectacle begins almost as soon as you pull away from Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. First up are playful common dolphins, and if you’re lucky, humpback and migrating gray whales. As you approach, you’ll see (and hear) noisy California sea lions and harbor seals. (Watch also for Anacapa’s iconic Arch Rock.) When it’s time to set foot on the island (which is actually three islets, all part of Channel Islands National Park), well, watch your head: You’re in the midst of the world’s largest protected colony of western gulls! More than 10,000 of the seabirds gather on East Anacapa for nesting season, May through July. Not enough bird life for you? West Anacapa’s protected rocky cliffs are home to one of just two breeding colonies of California brown pelicans in the western US—some 4,600 breeding pairs.

Upon arriving, visitors climb a steel rung ladder from the boat to the dock, and then ascend 157 stairs to reach the top of the island. Anacapa has just one hiking trail, but it’s a beauty: a 2-mile loop around the perimeter with spectacular views of the rugged coast, the mainland, the Anacapa lighthouse, the other Channel Islands, and of course, wild wildlife everywhere!

Reach Anacapa aboard an Island Packers ferry out of Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. The trip takes about an hour, and costs $59 for adults for a day trip, $79 for overnight. For a more immersive adventure, nab one of the island’s seven primitive campsites, for which you’ll need to bring water. No matter what, come prepared for chilly wind, and dress in layers. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Hike Artdoors

    Add a little color to your new year. This 3-mile loop through the Montalvo Arts Center mixes the beauty of the natural world with local artists’ creations.

    View
  2. 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
  3. Sponsored

    The 2025 Hiking Calendar Is Here!

    Ready to make hiking part of your New Year’s wellness plan? Get the all-new 2025 Hiking Calendar courtesy of Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).

    View
  4. Most Peaceful Hike of All

    Is this the most peaceful one-hour hike in the Bay Area? It's got our vote! Lake Lagunitas is the smallest lake in a series of five found on the north side of Mount Tam, so it’s got that tiny but mighty charm. Do a 1.5-mile loop around the lake's shore-hugging trail.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Weekend Sherpa Podcast
    Sponsored

    Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  2. Animal Encounters

    Located where Redding’s famous Sundial Bridge overlooks the Sacramento River, Turtle Bay Exploration Park is 300 acres of gardens, a museum and playground, aquarium, and unforgettable up-close animal encounters!

    View
  3. Locals' Feature: Max Smith of Moment Skis

    Meet Max Smith, VP of Moment Skis in Reno, Nevada. Moment is the largest ski manufacturer in the US and you can see how their innovative and artistic skis are made by visiting Moment Skis headquarters in Reno. The Factory is where the magic happens, so drop in for a visit and say hi to the team, including employee dogs who are on quality control.

    View
  4. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View