Anacapa Island Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Anacapa Island
Marvel at the untouched beauty of this island off the coast of Southern California, where stunning natural scenery is the biggest draw.

Exploring Anacapa Island, actually a narrow string of three islands in the Channel Islands National Park, is the perfect way to have an adventurous day out. Appreciate the solitude that comes along with the island’s lack of services, go snorkeling in the clear water or hike through the wildflowers.

Visit Anacapa Island to see the historical lighthouse, built in 1932. Because of the rugged shoreline here, the lighthouse was needed to warn ships not to come too close. Stop by the visitor center, one of the only buildings on the island, to see the original lens used in the Anacapa Lighthouse.

Hike the trails around the island to take in dramatic views of the coast and other islands. Families will appreciate the flat trails, which lead you through a gentle route the entire way, except for one staircase that takes you to the top of the island.

Take advantage of the clear water and go for a swim around the island. Snorkeling is recommended, as the underwater visibility tends to be clear enough to see colorful fish and other sea creatures darting around. Choose to experience the water from above by hopping in a kayak from Landing Cove, or enjoy a dive through kelp forests and sea caves.

Be sure to bring your binoculars for great wildlife viewing. Head to Pinniped Point or Cathedral Cove to spot seals and sea lions, or keep watch for seabirds such as brown pelicans, western gulls and pigeons. Go tide pooling at Frenchy’s Cove to see if you can spot small fish or other marine animals basking in the sun as it hits the shallow waters.

Travel to Anacapa Island by chartered boat. This is the only means of transportation to the island. It takes just about an hour from the mainland, and you can explore the island in half a day. Bring everything you need with you, including water and food, as there is nowhere to get food or drinks on the island. Also make sure to carry a hat and sunscreen with you, as there are no trees on the island to provide shade.

Amanzi Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
Amanzi Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
2.5 out of 5
298 S Chestnut St, Ventura, CA
The price is NZ$249 per night from 31 Mar to 1 Apr
NZ$249
per night
31 Mar - 1 Apr
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Ventura. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,936 reviews)
"The building was covered with scaffolding and plastic blocked the view from the windows. Construction to the exterior was ongoing but we weren’t affected with noise on the weekend. The pool and jacuzzi were open and in great condition. Close to the freeway and train tracks so noisy outside but inside ..."

Reviewed on 25 Mar. 2024

Amanzi Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
Clocktower Inn Ventura
Clocktower Inn Ventura
3 out of 5
181 E Santa Clara St, Ventura, CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$274 per night from 1 Apr to 2 Apr
NZ$274
per night
1 Apr - 2 Apr
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Ventura. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,005 reviews)
"Over all it’s ok"

Reviewed on 26 Mar. 2024

Clocktower Inn Ventura
Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton
Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton
4 out of 5
2101 Mandalay Beach Rd, Oxnard, CA
The price is NZ$418 per night from 14 Apr to 15 Apr
NZ$418
per night
14 Apr - 15 Apr
Stay at this beach hotel in Oxnard. Enjoy a beach locale, 2 bars/lounges, and breakfast. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (346 reviews)
"It’s a beautiful place next to the beach a big pool and jacuzzi nice bars I am definitely going back"

Reviewed on 25 Mar. 2024

Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Channel Island Shores
Channel Island Shores
3 out of 5
1311 Mandalay Beach Rd, Oxnard, CA
Stay at this beach condo in Oxnard. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a library. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions Ventura ...
9/10 Wonderful! (503 reviews)
"Enjoy this property for tge beach biking bbq and jaccuzzi"

Reviewed on 19 Mar. 2024

Channel Island Shores
Mandalay Shores Resort
Mandalay Shores Resort
3.5 out of 5
5226 Neptune Square, Oxnard, CA
Stay at this 3.5-star condo in Oxnard. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and free bicycles on site. Popular attractions Oxnard State Beach and Mandalay Beach are ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (57 reviews)
"Great get away, loved how quiet, safe and family friendly the neighborhood was. Recommend"

Reviewed on 24 Mar. 2024

Mandalay Shores Resort
Unbelievable Pricing! Beach Home, Great for Families
Unbelievable Pricing! Beach Home, Great for Families
Ventura
Stay at this vacation home in Ventura. Enjoy free WiFi, onsite parking, and barbecue grills. Popular attractions Pacific View Mall and San Buenaventura State ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (13 reviews)
Ventura dream
"We had friends that lived in the neighborhood so we knew we would like the location. Close access to beach, restaurants and downtown by car. Perfect spot for R&R with some friends!"

Reviewed on 27 Mar. 2024

Unbelievable Pricing! Beach Home, Great for Families
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Cities near Anacapa Island