Anacapa Island Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island
Ventura featuring rocky coastline, landscape views and general coastal views
Channel Islands National Park featuring tranquil scenes, signage and a lighthouse

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 centre, 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 colourful 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.

Ventura Beach Marriott

Ventura Beach Marriott

3.5 out of 5
2055 Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA
The price is NZ$328 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
NZ$328
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Ventura. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)
"The staff and hotel is my favorite in ALL of z California. I loved it so much I bought a house in the neighborhood! San Buenaventura 💙"

Reviewed on 9 Aug. 2025

Ventura Beach Marriott
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
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$451 per night from 28 Aug to 29 Aug
NZ$451
28 Aug - 29 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach resort in Oxnard. Enjoy a beach locale, 2 bars/lounges, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (762 reviews)
"This is our second stay. We love this place. The beach is very nice. The pool is very nice. They have good amenities. We loved using the fire pit area. We also like the addition of sugar beets for additional food options."

Reviewed on 9 Aug. 2025

Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Pierpont Inn

The Pierpont Inn

3 out of 5
550 San Jon Rd, Ventura, CA
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Ventura. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,006 reviews)
A comfortable stay
"We had a comfortable one night stay at Pierpoint Inn. The room was spacious and clean. We were able to enjoy the pool in the morning before we checked out. The breakfast is limited, but it is free so no major complaints."

Reviewed on 12 Aug. 2025

The Pierpont Inn
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 3-star beach condo in Oxnard. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (619 reviews)
"Very nice place to stay, highly recommend."

Reviewed on 12 Aug. 2025

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 Ventura Harbor and Oxnard State Beach are ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (96 reviews)
"The staff was very kind and welcoming. Would return again."

Reviewed on 25 Apr. 2025

Mandalay Shores Resort
Stunning Ocean Front Views on the Sand, Luxury Home - Silver Strand Beach

Stunning Ocean Front Views on the Sand, Luxury Home - Silver Strand Beach

Oxnard
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Oxnard. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Kiddie Beach and Channel Islands ...
10/10 Exceptional! (257 reviews)
"We love this house! This is our 3rd year staying here with our kids and grandkids. It’s a beautiful home, a beautiful beach and a wonderfully convenient location. We’ll continue to spend vacations here for as long as they’ll have us! Totally worth it!"

Reviewed on 28 Jul. 2025

Stunning Ocean Front Views on the Sand, Luxury Home - Silver Strand Beach
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.

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