Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary

University of California Santa Barbara
Ocean Science Education Bldg 514, MC-6155
Santa Barbara, CA
(805) 699-5422
http://www.channelislands.noaa.gov
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Close to Santa Barbara, yet worlds apart, Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary encompasses the ocean environment surrounding five of the eight California Channel Islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara.

In a remarkably small area, the sanctuary harbors thousands of species of marine animals, more than 100 historic shipwrecks, and strong indigenous cultural connections to the Chumash people. It’s a special place just waiting for you to explore and experience an unforgettable adventure.

Through education, conservation, science, and stewardship, Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary provides protection to its extraordinary natural and cultural resources so that nature can thrive, historic shipwrecks and artifacts remain respectfully in place, cultural connections remain strong, and careful public use and enjoyment can be sustained. Designated in 1980 by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the sanctuary encompasses 1,470 square miles surrounding five of the Channel Islands, which make up Channel Islands National Park.

There are many ways to enjoy the sanctuary, including world class SCUBA diving, snorkeling, kayaking, boating and sailing, viewing whales and other wildlife, and fishing.

The sanctuary is home to an extremely rich and diverse array of marine mammals, including humpback whales, making it one of the best places in the world for viewing whales and other wildlife. While in Santa Barbara, hop aboard one of the local commercial vessels that can take you out to sanctuary waters for a whale of an adventure!

The northern Channel Islands have been home to the Chumash people for millennia, with the earliest known human remains dating back more than 13,000 years ago. The Chumash community continues to celebrate their maritime heritage through cultural events, such as crossing the Santa Barbara Channel on traditional plank canoes known as tomols.

Beautiful waters and pristine anchorages make the sanctuary a popular year-round destination for recreational boaters. Chartered sailing adventures are available out of local harbors, including in Santa Barbara.

Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary

University of California Santa Barbara
Ocean Science Education Bldg 514, MC-6155
Santa Barbara, CA 93106-6155

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Associated Itineraries

Looking to fill out your Santa Barbara trip? Both of these itineraries include Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary.

72 Hours in Santa Barbara

The Santa Barbara South Coast is home to sparkling beaches cradled by the cascading Santa Ynez mountains, with simply unbeatable views and renowned wine country just over the hill. The city itself may seem small but hidden within our white adobe paseos, and naturally, stunning topography is incredible history, culture and adventure across five unique cities, Santa Barbara, Goleta, Montecito…

5+ Ways to “Get Into Your Sanctuary”

The Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary is one of Santa Barbara’s most pristine coastline treasures, leaving you breathless with its natural-overflowing beauty. From land to sea, every inch of the five islands that comprise Channel Islands National Park and surrounding waters are protected and cherished, ensuring each visitor an unparalleled experience of exploration and education. Adventure seekers from all over the word travel to Santa Barbara to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey in the area known as “the Galapagos Islands of North America.”