Photo Credit// Instagram Fan @SBAdventure
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 world travel to Santa Barbara to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey in the area known as “the Galapagos Islands of North America.”
There are many ways to explore this coastal treasure. Spanning approximately 1,470 square miles, the sanctuary’s blue and teal waters extend from each island to six miles offshore, encompassing a rich diversity of marine life, habitats and historical resources.
For the can’t-miss, must-see and do at The Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, we’ve put together the top seven ways to “get into your sanctuary.”
1. BOATING to the channel islands
This one is a must, as it’s one of the few ways visitors can get to and from The Channel Islands National Park. While aboard Island Packers or Channel Island Expeditions and en route to the islands, you’ll be smack-dab in the middle of the marine sanctuary. Kick back, relax and enjoy the views. But don’t relax too much. Keep an eye out as marine life can be seen, including whales, dolphins and sea lions.
2. KAYAKING THE SEA CAVES
Hit the waters for the experience of a lifetime. Kayaking through Painted Cave—at 1,215 feet one of the longest sea caves in the world—should be on every adventurer’s bucket list. But, fear not! This is something anyone at any experience level can do. We do recommend booking a trip with an experienced guide, like Santa Barbara Adventure Company. As an added bonus, you’ll have time to go snorkeling or hiking.
3. WHALE WATCHING
With Condor Express, whale watching is made possible all year round in Santa Barbara. Whether you’re hoping to see Blue, Gray, Humpback or Orca, you’ll be guaranteed to see a whale on your next trip with Condor Express’ whale watching guarantee. Just be sure to check the migration season to ensure spotting your favorite friends.
4. SAILING THE SEAS
We can’t think of anything more picturesque than learning to sail off of the Channel Islands coastline. Spend your days in the sunshine and take overnight sailing lessons with Santa Barbara Sailing Center.
5. SCUBA DIVING
Kelp forests stretch for as far as the eye can sea, underwater inside the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Scuba dive alongside sea lions and surround yourself with lavish flora and fauna, representing every color imaginable.
6. BOAT CHARTERS
One of the perks of chartering your own boat is that private boats can land on all five of the islands within the park throughout the year. Charter a boat and get to know the characteristics and charm of each of the individual islands. To do this, we’d recommend Sunset Kidd Sailing Cruises or Santa Barbara Sailing Center.
Now that you’re experienced in all of the ways to explore the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, get out and get into your sanctuary.
