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An island far yet near. Visit Santa Barbara Island for a different adventure
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Mariners in the Los Angeles area typically converge on Catalina Island for their weekend activities. And, frequently, find the moorings and anchorages at Catalina crowded. Fortunately, for those willing to go a little further afoot, Santa Barbara Island offers a secluded alternative Located 20 miles off Catalina's West End, the island offers a feeling of isolated cruising while being relatively close to LA area ports.
Santa Barbara has a wonderful anchorage protected from the typical afternoon westerly. The anchorage is easily found directly in front of the landing pier and is a sandy bottom from 15 to 60 feet.
Boaters will find that typically there are no more than 4 to 6 boats anchored on a weekend in the wide cove. Frequently, the island will have no boats on weekdays.
Kelp forests abound around the island and snorkeling and scuba diving are excellent. The island is home to hundreds of Sea Lions, Elephant seals, and Harbor seals which will swim up to and around a vessel 24 hours a day.
The whole island is part of Channel Islands National Park and has a full-time ranger on duty all year long. The landing pier can be used to access the island (requiring a ladder climb) and then boaters can walk the island easily in about two hours.
Kayakers will be delighted since a circumnavigation can be completed in several hours. Yakers will find both protected and open water adventures on an around the island tour.
Santa Barbara Island offers a true "cruising" adventure for the previously timid to an island that is relatively close, beautiful, and isolated.
For more information on Santa Barbara Island and the National Park, click here.
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