California's Channel Islands are a great place for snorkeling. These islands are home to various aquatic creatures including California sea lions, harbor seals, and leopard sharks. These creatures can also been seen at Santa Cruz Channel Islands. In addition to seeing sea lions and other marine creatures, you can also see giant goldfish called Garibaldi.
Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island, located off the coast of southern California, is home to many species of wildlife and an excellent snorkeling spot. To reach Anacapa, take the ferry from Ventura (or Island Packers). The National Park Service recommends Anacapa Island for anyone who is making their first visit to the Channel Islands. This island boasts a historic lighthouse as well as great opportunities to spot wildlife.
Anacapa was the scene of a WWII torpedo-bomber crash landing on it in the early '50s. This happened while it was training. Thankfully, nobody was hurt. The plane sits upright in water around 120 feet below. You can snorkel here and see sea lions, kelp, and other marine life. However, visibility can be as low as 20-60ft.
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island visitors can see the marine life through the crystal clear water. The island is home to many marine species including turtles, sharks, and even elephant seals. Five miles of hiking trails offer breathtaking views and five miles of coastline. The island is a cliff-shaped island but the water is still warm enough to swim and snorkel. The island can experience strong winds so visitors should be ready for them.
A wide variety of marine species can be found in the Channel Islands. Harbor seals, California sea lions, and leopard sharks are among the many common sightings. Amazing underwater life is possible because of the kelp forests, which have created giant forests that house more than 800 species. These unique ecosystems are supported by two currents, the California Current and the Davidson Countercurrent. The resulting confluence of the two currents allows for a stunning variety of marine life.
Gull Island
Gull Island is a great snorkeling spot in California. The small island of rock is located about one mile off the coast and is protected by the Marine Protected Area. Excellent diving is possible all around the island. The visibility is great and you can dive to depths up to 110'. You will find a variety of underwater life, including rocky reefs and purple hydrocoral. You can also visit the wreckage site of the Guardian airplane, which is located near the island.
Gull Island hosts eleven species, including nesting shorebirds. The Channel Islands actually house 99 percent of Southern California's shorebird population. They are a perfect nesting area, free from predators and human disturbance.
Santa Barbara Island
Santa Barbara Island, a wonderful place to go snorkeling and diving is also a great spot. You will find kelp forests, underwater arches and rocky coral reefs on the island. The diverse ecosystem supports many types and species of marine wildlife, including large schools, gorgonians and other invertebrates. The island has many excellent dive sites, including one that is highly regarded by professionals.
Santa Barbara Island (one-square-mile) is an island that forms part of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. It is approximately 55 miles north from Ventura and 48 mi southwest of Catalina Island. Because of its clear waters and diversity of marine life, it is a popular spot for snorkeling.
Santa Rosa Island
Santa Rosa Island is an island channel in Pacific Ocean. Snorkeling and scuba diving are very popular on the island. The island's southeast section is home to large reefs as well as kelp beds. There are many kinds of reefs. This structure supports a wide range of marine life, including many lobsters and fish. These are also home to invertebrates such as gorgonians.
The water temperature is generally warm and pleasant during the summer months, but it can be chilly in the winter months. Layers are recommended, as well as a light sweater or jacket. They have warm water throughout most of the year but can also get some rain.