The Channel Islands, California is a great spot to snorkel. These islands are home for many aquatic creatures, including California sea-lions, harbor seals, leopard sharks, and other marine animals. These animals can be found in Santa Cruz Channel Islands. Sea lions are not the only marine creature you will see, but Garibaldi is the name for a huge goldfish.
Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island, off the coast of Southern California, is home a wide range of wildlife as well as a wonderful snorkeling location. You can reach Anacapa by taking 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 offers great opportunities to view wildlife and is home to an historic lighthouse.
Anacapa was struck by a WWII-era torpedo aircraft in the early 1950s. It was being trained for a mission. Thankfully, no one was hurt and the plane still sits upright in the water, about 120 feet below. Here, you can snorkel with sea lions or kelp and other marine life. The visibility is 20-60ft at this site, but conditions can be difficult.
Santa Cruz Island
Visitors to Santa Cruz Island can explore the marine life, which can be seen through the crystal clear water. Many marine species can be found on the island such as turtles and sharks. The island also has five miles long hiking trails offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Although it is a cliff island the water here is warm enough to snorkel and swim. Visitors should be prepared for the strong winds that can occur on the island.
The Channel Islands are home to an incredible array of marine species. There are many sightings of leopard sharks and California sea lions. The underwater world is fascinating as kelp forests have formed giant forests that are home to more than 800 species of marine life. These unique ecosystems are supported both by the California Current, and the Davidson Countercurrent. These two currents create a confluence that allows for amazing marine life.
Gull Island
Gull Island is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in California. The small island of rock is located about one mile off the coast and is protected by the Marine Protected Area. There is excellent diving around the island, with visibility of up to 100 feet and depths from 20 to 110ft. The underwater landscape is filled with rocky corals, purple hydrocorals, and invertebrates. The wreckage of the Guardian plane can be viewed close by.
You'll also see eleven species of nesting shorebirds and seabirds at Gull Island. The Channel Islands contain 99 percent of Southern California's shorebird populations. It is a great nesting site that is protected from predators and humans.
Santa Barbara Island
Santa Barbara Island is the perfect place for those who love to dive or snorkel. 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. There are several excellent dive sites around the island, including one that is popular with professionals.
Santa Barbara Island (one-square-mile) is an island that forms part of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. It is located approximately 56 miles north-west of Ventura Island and 48 miles southwest Catalina Island. It is popular for its variety of marine life and clear waters.
Santa Rosa Island
Santa Rosa Island is a channel island in Pacific Ocean. Popular activities include snorkeling and scuba diving. The large reefs and kelpbeds of the southeast portion of the island are a highlight. The reefs are of different types, including low-lying rocky reefs and large rocky outcroppings with mini walls. This structure supports a wide range of marine life, including many lobsters and fish. You will also find invertebrates like gorgonians.
The water temperature is pleasant and generally warm during the summer months. It can, however, be cold in the winter. Layers are recommended, as well as a light sweater or jacket. While the islands have warm water year-round, they also can get rain.