California's Channel Islands are a great place for snorkeling. These islands host many aquatic species, including California sea Lions, harbor Seals, Leopard Sharks, as well as other animals like leopard sharks. The Santa Cruz Channel Islands are also a great place to see these creatures. Apart from sea lions and marine creatures, Garibaldi is a giant 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. If you are going on your first trip to the Channel Islands, the National Park Service recommends visiting Anacapa Island. This island offers great opportunities to view wildlife and is home to an historic lighthouse.
Anacapa was hit by a WWII torpedo plane in the 1950s while it was on a training mission. Fortunately, no one was seriously hurt. The plane can still be seen floating in the water about 120 feet below. This is a great place to snorkel, where you will see sea lions, sea kelp, and many other marine animals. However, visibility can be as low as 20-60ft.
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island allows visitors to see the marine life in the clear, clean water. There are many marine species on the island including turtles and sharks as well as elephant seals. The island is also home to five miles of hiking trails, which offer stunning ocean views. The island is a cliff-shaped island but the water is still warm enough to swim and snorkel. It is possible for strong winds to blow on the island so be prepared.
The Channel Islands house a remarkable array of marine species. Common sightings include leopard sharks, California's sea lions, and harbor seals. The underwater world is fascinating as kelp forests have formed giant forests that are home to more than 800 species of marine life. Two currents support these unique ecosystems: the California Current as well as the Davidson Countercurrent. The confluence of these currents results in a spectacular variety of marine species.
Gull Island
Gull Island, California is one of the top snorkeling destinations. 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. You will find a variety of underwater life, including rocky reefs and purple hydrocoral. It is also possible to explore the wreckage of the Guardian aircraft, located close to the island.
Gull Island also has eleven species nesting shorebirds. In fact, the Channel Islands are home to 99 percent of the Southern California shorebird population. Its isolation makes it an ideal nesting location without human disturbance or predators.
Santa Barbara Island
Santa Barbara Island is great for snorkeling and diving. The island is home to kelp forests, underwater arches, and rocky reefs. Its diverse ecosystem supports many types of marine life, including large schools of fish, gorgonians, and invertebrates. The island has many excellent dive sites, including one that is highly regarded by professionals.
Santa Barbara Island is a one-square-mile island that is 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, an island channel in the Pacific Ocean, is popular for snorkeling and diving. The large reefs and kelpbeds of the southeast portion of the island are a highlight. There are several types of reefs: low-lying rocky ones and outcroppings high enough to support mini walls. These reefs support many marine species, including lobster and fish, because of their unique structure. You will also find invertebrates like gorgonians.
Water temperatures are generally pleasant and warm in summer, but can get colder in winter. Layers and a lightweight jacket or sweater are best. Although the islands are blessed with warm water all year round, they can also experience rain.