California's Channel Islands offer great snorkeling spots. There are many aquatic animals that live on these islands, including harbor seals and California sea lions. The Santa Cruz Channel Islands are also a great place to see these creatures. Garibaldi, a giant goldfish that is larger than a sea lion, can be seen in the Santa Cruz Channel Islands.
Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island is located just off the California coast. This island is home to an array of wildlife and is a great place for snorkeling. You can reach Anacapa by taking the ferry from Ventura or Island Packers. The National Park Service recommends Anacapa Island to anyone making their first trip to the Channel Islands. This island offers great opportunities to view wildlife and is home to an historic lighthouse.
Anacapa was the scene of a WWII torpedo-bomber crash landing on it in the early '50s. This happened while it was training. Thankfully, no one was hurt and the plane still sits upright in the water, about 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
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. There are five miles worth of hiking trails that take you to the island, offering stunning views of the ocean. Although the island lies on a cliff edge, the water there is warm enough for snorkeling and swimming. It is possible for strong winds to blow on the island so be prepared.
An incredible variety of marine species are found in the Channel Islands. 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 help to support these unique ecosystems - the California Current and 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. This small rock island is only about a mile offshore and is a Marine Protected Area. Excellent diving is possible all around the island. The visibility is great and you can dive to depths up to 110'. The underwater landscape is filled with rocky corals, purple hydrocorals, and invertebrates. It is also possible to explore the wreckage of the Guardian aircraft, located close to the island.
Gull Island hosts eleven species, including 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, a wonderful place to go snorkeling and diving is also a great spot. It is home to kelp forests and underwater arches as well as rocky reefs. Its diverse ecosystem supports many species of marine life, including gorgonians, large schools of fish and invertebrates. There are many excellent dive locations around the island. One is particularly popular among professionals.
Santa Barbara Island, a 1-square-mile island, is part of Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. It's located about 55 miles north of Ventura, and 48 miles southwest from Catalina Island. It is known for its beautiful waters and diverse marine life.
Santa Rosa Island
Santa Rosa Island is a channel islands in the Pacific Ocean that offers snorkeling and scuba diving. 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 usually warm and pleasant in the summer months. However, it can get cold in the winter. Layers or a lightweight sweater or jacket are recommended. They have warm water throughout most of the year but can also get some rain.