Channel Islands Trip- Things to Do in Santa Barbara

Cannel Islands Trip- Things to Do in Santa Barbara

On a clear day in Santa Barbara the Southern horizon is dominated by the sight of Santa Cruz Island 26 miles across the channel.  This beautiful Island influences Santa Barbara in ways unknown to most Santa Barbara residents.  Sunbathers wading in the calm ocean waters or kayakers enjoying the glassy conditions on a fall day may not realize that Santa Cruz Island is blocking the Summer/Fall ocean swells that are sent our way from storms in the Southern hemisphere.  So, Santa Barbara ocean lovers have this wonderful landmark to thank for our calm ocean conditions.  Of course, if you are a surfer, you might not feel the same way.

I have always wanted to visit Santa Cruz Island, so when I saw a Santa Cruz Island boat trip up for auction at a recent Boys and Girls Club of Carpinteria findraiser, I jumped right in and ended up the highest bidder.  The day finally arrived, myself, my wife and two friends boarded the boat on a picture perfect morning at Ventura Harbor.  After a relatively mellow channel crossing, we arrived at Scorpion Bay where we went for a hike up the canyon and along the cliffs.  We saw a group of playful ravens, soaring hawks and even a bat which seemed out of place in the daytime. 

Back on the boat, we decided to check out a secret surfing spot where the Capt. and I could have some fun and the others could break out the kayaks and explore the bay.  Upon arrival, we were greeted by a nice swell and calm winds.  The only area of concern was that the tide was high and the waves were breaking a little too close to some sharp rocks for comfort. Despite the hazards the perfect left breaking wave was too much to resist so we suited up and had some fun rides.  I was cautiously cherry picking the safer waves and managed to avoided the sharp rocks.  Back on the boat we had a great lunch and headed back to Ventura Harbor.  Our trip to Santa Cruz Island was one I will never forget.  So, the next time you look across the Santa Barbara Channel and see that spectacular Island you will know it's also a wonderful place to visit.