Anacapa Island, Channel Is. National Park

Anacapa Island is part of the Channel Islands National Park. Although only 13 miles off the coast of Southern California near Ventura, these islands have always been very remote due to their ruggedness and inaccessibility. Anacapa rises straight up out of the ocean with 75′ to 150′ cliffs surrounding the whole thing. The landing pano shows the only way to access this part of the island. Here you must climb off the back off the boat and climb up a metal rung ladder. Then there is a set of metal steps that lead up to the top of the island. We traveled aboard “The Vanguard”, a 68′ vessel operated by “Island Packers.” The islands are only accessible by park concessionaire boats and planes or private boat.

Anacapa Island Landing

Once on top of the island, I was struck by how barren it was. Apparently in the spring and the summer the are flowers blooming and seagulls nesting which add to the scenery but in October is is rather desolate. However, it is still very dramatic with the island contrasting against the vast expanse of the sea. The panos are from either end of East Island, by the lighthouse and from Inspiration point. Inspiration point is well named as it offers one of the most dramatic and beautiful vistas anywhere. The island is actually composed of three islets: East Island, Middle Island and West Island.

Anacapa Island Lighthouse

Inspiration Point

Overlooking Campground

Here are some regular photos of the “shoreline” of Anacapa that I took as we departed. You can see how rugged the cliffs are. Also the iconic Arch Rock projects out of the water at the east end of the island and has been featured as a backdrop in several movies.

Rounding Anacapa

Arch Rock is the iconic image for Channel Islands National Park

Looking back as we depart Anacapa