If you're looking for a great place to go snorkeling, consider the Channel Islands in California. 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. Garibaldi, a giant goldfish that is larger than a sea lion, can be seen in the Santa Cruz Channel Islands.
Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island, off the coast of Southern California, is home a wide range of wildlife as well as a wonderful snorkeling location. The ferry from Ventura and Island Packers will take you to Anacapa. The National Park Service recommends Anacapa Island to anyone making their first trip to the Channel Islands. This island is home of a historic lighthouse that offers incredible opportunities to see wildlife.
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 and view sea lions and kelp as well as other marine life. However, visibility here is often between 20-60'.
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island offers visitors the opportunity to explore the marine life through the clear waters. You will find many marine species here, including turtles, sharks and even elephant seals. Five miles of hiking trails offer breathtaking views and five miles of coastline. The island is a cliff-shaped island but the water is still warm enough to swim and snorkel. Be prepared for strong winds on the island.
An incredible variety of marine species are found in the Channel Islands. Common sightings include leopard sharks, California's sea lions, and harbor seals. It is amazing to see the underwater world. Kelp forests have created huge forests that support more than 800 species marine life. These unique ecosystems are supported both by the California Current, and the Davidson Countercurrent. The confluence of these currents results in a spectacular variety of marine species.
Gull Island
Gull Island is the best spot for snorkeling in California. Gull Island, a small rock island located approximately a mile offshore, 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'. You will find a variety of underwater life, including rocky reefs and purple hydrocoral. The Guardian plane's wreckage can also be explored close to the island.
Gull Island also has eleven species nesting shorebirds. In fact, 99 percent Southern California shorebirds are found in the Channel Islands. Its isolation makes it an ideal nesting location without human disturbance or predators.
Santa Barbara Island
If you enjoy snorkeling or diving, Santa Barbara Island is a great place to visit. You will find kelp forests, underwater arches and rocky coral reefs on the island. The island's diverse ecosystem supports many kinds of marine life including schools of fish, gorgonians and invertebrates. There are several excellent dive sites around the island, including one that is popular with professionals.
Santa Barbara Island is a one-square-mile island that is part of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. It is located roughly 55 miles north and 48 minutes southwest of 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. Large reefs and kelp beds are found in the southeast corner of the island. The reefs are of different types, including low-lying rocky reefs and large rocky outcroppings with mini walls. Because of this structure, they support a wide variety of marine life, including many fish and lobster. These are also home to invertebrates such as gorgonians.
The water temperature in summer is warm and pleasant, but it can get chilly in winter. Layers are recommended, as well as a light sweater or jacket. The islands have warm water throughout the year, but they can experience some rain as well.