Things to do on Anacapa Island [Day Trip Itinerary]

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Anacapa Island is the second smallest of the five islands in Channel Islands National Park, one of California’s least-visited national parks. In fact, I didn’t even know these islands existed until moving to California.

Nearly uninhabited and largely undisturbed, any of the Channel Islands would make an excellent weekend camping destination. However, since I only had one day I chose to spend it at Anacapa.

Anacapa Island lies twelve miles off the coast of Ventura. It is actually a series of volcanic rocky islets that total five miles in length. However, at only two miles long, the east islet is the only one accessible to people.

Despite being one of the smallest of the islands in Channel Islands National Park, there are plenty of things to do on Anacapa Island.

Things to do on Anacapa Island

Even though it took me a total of fifteen minutes to walk from one end of the island to the other, there are still plenty of things to do on Anacapa Island that make it a fun destination.

inspiration point east anacapa — Inspiration Point

Photograph the Anacapa Lighthouse: Just .5 miles from the landing port, the lighthouse is an iconic photo to capture. You will hear its horn sound every few minutes throughout the day.
Picnic at Inspiration Point: The island does have one picnic table area right next to the landing stairs, but we opted for something more scenic. You will also find a few benches along the walking trail near Inspiration Point. However, you will want to bring a blanket to provide a barrier from bird poop. Some other necessities are plenty of water and wipes/ hand sanitizer. And remember to pack everything that you pack in since there are no trash cans on the island.
Watch Wildlife at Pinniped Point: Get a good view of the lighthouse and see a sea lion rookery on the cliffs below the aptly named Pinniped Point.
Hike to Cathedral Cove: This .6-mile round-trip walk gives you a good view of the volcanic cliffs and sea kelp forests below. You will view it from above as the only ocean access on Anacapa is at the landing port.
Snorkel the Landing Cove: The landing cove is perfectly protected and is said to have excellent visibility. Even looking down from the cliffside I could clearly see kelp forests and a few sea creatures. Bring your own snorkel gear, wet suits are recommended.
Camp Anacapa Island Loop: Anacapa has a total of seven campsites which can be reserved at recreation.gov. The main walking trail passes the campground which includes a food storage locker, pit toilet, and picnic table. The main draw to staying here is the proximity to snorkeling the landing cove. But personally, if I were going to camp overnight I would choose one of the other Channel Islands to stay at.

How to Get to Anacapa Island

The Island Packers ferry in Oxnard is the best way to get to Anacapa Island. The tickets were easy to purchase, there was plenty of parking with video surveillance in their lot, and they were very punctual.

Island Packers is unique in that its ferry serves many purposes. In addition to transporting people, they will also carry kayaks and large camping gear, as well as offer wildlife tours.

On my return trip to the mainland they were finishing up a wildlife tour and we ran into a huge nursing pod of common dolphins. Judging by the sheer number of dolphins on the surface at a single time, they said that there were upwards of 500 dolphins in the pod. Of course, I captured it on video on my Instagram.

Day Trip to Anacapa Island

Anacapa is the most-visited island due to its proximity to the shore and cheaper ferry fare. For me, Anacapa’s compact size is precisely what made it the perfect day trip.

For the first time in a long time, I left a destination without wishing I could have stayed longer to experience more. And it was so satisfying.

9:30 am Catch Island Packers Ferry to Anacapa from Oxnard
11:00 am Arrive at Anacapa Island
11:30 am Walk Anacapa Island
12:00 pm Picnic at Inspiration Point
1:00 pm Snorkel the Landing Cove
3:00 pm Be at Ferry Dock
3:30 pm Ferry Back / Dolphin Watch with Island Packers
6:00 pm Dock in Oxnard

Anacapa Island Seagulls in Spring

I would probably never visit Anacapa in the summer for one reason- BIRDS.

Anacapa is a sanctuary for nesting Western Gulls. From April to August, the island is overrun. I visited in early September and there was still a lot of bird poop and a faint smell, although it was not nearly as bad as a few weeks prior, according to the park ranger.

On the other hand, I would definitely consider returning to see the island in bloom. The vegetation was very yellow and dormant during my visit, but the island is supposed to be excellent for wildflower viewing in the early spring.

Anacapa Island FAQ

What is Anacapa Island known for?

Anacapa Island is best known for its lighthouse, which has been in operation since 1932. It is also known for its small size, accessibility, and dramatic cliffs.

Are there bathrooms on Anacapa Island?

There is a small bathroom available to the public with vault-style toilets. It is recommended to use the bathroom on the ferry or before you arrive on the island.

How far is Anacapa Island from Ventura?

Anacapa is the closest of the Channel Islands at twelve miles off the coast of California.

How long is the boat ride to Anacapa Island?

The ferry to Anacapa typically takes 1.5 hours from Oxnard but can be longer depending on the weather or wildlife-watching detours.

Do people live on Anacapa Island?

For part of the year, a ranger lives at the ranger station on Anacapa Island.