"A gem off the coast of Southern... " a Channel Islands National Park Travel Page by annk

The Channel Islands National Park consist of 5 islands off the coast of southern California, closest mainland cities are Ventura & Oxnard. Except for diving and boat enthusiasts, the islands are relatively unknown, even to southern Californians (really!). Although the islands are relatively close to each other they are different in terrain, vegetation and weather. Being a national park there is no development besides the park ranger stations and a homes from by-gone days and previous cattle ranches. The islands have remained wild and unspoiled, an ecological treasure. Visiting them is like stepping back in time and a world away from the congestion, smog & overcrowding of S.California. I cherish every visit and am always making plans to return and hope to visit all of the islands. So far I've visited Anacapa, Santa Cruz & Santa Barbara.

The Travel Channel voted the Channel Islands N.P. as the 4th best National Park for viewing wildlife.