Discover the beauty of Channel Islands, California.
Are you searching for the best places to paddleboard in Channel Islands?
Get ready to immerse yourself in unparalleled natural surroundings and marine life.
Grab your board and let’s embark on an unforgettable paddleboarding adventure in Channel Islands, CA.
Table of Contents
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Where to Paddle Board in Channel Islands
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island
- ????️ ️Location Type: Island Cove
- ???? Access Point: Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered Cove, Gentle Ocean Swell, Afternoon Winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, seals, sea lions, unique island birds
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Scenic cliffs, Channel Islands National park vistas
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, Marine reserves to be respected
Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island is a picturesque spot for paddleboarding within Channel Islands National Park.
The protected cove offers a serene environment to explore the island’s marine life and stunning coastal scenery.
#2 Prisoners Harbor, Santa Cruz Island
- ????️ ️Location Type: Island Cove
- ???? Access Point: Prisoners Harbor (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered waters, gentle ocean swells, variable winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Sea lions, seals, underwater reefs, diverse birdlife
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Rugged coastline, island cliffs, marine reserves
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to National Park regulations, respect wildlife areas
Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island offers a serene coastal paddleboarding experience, with stunning views of the island’s rugged landscape.
Glide along the pristine waters, explore underwater reefs, and observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
#3 Anacapa Island
- ????️ Location Type: Island
- ???? Access Point: Frenchy’s Cove (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate swells, occasional ocean currents, variable winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Sea lions, dolphins, various seabirds
- ️????️ Landmarks & Views: Iconic Arch Rock, Anacapa Island Lighthouse, island bird sanctuary
- Safety, Environment and Rules: National park rules apply, avoid sensitive bird nesting areas
Anacapa Island, part of Channel Islands National Park, offers a unique paddleboarding experience with its iconic Arch Rock and abundant marine life.
Navigate around the island to experience the beauty of California’s coastal ecosystems and views of the historic lighthouse.
#4 Cuyler Harbor, San Miguel Island
- ????️ ️Location Type: Island Harbor
- ???? Access Point: Cuyler Harbor Beach (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Sheltered Harbor, Gentle Swell, Afternoon Winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Seals, sea lions, pelicans, diving birds
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: San Miguel Island, picturesque hills, pristine waterfront
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to National Park regulations, respect marine life, and watch for harbor traffic
Cuyler Harbor on San Miguel Island boasts a pristine waterfront, offering paddleboarders awe-inspiring views of the picturesque hills.
The sheltered harbor ensures a pleasant experience, cruising the waters while witnessing an array of marine and birdlife.
#5 Ventura Harbor
- ????️ ️Location Type: Harbor
- ???? Access Point: Ventura Harbor Village (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm harbor waters, afternoon breezes
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, harbor seals, pelicans
- ️????️ Landmarks & Views: Harbor Village, ships, Channel Islands National Park gateway
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Harbor traffic, respect no-wake zones and marina rules
Ventura Harbor, located on the mainland, is the gateway to Channel Islands National Park.
The calm waters combined with captivating views and marine life sightings make it a lovely spot for paddleboarding before heading out to the islands.
#6 Oxnard Beach Park
- ????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Oxnard Beach Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, ocean currents, variable winds
- Popular Seasons: Year-round
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, possible dolphin and whale sightings
- ️????️ Landmarks & Views: Oxnard coastline, dunes, nearby marinas
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for surfers, maintain safe distance from swimmers
Oxnard Beach Park, situated on the mainland near Channel Islands Harbor, offers a picturesque oceanfront paddleboarding experience.
Glide along the Oxnard coastline, marvel at the unique dunes, and enjoy abundant wildlife encounters while appreciating the easy access to the park.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in the Channel Islands?
You can enjoy paddle boarding at several locations in the Channel Islands, including St. Brelade’s Bay, St. Ouen’s Bay, and Beauport Bay.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in the Channel Islands?
No, it is not required to register paddle boards in the Channel Islands.
When is the best time to paddle board in the Channel Islands?
The best time for paddle boarding in the Channel Islands is during the summer, thanks to the pleasant weather and calmer seas.
