Comprised
of five in a chain of eight southern California islands near Los Angeles,
Channel Islands National Park is home to a wide variety of nationally
and internationally significant natural and cultural resources. Over 2,000
species of plants and animals can be found within the park. However only
four mammals are endemic to the islands. One hundred and forty-five of
these species are unique to the islands and found nowhere else in the
world. Marine life ranges from microscopic plankton to the endangered
blue whale, the largest animal to live on earth. Archeological and cultural
resources span a period of more than 10,000 years. The park consists of
249,354 acres, half of which are under the ocean, and include the islands
of San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa, and Santa Barbara. Even
though the islands seem tantalizingly close to the densely populated,
southern California coast, their isolation has left them relatively undeveloped,
making them an exciting place for visitors to explore.
Operating Hours & Seasons
The park is open all
year.
The Robert J. Lagomarsino visitor center hours are: 8:30 to 5:00.
The visitor center is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Communities
Surrounding Channel Islands National Park
Note: The times listed below are approximate driving times to the park.