Channel Islands History

A visit to the Channel Islands National Park is an experience like no other. However, visitors should be aware that the only transportation options to these islands are by boat or plane. On the islands themselves, the only way to get around is on foot or by kayak.

Boat Transportation

Most visitors to the Channel Islands arrive by boat. Island Packers is the only licensed boat concessionaire for the park, with service from both Ventura Harbor and Read the rest of this entry »

The Channel Islands enjoy a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and moderate winters. They are close enough to mainland southern California that the climate is very similar, but their location offshore does create some differences. With http://www.directstartv.com, you can check out travel shows on the Channel Islands from home. Here are some weather and travel tips if you’re going to visit the islands in person.

Weather conditions may change dramatically from day to day and even from one island to another on the same day. Current forecasts are available at the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary website through the Internet Weather Kiosk.

Summer and Fall Conditions

Summer and fall are the warmest and driest seasons on the Channel Islands. Although early summer months may experience some fog, by mid-summer days are generally warm and dry with calm winds and seas. Average summer high temperatures are in the low 70s, even when they may be much higher on the mainland. In southern California, summer weather conditions continue well into the fall, with warm sunny days common as late as November. However, nights will be considerably cooler.

Winter Rains

Winter is the rainy season for the Channel Islands, producing 95 percent of the islands’ annual average rainfall of 14 inches. Storms may occur in rapid succession or there may be long intervals of warm sunny days between rain events. The rain turns the Channel Islands green and promotes wildflower blooms from late January through March.

Spring Fog

The most significant spring and early summer weather condition is fog. It tends to be denser on the islands farther to the west and closer to the open ocean, but it affects all the islands to some degree. Closer to the mainland, the fog may dissipate by mid-afternoon and be replaced by windy conditions.

Preparing for a Visit

Visitors to the Channel Islands should prepare for a range of weather conditions and check the local forecast. National park personnel recommend dressing in layers or carrying extra clothes in a backpack or tote. Warm jackets, hats, and gloves are essential for overnight campers in any season. The goal is to be comfortable no matter what conditions the changing Channel Islands weather brings.

California’s beautiful Channel Islands offer you an experience of coastal life before Southern California became a metropolis. Whether you have a half day or several, visit Channel Islands National Park and enjoy activities from guided tours to overnight camping.

The park protects five islands with 175 miles of pristine beaches. You must take a park concessionaire or private boat to the islands and then travel on foot. Stop at a Channel Islands visitor center in Santa Read the rest of this entry »

There are a few parts of the world where there are channel islands, and if you happen to live in or near these places there are many fun activities that only they hold! There is the option of exploration, swimming, tidepooling and many more. However, doing these things is fun and all, but their excitement grows all the more when you have someone worthwhile to share these times with!
These can all be family friendly activities, and they Read the rest of this entry »

The Channel Islands – Remedy For Urban Burnout
The Channel Islands in the English Channel may well be the last vestiges of a true respite from the hustle and bustle of the urban lifestyle. Located between the southern coast of the United Kingdom and northern France, these idyllic islands are rich in history. In total, there are eight Channel Islands. Guernsey, Jersey, Herm, Alderney and Sark, the main islands and Lihou, Brecqhou and Jethou. Several small, uninhabited islands are located off the coasts of Jersey and Alderney. Read the rest of this entry »

Channel Islands National Park is a remarkable destination consisting of five islands located in the ocean. When visiting the island it’s important to remember to protect the natural resources of the land while camping. The following are a few items to bring on a camping trip to Channel Islands in addition to a tent.

Food

Bringing food is essential during a camp out on the island. Visitors will not have access to any restaurants or venders while on the island. Pack your food in hard plastic Read the rest of this entry »

The beautiful waters that surround the Channel Islands are home to many different species of marine wildlife. Dolphins, porpoises, whales, seals and sea lions are the most popular species that visitors are curious about and want to try to catch a spectacular glimpse of.

What Species of Whales can be seen at the Channel Islands?

Blue Whales, Humpback Whales, Orcas (Killer Whales),Gray Whales and Finback Whales are most commonly spotted by watchers on excursions to the Channel Islands, particularly in the spring when the Read the rest of this entry »