Top 8 Things to do and Tourist Attractions in Channel Islands Harbour – Oxnard, California
Get ready for an unforgettable and exciting adventure to Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, California! Located just north of Malibu, this area is a hotspot of activity – from magnificent sightseeing and beaches to great dining, shopping and recreational activities.
Whether you like to soak up the sun, explore scenic lagoons or go on a seafaring voyage, there’s something for everyone at Channel Islands Harbor. From fishing trips and kayaking to unique museums, art galleries and more, we’ve compiled the top things to do and tourist attractions in Channel Islands Harbor to ensure you make the most of your stay!
How To Get To Channel Islands Harbor and Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands Harbor is commonly referred to as “the Galapagos of North America,”. It serves as the entry point to Channel Islands National Park and offers the quickest direct route between the mainland and the islands.
Experience the majestic beauty of Oxnard’s oceanic environment for yourself! Take a day-trip or camping vacation to an island and explore the abundance of island activities available. During the spring, join on a whale-watching tour to catch a glimpse of the whales’ legendary annual migration. Whatever the season, visit Oxnard as your next destination and discover the possibilities of a breathtakingly beautiful holiday adventure!
Channel Islands Harbor Top Activities And Attractions
1. Eating Out
The Channel Islands Harbor offers delicious meals to suit a variety of palates. Whether you’re out on a date, having dinner with your family, or just filling up before a new adventure.
When it comes to dining, Channel Islands Harbor offers free fantastic vistas in addition to the freshest catch of the day. The gorgeous Harbor is home to a variety of eateries, with settings ranging from intimate patio areas to casual ones.
Visit the waterside restaurant, moqueca Brazilian cuisine, and toppers pizza. Also, Fisherman’s Catch, Honey Cup Coffeehouse & Creamery, and Sea Fresh at Marine Emporium Landing.
Farmers deliver fresh agricultural products to the weekly Farmers Market every Sunday. These come straight from the field. You may stock up on baked foods, fresh seafood, and thoughtful presents from the market.
2. Visit the Channel Islands, National Park
Visit the Channel Islands National Park and go hiking, camping, and scuba diving. Spend a few days touring the islands or take a day excursion with the family. On your boat voyage to and from the park during whale season, keep an eye out for whales.
The Channel Islands National Park is a true wonder of natural beauty. Stretching from San Miguel Island to Santa Barbara, this vast and rugged expanse offers breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe.
From the bright and colorful wildflowers stretching across its coastline to the whales and dolphins playing in the distance, the Channel Islands are truly a sight to behold. With so much to explore, it’s easy to get lost in the majesty of this magnificent park.
Island packers “the operator” offers all different kinds of excursions. Such as overnight cruises, day trips to the islands, and non-landing whale-watching expeditions. Travel to the islands, camp there, and then, when you’re ready, make your way back to the mainland.
3. Visit Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary
There is a wide variety of marine species at the Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary, which is tucked between Oxnard and the Channel Islands. Several historic ships and treasures are interred at the refuge. Take a scuba diving tour to explore them!
4. Whale Watching and Dolphin Spotting
Visiting the Channel Islands National Park, located just off the coast of California, is like taking a journey back in time. With towering sea cliffs, ancient sea caves and spectacular rock formations, it’s a beautiful and tranquil setting for observing whales and dolphins.
Whether you’re new to whale watching, or an experienced veteran, the Channel Islands provide an exhilarating and unforgettable journey amid majestic wildlife. Experiences range from ship-based whale watching, with knowledgeable guides pointing out the best spots, to kayak or SUP board safaris letting visitors get up close and personal with the whales and dolphins.
Pods of many different types of marine life, including blue and fin whales, humpbacks, Risso’s dolphins, and more can be seen playing, spouting and leaping in the waters here.
5. Water Sports
You can indulge in certain water sports at the channel islands of California. These include:
Kayaking: Although it is possible to kayak independently, it is much safer to sign up for a guided kayaking excursion due to the erratic nature of the sea. Channel Islands Adventure Company provides a variety of experiences. These include a sea cave kayaking tour and a tour that combines Channel Islands kayaking and snorkeling. Rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, paddle boat, or electric boat, or test your need for speed on Southern California Jet Skis. Even higher flight is possible with Channel Islands Parasail.
Standup paddle board: Stand up paddleboard (SUP) on the bay, practice your balancing techniques and get some workout. One of my favorite activities in Oxnard is this.
Boating: Invite your best pals over for a get-together by the harbor in the afternoon. Up to 12 people can rent a Duffy electric boat at Hopper Boat Rentals, and dogs are welcome. Bring your food, coolers, and decorations to make it a party. Your rental comes with a portable speaker so you can enjoy your music on the go.
6. Visit Nearby Beaches
Some popular beaches to go to while visiting the channel islands are discussed below.
Oxnard State Beach Park: Arrive early for a picnic or barbecue at Oxnard State Beach Park. A family-friendly beach with public restrooms, dunes, and a broad path are all close to the Embassy Suites Resort.
Hollywood Beach: One of my favorite beaches is Hollywood Beach, which is close to the port. Enjoy the free parking and volleyball courts.
Silver Strand Beach: It is located at the end of Victoria Ave. Visit the murals, go swimming, fishing, or surfing.
7. Hiking
Hiking at Channel Islands National Park is a fantastic way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The park encompasses five islands, making it an ideal destination for both day trips and longer stays.
With miles of trails and a wide variety of scenery, you can experience everything from rugged shoreline cliffs to serene meadows and lush canyons. No matter your skill level, there is something for everyone at the Channel Islands National Park – from easy jaunts to more challenging and steep hikes.
From the stunning ocean views to the abundance of wildlife, visitors are sure to be enchanted with this beautiful corner of California.
8. Wildlife Watching
Experience the beauty and captivating wildlife of the Channel Islands National Park! The park is located off the coast of California and is home to a variety of different birds, marine mammals, fish, reptiles, and invertebrates.
Take a boat ride to one of the five islands and spend the day watching the animals that inhabit these remote islands. Catch a glimpse of whales and dolphins swimming in the ocean or watch as colonies of brown pelicans fly by in the sky. Get up close and observe the park’s coastal caves, dramatic cliffs, and grasslands with their unique plants and animals.
With its combination of serene landscapes and vibrant wildlife, the Channel Islands provide an unforgettable experience for any wildlife enthusiast.
Wildlife at the Channel Islands include the spotted skunk, harvest mouse, island deer mouse, and lovely little island fox. Birds have a wider variety. Keep a watch out for bald eagles, who were recently restored to the islands and are an important breeding location for seabirds.
The species of reptiles and amphibians include lizards, salamanders, a type of frog, and two non-venomous snakes.
Conclusion
On 310 acres of land and water, the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, California, was constructed in the 1960s and 1970s. From visiting the various attractions at Channel Islands Harbor to taking a boat ride in the harbor and kayaking around, Oxnard’s Channel Islands Harbor has something for everyone.
With its beautiful coastline and lush green scenery, this area of California offers visitors the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. No matter what you choose to do, you’re guaranteed to have a unique experience that will leave great memories for many years to come!
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