Mainland visitor centers in Ventura and Santa Barbara can be reached by car, bicycle, or public transportation. Islands can only be reached by boat. Advanced planning is highly recommended. No transportation is available on the islands. All areas must be reached by walking or boating. Bicycles are not allowed on the islands. Private aircraft are not allowed to land within park boundaries. All aircraft must maintain a minimum 1000-foot altitude above land and sea surfaces within the park. FAA regulations state that pilots are requested to maintain a minimum of 2,000 feet above ground level over national park. Learn more at laws and policies. Public Boat TransportationPublic boat transportation is available year-round by the park concessionaire Island Packers. Boats depart from Ventura Harbor and Channel Islands Harbor. Island Packers Island Packers also offers non-landing wildlife watching trips. |
Last updated: August 12, 2026