California's Channel Islands offer great snorkeling spots. These islands host many aquatic species, including California sea Lions, harbor Seals, Leopard Sharks, as well as other animals like leopard sharks. These creatures can also been seen at Santa Cruz Channel Islands. In addition to seeing sea lions and other marine creatures, you can also see giant goldfish called Garibaldi.
Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island lies off the California coast and is home of a wide variety of wildlife. It's also a great spot for snorkeling. Take the ferry from Ventura, Island Packers to reach Anacapa. The National Park Service recommends Anacapa Island as a first stop on your trip to Channel Islands. This island is home to a historic lighthouse and great opportunities to observe wildlife.
Anacapa was struck by a WWII-era torpedo aircraft in the early 1950s. It was being trained for a mission. Thankfully, no one was hurt and the plane still sits upright in the water, about 120 feet below. Here you can snorkel and view sea lions and kelp as well as other marine life. The visibility is 20-60ft at this site, but conditions can be difficult.
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island is home to a variety of marine species that can be seen through its crystal-clear waters. There are many marine species on the island including turtles and sharks as well as elephant seals. There are five miles worth of hiking trails that take you to the island, offering stunning views of the ocean. The island is a cliff-shaped island but the water is still warm enough to swim and snorkel. Visitors should be prepared for the strong winds that can occur on the island.
The Channel Islands house a remarkable array of marine species. Harbor seals, California sea lions, and leopard sharks are among the many common sightings. The underwater world is beautiful because kelp forests are home to over 800 species of marine life. Two currents help to support these unique ecosystems - the California Current and Davidson Countercurrent. The resulting confluence of the two currents allows for a stunning variety of marine life.
Gull Island
One of the best snorkeling destinations in California is Gull Island. This tiny rock island, which is about a mile off the coast, is a Marine Protected Area. Excellent diving is possible all around the island. The visibility is great and you can dive to depths up to 110'. The underwater landscape is rich in rocky reefs, purple hydrocoral and invertebrates. You can also explore the wreck of the Guardian plane, which is close to the island.
Gull Island hosts eleven species, including nesting shorebirds. In fact, 99 per cent of Southern California's shorebirds call the Channel Islands home. The Channel Islands are ideal nesting habitats, as they are protected from predators.
Santa Barbara Island
If you enjoy snorkeling or diving, Santa Barbara Island is a great place to visit. The island is home to kelp forests, underwater arches, and rocky reefs. Its diverse ecosystem supports many types of marine life, including large schools of fish, gorgonians, and invertebrates. There are several excellent dive sites around the island, including one that is popular with professionals.
Santa Barbara Island, a 1-square-mile island, is part of Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. It is approximately 55 miles north from Ventura and 48 mi southwest of Catalina Island. It is a popular snorkeling destination because of its crystal clear waters and variety of marine life.
Santa Rosa Island
Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities on Santa Rosa Island, a channel island in the Pacific Ocean. The southeast part of the island features large reefs and kelp beds. There are many kinds of reefs. They are home to a variety of marine life including fish and lobster, thanks to their structure. These are also home to invertebrates such as gorgonians.
The water temperature is generally warm and pleasant during the summer months, but it can be chilly in the winter months. Layers or a lightweight sweater or jacket are recommended. While the islands have warm water year-round, they also can get rain.