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About Santa Cruz Island - Scorpion Anchorage in Ventura, California

Santa Cruz Island is the largest and tallest of the islands in Channel Islands National Park. Only about one quarter of this mountainous island is part of the national park (eastern 24%), the rest is managed by The Nature Conservancy and other organizations. Scorpion Anchorage is one of two landing locations on Santa Cruz Island. The other is Prisoner’s Harbor near the Conservancy border. From Scorpion Anchorage hikers can venture out to Smugglers Cove Beach and Potato Harbor Overlook (no beach access). It’s possible to hike to Chinese Harbor Beach and continue west all the way to Prisoners Harbor, but that is a very long shade-less trek. Hiking, camping, sea kayaking, and snorkeling are the top reasons to visit the island. Before planning any of these activities consult the national park service and tour company websites for restrictions, schedules, hazards, packing, and important information. If you are camping, get reservations well ahead of your trip. For access to Santa Cruz Island inquire with Island Packers Cruises. Cruises to both Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor leave from the Ventura Harbor location year-round.

Address
1691 Spinaker Dr
Ventura, CA 93001
Phone
(805) 658-5730
Park Name
Channel Islands National Park
Other Names
Scorpion Ranch
Pet Details
Pets are not allowed on the island
Fees
Fee for boat trip, camping
Activities
Wildlife watching, Birdwatching, Hiking, Backpacking, Camping, Whale Watching, Kayaking, Swimming, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving
Amenities
Trails, Restrooms, Pier, Camps
Map of Santa Cruz Island - Scorpion Anchorage
Channel Islands Beach, US
2:48 am, March 29, 2024
temperature icon 49°F
L: 49° H: 55°
Feels like 43.11 °F clear sky
Wind gusts: 8 m/s
UV Index: 0
Precipitation: 0.04 inch
Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise: 6:48 am
Sunset: 7:16 pm
Humidity 78 %
Pressure1014 mb
Wind 8 m/s

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