Santa Cruz Island – Scorpion Anchorage
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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
- Owner
- National Park
- 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


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Santa Cruz Island - Prisoners Harbor
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Anacapa Island – Frenchys Cove
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Anacapa Island – East Isle
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Anacapa Island Lighthouse
10 miles away
The lighthouse on Anacapa Island is located at the entrance to the Santa Barbara Channel. Since it is located...
Painted Cave of Santa Cruz Island
15.2 miles away
If you take a boat trip out to Santa Cruz Island or Santa Rosa Island in the Channel Islands...
Nearby Lodging
Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Resort
17.7 miles away
Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach is one of our favorite California coastal resort hideaways. Located on the beach between Oxnard...
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