Our visit to Santa Cruz Island — the largest of the Channel Islands — was filled with ocean views, rugged beauty, and just enough adventure to remind us that nature is always in charge.
Getting there, however… might best be told with a familiar tune. If you know the Gilligan’s Island theme song, you may hear this in your head…
🎵 Just sit right back and you’ll hear a tale,
A tale of a coastal trip,
That started from a busy port,
Aboard an island ship.
The captain smiled reassuringly,
The crew looked calm and sure,
While passengers climbed aboard that day,
For an exciting ocean tour, an exciting ocean tour
🎵🎵 The waves began to rise and roll,
The tiny ship did sway,
Salt spray splashed across the bow,
And over us along the way.
Backpacks slid, and hats flew free,
Some eyes turned slightly green,
But thanks to that steady, fearless crew,
We made it through the scene, we made it through the scene.
🎵At last we reached the rocky shore,
Of Santa Cruz, you see,
Where rangers greeted us with smiles,
And a dose of reality:
“No stores, no snacks, no trash cans here,
No quick supply refill —
Whatever you packed is all you’ve got,
So plan with thoughtful skill.”
🎵 “Stay safe, don’t feed the animals,
And take your trash away,
Use your feet — there are no shuttles,
You’re hiking here today!”
Phones may work… or maybe not,
Luxury’s on exile,
But beauty waits around each bend,
Here on the Channel Isle.”
Exploring Santa Cruz Island
Our hike began in the valley and slowly climbed into the hills. Along the way, we were greeted by two island foxes — small, curious reminders that we were visitors in their home.
As we reached the top of the climb, the scenery reminded me of another melody:
“The hills are alive with the sound of music…”
And truly, they were.
Wind moved through the grasses. The ocean stretched endlessly below us. Standing there, I almost felt like Julie Andrews — arms wide open — except I don’t sing quite so beautifully.
Wildlife on Santa Cruz Island
From the cliffs, we watched black and brown rock formations rise above clear green-blue water that shimmered in the light. And then, just beyond the shoreline, a gray whale and her calf surfaced and disappeared again into the depths. A gray whale and her calf — small from our cliffside view, yet magnificent in the vastness of His sea.
At the end of the day, we boarded our little ship once more. As Santa Cruz slowly faded into the horizon, I looked back with gratitude. The songs of the day — playful and light — had given way to something deeper.
Creation had been singing all along. We just needed to stop and listen.
“In His hand are the depths of the earth,
and the mountain peaks belong to Him.
The sea is His, for He made it,
and His hands formed the dry land.”
— Psalm 95:4–5
Everywhere I go, I enjoy camping with Jesus — on the road and in life.
Tips for the Journey to Channel Islands National Park
RV Park Recommendation
Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara became our home base while touring the Channel Islands area. Although there are RV parks closer to the harbor, we chose this one for two reasons. First, we prefer staying outside of town in a quieter setting. Second, with our lifetime Thousand Trails membership, this location made financial sense — even when factoring in diesel for the drive.
We were very pleased with our stay and would highly recommend this campground.
The park was exceptionally clean and well maintained. Each site was separated by hedges, providing a surprising amount of privacy. There was plenty of room for our 45-foot RV and truck, and the sites were wide enough to feel comfortable rather than cramped. The pool, restrooms, showers, and camp store were immaculate, and the staff was courteous and professional throughout our stay.
If you need help finding a campsite that fits your rig or travel style, visit our Resources page for recommendations and planning tools.
Visiting Channel Islands National Park
Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park offers one of the most unique outdoor experiences in California. However, there are five islands to choose from and all islands on Channel Islands National Park require advance planning.
There are only two ways to reach the islands: seaplane or boat. We chose to travel by boat.
Island Packers is the official concessionaire authorized by the National Park Service to transport visitors to the islands. Their website allows you to select your destination island, review departure schedules, and reserve tickets.
The National Park Service works intentionally to preserve the islands in their natural, primitive state. Because of that, services are extremely limited. You will find a few vault toilets and picnic tables, but no restaurants, no stores, and no trash receptacles.
Plan carefully.
Bring sufficient water, drinks, food, and any supplies you may need for the day. Whatever you pack in must be packed out.
Before booking, take time to research each island. Activities vary and may include hiking, camping, kayaking, snorkeling, or swimming. Each island offers a slightly different experience, so consider what type of adventure you are hoping to have.
Visiting Santa Cruz Channel Islands
We enjoyed our trip to Santa Cruz Channel Islands National Park so much that we hope to return and visit other islands. I am sure you will feel the same way after your first visit.