The park is open all year. The visitor center is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. CAR - Ventura is located 70 miles north of Los Angeles and 30 miles south of Santa Barbara. The visitor center is located at the very end of Spinnaker Drive in the Ventura Harbor.
Free parking is avaliable at the beach parking lot.
Truth Aquatics is the park's concessionaire for boat travel departing from Santa Barbara Harbor to all of the islands. A variety of trips, from one to multi-day, are offered. However, be prepared for high winds, fog, and sea spray at any time. Visitors to the islands should dress in layers, with short and long pants, windbreaker, hat, sunscreen, and waterproof outer clothing. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with non-slip soles.