Before the arrival of Europeans, the Chumash Indians lived in settlements on the northern islands. By the mid-1800s, ranches had been established and in the 1900s, the U.S. Navy used the islands for coastal defense. Six nautical miles of sea surrounding each island have been designated as the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. While settlers introduced foreign plant and animal species to the islands which has caused concern to environmentalists, there remain many plants which are unique to the archipelago and offer a unique experience. Plants include kelp, sea palms and sea lettuce among many other tidal varieties of plant and animal life.
Plant life covering the rocky islands is similarly varied.
An essential stop before traveling to the islands is the national park visitor center which is located at the end of the Ventura Harbor breakwater. Drive south along Harbor Blvd. and follow the signs past the harbor facilities to the tip of the spit. The center includes an information desk, bookstore and island displays including a fascinating demonstration tidal pool filled with fish, starfish and other island denizens. There are several ways to get to the islands of the national park. The most popular transportation is via Island Packers ships which depart from docks next to the park visitor center.