Passage takes from one to two hours each way, depending on the island destination and including pauses for whale-watching during migration periods. The park lies 140 miles east of Los Angeles. It's also possible to fly into nearby Palm Springs Municipal Airport on major airlines from many cities in the U.S. and abroad. Private boaters may land at all park islands at any time of year. Anacapa and Santa Barbara Islands have the most appeal for scuba divers and snorkelers.
People explore the park in their vehicles, on bikes, on horseback and on foot.
A dozen nature trails offer short strolls, while six hiking trails lead off on explorations measuring from 3 to 16 miles, round trip. Climbers scale a few of the rock formations where conditions and park rules permit. The Channel Islands bask in an agreeable climate most of the time, although fog occasionally sets in, and the higher altitudes can get chilly. In winter, the days are mild and the nights freezing. Ideally, one visits in spring or fall, when the highs average 85 degrees and the lows 50.