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Island Trips
How Long Can You Come Out and Play?
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Viewed looking south from the hilltops above the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Santa Cruz Island
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The sun begins to dispel the morning fog at
Scorpion Landing, Santa Cruz Island.....
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.....which paints the calm, clear waters azure in the late morning.
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THE ONE-DAY ISLAND TRIP
All regularly scheduled trips are to Santa Cruz Island's east end, and trip schedules to Anacapa and
Santa Barbara Islands develop as the season progresses. Custom trips can be scheduled at no extra
charge with advance notice and charter boat availability. We gather in Ventura or Oxnard Harbor at
the charter boat concessionaire early enough to allow for 30 - 45 minutes of gear handling and
paperwork. While crossing the channel we always see at least some representatives from at least
one of these groups: sea lions, seals, dolphins, or whales (though most likely during migratory
seasons.) Some whale species reside in the channel all year round. A naturalist accompanies the
boat trip and delivers a running commentary on the wildlife that is encountered.
As we approach the island we make a determination as to the next best course of action based upon
the particular charter vessel being used and the sea and weather conditions. On most days we opt to
take the gear and food onshore. There is usually very little surf at landing sites -- a one foot shore
break is normal. We may elect to eat lunch either before or after paddling, depending on the wishes
of the group. On some days we may grab some snacks to take with us and board the kayaks directly
from the charter vessel.
A basic kayaking lesson and safety talk precedes our launch. We explore the widely varying sea
caves and rock gardens as we paddle alongside the towering cliffs. When we return, we stow the
gear and make ready to depart for the mainland. The return time is usually between 5:00 and 6:00
PM depending upon the wind and seas, and on how much time we spend with the marine life we come
across in transit.
ONE-DAY TRIP OFFERINGS
Santa Cruz Island 1-Day
Adventure
Scorpion Landing
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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR THIS TRIP
| FREQUENCY-- |
EFFORT |
| Sometimes-- |
Very Easy |
| Often-- |
Easy |
| Sometimes-- |
Moderate |
| Virtually Never-- |
Strenuous |
| Never-- |
Very Strenuous |
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No prior kayaking experience
or
special athletic ability is required. |
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2.5 miles kayaking over approximately
3 hours
of actual paddling; no hiking.
$175 adult/$150 child booked at least
14 days
in advance.
$195 adult/$170 child booked less than
14 days in advance.
(Child = 10 - 12 years of age, in tandem kayak with adult.) |
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From April through November trips are scheduled for every weekend,
and many weekdays.
From December through March trips are scheduled upon demand:
whenever you or we put together a 4-person minimum.
We are very pleased to make every
effort to make alternate scheduling arrangements
if our regular itinerary or dates are not convenient!
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Anacapa Island
1-Day Adventure
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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR THIS TRIP
| FREQUENCY-- |
EFFORT |
| Sometimes-- |
Very Easy |
| Often-- |
Easy |
| Sometimes-- |
Moderate |
| Virtually Never-- |
Strenuous |
| Never-- |
Very Strenuous |
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No prior kayaking experience
or
special athletic ability is required. |
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3 miles kayaking over approximately 3 hours
of actual paddling; no hiking.
$175 adult only, booked at least 14 days in advance.
$195 adult only, booked less than 14 days in advance.
(Adult = 18 years of age or older.)
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From April through November trips are scheduled for every weekend,
and many weekdays.
From December through March trips are scheduled upon demand:
whenever you or we put together a 4-person minimum.
We are very pleased to make every
effort to make alternate scheduling arrangements
if our regular
itinerary or dates are not convenient! |
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Santa Barbara
Island
1-Day
Adventure
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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR THIS TRIP
| FREQUENCY-- |
EFFORT |
| Sometimes-- |
Very Easy |
| Often-- |
Easy |
| Sometimes-- |
Moderate |
| Virtually Never-- |
Strenuous |
| Never-- |
Very Strenuous |
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No prior kayaking experience
or
special athletic ability is required. |
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3 miles kayaking over approximately 3 hours
of actual on-water paddling; no hiking.
$245 adult only, booked less than 14 days in advance.
(Adult = 18 years of age or older.)
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Santa Barbara Island trips are rarer adventures due to it's remote location, and are available only on specific dates .
Call for scheduling: 800.773.2309
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THE MULTI-DAY ISLAND
TRIP
Overnight two-day camping trips begin in the same manner as one-day
trips (see above.) After paddling, the next order of business is to set up
camp in a sheltering eucalyptus grove. If there is still daylight we take
a hike up to the cliff tops for an eagle's-eye view along the length of the
island to the sunset and other islands beyond. Back at camp we make our
evening meal and indulge in whatever individual activities are desired.
In the morning, we arise as early as is comfortable for the group. We eat
our breakfast and make lunches which are sealed into ziplock freezer bags,
and break camp. In this way we can get on the water no later than 9:00am,
and take our kayaks to the more distant sea caves, including one which has
three huge openings. Eventually we land at a secluded beach to eat lunch,
swim and snorkel, explore the cove, or just relax in the sun.
Better yet, a 3-day trip affords us that magical middle day, which has no
camp set-up or break-down, and no travel time, and so is available for an
extended day of kayaking exploration, or for hiking the 14,500 acres of
parkland.
MULTI-DAY TRIP OFFERINGS
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Santa Cruz Island
Multi-Day Adventures
Camping, Kayaking, &Hiking
at Scorpion Landing
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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR THIS TRIP
| FREQUENCY-- |
EFFORT |
| Sometimes-- |
Very Easy |
| Often-- |
Easy |
| Sometimes-- |
Moderate |
| Virtually Never-- |
Strenuous |
| Never-- |
Very Strenuous |
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No prior kayaking experience
or
special athletic ability is required. |
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2-DAY TRIP
7.9 miles kayaking over 2-day period;
limited partial-day hiking choices at client's discretion.
$275 adult or child booked at least 14 days
in advance.
$305 adult or
child booked less than 14 days in advance.
(Child = 10 - 12 years of age, in tandem kayak with adult.)
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3-DAY TRIP
7.9 miles kayaking over 2-day period, more if desired;
full-day hiking choices are at client's discretion.
$340 adult or child booked at least 14 days in advance.
$380 adult or child booked less than 14 days in advance.
(Child = 10 - 12 years of age, in tandem kayak with adult.)
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From April through November
trips are scheduled for every weekend, and many weekdays. From December through March trips are scheduled upon demand:
whenever you or we put together a 4-person minimum.
We are very
pleased to make every effort to make alternate scheduling arrangements
if our regular
itinerary or dates are not convenient!
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Attention:
Experienced Kayak Paddlers...
A Special Trip, Just For You!
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Santa Cruz Island
2-Day Adventures
Prisoner's Harbor
to
Scorpion Landing
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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR THIS TRIP
| FREQUENCY-- |
EFFORT |
| Never-- |
Very Easy |
| Never-- |
Easy |
| Often-- |
Moderate |
| Sometimes-- |
Strenuous |
| Occasionally-- |
Very Strenuous |
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No prior kayaking experience
or
special athletic ability is required. |
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2-DAY TRIP
7.9 miles kayaking over 2-day period;
limited partial-day hiking choices at client's discretion.
$320 adult
Second Day - $45
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If you have prior kayaking experience and are physically fit enough to go the distance in a day, this
trip has it all! You will visit all of the sea caves that are available at East Santa Cruz on your first
full day -- many of which are not attainable on any other trips. Plus, you'll have an entire second day
free for unescorted hiking or lounging around. The ferry will drop your camping gear at Scorpion
Landing, and you and your guide will proceed onward to Prisoners Harbor with only the gear and
food you need for the day's paddle. Upon returning to Scorpion Landing you'll set up camp and be
ready for the next day's unescorted hiking, with route recommendations from your guide. A
challenging and very rewarding trip! |
From May through October trips are scheduled for selected weekends, and some weekdays.
From November through April trips are scheduled upon demand (4-person minimum) and when charter boat service is available.
We are very pleased to make every effort to make alternate scheduling arrangements
if our regular itinerary or dates are not convenient!
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Group
Camping Gear
ask
Aquasports
- Camp stove(s) and fuel, and camp lanterns.
- Cooking pots, pans, utensils. Plastic eating utensils, and
paper cups, bowls and plates.
- Bulk drinking water container, so you can have water at your
campsite.
- Coffee, tea, sugar, Sweet 'n Low.
- Dish washing supplies and paper towels.
- Trash bags. Your trash is your responsibility....
- A wheeled cart for camping gear transport from the landing to
the campsite (1/3 mile.)
- Bring your food in your own coolers and critter-proof plastic
tubs -- 50 quart maximum size.
Aquasports
cannot provide food service.
Group
Camping Gear
ask
Aquasports
- Camp stove(s) and fuel, and camp lanterns.
- Cooking pots, pans, utensils. Plastic eating utensils, and
paper cups, bowls and plates.
- Bulk drinking water container, so you can have water at your
campsite.
- Coffee, tea, sugar, Sweet 'n Low.
- Dish washing supplies and paper towels.
- Trash bags. Your trash is your responsibility....
- A wheeled cart for camping gear transport from the landing to
the campsite (1/3 mile.)
- Bring your food in your own coolers and critter-proof plastic
tubs -- 50 quart maximum size.
Aquasports
cannot provide food service.
Group
Camping Gear
ask
Aquasports
- Camp stove(s) and fuel, and camp lanterns.
- Cooking pots, pans, utensils. Plastic eating utensils, and
paper cups, bowls and plates.
- Bulk drinking water container, so you can have water at your
campsite.
- Coffee, tea, sugar, Sweet 'n Low.
- Dish washing supplies and paper towels.
- Trash bags. Your trash is your responsibility....
- A wheeled cart for camping gear transport from the landing to
the campsite (1/3 mile.)
- Bring your food in your own coolers and critter-proof plastic
tubs -- 50 quart maximum size.
Aquasports
cannot provide food service.
Group
Camping Gear
ask
Aquasports
- Camp stove(s) and fuel, and camp lanterns.
- Cooking pots, pans, utensils. Plastic eating utensils, and
paper cups, bowls and plates.
- Bulk drinking water container, so you can have water at your
campsite.
- Coffee, tea, sugar, Sweet 'n Low.
- Dish washing supplies and paper towels.
- Trash bags. Your trash is your responsibility....
- A wheeled cart for camping gear transport from the landing to
the campsite (1/3 mile.)
- Bring your food in your own coolers and critter-proof plastic
tubs -- 50 quart maximum size.
Aquasports
cannot provide food service.
Group Camping Gear
ask
Aquasports
1.
Camp
stove(s) and fuel, and camp lanterns.
2.
Cooking
pots, pans, utensils. Plastic eating utensils, and paper cups, bowls
and plates.
3.
Bulk
drinking water container, so you can have water at your campsite.
4.
Coffee,
tea, sugar, Sweet 'n Low.
5.
Dish
washing supplies and paper towels.
6.
Trash
bags. Your trash is your responsibility....
7.
A
wheeled cart for camping gear transport from the landing to the
campsite (1/3 mile.)
8.
Bring
your food in your own coolers and critter-proof plastic tubs -- 50
quart maximum size.
Aquasports
cannot provide food service. |
Coastal Kayaking
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The American Riviera
Santa Barbara
From the Sea
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| This Santa Barbara waterfront tour will provide an opportunity for you to view this wonderful city
from a vantage point rarely seen by thousands of annual visitors. These excursions begin at various locations and times depending upon the day's weather and tide conditions. Most often this
tour will originate at West Beach, adjacent to the harbor and without surf. Alternatively, we can launch at either Leadbetter or Arroyo Burro Beaches for a more extensive tour.
After a brief sea kayak orientation and introductory lesson from our guides, we'll launch our kayaks and paddle eastward toward the heart of the Santa Barbara waterfront, go under Stearns
Wharf for a "backstage experience," and continue on out to sea. We'll head into the breeze for the first leg of our tour, so we can coast downwind on the way back. If there's time we'll cruise the harbor for a mellow finish to the day. You'll gain a unique appreciation for the panoramic views of the Channel Islands and the Santa Ynez hills, often referred to as the American Riviera, which
provide a perfect backdrop to the Mediterranean-style city. The calm Pacific waters, breathtaking beaches, majestic views and mild weather lure make Santa Barbara's protected waters a favorite
for kayakers. This excursion provides an excellent introduction to the secrets that ocean kayaking can unveil, and the pleasures of sharing a day exploring on the ocean alongside family
and friends.
Price each: $79.
Trip time on the water is about 2 hours. Allow an additional 1/2 hour for instruction. Trips are scheduled on an on-demand basis. Minimum group size: 2 participants. No prior kayaking
experience or special athletic ability is required.
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The Gaviota Coastline
Central
California's
Pristine Beaches
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The Gaviota area is a series of small coves beginning about 10 minutes up the coast from the city
of Santa Barbara. Lying at the western edge of the Los Padres National Forest, these wonderfully
concealed beaches are located where the Santa Ynez Mountains drop directly into the Pacific
Ocean. Convenient, yet little known access takes us to perfect starting points for our coastal
kayaking excursions. Some of the beaches we pass can be reached only by ocean kayak, with
some offering secluded shelter for a lunch break, exploratory walk along the shore or a simple
break from paddling. Our journey often includes a visit from some of our ocean companions such
as the Pacific bottlenose dolphin, California sea lion, harbor seal and, during migratory seasons,
the gray whale. Large swells usually are blocked by the unique coastal geography -- the Channel
Islands to the south, and Point Arguello and Point Conception to the northwest -- making this
excursion perfect for both beginning and experienced kayakers who are looking for a day of ocean
exploration. As always, a fun introductory kayaking lesson is included in all trips, and kayaking
knowledge or special athletic ability are NOT required! The sheltered paddling areas usually have
mild surf and are without strong winds.
Trip starting times vary throughout the year due to weather and tides, and the participants'
convenience. Plan to spend half of the day (approximately 3 hours on the water, and 1/2 hour of
instruction) following the group's whims regarding paddling speed, distance from shore, beach
landings, and surf play.
Minimum group size: 4 participants. Call us with your target dates and we'll help you fill the
minimum. No prior kayaking experience or special athletic ability is required.
Price each: $89.
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Montana de Oro
State Park
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A little over an hour's drive up the coast from Santa Barbara is the park called the "Mountain of
Gold" for it's dazzling displays of wildflowers. The seven miles of coastline within this park varies
from massive sand dunes to towering, ragged shale cliffs. Kayaks are perfect for exploring the small
sea caves and arches from an ocean perspective. Enjoy lunch in a cove beneath the cliffs,
inaccessible by land.
Spend the night in the hidden canyon campground and go for a second day's paddle across nearby
Morro Bay to picnic on the secluded, miles-long Morro Dunes Sand Spit. These still waters are a
major stopover to many species of migratory birds along the Pacific flyway.
Day-trip price per person for either location: $109 (four person minimum.)
Combine the locations for a two-day trip for an additional $69.
Guides and all kayaking gear are included. No prior sea kayaking experience or special athletic
ability is required.
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inside the caves...
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ISLAND TRADE-OFFS
Kayaking and hiking itineraries vary in response to opportunities
presented by weather, swell, and tides. An island experience
presents a number of trade-offs. For instance, when the swell is
high some caves become off-limits, but high swells produce
dramatic blowhole activity with compressed air driving fountains
of spray high overhead. Another example: when the tide is low,
some caves are too rocky to enter, but other caves become exposed
for exploration which are submerged under higher tides. Overcast
skies often mean calm, still waters -- but you get the idea. The
guides will suggest activities that will take the most advantage
of the conditions, and make the most of your precious island time.
If it rains or becomes extremely windy, the charter boat company
will cancel the trip and there is no charge. Once in a great while
we are able to get to an island, but kayaking conditions turn out
to be too rough. The trade-offs in this case may be a day of
hiking, or a motor boating tour of the island coastline, and a 25%
reduction in your fee.
THE SEASONS
As with any characterization of the weather, what follows in this
section are tendencies. Some winters have been predominantly warm
and still, and some summers have been damp and cool. Our
advise? Come out as soon as you can, or risk being one of the
people who says, "I've been wanting to go there for years,
but..." And after your first trip, come again -- there's lots
to see!
Winter
Shortest days, clearest air, fewest visitors, migrating whales,
breezy/windy, green vegetative growth in late winter, coldest
temps, occasional storms to dodge (possible trip cancellations at
no charge.)
Spring
Lengthening days, warmer weather, increasing visitation, fewer
storms to dodge, some fog, breezy/windy, green vegetation with
wildflowers, some migrating whales early.
Summer
Longest days, warm weather, some haze and fog, the most
visitation, storms very unlikely, breezy/windy, few migrating
whales, brown vegetation.
Fall
Shortening days, beautiful mild and clear weather with rich
lighting (colder nights), few storms, decreasing visitation, brown
vegetation.
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Use
the valuable coupon for 15% off guided
island kayaking trips.
| Region |
Cost |
| Santa Barbara
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Prices range from $79 for a coastal trip to $380 for
a three-day island trip for an adult. |
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Contact:
Aquasports
111 Verona
Santa Barbara, Ca 93117
Phone: 800.773.2309
Email: info@islandkayaking.com
Help us help you! For
specific answers to questions about this adventure, please
Email to the company directly using the email address above.
CalAdventures.com seeks to offer
you the highest quality adventures throughout the state.
Comments about how you liked (or disliked) this company, we'd
like to know! Thank you!
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California's
Channel Islands, located just off the coast of Santa Barbara and Ventura,
are a National Park dream-come-true for marine nature lovers. The
crystal clear Pacific channel waters, many mysterious and eerie sea caves,
breathtaking cliffs, abundant wildlife, and mild weather combine to lure
expert kayakers and novices alike to explore their natural wonders.
Each encounter with the caves, tunnels, arches, grottos and blow holes is a
unique blend of sights and sounds created by submarine fissures and
openings, and the contorted volcanic island formations. And the
sheltered paddling areas very often are without surf or strong winds.
