Best Time To Visit Channel Islands National Park

If you want to visit the five Southern Californian islands that make up Channel Islands National Park, but are trying to decide deciding when to visit the Channel Islands, this guide is for you.  

I’m James Ian and I’m a national park expert. In this article, I’ll give you a quick summary of the best times to visit Channel Islands National Park so you can make an informed choice about when to go.

‼️ While this is my choice for the best time to go to Channel Islands National Park, the park is great throughout the year.  I’ve provided a detailed breakdown by season and every month so you can easily see what to expect and then make your own choice. ‼️

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The Best Time to Visit Channel Islands National Park in a Nutshell

The best time to head to the five islands of this national park is generally between May and October. Ferries operate to all five islands then, and the dry season brings warm temperatures and little to no rain. 

The best weather occurs during the summer months of June, July and August. But of course this is the busiest season too. June is a little quieter than the following two months, if you want to go in summer yet avoid some of the crowds. 

Though boats to Anacapa and Santa Cruz operate all year round, you can only reach the other three islands between spring and fall. So visiting Santa Barbara, San Miguel or Santa Rosa during winter isn’t feasible unless you have your own boat.

When is the best time of year to go to Channel Islands National Park (for different interests)?

The best temperatures

The warmest and most pleasant months in Channel Islands National Park are May through October. This is the dry season too. July and August are the hottest, and busiest, months of the year.  

The best time to see wildlife

You can see wildlife all year round on and around the Channel Islands. Blue, humpback and gray whales, harbor and northern elephant seals and migratory birds are some of the seasonal highlights. 

The best time to avoid the crowds

Visit outside of the July and August peak to avoid the summer crowds. June and September are still warm, but more peaceful, while May and October are even quieter. 

The best time to travel in summer

June is the quietest month of the summer for visiting Channel Islands National Park.

The best time for hiking

You can hike all year round at Channel Islands National Park, with guided walks available. However you can only reach Anacapa or Santa Cruz islands in winter. 

The best time for diving

Late summer and early fall bring warmer ocean temperatures and the clearest water. Underwater visibility is good in the Channel Islands between July and January (and sometimes into February). The best visibility is September to November. 

The best time for water activities (kayaking, sailing, etc.)

The dry season between May and October is best for watersports. As there is more chance of strong winds in September and October, though, May, June, July and August are best. 

The best time to travel on a budget

The winter off-season brings prices down, though you’ll need to check if accommodations are open for business. 

The worst time to visit Channel Islands National Park

Due to the wet season and colder temperatures, November to April is the worst time to head to Channel Islands National Park in terms of weather.

‼️ Check my detailed breakdown of what to expect every month in the year for much more detailed information. ‼️

Travel Insurance for Channel Islands National Park

No matter when you go to Channel Islands National Park, you should definitely get travel insurance.  This can protect you not only against medical and emergency repatriation, but can also cover things like trip cancellation, loss and/ or theft of property, etc.

➡️A great insurance option is Travelex.  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can compare Travel Insurance plans here or get a quote right now:

Enjoy Channel Islands National Park!

Additional Planning Resources for Channel Islands National Park

⭐ Planning A Trip to Channel Islands National Park: 7 Mistakes to Avoid
⭐ Channel Islands SCUBA Diving, California
⭐ How to Get to Channel Islands National Park
⭐ Closest Airport to Channel Islands National Park
⭐ The Airports Near Channel Islands National Park
⭐ 10 Tips for Visiting Channel Islands National Park
⭐ Visiting Channel Islands National Park: What To Expect Throughout the Year
⭐ Fun Facts About Channel Islands National Park

What do you think is the best month to visit Channel Islands National Park? Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more). 

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About the Author

James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.

He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.

Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.

As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Newsweek, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.

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