"Aerial view" by U.S. National Park Service , public domain
![]() | Santa Barbara IslandHiking Map and Guide |
featured in
![]() | National Parks Pocket Maps | ![]() |
![]() | California Pocket Maps | ![]() |
covered parks
Channel Islands
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Channel Islands National Park
Hiking Santa Barbara Island
Welcome to Santa Barbara Island, one of the five islands in Channel Islands National Park. Once you have scaled the rugged cliffs using the steep
trail from the landing cove, you will find a just over 5 miles of trails that meander over gentle slopes and low mountain tops to dramatic overlooks
and magnificent coastal views.
Hikers need to assume individual responsibility for planning their trips and hiking safely. To increase your odds of a safe hike, decrease your disturbance to wildlife, and lessen damage to resources, visitors should be in good physical condition and must follow the regulations and guidelines in
the “Limiting Your Impact” section of the park newspaper and those listed below:
•
Please stay on the designated trail system when hiking around the
island. Portions of the trails are subject to closure when pelicans
are nesting from January through August.
•
Avoid cliff edges. Wood railroad ties on the ground mark the safe
boundary of viewing areas at some overlooks. For your own safety,
do not stand on or step past these wood markers. Some cliff edges
are not marked. Please stay back from exposed cliff edges as they
are eroding and can be very fragile. Children should be supervised
at all times by an adult.
•
Since Santa Barbara Island is a cliff island, access to the water is
only at the Landing Cove (no beaches, only a dock).
•
To protect wildlife and visitors, do not throw anything off the
island into the ocean below.
•
Hikers should never hike alone—use the buddy system. This allows
someone to go for help if you encounter trouble.
•
Carry plenty of water and drink it. One quart for short walks, more
for longer hikes.
•
Be aware of poison oak, “jumping” cholla cactus, ticks, and scorpions. Poison oak can be identified by its clusters of three shiny
leaflets. Some ticks carry disease; check your clothing and exposed
skin after hiking.
•
In order to help prevent wildfires, no smoking is allowed on Santa
Barbara Island.
•
When departing from the islands, visitors are responsible for meeting the boat concessionaire on time. Be aware of departure time by
asking the ranger or concessionaire employees.
(NOTE: Please see the back for hiking destinations and map.)
EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA
1
2
3
N
5
4
Hiking Destinations
Destination
(from visitor center)
Distance
Difficulty
Description
1
Moderate
Great views and wildflowers in season.
2.5
Strenuous
View elephant seals from overlook.
(miles, round trip)
1
Arch Point
2
Elephant Seal Cove
3
Webster Point
3
Strenuous
Fantastic coastal views.
4
Sea Lion Rookery
2
Moderate
View seal lions from overlook.
5
Signal Peak
2.5
Strenuous
Highest point on island with views of Sutil Island.
· Portions of trails are subject to closure when pelicans are nesting from January through August.
· Hikers must stay on island trails to protect vegetation, nesting seabirds, and for visitor safety.