There are plenty of ways to spend a summer day in Southern California. But spending six hours on the ocean watching whales surface alongside dolphins and sea lions? That’s hard to beat.
This summer, Island Packers is expanding its seasonal excursion lineup from Ventura Harbor, offering travelers more opportunities to experience the wildlife and scenery of the Santa Barbara Channel and Channel Islands National Park
And there’s an extra reason to pay attention this year: the Santa Barbara Channel was recently designated a Whale Heritage Area, becoming just the second location in the United States to receive the recognition
🐳 Whale Watching Season Is Here
Summer whale watching trips run through September and offer the chance to spot some of the ocean’s most impressive visitors.
Depending on the day, guests may encounter:
- Humpback whales
- Blue whales
- Fin whales
- Dolphins
- Sea lions
- Harbor seals
With more than 25 documented cetacean species in the region, every trip is a little different, which is part of the appeal
⛰️ Beyond the Whales
Not every excursion requires a full day on the water.
One option is the Anacapa Shoreline Cruise, a shorter experience that showcases the island’s rugged cliffs, historic lighthouse, and famous Arch Rock without going ashore. It’s perfect for visitors looking for incredible views and wildlife sightings without committing to an all-day adventure
🚤 Explore Hidden Corners of the Channel Islands
For travelers who want to get off the boat, Island Packers also offers specialty excursions to destinations on Santa Cruz Island.
Trips to Painted Cave and Prisoners Harbor combine coastal sightseeing with time to hike, picnic, snorkel, or simply relax on the island. Other excursions venture to more remote locations like Fry’s Harbor and Fraser Point, giving visitors access to areas that feel surprisingly untouched for Southern California
🐦 For Serious Nature Lovers
Birdwatchers have something special to look forward to as well. The Santa Cruz Island Scrub-Jay & Pelagic Bird Trip offers a rare chance to spot the island’s endemic scrub-jay while also exploring the rich marine bird life of the channel during a full-day excursion
⚓ Make a Day of It
Before or after your excursion, spend some time exploring Ventura Harbor Village, located just steps from the Island Packers departure point. With waterfront dining, local shops, fresh seafood, and harbor views, it’s an easy way to turn a whale watching trip into a full coastal getaway
👉 Learn more and book excursions:
https://www.islandpackers.com
👉 Explore Ventura Harbor Village:
https://www.venturaharborvillage.com
✨ Final Take
It’s easy to forget that one of North America’s richest marine ecosystems is sitting just off the Southern California coast.
Whether you’re hoping to spot a blue whale, cruise past dramatic island cliffs, or simply spend a day disconnected from land, these summer excursions offer a reminder that some of California’s best adventures happen offshore.