Boarding the boat for our trip to Anacapa Island – part of the
Channel
Islands National Park – we could hear an infant crying. Certainly most
everyone was thinking, "Oh, great! A baby on a 12-mile boat trip! Are you
nuts?" The Island Packer boat, Vanguard, began its slow journey through the
calm waters of Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. Out into the open sea, we
started to rock and bob – the infant was asleep within seconds. The rest of
us faced forward, eyes wide open, awaiting a glimpse of the elusive Anacapa
Island. Those of us beyond the rhythmic lullabies of babies could take
solace in the postcard-perfect weather – light breeze, blue skies, and warm
sun – as we embarked on our half-day journey to a land nearly forgotten by
time.
When considering boarding a 68-foot-long boat to take a 12-mile trip out
into open seas, traveling with children under the age of five probably
doesn't come to mind. However, our group included families with children of
all ages and an infant. With just two miles of trails, Anacapa's landscape
is easy hiking and perfect for younger visitors – even parents packing a
baby. The visitor's center provides welcome shade and picnic tables for a
lunchtime break. The center also has great interpretive displays and houses
the original crystal and brass Fresnel lens from the island lighthouse. The
landing cove offers great opportunities for snorkeling, swimming and
kayaking – even for the younger set. The water temperatures are warmest
during the summer months, topping out at around 65°. It's a good idea to
monitor exposure to the water or come equipped with dive suits.
Kids and parents will enjoy a thrilling below-water view through Anacapa's
underwater video program. Viewed by television from the island's landing
dock at or the mainland visitor center, this unique program features an
interpretive dive through one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world,
the kelp forest. Kids can talk directly to the ranger interpreter and ask
questions about the watery world below. This amazing program is available
every Tuesday and Thursday from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Off-shore, California sea lions and harbor seals are frequently seen and
heard barking up a storm at overlooks Cathedral Cove and Pinniped Point.
They are often seen during the Channel crossing – bobbing along and
seemingly waving as you pass. Several varieties of whales and dolphins are
spotted year-round on trips to Anacapa – and with luck you may find a pod of
orca or common dolphin playing in the boat's wake.
Despite obvious signs of human habitation, Anacapa retains much of its
natural rugged beauty. Anacapa consists of three small islets, East, Middle
and West, which are inaccessible from each other except by boat. Visitation
is limited to the East islet and Frenchy's Cove on the West islet. Most of
island is primarily wilderness set aside for nesting Western gulls and the
endangered California brown pelican. In the spring, kids and adults marvel
at the throng of nesting gulls. Later in the season, downy baby gulls wait
quietly, or not, for doting parents to feed them. And undulating brown
pelicans soar overhead or line the cliffs overlooking the landing cove on
East Anacapa.
In general, the island has a Mediterranean climate but the weather can be
most unforgiving and dense fog is common during late spring. Calm winds and
seas are more frequent at summer's end. Consider seasonal changes when
planning a trip to Anacapa or any of the Channel Islands.
The closest of the five islands that make-up the national park, Anacapa is
only a ½-mile wide, about 5 miles long, with 200-foot cliffs. Though fairly
stark in its natural state, non-native ice plant, a brilliant red, now
blankets much of the island. Originally planted to prevent erosion, the
creeping, mat-forming succulent is being removed as part of an environmental
rehabilitation of the island. In the spring, forests of giant yellow
coreopsis seem other-worldly. Other wildflowers – pale pink island mallow,
vivid red paintbrush, and tiny island morning glories – create an
eye-catching palette of colors across the island.
It's fitting that Anacapa is the only Channel Island to retain its American
Indian name "Eneepah," derived from a Chumash word meaning island of
deception or mirage. I can tell you, this island is no mirage. It's a dream
come true for kids of all ages – grown-ups too!
When traveling to Anacapa or any of the Channel Islands, remember:
> Sunscreen, sunglasses, sunhat
> Seasickness Medicine (If you're at all concerned or sensitive)
> Dress in layers
> Take plenty of water as there is no fresh water on the island
> Pack lunches and snacks
> Comfortable walking shoes
> Camera and binoculars
> Day-trippers can leave items at the Visitor Center but its best to travel
light.
> Walk with care
> Take photos not flowers, rocks, shells, or other items found on the
island…except trash.
> If you pack it in, pack it out
For families looking for the complete family escape with all the requisite
amenities, the Embassy Suites Mandalay Bay Beach Resort is conveniently
located near Channel Islands Harbor. All-suite rooms offer the luxury and
comforts of home: living room, two televisions, two full baths, one king or
two queen beds, and sleeper sofas, a refrigerator, microwave oven, coffee
maker, and a well-lit dining table. Translation: Plenty of room for everyone
to spread out and relax. A deep blue swimming pool, Jacuzzis, ping pong,
non-motorized bikes of all kinds to ride along the beach promenade and miles
of the most pristine beach just scream "family friendly!"
Forget the breakfast buffets; mornings at Embassy Suites are a real food
fest! Besides an over-the-top expanded continental featuring fresh fruits
and yogurts, full-cooked breakfasts include eggs, bacon, sausage, omelets,
waffles, pancakes and more. And Embassy Suites may have the happiest hour”
on the planet. The two-hour soiree includes a variety of munchies from chips
and salsa and trail mix to fresh vegetables and dip plus a full bar for
parents…and kids! The Surf Room at Mandalay Bay features kid- and
adult-friendly game area with pool table, foosball, big screen TV, or you
can simply relax on the patio: The swaying palm trees and blue lagoons will
keep you and the kids dreaming of Paradise.
PS – Mom & Dad, if you feel like you need a night off, Embassy Suites also
provides babysitting services!
For more information visit: NPS.gov/chis or IslandPackers.com