I camped on wind-swept Santa Cruz Island, the largest of the Channel Islands off the coast of Southern California.
Access to the Channel Islands requires a boat ride. I chose a company called Islandpackers. I often experience sea-sickness when riding on a water vessel. The Captain told us that the trek over to the island would be a bit rough while the ride back would be a lot smoother. This was correct. Even with a pre-departure dose of Dramamine, I found myself in a nauseous and dizzying sway. The saving grace to my reduced equilibrium were the multiple stops to visit with marine life, including Dolphins, Beluga and Humpback Whales, and various Seabirds. Upon arrival to the island, smaller inflated rafts brought us in small groups to shore.
The island boasted magnificent seaside cliffs with steep slopes and expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. I wasn’t prepared for the strong wind currents. My eyes kept watering and my hair was whipped and tangled. Santa Cruz Island is home to a species of Fox known as the Island Fox. They are endemic to the island meaning that they are not found anywhere else on Earth. They are the size of a small house cat and are incredibly cute and friendly.
Camping on the island was peaceful and serene. I highly suggest wind-protection and binoculars for wildlife spotting.
