Quick Details
Scorpion Anchorage – Santa Cruz Island
Scorpion Anchorage offers visitors a comfortable and scenic starting point for exploring Santa Cruz Island. Amenities include vault-style restrooms, tree-shaded picnic tables, and potable drinking water.
Recreation & Relaxation
Swim or snorkel through vibrant kelp forests just offshore, or unwind on the peaceful cobblestone beach. For adventure-seekers, coastal kayaking is a favorite activity—paddle along volcanic cliffs carved with sea caves and hidden inlets. Kayaking information
Discover Nature & History
Begin your visit at the island’s visitor center, located at the historic Scorpion Ranch. Informative exhibits, interpretive panels, and a detailed topographic relief map showcase the island’s incredible biodiversity and deep cultural heritage.
Grab a trail map and explore at your own pace, or join a guided hike led by a knowledgeable naturalist. As you walk the island’s scenic trails, keep an eye out for the island’s unique wildlife, including the endemic Santa Cruz Island Fox.
Day Visitor
People departing and returning to a mainland port without an overnight stay.
Adult ( age 13-54)
Round Trip for the Day
$ 70
Senior ( age 55 and up)
Round Trip for the Day
$ 65
Military (active duty)
Round Trip for the Day
$ 65
Child (age 3-12)
Round Trip for the Day
$ 50
Infant (under 3)
Round Trip for the Day
Free
Camper
People staying overnight one of more nights.
Adult (age 13-54)
Round Trip Camping
$ 93
Senior (age 55 and up)
Round Trip Camping
$ 88
Military (active duty)
Round Trip Camping
$ 88
Child (age 3-12)
Round Trip Camping
$ 68
Infant (age under 3)
Round Trip Camping
Free
JOIN FOR A TRIP TO SCORPION ANCHORAGE ON EAST SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Scorpion Anchorage Trip Options
➤ One way trip from Ventura or Oxnard to Scorpion Anchorage
➤ Return trip from Scorpion Anchorage to Ventura or Oxnard
Scorpion Anchorage Highlights
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Explore Scorpion Anchorage
Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island offers a wide range of hiking trails—from easy family walks to challenging routes for experienced hikers. Most day trips include the opportunity to join a guided hike led by a volunteer National Park naturalist, providing insight into the island’s unique landscape and wildlife.The area features an unmanned visitor center where you can learn about the island’s rich history and diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as the Santa Cruz Island Raven and the elusive Channel Islands Fox as you explore.
Be sure to bring plenty of water—shade is limited along the trails. In addition to hiking, Scorpion Anchorage is a popular spot for snorkeling and kayaking. Kayak rentals must be arranged separately and in advance; please visit our Kayak Page for details.
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The Visitors Center at Scorpion Anchorage Photo by Andrea Mills
There is plenty to discover on a Scorpion Anchorage Day Trip, beginning with a visit to the island visitors center located at historic Scorpion Ranch. Panel displays, exhibits and a topographic relief map describe the vast bio-diversity and rich cultural history of Santa Cruz Island.
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You can swim or snorkel through shoreline kelp forests or just relax on the cobblestone beach. Coastal kayaking along the cave pocketed volcanic cliffs is a popular exploration of kayaking enthusiasts.
Accessing the Ocean:
Santa Cruz Island at Scorpion Cove has a sand and rocky beach. Visitors who want to access the ocean for swimming, snorkeling or kayaking are advised to bring a pair of water shoes. The addition of water shoes will make your ocean experience much more enjoyable.Visitors can pick up a trail map, print one below or download the new app (scroll down) and explore on you own along the island’s many trails. People can join one of the naturalist led hikes that are offered. Hikers might encounter one of the island’s endemic creatures like the Santa Cruz Island Fox along the way.
Hiking Guide/ Interpretive Guide
What to Know & What to Bring
Arrival:
Please arrive at your departure harbor at least 45 minutes before your scheduled mainland departure time to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Food & Supplies:
There are no restaurants or shops on the island, so be sure to pack all food and drinks you’ll need for the day. A small cooler with a single handle or a sturdy backpack is ideal for protecting your food from the island’s curious wildlife, including crafty birds and small foxes.
Water:
Fresh, potable water is available in the campground area.
Leave No Trace:
Visitors must pack out all trash when leaving the island—there are no waste bins.
Footwear:
Wear flat, rubber-soled shoes for safety and comfort on the boat and trails. Hiking shoes are recommended. Please avoid loose sandals, leather-soled shoes, or flip-flops.
Weather & Clothing:
Weather in the Santa Barbara Channel can change quickly. We recommend dressing in layers and bringing a jacket or sweatshirt, even during summer.
Sun Protection:
There is limited shade—only in the Scorpion Ranch area. Hats and sunscreen are strongly recommended, even on cloudy days.
Additional Notes:
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The channel crossing takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, but may take longer if marine wildlife is encountered.
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Arrival and departure times are approximate, as weather, wildlife sightings, and camper loads can cause delays.
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Amenities at Scorpion Anchorage include: vault-style restrooms, shaded picnic tables, and drinking water.