Quick Details
San Miguel Island Closure
NPS Alert : All trails and facilities on San Miguel Island, except the sandy beaches of Cuyler Harbor, are closed to the public until emergency repairs can be made to Nidever Canyon Trail. NPS anticipates the trail repair will be completed in time for the 2024 season.
EMBARK ON A DAY EXCURSION WITH US TO SAN MIGUEL ISLAND!
San Miguel Island Day Trip Options
➤ One way trip from Ventura to San Miguel Island
➤ Return trip from San Miguel Island to Ventura
San Miguel Island Highlights
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The day trips occur in October when the ocean conditions are the best for the skiff landing on the beach. San Miguel Island has no pier. Passengers depart the transport vessel for the ride to shore in an inflatable skiff through the surf. Landing can be wet depending on the current conditions. Visitors to this island should protect their day gear for the possibility of a wet landing.
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San Miguel Island Day Trip passengers are offered guided hikes to other areas of the Island. Options may include the Caliche Forest, and Lester Point. The guided hikes are considered strenuous hikes and are enjoyed by hardy hikers. San Miguel Island trails beyond the ranch area must be guided by a National Park ranger or National Park volunteer. Time ashore on a day trip does not allow for the 16 mile hike to Point Bennett to view the pinnipeds.
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Vault style outhouses and picnic tables are located in the campground area. Weather conditions can be windy even in the autumn months. There is no drinking water or shade on San Miguel Island.
What You Need to Know & Bring
➤ Please arrive at your harbor of departure 45 minutes before your scheduled mainland departure.
➤ Pack food and drink for your time on the island. A small cooler with a single handle or a backpack will help to protect your food from the small animals and birds that populate the islands year-round. There are no shops or restaurants on the island.
➤ San Miguel Island has No Potable/Fresh Water
➤ Visitors to the island must take all their trash with them when they depart the island.
➤ Flat shoes with rubber soles are best for both the boat and the island. We recommend hiking shoes. We suggest passengers do not wear loose or leather soled sandals or flip flops on your island adventure.
➤ Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Santa Barbara Channel. It is always best to dress in layers and bring a jacket/sweatshirt (even in the summer months).
➤ San Miguel Island has no shade. Sunscreen and a hat will help to protect you from UV that is present even on overcast days.
Please Note
Visitors to San Miguel Island must complete an Acknowledgement of Danger: Release and Hold Harmless Agreement San Miguel Island (SMI) Channel Islands National Park
➤ While Island Packers does have these forms at our office, completing the form prior to your arrival at our office will speed up your check in procedure. Guest will be asked to step out of line to complete the form prior to receiving your boarding pass. Island Packers would greatly appreciate your completing this form prior to your arrival if possible.