Quick Details
Day Visitor
People departing and returning to a mainland port without an overnight stay.
Adult (13-54)
$ 89
Senior (55 and up)
$ 81
Child (3-12)
$ 70
Infant (under 3)
Free
Camper
People staying overnight one of more nights.
Adult (13-54)
$ 126
Senior (55 and up)
$ 115
Child (3-12)
$ 100
Infant (under 3)
Free
JOIN US AS WE EXPLORE SANTA ROSA ISLAND ON A DAY TRIP!
Santa Rosa Island Day Trip Options
➤ One way trip from Ventura to Santa Rosa Island
➤ Return trip from Santa Rosa Island to Ventura
Santa Rosa Island Highlights
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Santa Rosa Island Pier
Photo by Tim HaufA Santa Rosa Island day trip takes you to this northern outer island. This northern location is subject to high winds year-round. Getting to the island can be challenging if sea conditions are less than perfect. Passengers should be prepared for the possibility of a bumpy boat ride. Santa Rosa Island day trip crossing can take 2-3 hours depending on the route we take and the sea conditions.
Following the crossing, visitors are greeted with an island orientation from a Naturalist volunteer. Restrooms are located near the historic ranch buildings as well as in the campground and picnic area at Water Canyon.Water Canyon creek flows year-round. A hike up the creek bed and along animal trails is a good day hike for experienced hikers. A guided hike is usually offered on the Cherry Canyon trail, which is considered a moderate trail.
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On your return back to the Ventura Harbor we will stop at Painted Cave for a look inside. Painted cave is one of the largest known sea caves on the planet. Weather/ sea conditions can make this viewing impossible.
The eroded and windswept bluffs and beautiful white sand beaches are accessible from a ladder near the pier as well as at Water Canyon.
The beach cliffs of Santa Rosa Island Photo by Lottie Keenan
Santa Rosa Island day trip visitors need to be back at the pier for pick up 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
On your return back to the Ventura Harbor we will stop at Painted Cave for a look inside. Painted cave is one of the largest known sea caves on the planet. Weather/ sea conditions can make this viewing impossible.
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.
➤ Fresh/potable water is available near the restrooms o n the coastal rod and in the campground area.
➤ 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). Santa Rosa can be very windy throughout the year.