East Anacapa Island Landing Cove

5 star for scenic view, sea experience to snorkel/dive. * The kelp forests and the clear waters are a wonder to experience. * There is a blow-hole and water suction zone near the landing cove. Beware if swimming or snorkeling to gauge water conditions. They can change from day to day, not all days are safe. There were water suctions and wave flow variations of 2-3 feet. * The views of the birds and cliffs are gorgeous. * The ocean-caves are very interesting and perhaps worth a kayak trip (for the future) * The stairs are pretty steep, so is the climb up into the island. N.B.: The landing cove is not easily accessible for the disabled or elderly. In general the island itself is not easily accessible for these categories.

Loved the day on Anacapa but would not want to go a second time. We came 5/23 and saw a few seagull chicks that had already hatched. We walked by hundreds of seagulls nesting on the ground all over the island. I felt terrible because these poor birds were clearly stressed by 83 people getting so close to their eggs and chicks. Would not want to do it again knowing the upset I caused. The island is small, beautiful and easily accessible after you climbed an awkward ladder and many, many stairs, so while the paths are easy, the boarding and unboarding is not. We were very glad we did not stay to camp because there is not much to explore and the campground is rather sad and basic, so the few hours are more than enough.

Best snorkeling I've ever done. Was very calm too when I was swimming and paddling. Prepare for a vertical ladder with sharp edges which was at least 20 feet at low tide and very cold water. Also when you get in it's deep and doesn't get any shallower. I wore a 3mm wet suit and was great but I'm always cold. Others jumped in with swimsuits but couldn't stay in as long as I could with the wet suit. They said the visibility was at least 50 feet maybe 100 while I was there. It felt like being in an aquarium and is one of the most magical experiences I have ever had.

Awesome! Love all the seagulls! Great hike; very easy. Gorgeous views!

Interesting stop in the channel islands, way cool 19 the century tech.