Santa Cruz Island Cruise Port
U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
About Santa Cruz Island Cruise Port
Port Overview
Santa Cruz Island, California, has no docking; ships anchor offshore with zodiacs to Channel Islands. Travelers explore Scorpion Anchorage and Painted Cave. Excursions include kayaking along sea cliffs. No facilities exist; provisions are ship-based. The peak season, May to September, brings mild weather for marine tours. Photography captures sea caves and Pacific vistas. Dining onboard includes fish tacos, a Californian favorite. Souvenirs, like shell crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Channel Islands ecology. Light clothing and sun protection suit the temperate climate, while water shoes enhance kayaking. Santa Cruz’s wild allure offers a vibrant American stop. Cruise travelers enjoy a mix of marine adventures and rugged landscapes, making Santa Cruz an engaging destination.
U.S.
U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
74°F / 46°F
avg high / low in March
🚢 Itineraries
6
cruise itineraries
🎯 Excursions
15
available excursions
🛡️ Safety Score
8.3 / 10
#6 of 37 in U.S.
Quick Links
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Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California
Cruise Port Location
Santa Cruz Island is located off the coast of Southern California in the Channel Islands National Park. It is the largest of the eight islands in the park and is located approximately 20 miles south of the mainland. The Santa Cruz Island cruise port is located in the harbor of the island's main town, Prisoners Harbor. The harbor is located on the north side of the island and is accessible by boat or ferry.
What to Do
Santa Cruz Island Top Activities & Attractions
Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the island's rugged coastline, hike through its lush forests, and take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, including spotting seals, dolphins, and whales. Kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are popular activities, as are camping and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the island's rich cultural history, with its many historic sites and artifacts. With its stunning scenery and abundance of activities, Santa Cruz Island is a great destination for those looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Santa Cruz Island Fun Facts
Santa Cruz Island is the Largest Island in the Channel Islands
Santa Cruz Island is the largest of the eight islands in the Channel Islands archipelago, located off the coast of Southern California. It is 22 miles long and up to 6 miles wide, making it the largest island in the chain. It is home to a variety of unique flora and fauna, and is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and kayakers.
Santa Cruz Island Cruise Port Excursions
Santa Cruz Island Popular Shore Tours
Explore the best excursions and tours near Santa Cruz Island cruise port. From guided sightseeing to adventure activities, find the perfect way to make the most of your time at this cruise port.
Cruise Port Schedule
Santa Cruz Island Cruise Port Ships & Passenger Count
How many people will be in Santa Cruz Island cruise port during your visit? Which other ships will be docked? Use the date selector below to find cruise port traffic for Santa Cruz Island on any date.
No ships scheduled
No cruise ships are in port at Santa Cruz Island on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Santa Cruz Island Cruise Terminals
Santa Cruz Island Harbor
Santa Cruz Island Harbor is the main cruise ship terminal located on Santa Cruz Island in the Channel Islands of California. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. The harbor is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, as well as a marina and boat launch. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and whale watching.
Explore Santa Cruz Island Cruise Port
Santa Cruz Island is a popular destination for cruises in California. It offers a variety of excursions, from outdoor activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking, to educational tours of the island's history and wildlife. Visitors can also explore the island's many beaches, coves, and caves. Nature lovers can take a boat tour to observe the island's diverse marine life, while history buffs can visit the island's many historic sites. There are also plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the island's stunning views. No matter what type of experience you're looking for, Santa Cruz Island has something for everyone.
Santa Cruz Island is the largest of the Channel Islands off the coast of California, and it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the area. The beaches near the Santa Cruz Island cruise port are typically sandy and secluded, with crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding islands. The beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and other water activities. The beaches are also great for beachcombing, as they are often full of shells and other treasures. The beaches are also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, and whales.
Carpinteria State Beach
Carpinteria State Beach is a popular beach located near Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California. It is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beach is also known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of species available. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, and whales. It is a great spot for a relaxing day at the beach.
Gaviota State Beach
Gaviota State Beach is a popular beach located near Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California. It is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beach is also known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of species available. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, and whales. It is a great spot for a relaxing day at the beach, and for exploring the nearby Gaviota State Park.
Refugio State Beach
Refugio State Beach is a popular beach located near Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California. It is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beach is also known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of species available. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, and whales. It is a great spot for a relaxing day at the beach, and for exploring the nearby tide pools.
Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California is known for its unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. Visitors can find a variety of handmade items, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs. There are also several local wineries and craft breweries that offer tastings and tours.
Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center
The Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center is a great place to find souvenirs from Santa Cruz Island. They offer a wide variety of items, including t-shirts, hats, mugs, and other memorabilia. They also have a selection of books and maps about the island, as well as a selection of local art and crafts. The Visitor Center is conveniently located near the cruise port, making it an easy stop for souvenirs.
Island Packers
Island Packers is a great place to find souvenirs from Santa Cruz Island. They offer a wide variety of items, including t-shirts, hats, mugs, and other memorabilia. They also have a selection of books and maps about the island, as well as a selection of local art and crafts. Island Packers is conveniently located near the cruise port, making it an easy stop for souvenirs.
Santa Cruz Island Gift Shop
The Santa Cruz Island Gift Shop is a great place to find souvenirs from Santa Cruz Island. They offer a wide variety of items, including t-shirts, hats, mugs, and other memorabilia. They also have a selection of books and maps about the island, as well as a selection of local art and crafts. The Gift Shop is conveniently located near the cruise port, making it an easy stop for souvenirs.
Santa Cruz Island Weather Forecast
Average Monthly Weather
March
Typical Weather
Average High
Average Low
Rainfall
Daily average
2.6 in monthly total
Santa Cruz Island Cruise Port FAQ
Quick answers about Santa Cruz Island cruise port covering location, safety, weather, excursions, and more.
Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California cruise port is located in U.S.. Santa Cruz Island is located off the coast of Southern California in the Channel Islands National Park. It is the largest of the eight islands in the park and is located approximately 20 miles south of the mainland. The Santa Cruz Island cruise port is located in the harbor of the island's main town, Prisoners Harbor. The harbor is located on the north side of the island and is accessible by boat or ferry.
Yes, Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California is a great cruise port. It offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, whale watching, and hiking. The island also has a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, and whales. Additionally, the island is known for its stunning views and beautiful beaches.
Santa Cruz Island cruise port has a safety score of 8.3 out of 10, ranking #6 of 37 ports in U.S.. Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The island is part of the Channel Islands National Park, which is patrolled by the National Park Service and the U.S. Coast Guard. The island is also home to a large population of sea lions, seals, and other marine life, making it a popular destination for wildlife viewing.
In March, Santa Cruz Island cruise port has average high temperatures of 74°F (23°C) and average lows of 46°F (8°C).
There are currently 15 excursions and tours available at Santa Cruz Island cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
Santa Cruz Island cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Hiking, Kayaking, Snorkeling. Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the island's rugged coastline, hike through its lush forests, and take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, including spotting seals, dolphins, and whales. Kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are popular activities, as are camping and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the island's rich cultural history, with its many historic sites and artifacts. With its stunning scenery and abundance of activities, Santa Cruz Island is a great destination for those looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
1. Island Packers: Island Packers offers car rental services from their Ventura Harbor location, which is a short drive from the Santa Cruz Island cruise port. They offer a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans.2. Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Enterprise Rent-A-Car has a location in Ventura, which is a short drive from the Santa Cruz Island cruise port. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.3. Hertz: Hertz has a location in Ventura, which is a short drive from the Santa Cruz Island cruise port. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.4. Avis: Avis has a location in Ventura, which is a short drive from the Santa Cruz Island cruise port. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.
Unfortunately, there is no public wifi access available at the Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California cruise port. However, some of the nearby restaurants and cafes may offer wifi access.
The address of Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, California cruise port is:Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands, CaliforniaChannel Islands Harbor3600 Harbor BlvdOxnard, CA 93035
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Santa Cruz Island today. Use the Cruise Port Traffic tool above to check the cruise schedule for Santa Cruz Island on any past or future date.