How to Explore Santa Barbara in a Week — Jen33Travel 2025

Channel Islands National Park is comprised of 5 islands which you can take a boat ride to and explore.

Although Santa Barbara Island is temporarily closed to visitors due to damage on the dock, you can still explore and hike three of the other islands on your own – Anacapa Island with its 1932 lighthouse perched along the cliffs, Santa Rosa Island with its unique Torrey Pines, and Santa Cruz Island with its sea caves and sweeping views.