Visit Cavern Point on Santa Cruz Island to experience panoramic views of California and watch the water crash into the rocks below. Whether you prefer to stay on land or continue your journey under the cave by kayak, Cavern Point provides an excellent vantage point for appreciating the beauty of America’s west coast.
Wear your best walking shoes when visiting Cavern Point, as this popular viewpoint in Channel Islands National Park is connected to the rest of Santa Cruz Island by walking loops. Plan to use the bathrooms at the trailhead that leads to Cavern Point, as once you start the steep ascent, you’ll be surrounded by unspoiled natural habitats and few amenities. The stunning westward views are worth it.
Look at the cliffs below when you get to the Cavern Point lookout to see the buckwheat that grows up the sides of the cliffs. Where the buckwheat isn’t growing, the chalky white texture of the cliffs stands out against the often bright blue California sky.
For one of the best views from Cavern Point, time your visit around sunset. Watch the glowing orange sun dip down below the horizon and fill the area with a soft light.
Explore Cavern Point by kayak for an even more adventurous experience. Underneath the Cavern Point lookout is one of the world’s largest sea caves on an island. Take a tour of the cave with a professional guide who will help you see Cavern Point from a new perspective.
Listen to the sounds of the sea lions barking in the distance. Appreciate the darkness that heightens your senses and gives you an understanding of the unique ecosystem that thrives inside the cave.
Travel by chartered boat from California’s mainland to Santa Cruz Island to start your visit to Cavern Point. Once on the island, access Cavern Point on foot from the anchorage point on Santa Cruz Island. Trails are marked so you won’t need a guide. Bring appropriate sun protection as there are no trees at Cavern Point or along the surrounding trails.
