About UsSanta Cruz Island Caves Guided Trip
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So close and yet so far, but not any more! Whoa! Hold on to your bulkheads! Southwind, a pioneer in ocean kayaking adventure trips in Southern California, is offering paddlers the unique opportunity of paddling Santa Cruz Island! This protected refuge is the ultimate Southern California destination for adventurous paddlers. Imagine paddling this secluded and beautiful island with water so clear it appears like your paddling on air! Then imagine paddling the spectacular caves of Santa Cruz where the ocean, the darkness and the imaginary sea monsters are your constant companions. Paddling the shores and hiking the beautiful hills of Santa Cruz should not be missed! Be our guest as we spend our days exploring the sea caves of Santa Cruz.
We offer this trip in one, two, and three day versions. The Three-Day Trip is described below in detail. For those who only have one or two days to spare, you can still explore this magnificent area, getting a full taste of the island and its offerings. The One-Day Trip is identical to Day One of the Three-Day trip. Guests depart the island at the end of the first day, at 4 P.M. The Two-Day Trip is the same as Day One and Day Two of the Three-Day trip. Guests depart the island at the end of the second day at 4 P.M. The Three-Day Trip is at a more leisurely pace, with additional opportunities for paddling and hiking.
Itinerary
for Three-Day Trip
Day One: On the first day of our adventure we will depart from Ventura bright and early on a boat to Santa Cruz Island. After our one hour boat ride we will find landfall at the east end of the island at Scorpion Ranch. After we get settled in, we'll spend time discussing techniques for exploring the island's caves and rock gardens then head off to experience this island paradise! You will be amazed at the emerald green and turquoise blue waters of Santa Cruz. After our two- to three-hour afternoon paddle you won't want to miss an early evening hike to explore the island's interior and watch a spectacular sunset. Warm stories and a quiet sky full of stars will top off our evening.
Day Two: After breakfast we will continue to explore the dramatic coastline of Santa Cruz. The highlight of the day's 3 to 5 mile paddle will be our in-depth exploration of the caves, coves and rock gardens. With flashlight in hand, or head or strapped to your boat, we will explore these dark recesses some of which are over 500 ft deep. As you paddle through the abyss listen for the hisses, gurgles and groans of phantom sea monsters! Back in sunlight we will enjoy the beauty of the rugged coastline and clear waters. We will paddle over and snorkel (optional) through kelp forests and elegant carpets of blue and purple sea urchins. The fish, seals and pelicans will also provide great photo opportunities. In the evening we will enjoy an outdoor potluck dinner and reminisce about our adventures in the caves!
Day Three: On our final day we will head in another direction to weave in and out of rock gardens, explore caves, and cruise more coves. You will be one of the few to experience this coastline by kayak and you won't forget it! After our paddle we will load our kayaks on the boat and head back for an early evening arrival in Ventura.
What to Bring
Day time high temperatures should be
65 to 75 degrees and night time low temperatures should be in
the 50's or 60's. Since Southwind will provide the kayaks, gear
and campground, all you need to worry about are food, clothes,
and camping gear. And don't forget a camera to take some spectacular
pictures.
Skill Requirements
This paddle is suitable for first-time
paddlers. In addition to paddling the caves and rock gardens,
you will paddle along a coastline, some of which is fairly protected from
wind, swells and surf. Our goal is to explore, not to cover great
distances.
Island Trade-Offs
Kayaking and hiking itineraries vary in response to opportunities presented by
weather, swell, and tides. An island experience presents a number of trade-offs.
For instance, when the swell is high some caves become off-limits, but high swells
produce dramatic blowhole activity with compressed air driving fountains of spray
high overhead. Another example: when the tide is low, some caves are too rocky to
enter, but other caves become exposed for exploration which are submerged under higher
tides. Overcast skies often mean calm, still waters -- but you get the idea. The guides
will suggest activities that will take the most advantage of the conditions, and make the
most of your precious island time. If it rains or becomes extremely windy, the charter
boat company will cancel the trip and there is no charge. Once in a great while we are able
to get to an island, but kayaking conditions turn out to be too rough. The trade-offs in
this case may be a day of hiking, or a motor boating tour of the island coastline, and a
25% reduction in your fee.
How to Reserve Your Trip and Trip Policies - Click here to find out more details! Or contact us at info@southwindkayaks.com or 1-800-SOUTHWIND.