Virtual Field Trip to the Channel Islands

May 18, 2022

Julie Bursek, NOAA's Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and Claire Fackler, NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

In celebration of Kids to Parks Day, join staff from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on a virtual outdoor adventure from Ventura Harbor in California across the Santa Barbara Channel in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary to Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands. The channel crossing will be full of marine life experiences, such as humpback whales breaching, common dolphins surfing the wake of the Island Packers vessel, and sea lions darting in and out of kelp forests. You'll also have a chance to see the largest animal to have ever existed on planet Earth—the elusive blue whale. As you approach the islands, you'll learn more about this special marine protected area that is located in a major upwelling zone where nutrient rich waters rise from the deep-sea to the surface and feed over 28 species of whales and dolphins. Once on land, you'll take a quick hike and then cool off while snorkeling in the lush kelp forests and kayaking in sea caves surrounding the island. Following your exhilarating adventure to the Channel Islands, you will have an opportunity to ask questions about this special national treasure and collect your virtual ParkPassport Badge!