San Miguel Island is located off the southern coast of California in the Pacific Ocean, west of Santa Rosa Island. It lies near Santa Cruz Island and Santa Barbara and is situated at approximately 34.0500° N latitude and 120.3500° W longitude.
San Miguel Island Location Map
Google Map of San Miguel Island, California, United States
About San Miguel Island
San Miguel Island is located off the southern coast of California in the Pacific Ocean and is part of the Channel Islands. The island lies west of Santa Rosa Island and north of Santa Barbara, making it the westernmost of the Channel Islands.
Geographically, San Miguel Island is situated at approximately 34.0500° North latitude and 120.3500° West longitude. It is separated from the California mainland by the Santa Barbara Channel and is accessible mainly by boat or limited air access. Nearby locations include Santa Rosa Island to the east, Santa Cruz Island farther southeast, and the city of Santa Barbara on the mainland.
According to available records, San Miguel Island has no permanent civilian population, with only occasional park rangers and researchers present. The island covers a total land area of about 37 square miles (96 square kilometers).
San Miguel Island is best known for its rugged coastline, strong winds, and protected natural environment. The island is part of Channel Islands National Park and features sandy beaches, sea caves, historic sites, and important wildlife habitats, making it a unique destination for conservation and limited tourism.
San Miguel Island Facts
| Island Name | San Miguel Island |
| Native Names | Tuyas (Chumash) |
| Country | United States of America |
| Continent | North America |
| State | California |
| County | Santa Barbara County |
| Location | Pacific Ocean, westernmost of the Channel Islands off Southern California |
| Coordinates | Approx. 34.04° N, 120.37° W |
| Area | Approximately 37 sq mi (96 Sq Km) |
| Length | About 8 miles (13 km) |
| Width | About 4 miles (6 km) |
| Highest Point | San Miguel Hill - 831 ft (253 m) |
| Population | No permanent residents (park and Navy staff only) |
| Administrative Status | Part of Channel Islands National Park |
| Ownership | National Park Service and U.S. Navy (restricted areas) |
| Currency | United States Dollar (USD) |
| Calling / Area Code | 805 |
| ZIP Code | 93001 (Ventura Harbor - access point) |
| Time Zone | Pacific Time Zone - UTC -8 (PST), UTC -7 (PDT) |
| Climate | Mediterranean coastal climate with strong winds |
| Geography | Wind-swept terrain, sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, dunes |
| Famous Landmark | Point Bennett seal rookery |
| Flora & Fauna | Elephant seals, sea lions, seabirds, endemic plants |
| Tourist Activities | Guided hiking, wildlife viewing (permit-based) |
| Access | Ferry from Ventura Harbor (limited, weather-dependent) |
| Famous For | Largest seal and sea lion rookery in the contiguous U.S. |
Attractions in San Miguel Island, California
- Point Bennett - Remote western headland famous for massive seal and sea lion colonies.
- Caliche Forest - Unique natural formation of calcified plant roots resembling a petrified forest.
- Cuyler Harbor - Primary landing area with sandy beaches, historic sites, and access to hiking routes.
- Harris Point - Scenic coastal area offering wildlife viewing and views toward Santa Rosa Island.
- Cabrillo Monument - Historic site commemorating Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo’s 1542 landing.
- San Miguel Island Dunes - Expansive wind-shaped dunes creating stark and dramatic landscapes.
- Wildlife Viewing Areas - Prime locations to observe seals, sea lions, seabirds, and migrating whales.
- Archaeological Sites - Ancient Chumash sites reflecting thousands of years of human history.
- Coastal Bluffs - Rugged cliffs offering sweeping ocean views and seabird nesting areas.
- Channel Islands National Park Trails - Guided-access trails showcasing the island’s natural and cultural features.
Distance from San Miguel Island to California Cities
- San Miguel Island, CA - 0 km (0 miles)
- Ventura, CA - 55 km (34 miles)
- Oxnard, CA - 60 km (37 miles)
- Santa Barbara, CA - 70 km (43 miles)
- Santa Monica, CA - 110 km (68 miles)
- Los Angeles, CA - 125 km (78 miles)
- Long Beach, CA - 140 km (87 miles)
- San Diego, CA - 255 km (158 miles)
- Monterey, CA - 360 km (224 miles)
- San Francisco, CA - 440 km (273 miles)
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