Santa Cruz Island is located off the southern coast of California in the Pacific Ocean, within the Channel Islands. It lies near Santa Rosa Island and Santa Barbara and is situated at approximately 34.0000° N latitude and 119.7000° W longitude.
Santa Cruz Island Location Map
Google Map of Santa Cruz Island, California, United States
About Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island is located off the southern coast of California in the Pacific Ocean and is part of the Channel Islands. The island lies south of Santa Barbara and east of Santa Rosa Island, within the Santa Barbara Channel.
Geographically, Santa Cruz Island is situated at approximately 34.0000° North latitude and 119.7000° West longitude. It is separated from the California mainland by the Santa Barbara Channel and is accessible primarily by boat and limited air transport. Nearby locations include Santa Rosa Island to the west, Anacapa Island to the east, and the coastal city of Santa Barbara on the mainland.
According to available records, Santa Cruz Island has no permanent civilian population, with only park staff, researchers, and occasional visitors present. The island covers a total land area of about 96 square miles (249 square kilometers), making it the largest of California’s Channel Islands.
Santa Cruz Island is best known for its diverse landscapes, sea caves, and rich wildlife. As part of Channel Islands National Park, the island features rugged coastlines, hiking trails, kelp forests, and important archaeological sites, attracting nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Santa Cruz Island Facts
| Island Name | Santa Cruz Island |
| Native Names | Isla Santa Cruz (Spanish), Limuw (Chumash) |
| Country | United States of America |
| Continent | North America |
| State | California |
| County | Santa Barbara County |
| Location | Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Southern California |
| Coordinates | Approx. 34.03° N, 119.73° W |
| Area | Approximately 96-97 sq mi (250 Sq Km) |
| Length | About 22-24 miles (35-39 km) |
| Width | 2-6 miles (3-10 km) |
| Highest Point | Devils Peak - 2,429 ft (740 m) |
| Population | No permanent residents (park staff and researchers only) |
| Administrative Status | Part of Channel Islands National Park |
| Ownership | National Park Service (approx. 24%) and The Nature Conservancy (approx. 76%) |
| 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 |
| Geography | Rugged mountains, sea cliffs, sandy beaches, valleys, and large sea caves |
| Famous Landmark | Painted Cave (one of the world’s largest sea caves) |
| Flora & Fauna | 600+ plant species, island fox, seabirds, diverse marine life |
| Tourist Activities | Hiking, kayaking, camping, snorkeling, wildlife viewing |
| Access | Ferry from Ventura Harbor or private boats |
| Famous For | Largest of California’s Channel Islands, biodiversity, pristine landscapes |
Attractions in Santa Cruz Island, California
- Painted Cave - One of the world’s largest sea caves, famous for colorful rock formations and kayaking adventures.
- Scorpion Anchorage - Primary visitor area featuring beaches, campground, hiking trails, and ranger facilities.
- Smugglers Cove - Secluded cove known for turquoise waters, snorkeling, and peaceful surroundings.
- Devils Peak - Highest point on the island offering sweeping panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Cavern Point Coastal Trail - Popular cliffside hiking trail with dramatic ocean views and coastal scenery.
- Prisoners Harbor - Historic harbor tied to ranching history and access to interior island trails.
- Santa Cruz Island Fox Habitat - Natural habitat of the rare and endemic island fox.
- Scorpion Beach - Ideal location for kayaking, swimming, tide pooling, and wildlife viewing.
- Sea Caves Coastline - Extensive network of sea caves perfect for kayaking and exploration.
- Channel Islands National Park Trails - Network of trails crossing valleys, ridges, and scenic coastal bluffs.
Distance from Santa Cruz Island to California Cities
- Santa Cruz Island, CA - 0 km (0 miles)
- Ventura, CA - 30 km (19 miles)
- Oxnard, CA - 35 km (22 miles)
- Santa Barbara, CA - 45 km (28 miles)
- Santa Monica, CA - 80 km (50 miles)
- Los Angeles, CA - 95 km (59 miles)
- Long Beach, CA - 110 km (68 miles)
- San Diego, CA - 220 km (137 miles)
- Monterey, CA - 330 km (205 miles)
- San Francisco, CA - 410 km (255 miles)
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