Kayaking the Channel Island Sea Caves
CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK is a chain of five islands south of Santa Barbara. Santa Cruz Island, the largest in the chain, is rich in flora, fauna and geology, as well as a cultural history that dates back 10,000 years in American Indian habitation. For a kayaking adventure, the sea caves around Santa Cruz Island are among the best in the world, with sand and cobblestone beaches, kelp forests and a spectacular shoreline to explore while paddling. Scorpion Anchorage is the most popular destination for viewing the caves that punctuate the volcanic cliffs, while Prisoners Harbor is a bit more secluded and has less traffic. More experienced kayakers will want to make the longer trip to Potato Harbor — about four total hours of paddling pays off with an aqua-colored cove, pristine shoreline and excellent snorkeling. While visitors are allowed to rent a kayak or to bring their own, the National Park Service strongly recommends exploring the region with one of the park’s authorized guides or outfitters. Guided trips range as brief as one hour to as long as five hours, including options that do not require previous kayaking experience, as well as moderate and advanced tours. Make sure to book your ferry tickets from Ventura Harbor to accommodate the appropriate check-in and start time for your kayaking adventure. Note that sea caves can be dangerous, due to waves and swells caused by wind or ship wakes. Be aware of your surroundings and always wear a helmet.
Paragliding in Torrey Pines FOR GOLFERS, THE NAME Torrey Pines conjures up images of a renowned annual stop on the PGA Tour. But the same coastal cliffs that make it a gorgeous place to tee it up also make it a fantastic site to go paragliding. No experience is necessary to make like a bird over the Pacific Ocean, thanks to Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla, on the northern coast of San Diego. Paragliding is among the most peaceful ways to experience flight — no engine noise, just a lightweight gliding aircraft with an inflated fabric wing. Securely paired with one of the Gliderport’s expert pilots, all you need to do is sit in the harness and take in the sights of the dramatic coastline to the north and south and maybe even dolphins or whales frolicking in the ocean waves. After doing a bit of paperwork and some basic instruction, it’s time to soar, with time in the sky lasting about 20 to 25 minutes. (If you’re concerned about safety, set your mind at ease: Gliderport pilots have flown nearly 150,000 accident-free tandem flights in the past 20 years.) Tandem flights are available seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll want to check the forecast, but paragliders are suited to a wide range of wind conditions and the Gliderport averages 300 flyable days per year. Also, there’s no age limit, so the entire family can join in on the excitement before recapping the adventure at Cliffhanger Café, overlooking a 350-foot-high bluff. California is a state of mind and a state of adventure. Whatever thrilling excursion you choose, be safe and have fun!
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