Channel_Islands_Harbor
Channel Islands Harbor
Small craft harbor in Oxnard, California
Channel Islands Harbor is a small craft harbor[2] and shore-protection project[3] in Oxnard, California at the southern end of the Santa Barbara Channel. It is the fifth largest harbor for small-craft recreation in the state of California[4] and is a waterfront resort, recreation, and dining marketplace. Recreational activities include diving, boat charters, sea kayaking, sportfishing, and whale watching (gray whales January through early April; blue and humpback whales July to September).
The horseshoe shaped harbor contains 166 acres (0.67 km2) of water surrounded by 126 acres (0.51 km2) of land[5] and supports more than 2,500 vessels,[6] four yacht clubs, and nine full-service marinas.[7] The five Channel Islands are a popular destination, the closest of which is Anacapa Island.[4] The Ventura County Maritime Museum has a regularly rotating exhibit, maritime-themed art, and model ships. Water taxis are available to drop diners and shoppers at various docks within the harbor.[8] Every three years the harbor is host to the Channel Islands Tall Ships Festival[9] which includes between two and five large sailing vessels and draws thousands of visitors.[6]