Getting to Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park sits in CA, United States, with Channel Islands Beach the nearest town of any size — about 15.2 mi (24.5 km) out, or roughly 38 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Channel Islands Beach | 15.2 mi (24.5 km) | 38 min |
| Port Hueneme | 16 mi (25.8 km) | 40 min |
| Oxnard | 19 mi (30.6 km) | 45 min |
| Ventura | 19.9 mi (32 km) | 46 min |
| El Rio | 21.4 mi (34.4 km) | 49 min |
| Saticoy | 24.4 mi (39.2 km) | 54 min |
| Camarillo | 26.1 mi (42 km) | 57 min |
| Carpinteria | 27.5 mi (44.2 km) | 59 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Channel Islands National Park?
Channel Islands Beach, about 15.2 mi (24.5 km) away — roughly 38 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Channel Islands National Park?
The practical bases are Channel Islands Beach, Port Hueneme, and Oxnard — all within a reasonable drive of the park.