Landing Cove
Anacapa Island, CA
Landing Cove is the boat landing on East Anacapa Island, reached by a steep staircase built into the volcanic cliff face above the water. It's the gateway to the smallest of the Channel Islands, home to a historic lighthouse and one of the largest seabird breeding colonies on the West Coast.
A dramatic, genuinely wild island landing with real history at the lighthouse, the steep staircase is the price of admission.
How we score beachesThe staircase up from the boat landing is steep and has no shade, come prepared even for a short island visit.
Boat access only, through Channel Islands National Park, followed by a steep staircase from the landing to the island plateau.
Pets are not allowed anywhere in Channel Islands National Park, including Landing Cove on Anacapa Island.
Spring brings the seabird nesting season, with the calmest boat crossings from late spring through early fall.
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