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Private tour in Ventura Nina D
Full Day Santa Cruz Island Tour
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9 hours
1
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9 hours
1
Nina D.
5.0
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From the moment I visited the California beaches at age 11, I knew this is the place I wanted to live and work. I've explored and experienced this state for over 35 years, my children are California natives. I love to be outdoors. Camping, hiking, riding a bike, paddling a kayak. And learning out about the plants, wildlife, climate, cultural history and natural environment of Ventura and the area. Just over the last few years, for example, I've been keenly bird watching, especially migratory species to our area and shorebirds. There is no better way to value and appreciate the natural world in your own town than by going out and learning about it in person! Come with me to fall in love with our beautiful shore, clean air, sparkling sea, and sunny skies. All my tour can be customized upon request, feel free to contact me. Sierra Club Approved Outdoor Leader (10+ years) Red Cross First Aid Certified K-8 Outdoor Education Nature Guide Youth Bicycle Safety Volunteer Volunteer with USFW & Audubon Society EBird data collection member I am not the tour driver, but will provide you transportation with a professional service.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Nina D.
Hike and Explore the Largest California Channel Island
Overview of your Ventura tour
Immerse yourself in the expansive outdoor landscape of Santa Cruz Island. Take in sweeping views for miles, spot the island fox, enjoy profusive blooms in spring, and truly clear your mind. This piece of paradise is in my backyard, come see! Choose a hike level and we'll head out on a pleasant trail with provisions for the day in our daypacks. After hiking, explore the exhibits near the landing or relax next to sparkling clear sea on the rocky pristine beach. Option 1: Hike to Potato Harbor, medium 5 mi round trip, high above on a breathtaking trail (no beach access). Time will be available after the hike to do some additional exploration at Scorpion Ranch. Option 2: Hike to Smugglers Cove, hard 7. 5 mi round trip, to a small isolated beach paradise on the ocean side of the island. Very good health & physical ability a must. The island is remote with no medical access for many hours. Fulltime exposure to the elements (no shade). May-Sept is hot, Oct-Mar is windy. A waiver for taking the tour is required
Your Ventura tour itinerary
1: Arrive at Island Packers Ventura Harbor 45 minutes before embarkation for check in and guide welcome. 2: Travel by ferry about 1 hour to Santa Cruz, Scorpion Anchorage. 3: Arrive Santa Cruz, Scorpion Anchorage, disembark and attend ranger guidelines speech 15 minutes. 4: Take Option 1 or Option 2 Hike: Potato Harbor (2 hour round trip) or Smugglers Cove (5 hour round trip). Rest breaks and lunch time at the destination included. 5: Return to Scorpion Cove to explore exhibits, beach area, and additional short hikes (time permitting). 6. Return via Island Packers ferry to Ventura Harbor. CUSTOM OPTIONS: Request a custom tour if any below applies: -you purchase your Island Packers ferry ticket before booking this tour. NOTE: I may not be able to get a ticket on short notice because ferry tickets sell out a month or more in advance during high season (May-Sept) -more than 4 people are in your party -want to take the late (noon) ferry for 1/2 day trip (easy hike only)
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Private Transportation
A professional driving service will bring and return you from the place you are staying to the Island Packers Ventura ferry port. The tour is designed for picking up and returning to locations within City of Ventura and Ventura Harbor areas only. Please ask for a custom tour quote if you are staying in a location outside of City of Ventura limits.
What's included
What's not included
Meeting location
Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide: Tour includes professional driver to and from your location (within Ventura) to the Island Packers Ventura port.
- You can request a different meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout process.
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AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
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9 hours
1
Tour date
Start time
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9 hours
1
Tour date
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.