Been to Santa Barbara Island?

[Paul Cossman]

I'm headed to Santa Barbara Island in a couple of weeks. For anybody who has been there, what is the anchorage like? Is it protected and reasonably flat, or rolly? Large enough for how many boats? All info is appreciated. Thanks,
Paul.

 

[windward54]

Santa Barbara Island is one of my favorite places. I wish I was going with you. Landing Cove can hold 10-20 boats, but because it is so remote, you probably won't see more than a handful of boats out there. The cove is somewhat protected, but it can be a little rolly at times. Just watch out for Santa Ana winds.

 

[Paul Cossman]

Thanks for the info!

Karl, Thanks for the info; much appreciated. --Paul

 

[newly anonymous]

alternative view

Look for the sand patches between rocky sections. It can blow 25 knots in this anchorage all night, and it gets swirly despite the protection to windward. I've heard friends say they had to post an anchor watch all night, but that hasn't been my experience. If it doesn't blow, kelp flies can be problematic. The good news is that there's usually a lot more anchorage than there are boats. The bad news is that the more crowded anchorages are that way for a reason.

 

[windward54]

Picture for you

I went through my files and found this shot of the cove. Have fun.

 

[abe]

Anchor close and to the right of the mooring ball...

Single anchor is the way to go and becareful with currents if you decide to go ashore. Do not try to land the dinghy on the rocks as suggested....I would tie the dinghy to the ladder on the landing. Go up to the Park Service and make sure no deliveries are taking place or you will have to move the dinghy. Take a stroll on the island...lots and lots of birds.
abe