Santa Cruz Island

The island has a single visitor center located in the historic Scorpion Ranch house. Several trails and roads traverse eastern Santa Cruz Island, providing visitors with spectacular running opportunities. These trails and roads range from the maintained, relatively flat trails of Scorpion Valley to the unmaintained, rugged, mountainous paths of the Montañon area. Runners must stay on designated trails, and no off-trail travel is permitted.

While visitors may explore the national park property on Santa Cruz Island, no running is allowed beyond the national park boundary onto the Nature Conservancy property. The boundary is the property line (marked by a fence line) between Prisoners Harbor and Valley Anchorage.

Santa Cruz Island is only accessible via boat. Island Packers offers trips year round. Travel time is one-hour, landing at either Scorpion Anchorage or Prisoners Harbor. Landing is via a pier at both locations. For more information on transportation options, click here.

Primitive camping is available at the Scorpion Ranch Campground. There are 31 sites available for $15 per night per site, and reservations are required. Water, picnic tables, food storage boxes, and pit toilets are provided.

There are no goods, services, or accommodations available on the island. Visitors must bring all their own food and supplies. Water is available at Scorpion Anchorage but not at Prisoners Harbor.

The mixed sand and cobblestone Scorpion Beach is a world-class destination for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. With easy beach access, clear ocean waters, nearby camping, amazing kelp forests, and a spectacular shoreline with sea caves to explore, this is a great option for those looking to enjoy the area. No fishing is allowed within the marine reserves located around the island. Fishing is allowed outside of these areas with a valid California state fishing license with an ocean enhancement stamp.