SANTA BARBARA AND CHANNEL ISLANDS
Santa Barbara was the last stop on our Southern California trip. We traveled from the adjacent city of Oxnard to Santa Cruz Island during our three delightful days in picturesque Santa Barbara. The National Park for the Channel Islands includes Santa Cruz.
Five of the eight Channel Islands make up the park. The islands are frequently referred to as “The Galapagos of North America” because of how richly varied their flora and wildlife are.
Below you can see pictures of Santa Barbara, the American Riviera. Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786, houses Franciscan friars and a museum. The city is also home to a beautiful City Hall and wonderful golden beaches with Santa Ynez Mountains as a dramatic backdrop.
