Channel Islands - Santa Cruz Basecamp

October 10-12, 2025.
Channel Islands National Park
Santa Cruz, CA

Return with renewed clarity after an unforgettable 3-day expedition.

Explore the Island

More Than a Day Trip

Most people only come to Santa Cruz for a day trip, but the real magic happens after the last boat pulls away. With a full day on the island, you'll have time to enjoy guided hiking, kayaking with the local outfitter, lounging on private beaches, and much more.

Exclusive Island Access

Enjoy private accommodations and transportation, unlocking remote beaches and activities unavailable to the general public.

Expand Self-Awareness

Gain fresh perspectives on personal leadership style and its impact on others through immersive experiences and reflective practices.

Harness Emotional Intelligence

Build upon newfound perspectives from the island experience to deepen emotional intelligence, enhancing leadership presence, communication, and relationship-building skills.

Translate Island Insights

Apply lessons from the islands' challenges to enhance teamwork and communication in your workplace.

Oct

Day 1 - Orientation/Loading

Meet with your guides at the Ventura Harbor, where we will load your bags onto the boat. We will supply camping gear if you wish, or if you have gear you love, feel free to bring that along. We will board the Island Packers Boat and head towards the Islands. Dolphins and whales are common on the crossing, and the boat will position itself in order to get the best views of these animals as we pass. Once we arrive on Island, you will have time to check out the Scorpion Bay beaches with lunch as your guides transport gear to your campsite and set up. There will be time for short hikes before your guides prepare you a gourmet dinner to kick off the trip.

Oct

Day 2 - Layover Day

Our first Layover Day has many options to choose from. We like to utilize the cool morning to hike to Smuggler's Cove, which - before the daily boat arrives - will remind you of what the California coast was like 200 years ago, practically deserted. The day will include a hearty lunch before the options of a shorter afternoon hike or sunset bluff beverage before another delicious dinner.

Oct

Day 3 - Final Hiking & Return Journey

We have one final morning to check off any of the hikes that were not yet enjoyed, or just lounge and take photos on Cavern Point. Kayaking with a separate outfitter will be available for an additional cost. After another delicious lunch, we will pack up camp, and your guides will transport the gear to the dock for our boat ride home. Once again, we will get opportunities to watch dolphins and whales as we head back to the mainland, dock at Ventura Harbor, and have access to the many local restaurants that line the slips for our local fishing fleet.

Key Trip Information

Included:

A certified and highly experienced Channel Islands Guide
Camping Equipment
All meals on the Island
Boat shuttle to and from Santa Cruz Island
Permits and reservations for camping on Island
Interpretation on the history of the island if desired

Not Included:

Kayaking is an extra cost with a separate outfitter.
Gratuities for guide (15-20% recommended)
Travel to and from the Ventura Harbor

Group Size

10 Spots per Trip.

Please don't hesitate to ask us about making this a company event, party, or retreat. These islands are a wonderful location for team bonding!

Permitting

Channel Islands N.P. issues backcountry permits 6 months in advance. Registering before permits are issued is helpful for securing permits. Please do not make concrete travel arrangements until we have confirmed with you that we have obtained the permit. We have a great success rate with Channel Islands permits. If we cannot obtain a permit all deposits are 100% transferable or refundable.

Ready for your next escape?

Join us at Channel Islands National Park for the Island Leadership Expedition.

This exclusive 3-day program is designed for tech executives and high-potential leaders. We combine private access to Santa Cruz Island with personalized leadership development. Explore hidden coves, kayak along the scenic coastline, and hike to remote peaks. Let nature sharpen your focus as you gain fresh perspectives and actionable strategies to become a more effective and confident leader. Return to your workplace with renewed clarity, ready to achieve greater success for yourself and your team.

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