Channel Islands · December · California

Channel Islands National Park in December

December is a fair month for Channel Islands National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 61°F and lows 50°F, with about 2.28 inches of rain.

December is rated fair at Channel Islands. Consider Jul–Sep instead.

Full park guideAll parks in December
RatingFair
CrowdsQuiet
Avg high / low61°F / 50°F
Rain2.28 in

What to expect

Honest take: December is not the month for Channel Islands. Gray whales migrate past from December to April. Seas can be rough and boats are sometimes cancelled.

Local tip

Book the boat (Island Packers, from Ventura or Oxnard) early, and bring everything, including water. There's nothing for sale on the islands.

Good to know

  • Best months overall: Jul–Sep.
  • Closest airport: Los Angeles (LAX), about 1.5 hours to the Ventura harbor.
  • Before you go: Boat crossings depend on weather and can be cancelled on short notice. Check current conditions on nps.gov.

2-day Channel Islands itinerary · Packing list

Questions

Is December a good time to visit Channel Islands National Park?

December is a fair month for Channel Islands National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 61°F and lows 50°F, with about 2.28 inches of rain.

What is the weather like in Channel Islands National Park in December?

Highs average 61°F and lows 50°F, with about 2.28 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.

How crowded is Channel Islands National Park in December?

December is one of the quietest months at Channel Islands National Park.