Volunteer Vacations - Channel Islands

Now, you can help to restore and preserve the remote and beautiful Channel Islands. Located off the California coast, the Channel Islands are home to a unique array of wildlife and habitat for many rare and endangered plants and animals. Beginning in the mid 1800's the ecosystems of the Channel Islands were changed drastically by extensive cattle grazing. As a result, there are now more than a dozen species of plants under federal protection on these islands. Ironically, one endangered plant needing protection is the "Island Live Forever". You could be part of a volunteer vacation that:

  • Preserves native ecosystems by removing invasive non-native vegetation
  • Collects seeds and propagates endangered plants found only on the Channel Islands
  • Revegetates severely eroded streams and other habitats essential for wildlife
  • Rebuilds trail that lead through historically significant areas.
Once you have attained your project goals, you and your team will explore the Channel Islands with a knowledgeable naturalist and learn about these rare ecosystems found nowhere else on earth. You will also enjoy tours to intriguing points-of-interest, hike past fields of wildflowers, view beautiful sandstone canyons or contemplate dramatic coastlines dotted with fascinating wildlife and tide pools.

As part of your volunteer vacation you will have the opportunity to snorkel in some of the world's richest kelp forests and enjoy an unforgettable gourmet picnic on a beautiful white-sand beach. Other free time activities might include bodysurfing, fishing, Frisbee, beach volleyball, football, photography, flying stunt kites or simply taking a snooze on a warm, isolated sandy beach.

The islands' concessionaire, Island Packers, also offer kayaking tours on some of the Channel Islands at reasonable rates.

Throughout the volunteer vacation our chefs will prepare a variety of hearty, diverse and nutritious meals.

If you would like to receive updates on the Channel Islands excursions, please contact us to let us know of your interest in this program.