Spring brings exciting activity to our coast, and one of nature’s most incredible spectacles is happening right off our shoreline. Whale watching season is in full effect, as gray whales make their annual migration through the Santa Barbara Channel – which includes the coastline in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties – from late December through the end of April.

Just outside the Channel Islands Harbor, these magnificent whales pass by on their journey between Alaska and the warm lagoons of Baja California. Whale watching businesses departing from the harbor are reporting regular sightings, making this one of the best times of year to get out on the water and witness this migration firsthand.

To celebrate migration season, the harbor will host the 27^th Annual Celebration of the Whales Festival on Sunday, April 19th. This long-standing community event will feature chalk art, music, vendor booths, a community art project led by the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation non-profit, a children’s fun zone, farmers market, and exciting activities at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. We invite all to join us for this special celebration of marine life and our local environment.

Seasonal Lifeguard & Jr. Lifeguard Program

We are also preparing for the busy summer season ahead. Seasonal lifeguard tryouts will begin in April, offering an opportunity for qualified candidates to join our team and help keep Harbor Department-maintained beaches safe. The seasonal lifeguard program typically runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend. In addition, applications for the Harbor Department’s popular Junior Lifeguard Program will open, giving young participants the chance to learn ocean safety, teamwork, and leadership skills while building a lifelong appreciation for the ocean.

Parking Lot Improvement Project Approved

The Harbor Department is also continuing to invest in improvements that enhance the resident and visitor experience. At its March 3, 2026 meeting, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved funding for the Harbor Department to begin Phase I of the Harbor Boulevard East Parking Lot Improvement Project. Phase I includes replacing parking lots from the Channel Islands Yacht Club to Barracuda Way. These are among the most heavily visited parking areas in the Harbor, and the project, which will begin later this month, will enhance safety, accessibility, and overall visitor and resident experience. Phase II will extend improvements from Barracuda Way to the Marine Emporium Landing parking lot.

With whale watching in full swing, exciting events on the horizon, and improvements underway, it’s a wonderful time to visit and experience all that Channel Islands Harbor has to offer.

We look forward to seeing you at the harbor this spring.

Michael Tripp, Director
Ventura County Harbor Department

Editor’s Note: this message was published on March 3, 2026.