There has never been a more exciting time to be at Channel Islands Harbor. As we move into September, I want to reflect on an incredible summer it has been at the Harbor and look ahead to everything coming in the months ahead.

An August to Remember

One of the season’s highlights was the Fisherman’s Wharf revitalization kickoff event with Karls on August 15. More than 350 community members joined the Karls team to celebrate the start of a new chapter for this iconic part of the Harbor. It was especially exciting to welcome Robert Dahl, owner of Karls, who traveled from Germany to be part of the celebration.

The day felt like a true community event. The Oxnard High School band set the tone with an upbeat performance, neighbors shared memories and excitement for the future, and the Karls charity auction raised $14,000 for local nonprofits. The ceremonial first strike marked the official start of the transformation, and demolition crews have been moving swiftly since, clearing the site to make way for construction after years of discussion and planning.

We also saw a tremendous turnout for the VeeDubs in the Channel Islands Harbor Car Show, with more than 300 Volkswagens filling Harbor View Park. Events like these continue to show why the Harbor is a destination where people gather, have fun and make memories.

Progress Behind the Scenes

Phase II of the Harbor Department Headquarters project is now complete. We expect to put the construction project out to bid in September, with construction anticipated to take approximately 14 months, weather permitting. This marks an important milestone on the path to a new headquarters that will serve our community and staff for decades to come.

We’re also seeing strong developer interest in the Harbor, including multiple parties exploring opportunities at the former Whale’s Tail site. While much is still to be determined, the interest reflects the positive momentum and tremendous potential people see in Channel Islands Harbor.

What’s Coming Up

4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, September 5: Our final Concerts by the Sea performance at Harbor View Park features 80s Invasion. Thank you to everyone who joined us throughout the season; this series has been a tremendous success thanks to the community.

4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, September 12: Our second annual Concert on the Sea returns with local music legend Teresa Russell. There’s already plenty of buzz around the Harbor about this one.

12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, September 19: Chowderfest returns to the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. This is a ticketed event and is one of the Harbor’s most anticipated gatherings of the year. Be sure to grab your tickets soon.

Saturday, October 24: Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for the 5th Annual Parade of Frights Boat Parade. This event lives and dies by boater participation, so we’re counting on our boating community to help make this year bigger and better than ever. New this year: a “Black Pearl” trophy for Best Decorated Boat, plus a commemorative Harbor burgee for the first 30 vessels to register. Boaters: be sure to start planning your decorations and sign up early!

Looking Ahead

From major capital projects to community events and live music, there’s tremendous momentum. I’m proud of the progress we’re making, and am grateful for my staff, our residents, boaters, businesses, community partners and visitors who make the Harbor such a special place.

The future of the Harbor is bright, and I’m excited about what’s ahead.

Michael Tripp, Director
Ventura County Harbor Department

Editor’s Note: this message was published on August 31, 2026.