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The waters surrounding Channel Islands National Park boast a rich array of cetaceans, including whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Approximately one-third of the global cetacean species can be observed in the Santa Barbara Channel, which encompasses 27 distinct species. This diverse range of cetaceans offers a year-round opportunity for whale watching. Grey whales are commonly sighted from mid-to-late December through mid-March, while blue and humpback whales are prevalent during the summer, and common dolphins can be observed throughout the entire year. Whale watching can be done from shore or aboard boats.

One of the most important recreational activities offered by the State Marine Reserve is the opportunity to explore and spot seabirds. The islands under consideration hold significant importance as crucial nesting habitats for seabirds. The islands provide essential nesting grounds for a substantial population of western gulls, Cassin's auklets, and Brandt's cormorants, and represent the sole nesting location for California brown pelicans along the West Coast of the United States. Furthermore, these islands harbor the world's largest population of Scripps's murrelets. Visitors can observe this variety of birds both from the coast of Anacapa Island and from boats.

Anacapa State Marine Reserve is one of the thirteen Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) established in the Channel Islands National Park.