Approach In calm conditions, yachts anchor 100 yards off the shore all along the East and Middle Anacapa. That's in VERY calm conditions. If it's not glassy, we poke into East Fish Camp. Stand-off from the island a quarter mile or more to avoid rocks that uncover near datum. We generally anchor east of the area that uncovers at low tide (see chart). That puts us about one-third of the way from the headland to the notch.

Take a tour of the anchorage and spot all the rocks indicated on the chart before dropping your hook. According to the chart, the bottom is Sand and Shell. There is not much room to swing here and if you anchor in very close, setting a second anchor would be prudent. In any event, we always remain alert for windshifts created by the headland and are always ready to bail out.

Staying the Night Most locals don't think it's a good idea. The one time I was tempted to do it, I found a 60+ foot yacht anchored on an all-chain rode just about where the 'E' in East Fish Camp is located. The wind had come up from the WSW rather suddenly and the 20+ foot inflatable he had tied astern was flying like a party balloon. And he was, as you've probably figured, on a lee shore. Our choice, then, was Smugglers/Yellowbanks, a hard slog to weather of three or four hours under sail or a broad reach of three hours back to Ventura (would have been 2 to Channel Islands). We chose to sleep at home that night.

Landing Permits There are some important restrictions for going ashore on Anacapa. Here's what the National Park Service website requires: A permit is not required to go ashore and/or hike on East Anacapa Island or at Frenchys Cove. West Anacapa (except Frenchys Cove) is a protected research natural area and is closed to visitors. Visitors are allowed on Middle Anacapa (where East Fish Camp is) by permit only and when accompanied by a park ranger. West Anacapa (except Frenchys Cove) is a protected research natural area and is closed to visitors. Visitors are allowed on Middle Anacapa by permit only and when accompanied by a park ranger. The moorings near the landing cove at East Anacapa Island are reserved for use by the NPS, the USCG, and the park concessionaire only. Private boaters must anchor a reasonable distance from these moorings. This is not an all-weather anchorage. It is recommended that one person stay on board the boat at all times. The landing dock is available for unloading purposes only. No craft, including kayaks and inflatables, should be left moored to the dock. Please lift your inflatables and kayaks up to the lower landing. More information for Channel Islands boaters is at NPS Boating. For information on Anacapa natural wonders, history and culture; click NPS Anacapa info

Updates If you have new or amplifying information concerning this anchorage or the surrounding area, please contact Capt. Dan. His e-mail link and phone are top left.

Photos:

Google Earth: East Fish Camp - Anacapa Island

NOAA Chart: East Fish Camp - Anacapa Island

Video:

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