Inspiration Point

Channel Islands National Park comprises 5 ecologically rich islands off the Southern California coast. Anacapa Island has trails to a 1932 lighthouse and clifftop Inspiration Point. Santa Cruz Island’s many sea caves include the vast Painted Cave. Santa Rosa Island features rare Torrey pines. Thousands of seals gather at San Miguel Island’s Point Bennett. Southernmost Santa Barbara Island draws nesting seabirds.

This photo was taken from Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island. Prior to the trip I did some research.  Knowing I would not be able to get to the island for sunrise or sunset, I needed to prepare for harsh sunlight. I knew I would not get ideal lighting, but I brought my ND filters with me along with my polarizer.

The hike to Inspiration Point was fairly easy. You are fully exposed to the sun, but it is relatively flat and you have a constant sea breeze. The one thing I was not quite prepared for were the amount of birds on the trail.  This island is known for nesting for the seagulls, but I was not ready for this many birds. They wee everywhere. Mostly alive, but some not as lucky. This made for an interesting aroma along the way. 

Once you arrive at Inspiration Point you are in awe. The beauty is breathtaking. The chain of islands looks like the back of a dinosaur. Even with harsh lighting, I was able to capture numerous shots.  This one is my favorite from the group because it captures all of the Channel Islands as you look out.

Location: Channel Islands National Park, California