Willows
Also known as: Willows Anchorage
Best time to dive
January to December
What you might see
- DolphinLikely
- Moray eelLikely
- NudibranchLikely
Sightings are seasonal probabilities, not promises - even in peak season nature does its own thing.
Certification & difficulty
Open Water - advanced conditions (currents/depth); dive within your training.
Snorkelling
Snorkel-friendly - Possible over the shallow kelp reefs from the boat in calm conditions.
Safety notes
Kelp entanglement, cold water, surge/current and boat traffic; carry an SMB. No collecting in the reserves.
Permits & fees
No dive permit, but this is Channel Islands National Park and National Marine Sanctuary, with several no-take State Marine Reserves/Conservation Areas (e.g. the Anacapa Island reserve on the north side, which includes the Winfield Scott and Avenger wrecks) - no collecting, and wrecks are protected. Confirm reserve boundaries with the charter.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Location
Nearest hub: Ventura
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand dive report. Coordinates are approximate.