Explore some of the most iconic vistas on Anacapa Island with Charlie Armadillo!
Channel Islands Surprise – Book 1

The first story (published April 2022) in the National Parks Explorer Series takes readers to Channel Islands National Park, where Charlie explores Anacapa Island – the closest, and smallest, Channel Island in the park. Charlie’s goal is often to discover a new creature – but on Anacapa, he learns some island critters exist ONLY on that island. How cool is that!?! Which critter will Charlie discover?
Keep reading below to learn some fun facts about CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK, as well as see some of the sights that Charlie saw during his visit.
REAL Landscapes from the Island
Every Charlie Armadillo book features REAL locations from the National Park that readers can recognize and find on their own!

Arch Rock is an iconic site visitors will see en route to Anacapa, and often, other islands visitors may be travelling to (Santa Cruz being a highly sought after destination to see foxes which are unique to the Channel Islands).

Charlie passes Arch Rock en route to Anacapa!

Cathedral Cove is a memorable overlook not to be missed during your hike around Anacapa.

Charlie spots sea lions basking in the sun down in Cathedral Cove!

Inspiration point is one of the most iconic and photographed views in Channel Islands National Park — don’t miss it! It overlooks the full Channel Islands “chain” from Anacapa to San Miguel.

Charlie recognizes Inspiration Point as a must-see vista from his National Parks encyclopedia.

The Anacapa Lighthouse marks the highest point of East Anacapa Island.

Charlie searches high and low around the Anacapa Lighthouse for something little and quick! Will he find anything?
Where can I purchase a book in person?



Channel Islands Surprise is proudly carried right within the Channel Islands NPS Visitor Center (Ventura), as well as the local Ventura Visitors & Conventions Bureau (Ventura) and at Island Packers Cruises, which is the vendor that takes all visitors to the offshore islands.