Every Sat, Sun & holidays at 11am & 3pm - Tidepool Talks at the Channel Islands National Visitors Center End of Spinnaker Drive at Ventura Harbor, in the Visitors Center at the Marine Life Exhibit, (805) 658-5730, Free. Join National Park Service rangers in the visitor center as they show and tell about the many fascinating animals and plants in the Marine Life Exhibit. Learn how they adapted to the often harsh conditions found in tidal pools and what you can do to enjoy and protect these fragile and rare resources.

HOP A BOAT TO WILDFLOWER ISLAND - In spring, Channel Islands National Park off the Ventura coast is brimming with life and carpeted with wildflowers in peak bloom. The brilliant yellow coreopsis flowers are especially prominent. Among them, Western gulls and other seabirds begin nesting; Island fox pups are born; and California sea lions and northern fur seals start to gather at their rookery sites. Naturalist-led hikes, kayaking through sea caves, diving, camping and picnicking are just some of the activities available for individuals and groups. This setting is ideal for teambuilding, too. Trips out to the Channel Islands are available through Island Packers Cruises, which offers senior, child and group rates.

Oct. 11-12: 6^th Annual Seaside Highland Games: Enjoy a full array of Scottish and Celtic activities including bagpipe bands, Highland dancers and Heavy Athletics with competitions in each arena.  Several stages will be filled with your favorite Celtic entertainers from Alex Beaton to Celtic Spring--and a special extended day of music from the Celtic Rock Stage on Saturday night.  Shop over 50 vendors for Holiday giving and enjoy authentic food and drink from the British Isles--including haggis!  Read more about the Seaside Highland Games.