
Channel Islands Maritime Museum
Explore maritime history and art with stunning ship models and Dutch master paintings by the harbor.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience

Channel Islands Maritime Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore maritime history and art with stunning ship models and Dutch master paintings by the harbor.
"A gem of a place! Amazing collection of paintings and ship models with knowledgeable staff."

🎯 Free Guided Tours
Ask about free tours! Staff like Earl and Vivian offer incredible insights and personal stories.
🖼️ Art Beyond Ships
Don't miss the stunning Dutch master paintings alongside the maritime exhibits.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Ship Models
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at incredibly detailed models of sailing ships, showcasing centuries of maritime craftsmanship.

Dutch Master Paintings
Art Gallery
Discover striking original portraits and maritime art from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Harbor Views & Sea Lions
Rear Windows
Enjoy picturesque harbor views and spot adorable sea lions lounging on the docks right outside.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Ships
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Guided Tours
Ask about free tours! Staff like Earl and Vivian offer incredible insights and personal stories.
🖼️ Art Beyond Ships
Don't miss the stunning Dutch master paintings alongside the maritime exhibits.
🌊 Sea Lion Spotting
Check the harbor views from the back for adorable sea lions lounging on the docks!
🛍️ Great Gift Shop
The museum boasts a surprisingly great gift shop with unique maritime-themed items.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Guided Tours
Ask about free tours! Staff like Earl and Vivian offer incredible insights and personal stories.
🖼️ Art Beyond Ships
Don't miss the stunning Dutch master paintings alongside the maritime exhibits.
🌊 Sea Lion Spotting
Check the harbor views from the back for adorable sea lions lounging on the docks!
🛍️ Great Gift Shop
The museum boasts a surprisingly great gift shop with unique maritime-themed items.
👨👩👧👦 Interactive Exhibits
Engaging displays make it fun for kids and adults alike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Channel Islands Maritime Museum as a fantastic and impressive gem. Highlights include the incredibly detailed ship models, striking Dutch master paintings, and the engaging, knowledgeable staff who provide excellent guided tours. The picturesque harbor location with sea lion sightings adds to the overall charm.
"A really fantastic museum. Klaus provided a really interesting and informative tour! If you have an hour or so, please give this your time. It was well worth the visit!"
Tanner Princell
"I visited Channel Islands Maritime Museum on 9/27/25 and had a great experience. There is a ton of amazing artwork and models of ships from our history. We were given a free tour from Earl and he is what made this experience so great, he is full of knowledge on every display he showed us as well had a few personal stories that related to the displays. I would recommend Channel Islands Maritime Museum to everyone, you do not need to be into sailing and ships to enjoy this museum. Shoutout to Earl! 😁"
Jack Shaffer
"Incredibly impressive maritime museum with some of the most detailed sailing ships in the world along with original portraits from the Dutch masters of the 17th and 18th centuries. If you love museums, maritime history, or a gorgeous location on the water with sea lions galore, this museum is worth your day. Great gift shop as well!"
Paul Falcone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located by the harbor in Oxnard. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors arrive by boat and dock at the adjacent marina.
Information on specific public transport routes to the museum can be found on local Oxnard transit websites. It's a scenic spot, so consider a leisurely walk or bike ride if possible.
There are several parking lots and street parking options around the Channel Islands Harbor. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure closer spots, especially on weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally reasonable, and the museum is often praised for its value. Check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Museum hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Channel Islands Maritime Museum website before your visit. They are typically open during daytime hours on most days of the week.
While tickets can usually be purchased at the door, checking the museum's website for online booking options might save time, especially during peak seasons or special events.
Yes! The museum frequently hosts events like Chowderfest and Tacos and Tales, offering unique experiences. Keep an eye on their schedule for these exciting gatherings.
Typically, there are reduced admission fees for children or sometimes free entry for very young children. Consult the museum's official site for detailed age-based pricing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a rich collection of intricate ship models, stunning Dutch master paintings, and artifacts detailing maritime history. There are also interactive elements for a more engaging visit.
Absolutely! Many visitors rave about the knowledgeable staff, like Earl and Vivian, who offer fantastic free guided tours that bring the exhibits to life with stories and details.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly with interactive exhibits that kids enjoy. The sea lion spotting outside is also a big hit with younger visitors.
The sea lions are often spotted lounging on the docks visible from the museum's rear windows. It's a delightful bonus to the museum visit!
Most visitors find that 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore the exhibits thoroughly. However, if you take a guided tour or get engrossed in the art, you might stay longer.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant, but it does have a gift shop that might offer snacks or drinks.
The museum is located in Channel Islands Harbor, which has numerous restaurants offering fresh seafood and other cuisines. Fisherman's Catch is a popular spot mentioned in relation to Chowderfest.
Chowderfest is an annual event held at the museum, featuring various local restaurants serving their best chowders. It's a highly anticipated culinary event.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artwork. It's always best to check the museum's specific photography policy upon arrival.
The incredibly detailed ship models, the striking Dutch master paintings, and the harbor views with sea lions are all highly photogenic.
While personal photos are usually fine, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Always inquire with museum staff if you plan extensive social media coverage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
🌊 Day-Trippers from Southern California
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Treasure Trove of Maritime Art and History
Beyond the impressive fleet of miniature ships, the museum houses a surprising and significant collection of original paintings by Dutch masters from the 17th and 18th centuries. These striking portraits and maritime scenes add a rich artistic dimension to the historical narrative, offering a glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of the age of sail. The combination of historical artifacts and fine art creates a unique and enriching experience for all visitors.
What truly elevates the experience is the knowledgeable and passionate staff. Many visitors highlight the exceptional guided tours provided by docents like Earl and Vivian, who share fascinating insights and personal anecdotes that bring the exhibits to life. This personal touch transforms a visit from a passive viewing to an engaging educational adventure.
The Charm of Channel Islands Harbor
The harbor area also offers a vibrant culinary scene, with numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood. Events like the annual Chowderfest, held at the museum, showcase the best local eateries and create a lively atmosphere. This blend of cultural enrichment and coastal charm makes the Channel Islands Maritime Museum a well-rounded destination.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit