Very large and detailed ship model
1 / 10

Channel Islands Maritime Museum

4.7
·287 reviews·Oxnard, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal experience

CrowdLow
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Very large and detailed ship model

Channel Islands Maritime Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(287 reviews)

"A gem of a place! Amazing collection of paintings and ship models with knowledgeable staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Ship Models

Intricate Ship Models

Main Exhibition Hall

Marvel at incredibly detailed models of sailing ships, showcasing centuries of maritime craftsmanship.

Dutch Master Paintings

Dutch Master Paintings

Art Gallery

Discover striking original portraits and maritime art from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Harbor Views & Sea Lions

Harbor Views & Sea Lions

Rear Windows

Enjoy picturesque harbor views and spot adorable sea lions lounging on the docks right outside.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends can get busy, particularly during special events like Chowderfest. Check their schedule for unique happenings!

Beyond the Ships

While ship models and maritime history are the stars, don't miss the stunning Dutch master paintings. The museum also offers interactive exhibits that engage all ages.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique local flavor and activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Today I went to the Channel Islands Maritime Museum and saw soooo many super cool ships! ⛵️
neilsarnov
16 likes • 245 views

🎯 Free Guided Tours

Ask about free tours! Staff like Earl and Vivian offer incredible insights and personal stories. Reddit+1

🖼️ Art Beyond Ships

Don't miss the stunning Dutch master paintings alongside the maritime exhibits. Instagram

Seeing JERSEY at day 1: 📍St Thomas Church 📍Jersey Beach 📍Jersey Marina 📍Maritime Museum 📍Seafood lunch at Radissons! #explore #travel #tourist #jersey #channelislands
ryan.ysabella.uk.ph
14 likes • 329 views
35/52 - Maritime Museum, Jersey This was such a cool place to visit. So interactive! The boys loved it — and I was entertained too 🤣 Not sure if I’ll complete this challenge, but giving it my best shot 🌊 #jerseyci #jerseychannelislands #channelislands #jerseymaritimemuseum #52places #irishmammy
dollydowsie
51 likes • 803 views

🌊 Sea Lion Spotting

Check the harbor views from the back for adorable sea lions lounging on the docks! InstagramReddit

🛍️ Great Gift Shop

The museum boasts a surprisingly great gift shop with unique maritime-themed items. Reddit

The wait is over—Chowderfest is back! 🌊 Join us this Sunday, September 14th from 2–6pm at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum for the 6th Annual Chowderfest. Enjoy delicious chowders, sides, and culinary creations from some of the best local restaurants while soaking in live music, harbor cruises, and ocean breezes. Special shoutout: The Ann Howarth Group will be serving beer! 🍺 Come say hi, gr...
soldbylarson
55 likes • 3.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Guided Tours

Ask about free tours! Staff like Earl and Vivian offer incredible insights and personal stories. Reddit+1

🖼️ Art Beyond Ships

Don't miss the stunning Dutch master paintings alongside the maritime exhibits. Instagram

🌊 Sea Lion Spotting

Check the harbor views from the back for adorable sea lions lounging on the docks! InstagramReddit

🛍️ Great Gift Shop

The museum boasts a surprisingly great gift shop with unique maritime-themed items. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Interactive Exhibits

Engaging displays make it fun for kids and adults alike. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(287 reviews)

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

Detailed ship models
Dutch master paintings
Knowledgeable staff/tours

What People Dislike

Limited dining on-site

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit+1

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. Reddit+2

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. Instagram+1

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! InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Chowderfest is an annual event held at the museum, featuring various local restaurants serving their best chowders. It's a highly anticipated culinary event. Instagram+1

📸 📸 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. Instagram

The incredibly detailed ship models, the striking Dutch master paintings, and the harbor views with sea lions are all highly photogenic. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Channel Islands Maritime Museum is a fantastic outing for families. The interactive exhibits are designed to engage younger visitors, making learning about maritime history fun and accessible. Instagram Beyond the indoor attractions, the chance to spot sea lions from the windows is a huge hit with children, offering a dose of natural wonder. InstagramReddit Consider planning your visit during a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds and allow kids ample time to explore without feeling rushed. The museum's location in the harbor also provides a pleasant environment for a family stroll.

🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate both art and history, this museum is a must-visit. You'll be captivated by the detailed ship models that showcase incredible craftsmanship and the striking Dutch master paintings that offer a window into a significant artistic period. InstagramReddit+1 Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour; docents like Earl and Vivian are lauded for their deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, which significantly enhances the appreciation of both the historical artifacts and the artwork. Reddit+2

🌊 Day-Trippers from Southern California

The Channel Islands Maritime Museum makes for an excellent day trip, especially for those exploring the Southern California coast. Its location in Oxnard's Channel Islands Harbor offers a scenic escape. Combine your visit with a seafood lunch at one of the many harbor restaurants Instagram and enjoy the picturesque harbor views. The museum is compact enough to explore thoroughly in a few hours, leaving ample time for other coastal activities or a leisurely drive back.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Treasure Trove of Maritime Art and History

The Channel Islands Maritime Museum is a true gem, offering a captivating journey through seafaring history and art. Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer detail and quality of the exhibits. The museum boasts an exceptional collection of intricate ship models, each a testament to the craftsmanship of bygone eras. These models aren't just toys; they are meticulously recreated vessels that tell stories of exploration, trade, and naval prowess. TikTokReddit

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. InstagramReddit+1

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. Reddit+2

The Charm of Channel Islands Harbor

The museum's location in Channel Islands Harbor is an attraction in itself. The peaceful, picturesque setting provides a serene backdrop for exploring maritime heritage. One of the most delightful surprises for visitors is the frequent appearance of sea lions lounging on the docks just outside the museum's windows. This natural spectacle adds an element of unexpected wildlife viewing to the cultural experience, making it a memorable part of the visit. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

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