Arch Rock

The most recognizable feature of Anacapa Island, and perhaps of Channel Islands National Park, is undoubtedly Arch Rock, located at the far eastern end. This silhouette of this formation can be see from quite a distance from the island in the Santa Barbara Channel, as can be seen in the photograph below.

Arch Rock is very much an Anacapa Island landmark. It was sketched by famous artist James Whistler (known for the painting Whistler's Mother) in 1854 when he worked for the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey.

Arch Rock rises 40 feet above the surface of the sea. A natural arch, the formation has been carved by the wind and the sea. Eventually, it will disappear above the sea as it succumbs to the further effects of these forces.

A view from a slightly different angle of Arch Rock is shown below, from south of the formation.

The distinctive shape of the formation is recognizable even through the haze.