California

Explore the “Island of the Blue Dolphins” With Your Grandchild

Program No. 22313RJ
Trace the footsteps of Karana from “Island of the Blue Dolphins,” learning about local Chumash culture, snorkeling the Channel Islands and experiencing the marine life up close.

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

At a Glance

Can you imagine being left on an island all by yourself? That’s what happened to Karana, a young Nicoleño Indian girl in the classic tale "Island of the Blue Dolphins.” On this adventure with your grandchild, explore the waters around the Channel Islands that Karana might have explored and learn about the Chumash that live in Southern California. Learn to paddle a sea kayak, go snorkeling in a secluded cove with a kelp forest and see pelicans, harbor seals, whales, dolphins and porpoises in the wild!
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Stand for extended periods, hike up to 1 mile on uneven terrain, paddle a sea kayak (no experience necessary), wear a wet suit, snorkel in open waters.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Study the real story of Karana and learn about the history that inspired the book.
  • Travel by boat to Santa Cruz Island, within Channel Islands National Park, submerge yourself in the protected waters while you swim in a kelp forest.
  • Learn watersport techniques as you experience the thrill of ocean waves and kayak with the calm harbor waters.

General Notes

Program is for grandchildren ages 9-12. Wet suits and snorkel gear provided; personal wet suits or snorkel gear welcome.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Margery Spielman
Margery Spielman is an accomplished environmental artist, lecturer, naturalist and professional diver. As a scuba instructor and stunt diver, she worked underwater on numerous television productions and for many years, worked on freelance assignments for The Cousteau Society, doing research, logistics, diving, speaking and illustrating. Described as a visionary realist, she’s exhibited her artwork in major Marine Art Expos from Hawaii to Paris. For over 25 years, Margery’s been the leading Naturalist in Road Scholar’s Channel Islands programs.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Margery Spielman
Margery Spielman View biography
Margery Spielman is an accomplished environmental artist, lecturer, naturalist and professional diver. As a scuba instructor and stunt diver, she worked underwater on numerous television productions and for many years, worked on freelance assignments for The Cousteau Society, doing research, logistics, diving, speaking and illustrating. Described as a visionary realist, she’s exhibited her artwork in major Marine Art Expos from Hawaii to Paris. For over 25 years, Margery’s been the leading Naturalist in Road Scholar’s Channel Islands programs.
Profile Image of Julie Tumamait-Stenslie
Julie Tumamait-Stenslie View biography
Julie Tumamait-Stenslie traces her Chumash ancestry through her father, a leader or “paha” among the Chumash. She proudly carries on the traditions of her ancestors as she educates about Chumash culture, history and song. Julie has worked with the Park Service and Hunter College in genealogical research, cataloging materials from area Mission archives. She was selected by the governor of California to sit on the North American Heritage Commission, which helps tribes to protect sacred native sites.
Profile Image of Alicia Stratton
Alicia Stratton View biography
Alicia Stratton grew up as an Air Force “brat,” living in Japan, Texas, and West Virginia, then settling in Ventura. She is a licensed boat captain and certified SCUBA diver, and holds a teaching credential. She worked for The Nature Conservancy, Island Packers as a naturalist/boat captain, and was the research and education coordinator for the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Alicia served on the committee that established marine reserves around the Channel Islands. She has a bachelor's degree in environmental biology.
Profile Image of Dawn Brooks
Dawn Brooks View biography
Dawn Brooks has three decades of experience leading group travel wilderness adventures. In 2002, Dawn joined the Channel Islands Naturalist Corps, volunteering on local whale watching boats to educate the public about marine wildlife. Dawn is an experienced kayak expert on Anacapa Island and Santa Cruz Island. She leads multi-day group camping trips on Santa Cruz Island and sails to remote anchorages on all five islands of the Channel Islands National Park.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





Recommended For You

loading spinner