Facts about the Santa Barbara Channel:

• The distance from the Islands to the mainland varies from 14 to 26 miles as the crow flies.
• The best time to attempt a crossing is late August through early October, but it is possible to swim anytime of the year.
• The Channel has mild currents.
• The average water temperatures in winter is 50-60 degrees F (10-15 C); in summer 60- 70 degrees F (15-21 C). Temperatures are warmest in September.
• The Santa Barbara Channel Swimming Association organizes an annual relay crossing of the Channel. The event is a fund raiser for ocean-caring non-profit organizations. Over 80 swimmers and kayakers participate each year. See Channel Swim.