We are planning on cruising the Channel Islands in August - mainly Santa
Rosa, Santa Cruz and Anacapa, leaving from Channel Islands Harbor. Previous
discussions on this newsgroup recommended Santa Cruz: Forneys, Willows,
Coches Pietros, Pelican Bay, Potato Bay, and Smugglers. Any advise on the
following would be much appreciated:

What are the typical wind patterns in August? Are the prevailing winds from
the W, NW and do they shift?

Since the winds pickup in the afternoon, what is the best time to be
anchored for the night?

What is the recommended anchoring in the various coves/anchorages? I've
seen references to setting bow/stern anchors. What do people normally do?

What conditions would make anchoring on the south side of Santa Cruz a lee
shore?

Where on the north side of Santa Cruz are good spots anchoring for the
night? Suggestions: Lady's Harbor, Cueva Valdez or go around to Forneys?

When anchoring at Santa Rosa, Bechers Bay, it seems like NW Anchorage is
more protected in the summer? Or should we head around to Johnson's Lee for
the night?

Any good overnight anchorages on Anacapa? Or should this be just a day
anchorage and return to Channel Islands Hrbr or Smugglers?

How crowded will these areas be mid-week, in August?

Recommended itinerary for 3, 5 and 7 day trips? Also thinking about a side
trip to Santa Barbara (city).

Aside from Brian Fagan's book, any other good resources for this trip?

Thank you,
Don