Spy whales spouting in a spectacular setting.

It's not often you get to see the world's largest living mammal. But take a whale-watching trip to the protected waters surrounding the Channel Islands and you will likely add that wildlife-watching notch to your belt. The waters of Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary offer unparalleled chances to see migratory blue whales, usually in spring and summer. That time of year, it's not uncommon to see several of these 90-foot-long leviathons on a single trip. You might also encounter beautiful humpback whales and playful dolphins, as well as fascinating sea birds. In winter months, look for California gray whales as they make their annual migration from warm southern waters north towards Alaska.

Guided whale-watching tours are a great way to learn about the region's delicate balance of life, and how to help protect it. One guide service to consider is  Island Packers . The company's all-day trip for blue whales heads to the western edge of the northern Channel Island group, a truly wild and breathtaking experience you'll never forget. Just remember to dress warmly and don't forget your camera!

January 16, 2010 11:00 AM to June 6, 2010 5:00 PM
SBMA owns a superb group of American drawings from the 20th century, including works by Edward Hopper, Charles Sheeler, and many other major modernists and realists, as well as more purely California artists and more contemporary works. An American Century selects over 70 of the best to present a survey of American draftsmanship from the century when American art came of age and international recognition. From the most experimental to the most acutely life-like, these works on paper celebrate the diversity of techniques and styles possible when artists explore the medium of drawing.