A tiny island off the Southern California coast delivers “million-dollar” scenery but remains out of reach for nearly everyone. Santa Barbara Island, part of the Channel Islands National Park, sits about 38 miles offshore and covers just one square mile, making it the smallest island in the park. Despite being officially open to the public, getting there has become nearly impossible. Santa Barbara Island from the air. California Department of Fish and Wildlife The issue dates back to 2015, when severe winter storms destroyed the wharf at Landing Cove, the only practical way for most visitors to step ashore. Without it, access collapsed. Boat operator Island Packers stopped running trips to the island in 2016 after the pier was damaged and has not resumed service since.  The island is composed of Miocene volcanic rock.…