Buck Island Reef National Monument

Snorkeler swimming by Elkhorn Coral at Buck Island Reef NM.

Snorkelers may view Elkhorn Coral at the Underwater Trail, Buck Island Reef NM

Snorkelers in formation departing the concessioner's vessel in route to the underwater trail.

Snorkelers are lead in small groups through the underwater trail at Buck Island Reef NM.

Photograph of the trees and vegetation along the hiking trail on Buck Island

The plants that make up the subtropical dry forest on Buck Island range from old historic tamarinds to gumbo limbo, from cactus to delicate orchids.

Photograph of snorkeler among the coral reefs at Buck Island

Enjoy snorkeling the reefs and see lots of tropical reef fish.

green sea turtle hatchling on beach heading towards the ocean

For over 30 years scientists have studied sea turtle nesting habits on Buck Island, training over 100 students in the field of biology.

Buck Island is a magical place! Come snorkel the waters and hike the trails.

the forest meets the sandy beach and waves

Come see the unspoiled beauty of Buck Island

From the highest ridge to the water and reefs below, Buck Island offers adventure and learning.

Our underwater trail will take you through beautiful gardens of coral.

Photos: National Park Service

About Buck Island Reef National Monument

Welcome to Buck Island Reef National Monument, called “the finest marine garden in the Caribbean Sea” by President John F. Kennedy. Snorkel the famous underwater trail, explore endangered elkhorn coral reefs. Hike the trails on the 176-acre island to the observation platform for an unparallel view. Discover a vibrant world above and beneath the waves in this Caribbean paradise.

Quick Facts

State U.S. Virgin Islands

Designation National Monument

State Code VI

Weather Welcome to the tropics!

Location & Map

Buck Island Reef National Monument is located in U.S. Virgin Islands.

Get Directions

Operating Hours

Buck Island Reef National Monument is open year-round, every day of the week. The current operating hours are 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. There is no overnight camping on the island; the park is closed at night to protect nesting sea turtles. Camping is not allowed on the island.

Wednesday 7:00AM - 5:00PM

Monday 7:00AM - 5:00PM

Thursday 7:00AM - 5:00PM

Sunday 7:00AM - 5:00PM

Tuesday 7:00AM - 5:00PM

Friday 7:00AM - 5:00PM

Saturday 7:00AM - 5:00PM

Activities

Boating Sailing Hiking Paddling Kayaking SCUBA Diving Snorkeling Swimming Saltwater Swimming Wildlife Watching Birdwatching

Getting There

Use one of our concessionaires to get to Buck Island!

View Official Directions

Contact & Address

Address 2100 Church St. #100, Christiansted, St. Croix, VI, 00820

Phone (340) 773.1460

Email CHRI_Education@nps.gov

Topics & Themes

Archeology Colonization and Settlement Maritime Animals Birds Fish Tortoises and Turtles Geology Oceans Coral Reefs Trails Water Trails The Tropics

Visitor Centers

There is no visitor center at Buck Island. Please visit the bookstore or fee booth at Christiansted National Historic Site. The bookstore is located at…

Hours: There is no visitor center on Buck Island, and no visitor services on the island. Fort Christiansvaern at Christiansted National Historic Site serves as the point of information for the three national park units on St. Croix. Visit the fee booth at the fort for brochures, pamphlets, and guides. And be sure to check out our exhibits.

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