Buck Island Reef National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

View extraordinary coral formations here.

Buck Island Reef National Monument was established to preserve "one of the finest marine gardens in the Caribbean Sea." The park is one of a few fully marine protected areas in the National Park System. The 176-acre island and surrounding coral reef ecosystem support a large variety of native flora and fauna, including the hawksbill turtle and brown pelican.

Island Fun

Visitors to Buck Island can enjoy a leisurely swim in the crystal clear waters, snorkeling or SCUBA diving through the fantastic reef to witness tropical marine life. At the eastern most point of the reef is the famous underwater trail; both novice and expert snorkelers will enjoy the passages through the reef. Those not wishing to get wet may chose to hike over the island enjoying native flora and fauna while getting a birds-eye view of the reef and sea below.

Half day and full day trips to the island are available.

		Park Background Buck Island Reef National Reef was established in 1961. more...

Write to

Buck Island Reef National Monument
2100 Church Street #100 Danish Custom House
Christiansted, VI 00820-4611

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(340) 773-1460

Fax

(340) 773-5995

Climate

Temperatures range in the low 70s to upper 80s, December through April, and are slightly higher (mid 80s to mid 90s), May through November. Usually there is more rainfall July through January, while spring and early summer can be quite dry. On any given day, however, brief light rain showers are not uncommon. Throughout the year, cotton clothes that are light in color and weight are recommended in the daytime; a light jacket may occasionally be needed in the late evening and early morning during the winter season.