Buck Island Reef National Monument isn’t your typical kind of weekend getaway. This tropical marine park located in the Virgin Islands, along the northeastern shores of the Caribbean Sea, offers a trip that brings you uncannily, yet adventurously, close to nature. The monument itself is located off the coast of the island of St. Croix.
Buck Island Reef National Monument was inaugurated in 1961, with the mission to preserve one of the most exquisite marine gardens in the Caribbean Sea. It was expanded further in 2001.
Today, the national monument covers nearly 30 square miles, including the surrounding waters of the rich and diverse coral reef. This island is a photographer's dream location as they get to capture breathtaking shots of water, beaches, and of course the rich coral reef.
The stunning barrier reef formed of elkhorn coral surrounds a part of the island and results in a picturesque coral structure, grottoes, sea fans, and gorgonians. Even the tropical fish here are vibrant and colorful and simply stunning to look at. Dive in and follow a famous underwater trail that takes both novice and skilled snorkelers across this rich and lively coral reef.
The monument in the park is the coral reef ecosystem surrounding the island and houses a number of endangered and threatened species, such as brown pelicans and hawksbill turtles. With nature trails, sandy beaches, and deep turquoise water, you couldn’t dream of a better weekend getaway.