Buck Island Reef National Monument
A marked underwater trail through an elkhorn coral barrier reef, on an uninhabited island reached only by licensed boat.
Buck Island was one of the first marine areas in the world given national monument protection, and access is strictly through licensed concession boats out of Christiansted - you cannot simply turn up. The underwater trail runs through a barrier reef of elkhorn coral in a lagoon, with signs on the seabed, and the fish density inside the reef is far beyond anything reachable from a beach. Most trips also stop at Turtle Beach on the island’s west end, a stretch of empty white sand. The crossing takes about half an hour and can be bumpy. Full-day trips include lunch and more swimming time.
Pricing
Concession boat trips roughly $100 per person (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does Buck Island Reef National Monument cost?
- Buck Island Reef National Monument charges admission. Concession boat trips roughly $100 per person (verify)
- What ages is Buck Island Reef National Monument good for?
- Buck Island Reef National Monument is best for kids ages 6 to 18+.
- Is Buck Island Reef National Monument stroller friendly?
- No, Buck Island Reef National Monument is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Buck Island Reef National Monument?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Buck Island Reef National Monument.
- How hard is Buck Island Reef National Monument?
- The difficulty level is moderate. Plan for about 6 hours.
- Is Buck Island Reef National Monument free?
- No, there is a cost to visit Buck Island Reef National Monument. Concession boat trips roughly $100 per person (verify)
- What should I bring to Buck Island Reef National Monument?
- Reef-safe sunscreen only, towel, motion sickness tablets, water
- How long does Buck Island Reef National Monument take?
- Most families spend about 6 hours at Buck Island Reef National Monument.
- When is the best time to visit Buck Island Reef National Monument?
- Calm-forecast days. Book the boat several days ahead in high season.