Snorkeler swimming by Elkhorn Coral at Buck Island Reef NM.
Snorkelers may view Elkhorn Coral at the Underwater Trail, Buck Island Reef NM NPS

Buck Island Reef National Monument

National Monument · U.S. Virgin Islands · National Park Service

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.

Plan your visit

Know before you go

Phone
(340) 773.1460
Official site
www.nps.gov
Managed by
National Park Service

Getting there

Directions on Google Maps →

What's here

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

Activities & features: Boating · Sailing · Hiking · Paddling · Kayaking · SCUBA Diving · Snorkeling · Swimming · Saltwater Swimming · Wildlife Watching · Birdwatching

Photos

  • Snorkelers in formation departing the concessioner's vessel in route to the underwater trail.
    Susan Duke
  • Photograph of the trees and vegetation along the hiking trail on Buck Island
    Photo by S. Corsaut, Digital Island
  • Photograph of snorkeler among the coral reefs at Buck Island
    NPS Photo
  • green sea turtle hatchling on beach heading towards the ocean
    NPS
  • Photograph of rainbow at Buck Island
    Cori Lopazanski
  • the forest meets the sandy beach and waves
    S. Corsaut, Digital Island
  • view of Buck Island from the water
    S. Corsaut, Digital Island
  • fish swimming among the corals
    NPS

Nearby parks

Sources: National Park Service · updated 2026-08-12