Summary
- Buck Island: A Pristine Coral Reef
- Tour Boats Meet on Buck Island’s West Beach
- Enjoy Buck Island, but Leave No Trace That You Were There
- A Five Minute Sail From Buck Island’s Beach to the Reef
- The Buck Reef Is Full of Healthy Coral and Marine Life
- Snorkeling Above Buck Island’s Beautiful Coral Gardens
- A Beautiful Sampling of a Protecting Marine Environment
Buck Island offers an unparalleled experience, featuring one of the world’s finest beaches alongside an exceptional snorkeling site. Located just 20 minutes by boat from Christiansted, St. Croix, Buck Island represents only one percent of the Buck Island Reef National Monument. This unique park is designed to protect the fragile coral reef and marine ecosystem around the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Reputable dive charters operate under a special license from the U.S. National Park Service, providing a responsible and guided experience.
Buck Island: A Pristine Coral Reef Just 20 Minutes From Christiansted, St. Croix
The journey to Buck Island is a delightful one, as boats cruise along the stunning shoreline of St. Croix. As your destination approaches, the island’s beauty becomes increasingly apparent. Aboard the Big Beards Adventure Tours catamaran, the atmosphere is relaxed, with a focus on enjoying both the sun and the stunning views. The tour includes the boat ride, snorkeling equipment, and a cooler for refreshments, ensuring a laid-back day in paradise.
Tour Boats Meet on Buck Island’s West Beach
On weekends, Buck Island can be quite popular. Our chartered boat anchored near a lively assembly of other vessels, creating an inviting beach atmosphere. West Beach features minimal development, offering a few picnic tables and restrooms, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. A gradual drop-off allows boats to anchor close to the shore—this beach is a favored spot not just for visitors but also for four species of sea turtles.
Enjoy Buck Island, but Leave No Trace That You Were There
The guiding principle at Buck Island is simple yet impactful: carry in, carry out. The Park Service aims to limit long-term environmental impacts, hence a strict rule against shell collecting, bringing beach umbrellas, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy 45 minutes of beach time, indulging in the pristine sands or venturing into the shallow waters. Although this side of the island is not known for an abundance of marine life, it serves as an excellent location for beginner snorkeling lessons. For those venturing on their own, rocky trails lead to elevated vantage points that offer stunning views, but sturdy footwear is essential.
A Five Minute Sail From Buck Island’s Beach to the Reef
After enjoying the beach, it’s time for a brief 5-minute sail to the lagoon on the southeast side of Buck Island. This area features a narrow channel where the reef approaches the shore, providing a few designated anchor points. Here, visitors receive a quick orientation about coral preservation and safety in the water, specifically regarding the current. With colorful life jackets on, it’s time to dive into this vibrant underwater world.
The Buck Reef Is Full of Healthy Coral and Marine Life
Upon entering the water, the Buck Island reef presents an impressive sight. While some sections show signs of wear, many areas maintain vibrant coral structures teeming with life. The reef’s health is encouraging, hosting a rich diversity of fish, including stoplight parrotfish and blue tangs, which makes for an exhilarating snorkeling experience. Interpretive plaques submerged in the water offer valuable insights into the marine species present, although a few have weathered over time.
Snorkeling Above Buck Island’s Beautiful Coral Gardens
With several natural breaks in the reef, snorkelers can explore coral gardens filled with various species of fish. The lagoon typically remains shallow, allowing for easy access to the underwater scenery. The Big Beard crew offers vigilant supervision, ensuring everyone remains safe while enjoying this incredible underwater landscape. When it’s time to return to the boat, a conch shell call signals the end of the aquatic adventure.
A Beautiful Sampling of a Protecting Marine Environment
As Buck Island Reef National Monument is a designated snorkeling area, scuba diving is restricted, allowing snorkelers to fully appreciate the marine environment. Though only a small portion of the park’s 19,000 acres comprises land, the exquisite coral reefs and rich marine life encountered during a visit will undoubtedly be a highlight of any trip to St. Croix.
