Monumental Moments

This sparkling monument covers 19,045 acres of both land and water in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and is famous for its coral reefs, unusual wildlife, white-sand coral beaches, and popular snorkeling trail. Add it to your Caribbean itinerary and you'll swim into your very own submerged Garden of Eden.

The marked underwater trail will guide you above staghorn, elkhorn, and brain coral reefs at depths varying from 10 to 50 feet. It's a colorful swim with twisting alleys of coral, sea fans and whips, and white-sand bottoms filling your mask with a rainbow of browns, yellows, and aquamarines. You'll see French angelfish, trumpetfish, and parrotfish, along with a host of other exotic sea critters and beautiful coral formations. Out of the water, be sure to pack a pair of sneakers or sturdy sandals for the 45-minute hike to a 340-foot overlook of the reefs and azure Caribbean, on which you may also see endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles. The preserve is also home to frigate birds, brown pelicans, mongoose, and several species of cacti.

There are no overnight facilities or camping, but Buck Island is only two miles from St. Croix and is accessible by boat. Operators offer half- and full-day trips to the island or you can come in your own craft—whatever your mode of transport, paradise awaits!