Virgin Islands vacation rentals & St Croix

Virgin Islands vacation rentals & St Croix

Snorkelling Buck Island from Virgin Islands vacation rentals is an unforgettable adventure! Buck Island Reef Monument in St Croix centres on protecting the delicate and increasingly rare sea turtle population, as well as, its bountiful coral gardens.

If you are planning to visit Virgin Islands vacation rentals you would be remiss to not include a trip to the renowned Buck Island Reef National Monument. Buck Island is a gorgeous small island off the north eastern shore of St Croix. Its claim to fame is its inimitable ecosystem.

Elkhorn coral barrier

Not only is the island itself home to countless examples of the Caribbean’s finest flora and fauna including many endangered species, but it is what’s underwater that has earned it so many accolades. The Elkhorn coral barrier reef on the eastern side of Buck Island is a most beautiful underwater garden featuring 10 metre high brilliant Elkhorn coral formations and copious numbers of brightly coloured fish.

Snorkelling Buck Island St Croix

Visiting this brilliant nature reserve when you rent Virgin Islands vacation rentals is a treat to any holiday. Buck Island Reef Monument is a rare thing. Its beauty is not only unparalleled, but its attempts to preserve its magic are legendary. This magnificent marine preserve features a marked underwater trail that is one of the best places for snorkelling under the sea! Snorkelling Buck Island is open to all and will surely be a unique and rewarding experience.

Scuba diving is not allowed along the underwater trail in an effort to protect this wonderland. The western side of Buck Island features a pristine white sand beach ideal for sunning and swimming in the relaxing waters. Hiking through Buck Island is also a great activity. Trek through the island and you will come across turtle nesting sites and even see the Least Tern and Brown Pelican, but be sure to tread lightly and protect the valuable ecosystem.

Protecting Buck Island sea turtles

The Buck Island Reef Monument was established as a protected area in 1961 and was expanded further in 2001. Aside from the amazing coral gardens, one focus of the island’s organisation has centred upon the sea turtles that nest here. You may come across green turtles, loggerhead turtles and hawksbill turtles. In an effort to protect Buck Island’s sea turtles and their eggs, the park, while open year round, is closed from sunset to sunrise to allow the turtles a chance to nest during the night.

Green Cay Marina

Day trips and half day trips from the peace of Virgin Islands vacation rentals can be organised through the authorised concessionaires departing from Christiansted Water Front and Green Cay Marina. There is no entrance fee for visitors, but there is a fee for boat access to the island. There is another Buck Island just south of St Thomas so be sure to not confuse the two when you are planning your holiday to the US Virgin Islands.