Buck Island Reef National Monument Beach

Buck Island Reef is 1.5 miles off the northeast coast of St. Croix. It is a National Monument consisting of 880 acres of land and 704 acres of water and coral reef. If you are someone who snorkels, or are thinking of taking up the pastime, Buck Island Reef will be paradise. Scuba divers also enjoy the deep grottoes and labyrinths.

Buck Island Reef is a must see. Not only is the beach one of the best in the Caribbean, the area contains significant cultural and historical objects. In March 1797, the slave ship Mary, captained by James Hunter of Liverpool, sank here, and its cargo of 240 slaves was saved and brought to Christiansted. In March 1803, the General Abercrombie, captained by James Booth of Liverpool, also wrecked in this area, and its cargo of 339 slaves was brought to Christiansted. Slave shipwrecks in U.S. waters are rare. The monument contains remnants of these wrecks. Other wrecks may also exist in the monument.

Again, like Protestant Cay, it's offshore and you must charter a boat or join a group going out to the Island.

But how cool can it get to simply jump off the boat, don your flippers and mask and explore some of the best coral reefs in the USVI? If you go as a family, one can explore below the water while the rest take advantage of the sun, sea and gentle breezes.

This beach is highly recommended. Do some research before you come so when you're here you can fully appreciate the magnitude of the duty of this National Park.

Buck Island Reef National Monument Beach Index:

• Sand - darker, yet soft, medium grain
• Facilities - full-service
• Shade - none
• Sports - some snorkel rental, but make sure you bring at least for one person. You don't want to miss what this beach has to offer.
• Notes - we highly recommend this beach; don't miss it
  

Best Beaches on St. Croix

You don't need a personal invitation to visit St. Croix, but that's just what the beautiful palm-lined, sun-kissed beaches do. Spend a few hours or spend the day, these miles of white golden sand and turquoise waters offer an enticing way to relax or to brush up on your snorkeling or diving.

But that's not all. The many trails on St. Croix that weave along the shore and through the hillsides will make you wonder why you've never visited before.

Most of the beaches have full-service facilities. Some are very secluded. No matter your taste, you will certainly find one that suits you.

	Protestant Cay - Located just off the shore from Christiansted, a short ferry ride to paradise in St. Croix.
	Buck Island Reef National Monument Beach - Just 1.5 miles off the northeast coast of St. Croix, the National Monument is 880 acres of land and pristine water. Sunken slave ships make this a historical site.
	Cane Bay Beach - Dive? You may know Cane Bay Wall. But swimmers are in for a treat. Nice clear water, beautiful reef. Time for a Caribbean vacation!