Snorkelers may view Elkhorn Coral at the Underwater Trail, Buck Island Reef NMPhoto: NPS
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.
Buck Island Reef National Monument has begun restoration of the island’s only land-based hiking trail. Supported by President Donald J. Trump’s Great American Outdoors Act Legacy Restoration Fund,[GA1.1] the project will rehabilitate the 1.8-mile Buck Island Trail, a critical visitor access route in the remote marine national monument.
Photos
Snorkelers are lead in small groups through the underwater trail at Buck Island Reef NM.Photo: Susan DukeThe plants that make up the subtropical dry forest on Buck Island range from old historic tamarinds to gumbo limbo, from cactus to delicate orchids.Photo: Photo by S. Corsaut, Digital IslandEnjoy snorkeling the reefs and see lots of tropical reef fish.Photo: NPS PhotoFor over 30 years scientists have studied sea turtle nesting habits on Buck Island, training over 100 students in the field of biology.Photo: NPSBuck Island is a magical place! Come snorkel the waters and hike the trails.Photo: Cori LopazanskiCome see the unspoiled beauty of Buck IslandPhoto: S. Corsaut, Digital IslandFrom the highest ridge to the water and reefs below, Buck Island offers adventure and learning.Photo: S. Corsaut, Digital IslandOur underwater trail will take you through beautiful gardens of coral.Photo: NPSTake our hiking trail through beach forests up to the observation deck at 300 feet above sea leve.Photo: NPS
Park information and photos come from the National Park Service. This is not an official NPS site.
Buck Island Reef National Monument Launches Trail Restoration Project
