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 w
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursBuck Island Reef National Monument is open year-round, every day of the week. The current operating hours are 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. There is no overnight camping on the island; the park is closed at night to protect nestin
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact (340) 773.1460 · CHRI_Education@nps.gov
Use one of our concessionaires to get to Buck Island!
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Buck Island Reef National Monument — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Buck Island Reef National Monument?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Buck Island Reef National Monument. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you swim here?
Yes — swimming is available at Buck Island Reef National Monument. There are typically no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk and check conditions.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Hiking Trail System, USCG Tower Trail. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Yes What are the hours?
Buck Island Reef National Monument is open year-round, every day of the week. The current operating hours are 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. There is no overnight camping on the island; the park is closed at night to protect nestin
Nearby sites
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Green Cay National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
NPS Photo: Diaz National Park Service Christiansted National Historic Site
ConfirmedYour pass covers the $10 park entrance fee.
