What Is Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument?
This unusual national monument protects the coral reefs in a 3-mile belt surrounding the island of St. John!
What Makes It Beautiful?
Gosh, this monument has gotten walloped over the last few decades, by hurricanes, by climate change, and by rapidly spreading coral diseases! But there is still beauty to be found in this struggling environment. On a clear day at Haulover Bay, for instance, the sunlight really sparkles under the water, and the remaining coral, while scarce, pops out like colorful Easter eggs! You might spot colorful parrotfish, hulking pufferfish, or, if you’re lucky, some sea turtles grazing on the sea grass in the deeper parts of the bay! You won’t have to fight any kind of crowds over here, so enjoy the peace, quiet, and calm waters as long as you like!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Volunteer with the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park!
- Donate to Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument!
- Be a responsible visitor! Remember the old adages: Pack out what you pack in! Take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints!
How Do I Get There?
Visitor Center:
- 1300 Cruz Bay Creek
St. John, VI 00830
South Haulover Beach:
- 18.346499299313887, -64.67984154766205
When Should I Visit the Park?
Pay close attention to the weather and the tides. Don’t get stuck in a thunderstorm or a rip current! If you’re not renting a car, get to the taxi dispatch center early and plan on hitchhiking home! Otherwise, have fun at your leisure!
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