Buck Island, the only underwater national monument in the U.S.
RELAX — LIFE’S A BEACH
Northshore Beaches: Some have smooth sandy bottoms ideal for swimming, and others have rock and coral-lined entries perfect for snorkeling! Many beaches on St. Croix are continuous with other beaches having a different name.
Southside Beaches:The south shore is dotted with so many little beaches that you just happen onto, that is highly unlikely that we have found them all.
East End Beaches : There are many beaches East of Christiansted on St. Croix . Some are a bit harder to get to but usually not as crowded.
West End Beaches : St. Croix offers a large number of beaches and water activities. Try a few for a fun and memorable vacation. All of the beaches in the US Virgin Islands are accessible to the public.
Beach Pictures: Other beach pictures and more.
Getting Around: Options for getting here and how to get around once you are here.
Flora/Fauna of St. Croix: Check out pictures and info on what you will enjoy seeing.
Our Condo – Caribeblue: Check out what our "Paradise" looks like. And check the view!
Rum Punch: There is more than just punch here.
Caribbean Recipes: Try something new and bring back an island memory. Or have a Caribbean party.
Sunscreen: Recommends for intense sun.
Activities: What do you want to do? Snorkel, golf, the list goes on.
Sights: What do you want to see? A sunset, a crab race, an historical site or just a beach.
Ken & Barbie: Who we are. Send a note– picture etc.
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Last updated 02-21-08
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There is not enough that can be said about a trip to "Buck Island" an underwater treasure of sights and the only US National Monument. After a hearty, breakfast at Shenanigans a few steps from the boardwalk. "Big Beard" Captain John Macy greets his guests for an outing on the "Renegade" one of his two catamarans. Orienting us on the rules of the water, he then turns the vessel over to one of his Captains who then introduces his crew and prepares for the journey.
Bright sun, blue skies and a spectacular view of the island from the waters of the Caribbean Sea almost seem enough to warrant the trip, but the best is yet to come. Occasional glimpses of dolphin break the rhythm of camera shutters and ignite lively conversation amongst the group. A bond is forming that Buck Island will soon solidify.
Speaking of bonding, the highest one recommended is between your skin and a sunscreen . The Caribbean sun is very deceptive with high UV levels that require respect. I have seen overcast skies transform the under protected to ER visiting lobsters. A friend of ours took the Buck Island trip forgetting to cover his feet with lotion. He missed his flight home with 2 nd degree burns on his feet and an extended stay with a weeks worth of St. Croix television to brag about.
That aside we approach the island, the crew outfits each of us with snorkel gear and instructions on its usage and safety precautions. A final fit of the gear and we anchor on a secluded beach for an hour of snorkeling practice and beach combined. Buck Island, WOW!
An occasional visit from the resident Sting Ray (Sammy) becomes a major visit to some who were not aware that Sammy lost his stinger in a boating accident and was harmless. The looks on those unsuspecting already in the water was Priceless. Once the shock was over Sammy swam among the group like a puppy looking for a petting. She became very fond of me and I was able to get her to roll and even rub her belly, an unforgettable experience.
Bright schools of various fish as large as walls appeared and disappeared as each snorkeler attempted to get their partners attention so not to miss the site. Underwater cameras seem all but forgotten by the ever-changing spectacle and time becomes a lost dimension. Then the signal to return to the Renegade breaks this dreamlike adventure and the blue of the sky replaces the blue of the waters.
Seen it all? Need more ideas?
Activities: What do you want to do? Snorkel, golf, the list goes on.
They have a few protected areas on St. Croix. It is quite an event when they hatch. They immediately head for the water. Here are a few pictures some friends of ours took while on an outing at Buck Island. Everyone stopped what they were doing to watch. There was a filming for the Tourist Department that came to a halt when the hatchlings began their trip to the ocean.
Come on, "Little Guy".
It is not much further.
Buck Island is 176 acres