Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument

Parks › Virgin Islands
CONTENTS

Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument

The clear waters surrounding St. John support a diverse and complex system of coral reefs. The health of these reefs is closely tied to its component plants and animals as well as adjacent non-coral marine environments such as sandy bottoms, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. Seeking to provide greater protection to the sensitive coral reef resources President Clinton established the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument on January 17, 2001. This monument includes 12,708 acres of federal submerged lands within the 3-mile belt off of St. John, including Hurricane Hole and areas north and south of St. John.

IN DEPTH

Planning Your Visit Operating Hours & Seasons Virgin Islands Coral Reef Monument does not close.  The Monument is under the administration of Virgin Islands National Park, and therefore shares the same Visitor Center in...read more

Park Regulations & Safety Permits Permits are required for Blue Runner fishing in the Monument south of St. John, and bait fishing in Hurricane Hole. A permit is also needed for boaters who wish...read more