Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve

Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve occupies the northern coast of Saint Croix and encompasses mangrove forests, coral reefs, and a submarine canyon. The property contains multiple distinct environments that together form one connected ecological and historical system.

European explorers first encountered indigenous inhabitants here in 1493, making this the first such meeting on what is now United States territory. This initial contact became a turning point for the region and marked the beginning of profound changes to the islands.

The site holds physical traces of multiple communities: early inhabitants from South America, European colonists, and descendants of West African peoples all left their mark here. The way visitors explore these layers through the landscape reflects how this place connects different human stories.

The park allows snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and hiking across different zones, with varying difficulty levels for each activity. Check local conditions before you go, as tides, weather, and trail maintenance affect when and how you can explore safely.

The waters here contain organisms that produce light at night, creating a natural glow when darkness falls. This bioluminescent display is a rare occurrence that transforms the water into something almost otherworldly for evening visitors.