The park's diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of wildlife, including over 140 bird species, 400 fish species, and numerous reptiles. Notable terrestrial species include the green iguana, red-footed tortoise, and the Virgin Islands tree boa. The waters around the park are home to hawksbill and green sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, and various tropical fish species. Marine mammals such as dolphins and humpback whales can be spotted during migration seasons. The park also provides critical habitat for endangered species like the brown pelican and the least tern.
The park's vegetation is incredibly diverse, featuring over 800 plant species. The landscape includes tropical dry forests, moist forests, coastal mangrove swamps, and cactus scrubland. Notable species include the bay rum tree, historically used in perfume production, and the turpentine tree, known locally as 'tourist tree' for its red, peeling bark. The park also protects several endangered plant species and contains extensive seagrass beds in its marine areas. Mangrove forests play a crucial role in the ecosystem, providing nursery areas for marine life and protecting the coastline from erosion.
The park's geology reflects its volcanic origins, with the islands formed through volcanic and tectonic activity millions of years ago. The landscape features dramatic cliffs, rocky outcrops, and rolling hills composed primarily of volcanic rock and metamorphic formations. The highest point, Bordeaux Mountain, rises 1,277 feet above sea level. The coastline includes both white coral sand beaches and rocky shores, with extensive coral reef systems offshore. The park's unique geological features also include ancient lava flows, metamorphic rocks, and sedimentary deposits that tell the story of the islands' formation and evolution over millions of years.
The Virgin Islands' human history spans over 3,000 years, beginning with the Archaic Period Indians, followed by the Taino and Carib peoples. Christopher Columbus arrived in 1493, leading to centuries of European colonization, primarily by the Danish, who established sugar plantations and used enslaved labor. The United States purchased the islands from Denmark in 1917 for $25 million. In 1956, Laurance Rockefeller donated over 5,000 acres of land to the National Park Service, establishing Virgin Islands National Park. The park was created to preserve both the area's natural beauty and its significant cultural history, including numerous prehistoric sites and colonial-era plantation ruins.
The park's most celebrated features include Trunk Bay, renowned for its underwater snorkeling trail and pristine white sand beach. The Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins offer visitors a glimpse into the island's colonial history. The Reef Bay Trail leads hikers past ancient petroglyphs and sugar mill ruins. Cinnamon Bay features an archaeological laboratory and museum. The park's coral reefs are among the most diverse in the Caribbean, with sites like Waterlemon Cay offering exceptional snorkeling opportunities. The Bordeaux Mountain trail provides panoramic views of the British Virgin Islands and numerous cays. The park also includes the island of St. John's famous North Shore beaches, each with its own unique character and appeal.
Virgin Islands National Park enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 77°F to 85°F (25-29°C). The region experiences a dry season from December to May and a wet season from June to November, with September and October being the rainiest months. Humidity levels remain consistently high throughout the year. Trade winds provide pleasant breezes, particularly from December to March. Hurricane season officially runs from June through November, with the greatest risk occurring between August and October. Water temperatures remain comfortable year-round, averaging between 75-85°F (24-29°C), making it ideal for swimming and water activities in any season.
USA
18.3330°, -64.7330°
August 2, 1956
60.97
Virgin Islands National Park covers approximately 60% of Saint John island, plus nearly all of Hassel Island. The park preserves pristine beaches, coral reefs, and tropical forests. Historic ruins of sugar plantations dot the landscape, while the surrounding waters offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.