
Salt River Bay National Historical Park
Explore prehistoric ruins, a submarine canyon, and glowing bioluminescent waters within this vital ecological preserve.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For the magical biobay glow

Salt River Bay National Historical Park
Best Time
For the magical biobay glow

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore prehistoric ruins, a submarine canyon, and glowing bioluminescent waters within this vital ecological preserve.
"The bioluminescent bay tour was like something out of the movies – truly unforgettable!"

✨ Book Biobay Tours Early
Nighttime bioluminescent tours are popular and sell out. Book your kayak or boat trip in advance!
🛶 Kayak for Exploration
Renting kayaks offers the best way to explore the bay's mangroves and historical sites.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bioluminescent Bay
Salt River Bay
Witness the magical glow of microorganisms in the water on a nighttime kayak or boat tour. Truly an unforgettable experience!

Mangrove Forests
Salt River Bay
Paddle through the vital mangrove ecosystem, a haven for diverse marine life and a crucial part of the park's ecological significance.

Historical Landing Site
Columbus Landing Site
Discover the area where Columbus is believed to have landed, offering a glimpse into the island's rich indigenous and colonial past.

America the Beautiful Quarter
Park Entrance/Gift Shop
See the unique quarter featuring the park's iconic red mangrove tree, a symbol of its ecological importance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Biobay Magic
Explore Beyond the Shore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Book Biobay Tours Early
Nighttime bioluminescent tours are popular and sell out. Book your kayak or boat trip in advance!
🛶 Kayak for Exploration
Renting kayaks offers the best way to explore the bay's mangroves and historical sites.
🚶♀️ Hike the Trails
Explore the marked trails for a chance to see wildlife and learn about the park's natural beauty.
💰 Check for Park Updates
Some areas, like the visitor center, may be under renovation. Check for current accessibility before you go.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Book Biobay Tours Early
Nighttime bioluminescent tours are popular and sell out. Book your kayak or boat trip in advance!
🛶 Kayak for Exploration
Renting kayaks offers the best way to explore the bay's mangroves and historical sites.
🚶♀️ Hike the Trails
Explore the marked trails for a chance to see wildlife and learn about the park's natural beauty.
💰 Check for Park Updates
Some areas, like the visitor center, may be under renovation. Check for current accessibility before you go.
🌿 Learn About the Ecosystem
Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the significance of the mangroves and the bioluminescent organisms.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the magical experience of the bioluminescent bay, calling it a highlight of their trip. The park's natural beauty, particularly its mangrove ecosystem, is also highly appreciated. However, some reviewers note that the park's infrastructure, like visitor centers, could be better maintained, and direct access to certain historical sites can be challenging without a guided tour.
"Outstanding Beaches and fascinating wildlife that surrounds you! We went on an evening bioluminescent tour with Bush Tribe near the Bio Bay and it was something like in the movies. Definitely one of my favorite national parks I've ever been to! If you ever get an opportunity to come visit, don't pass that up."
Tori Lucero
"There is a small sign and marker here. You can do.some.hikong.on the trails. The beach was ok. It looks like kayak tours may be the way to go for this one! There is a marina with rentable kayaks at the main turn off."
Tyler Dixon
"Not much to see. We think the building was closed, we never found it. We did see the Christopher Columbus landing sight. It had a lot of trash around it."
Mark Neuman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Salt River Bay National Historical Park is located on St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands. You can reach it by car from Christiansted or Frederiksted. Look for the signs indicating the park entrance and the marina where kayak tours often depart.
Public transportation options are limited on St. Croix. Renting a car is the most convenient way to access the park and explore the surrounding areas.
There is parking available near the marina, which is a common starting point for kayak tours and exploring the bay.
From Christiansted, take North Shore Road (Route 80) west. From Frederiksted, take North Shore Road east. The park is well-marked along the route.
Accessibility can vary. While some trails are available, certain historical sites might be challenging to reach without a kayak or guided tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is generally free. However, specific activities like guided bioluminescent tours or kayak rentals will have associated costs.
The park is typically open during daylight hours for exploration. Nighttime tours for the bioluminescent bay operate after sunset. It's best to check with tour operators for their specific schedules.
Prices for bioluminescent tours can vary depending on the operator and the type of tour (kayak vs. boat). Expect to pay anywhere from $50-$100 per person.
Yes, booking tours in advance is highly recommended, especially for the popular evening bioluminescent excursions, as they tend to fill up quickly.
While the park itself doesn't have an entrance fee, some historical interpretations or guided historical tours might incur a separate charge.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the bioluminescent bay at night, kayak through mangrove forests, hike historical trails, and learn about the indigenous and colonial history of the area.
Absolutely! Many visitors describe the bioluminescent bay as a magical, movie-like experience and one of the highlights of their trip.
The park is home to diverse marine life in the bay and various bird species in the mangrove forests. Keep an eye out for sea turtles and other fascinating creatures.
Yes, there are marked trails for hiking, offering opportunities to explore the natural beauty and historical significance of the park.
Salt River Bay is historically significant as a potential landing site for Christopher Columbus on his second voyage and was inhabited by indigenous peoples for centuries prior.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food vendors directly within the park. It's advisable to pack snacks and drinks or dine in nearby Christiansted or Frederiksted.
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during their visit. Remember to pack out all trash.
The closest dining options are in the towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted, offering a variety of local Caribbean cuisine and international dishes.
It's recommended to eat before or after your visit, especially if you plan on taking a nighttime bioluminescent tour, as there are no food services available at the park.
While not explicitly designated, you can find scenic spots to enjoy a picnic, particularly near the beach areas or along the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The bioluminescent bay at night offers a unique photographic challenge and reward. Daytime shots of the mangroves, historical ruins, and coastline are also stunning.
Photographing bioluminescence can be tricky and often requires a tripod and long exposure settings. Many tours provide guidance or even photo opportunities.
The 2020P Salt River Bay Quarter is part of the America the Beautiful Quarters series, featuring a design that highlights the park's ecological significance with a red mangrove tree.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check the official National Park Service regulations for Salt River Bay.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for coastal and mangrove shots. Nighttime is essential for capturing the bioluminescence.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the day, kayaking through the mangroves can be an exciting adventure, allowing children to spot various marine life and birds. The historical aspects, like the potential Columbus landing site, can be brought to life with engaging stories from a guide. While some historical sites might require more effort to access, the overall experience of exploring the bay and its surroundings is memorable for families.
🛶 Adventure Seekers
Beyond the biobay, rent a kayak to explore the extensive mangrove channels and discover hidden coves. The park also offers opportunities for hiking along its trails, providing a more active way to experience the natural beauty. For a deeper dive into the park's history and ecology, consider joining a guided tour that combines kayaking with historical insights.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
The park's unique geological features, including a submarine canyon, add to its natural allure. The bioluminescent bay is a must-see for any nature enthusiast, offering a rare glimpse into a fascinating biological phenomenon. Guided tours can enhance the experience by providing in-depth information about the park's flora and fauna.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Bioluminescent Bay
To witness this spectacle, booking an evening tour with a local operator is essential. Companies like Virgin Kayak Tours or Bush Tribe offer guided kayak or boat excursions. These tours often provide insights into the science behind the bioluminescence and the importance of preserving this delicate ecosystem. Many visitors rave about the otherworldly beauty of the glowing water, describing it as something out of a fantasy movie.
Pro-tip: For the best viewing experience, aim for a night with minimal moonlight. The darker the sky, the more vibrant the bioluminescence will appear. Also, be sure to book your tour well in advance, as these popular excursions fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Exploring the Mangroves and Historical Significance
The area is also believed to be where Christopher Columbus made his second landing in the New World in 1493. Evidence of indigenous settlements dating back centuries further underscores the park's rich past. Visitors can explore remnants of these historical periods, gaining a deeper understanding of the island's layered history. Some visitors note that guided tours offer the most comprehensive historical context.
When exploring, remember to be respectful of the environment and historical sites. Avoid disturbing wildlife and stay on marked trails or within designated kayaking areas. The park's dual role as an ecological treasure and a historical landmark makes it a compelling destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit