Columbus Cove Beach is not only picturesque, but it’s also one of the most archaeologically significant sites on St Croix. Co-managed by the National Park System and the local USVI Government, Columbus Cove was site of Christopher Columbus’ landing in 1493 and encountering a well established and thriving village of Arawak Indians. The beach is part of the Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve.
This beach is usually quiet and has some nice snorkeling, especially to the East side at the opening to Salt River Bay. Like many St Croix beaches there are no facilities. Carry in, carry out is key!
Take the road down to Salt River and follow that all the way down to the beach. Along your way, you’ll see the sign for the National Park Contact Station. The Contact Station is open mid-November through June, Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30 AM-4:00 PM, and by appointment (340) 773-1460. The beach is open year-round dawn to dusk.
The National Park Contact Station sits up on the bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and Salt River Bay.
To the East of the beach is the entrance to Salt River Bay. This is the area where Columbus’ men first encountered the inhabitants of the New World. The parking area covers archeological evidence of one of the few Taino ball courts known in the Caribbean. There was a thriving village of Arawak Indians living in the Salt River watershed.
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