Explore Monk's Bath Tidal Pools in St. Croix

Frederiksted, U.S. Virgin Islands

Description

Monk's Bath and a rugged section on the northwest section of St. Croix. The sharp limestone coast provides a must different landscape to explore small tidal pools and search for eroded Nautilus fossils embedded in the rock.

Monk’s Bath Tidal Pools is interesting but do not go exactly at low tide as the water is too low and many of the pools will not have much water. This coastline is about the most rugged terrain I've seen. The limestone is very sharp and jagged. Do not try and walk barefoot here. Sturdy shoes are recommended. The water crashing on the coast in interesting and there are some pools lower. Be careful if you want to get close the waters edge. One hard slip and fall here will surely lead to a hospital visit. The most interesting thing here is the number of Nautilus fossils that can easily be found.

To find Monk’s Bath Tidal Pools, drive north on Route 63 out of Frederiksted for about 3 miles. This becomes Hams Bluff Road. After you see signs for Northside Valley resort, drive another quarter mile and pull over on the left. Locals advise not to leave any valuables in you car while you explore. But you should do this anyway on vacation. This area is remote and there are no services around.

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