In 1493, Christopher Columbus took his second voyage to what is now St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. The Columbus Landing Site is a beach at Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, where you can appreciate unique history.
Below, we’ll discuss Christopher Columbus’ expedition, the history, and how you can visit and learn more about the site in St. Croix.
Columbus Landing Site History
On November 14th, 1493, Christopher Columbus led his second voyage to what we now know as the Columbus Landing Site at Salt River Bay on St. Croix. It’s the only known place where members of Christopher Columbus’ expedition set foot on what is now United States territory.
Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve and the Columbus Landing site hold a lot of history, which archeological findings from the 1800s have revealed.
For thousands of years, several tribes inhabited the area now known as the Columbus Landing Site at Salt River Bay. These Indigenous Peoples of St. Croix include the Igneri people, as well as the Taino and Carib Indians. The Taino Indians were a very peaceful group, centered around pottery-making and spiritual connections. Historians have found Taino artifacts on St. Croix dating back to 1300 BC. They are the longest inhabitants of St. Croix, living on the island for about 600 years before being conquered by the Carib Indians!
It’s believed that when Columbus and his group arrived to now St. Croix in 1493, they were searching for fresh water and food. They were greeted by the Carib Indian Tribe with bows and arrows, leading to the first recorded armed conflict between Europeans and Native Americans. This specific encounter location at the Columbus Landing Site is known as Cape of the Arrows.
More than 500 years later, Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve is one of St. Croix’s most historical sites, with many prehistoric and colonial-era archeological sites and ruins.
Visiting the Columbus Landing Site at the Salt River Bay Historical and Ecological Preserve
In 1992, Salt River Bay became a part of the National Park System to preserve and protect local history. Salt River Bay Historical and Ecological Preserve is on St. Croix’s north shore and covers over 1,000 acres of land and sea.
When you visit Salt River Bay, you can go to the Columbus Landing Site, a simple but beautiful beach with signs showing historical information. The beach usually isn't crowded and is a nice place to relax, swim, and snorkel.
Whether you’re a local or planning a St. Croix vacation, we highly recommend checking out Columbus Landing.
Explore Salt River Bay With Virgin Kayak Tours
One of the best things to do on St. Croix is kayaking through Salt River Bay to enjoy the unique history and beautiful scenery.
Virgin Kayak Tours offers several guided tours, including the Bioluminescence, Sunset & Moonlight, and Historical & Ecological Day Tour. Each tour allows you to explore the bay in a Hobie Mirage Drive Kayak, which offers a hands-free kayaking experience that’s fun for all levels.
The Historical & Ecological Day Tour is the best option for learning about and seeing the Columbus Landing Site. This daytime adventure lasts about two hours, and you’ll join your guide for a fun, informational, and relaxing experience.
As you pedal kayak the entire bay and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, your guide will share interesting facts and lessons about:
The Ecology of the Mangrove Estuary
Indigenous Peoples of St. Croix
Migratory birds
The Columbus voyage
The earthen fort
The Taino Ball Court
Not only can you see and learn about the Columbus Landing Site firsthand, but you can also enjoy a cool kayaking adventure. The pedal kayaks are spacious, sturdy, and accessible for all ages over five. They're also comfortable and easy to navigate in most conditions. All you have to do is move your feet, take in the scenery, and enjoy the experience.
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