[2] It was first established as a protected area by the U.S. Government in 1948, with the intention of preserving “one of the finest marine gardens in the Caribbean Sea.” The U.S. National Monument was created in 1961 by John F. Kennedy and greatly expanded in 2001 by Bill Clinton, over the opposition of local fishermen.

Most of the Monument area, which is administered by the National Park Service, is underwater and attracts around 50,000 visitors a year.

[citation needed] Along the trail are plaques denoting information about marine flora and fauna commonly found in the area.

Most of the research is focused on coral, fish, sea turtles, brown pelicans and least tern nesting.

To ensure the ecosystem continues to thrive, the National Park Service requires all visitors to use authorized concessioners providing guided tours or have a permit if on private vessels without paying customers.