The refuge contains several ecologically distinct habitats including; beaches, coastal lagoons, mangrove wetlands, and upland forested areas.

The marine environment surrounding the refuge contains coral reefs and sea grass beds.

The refuge and its surrounding waters are home to at least two plants and eight animals on the Federal endangered species list including; the Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus), the brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis), and four species of sea turtles.

In addition to its ecological value, the refuge contains important resources of archeological and historic significance, a legacy of the Taíno culture and sugarcane era.

This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.